A Quick Guide to Pulling Ethernet Cable From a Box

For many experienced cable installers, cable pulling is a fundamental task and can not be underestimated. Failing to pull cables may lead to a series of network issues. Therefore, in this article, we will explain what you need to know before pulling cables and teach you how to properly pull an Ethernet cable from a box.

Things You Need to Know Before Bulk Ethernet Cable Pulling

Choose Your Ethernet Cable in Bulk

Before pulling the cables, you have to be aware that the uses of different bulk Ethernet cables are variant since they are made of different materials. According to the applications, there are standard boxes of Ca5e/Cat6/Cat6a/Cat7 bulk cables and the outdoor direct burial bulk Ethernet cables for you to choose from. For outdoor use, cables with UV-resistant and waterproof jackets can withstand sunlight, dirt, snow and moisture, which allows you to extend your internet connection even in the toughest environment. For indoor use, the cable jacket ratings can be divided into CM, CMR and CMP, each different type is used in different locations, either in office cabling or hotel decoration. Taking the box of Cat6 cable for example, its PVC CMR jacket accommodates in-wall and under raised floor use, therefore, it is ideal for indoor voice, data, video and security networking applications.

Choose the Right Ethernet Cable Pull Box

Another thing you have to know is that there are various types of pull boxes. Choosing the right type of pull box can bring you a good pulling experience and make your cable pulling process more efficient. An Ethernet cable pull box designed with a payout hole can be very helpful for the cable to be pulled through. The payout technology reduces kinks and straightens out the cable when pulling. Another advantage is that the cable in the box is coiled in a neat and specific design to help with the cable out of the box. This type of pull box is overall ideal for standard use or more difficult locations like up in the ceiling or attic.

How to Pull the Ethernet Cable from Box Correctly

Make Sure You Are Pulling the Cables in a Right Direction

Once you have made your choice on the cable and the right pull box, you want to ensure that you are pulling the cables in the direction that you will be installing. Pictures below can be a good reference.

Some Tips to Keep in Mind

·         Pull the cable with the opening hole of the box in the same direction in case of twisting.

·         Keep a steady pull will help reduce the pulling tension and avoid damages on the cable.

·         Leave enough cable at each end to add connectors to reach the terminating locations.

Useful Tools for Installation of Bulk Ethernet Cable

After you have done the cable pulling, you will have to terminate your cables with connectors in order to set up your network. During the installation, you may need a set of network installation tools such as network cable tester, cable crimping tool, network cable stripper and plier, etc. As for detailed instructions, you can refer to the video below:

FAQs About Pulling Ethernet Cable from a Box

Q: How far can I pull the Ethernet cable?

A: There are a few different versions of ethernet cables, but the maximum length is 305 meters (1000 feet).

Q: What type of cable do I need? Cat5 cable or Cat6 cable?

A: If you want faster internet speeds, Cat6 is a good choice. It reduces something called “crosstalk” — signal transfers that disrupt your communication channels. If you are happy with your current internet speeds, however, Cat5 might be all you need. Besides, Cat5 cables tend to be cheaper than Cat6.