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Cable termination and connectors

5 minutes 5 Questions

Cable termination refers to the process of attaching connectors to the ends of cables, allowing them to connect to devices and network equipment. Different types of connectors are used for various types of cables. For twisted-pair cables, the most common connectors are RJ45 (used for Ethernet) and RJ11 (used for telephone lines). For fiber optic cables, connectors include SC, ST, LC, and MTRJ. Proper cable termination is essential to ensure optimal network performance, as poorly terminated cables can result in signal loss, reduced transmission speeds, and increased error rates. Cable termination is typically done using specialized tools like crimpers, strippers, and punch-down tools.

Guide on Cable Termination and Connectors for CompTIA Network+ Exam

Cable termination and connectors are largely significant when it comes to networking. What is it? A cable termination is the connection of a wire or cable to a device or another cable. A network connector on the other hand is an electro-mechanical device used to join electrical terminations and create an electrical circuit.

Why is it important? It is crucial for proper transmission of signals. An improperly installed termination can lead to signal losses and unreliable network connections.

How does it work? The cable termination connects to the specific connector, which then connects to a device. The type of connector varies based on the type of cable (for example, RJ45 for Ethernet cables).

Exam Tips: When answering questions on cable termination and connectors, focus on your understanding of different types of connectors used for diverse cable types. Give importance to the role they play in the network's performance and how inaccurately installed connectors can cause problems. Knowing the process of cable termination and physical aspects of connectors would also be beneficial.

Note: For practical questions, visualize the respective connection type and do not hurry when choosing between similar looking connectors. Correct identification can lead to the correct answer.

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CompTIA Network+ - Network Cabling and Connectors Example Questions

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Question 1

You are terminating a CAT6 network cable. The cable's individual wires are not in the correct sequence for T568B standard. What should you do?

Correct Answer: Reorder the wires according to T568B standard and reterminate the cable.

When terminating a CAT6 network cable, it's crucial that the individual wires are in the correct sequence. In this case, the T568B standard is specified, so the wires should be ordered according to that standard. This involves placing the wires in the correct sequence before inserting them into a connector and crimping the connector to complete the termination. The other answers are incorrect because they suggest leaving the wires as is, swapping to a different pattern, or using an incompatible connector type, all of which would result in an improperly terminated cable and potential connectivity issues.

Question 2

A technician accidentally damages the RJ45 connector on a shielded CAT6a cable. How should the technician proceed to fix the issue?

Correct Answer: Cut off the damaged connector and reterminate with a new shielded RJ45 connector.

The best way to fix a damaged RJ45 connector on a shielded CAT6a cable is to cut off the damaged connector and reterminate with a new shielded RJ45 connector. This is because using a new connector ensures the integrity of the connection is maintained and it's the most professional and reliable solution. Using electrical tape is not a permanent or reliable solution as it can degrade over time or come loose. Reterminating with a non-shielded connector would negate the benefits of having a shielded cable in the first place, which is to reduce electrical noise and interference. Stripping back the shielding and reterminating with a standard CAT6 connector would similarly negate the advantages of using a shielded CAT6a cable.

Question 3

While setting up a networking closet, you receive fiber optic cables with connectors you don't recognize. What should you do to identify them?

Correct Answer: Consult the cable documentation or your equipment manufacturer for the connector type.

When you encounter a fiber optic cable with a connector you don't recognize, the best course of action is to consult the cable documentation or your equipment manufacturer to identify the connector type. This is because fiber optic cables use specific types of connectors, all of which are designed to fit certain types of equipmentTerminating the cables with RJ45 or coaxial connectors (as suggested in the other answers) is not recommended, as these connectors are typically used for copper-based cables, not fiber. Using RJ45 or coaxial connectors could damage the fiber optic cablesFinally, forcing the connectors into a seemingly compatible port, as another answer suggests, is a risky maneuver that could cause damage to both the connectors and the equipment. Although the connectors may appear to fit, there might be underlying compatibility issues that could lead to poor performance or physical damage. Therefore, this approach is not recommended.

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