Sometimes when buying new equipment like a router or switch, an Ethernet cable is included, but they are usually short, so we have to buy a patch cord that meets the requirements of our installation. But what if we can't find a long enough cable? The solution is to make it ourselves, and it's easier than it seems; however, we need the right tools.
In addition to needing the cable, the wire stripper, the crimping tool, and the connectors, there is a piece of measuring equipment that is very helpful: the cable tester or verifier, also known as a network cable tester. Figure 1 shows this equipment.
It's very easy to use: just place each cable connector in the corresponding port and turn it on. The LEDs will start to light up, and you should observe that all the lights come on. If they don't all light up, it means the cable is not properly connected, and you'll have to do it again.
There are kits for copper tools like the one shown in Figure 2 (a); there are also pliers that already include the tester, saving you from buying an extra tool! They are practical, and you can check the patch cord as soon as you finish making it. These can be seen in Figure 2 (b), while Figure 3 shows a network, USB, and BNC cable verifier.
