Cat 5 cable replacement

Chanc3 · 8 Dec 2015 at 11:45

Hey all,

We've just moved office and have subsequently been given the chance to start again (technically), in terms of network wiring/equipment. The new office has Cat 5 throughout, with old manky, yellowed trucking sockets. My boss has bought a drum of Cat 6 cable (unshielded), and wants to replace the lot. Now with this new cable, am I correct in thinking that if we want to use the full potential of Cat 6, we need to have Cat 6 rated hardware, such as patch panels, wall sockets etc? I'm pretty much self taught with this sort of thing and servers/networks are not my strong point - any advice is appreciated.

Chanc3 · 8 Dec 2015 at 13:30

Sorry, I think I have posted this in the wrong forum, but thanks for the prompt answers.

Yes, it's definitely just CAT5 as it states it on the cable itself, plus our gigabit switch reports it as the lower speed.

We inherited some older CAT5e gear, so I think I'll stick with that, but use the CAT6 cabling for now. Will make my life easier when it comes to updating the hardware.

Now, just waiting for the buildings to finish the remodelling, then on with the 40+ sockets that need wiring! Woooooo!

Any one free in the Hampshire/West Sussex area?

Chanc3 · 8 Dec 2015 at 15:09

Well, we need to replace the sockets as they are a disgusting yellow and look horrible against our new white walls! We've gone with some CAT 6 Euro sockets as they were cheap. Next step is to sort the new trucking out - does anyone know where a good place to get that is?

Chanc3 · 8 Dec 2015 at 15:17

Armageus said:
Screwfix?

http://www.screwfix.com/c/electrica...cm_sp=managedredirect-_-electrical-_-trunking

They sell dado trucking, but ideally we need skirting board style trunking? Such a thing?

EDIT: They do seem to sell it, but it looks cheap! Will have to keep looking

Chanc3 · 10 Dec 2015 at 12:22

Thanks guys, I've got my minions pulling cables through the plasterboard as we speak!