Networking / Beginners

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Connecting two patch cables

If you need a longer piece of cable, you can connect two pieces of patch cable with a coupler. A coupler is a small plastic device with two receptacles (one at each end) that accept RJ-45 connectors - you end a cable run in one receptacle and begin the next piece of cable in the other receptacle. This works just like the similar extension device for telephone lines.

Remember Couplers don't have a terrific history of reliability. Frequently, when you encounter problems with computer-to-computer communication, the blame falls on these connections. Never put a coupler inside a wall or in any other location that's hard to reach because you need easy access to the coupler if you have to check or replace the connection. The best plan is to use a coupler as a temporary solution while you wait for delivery of a custom-made patch cable that's the correct length.

Warning Even though couplers work similarly to telephone-extension devices, do not use a telephone coupler for your computer cable.