Hi there, I was just wondering if anybody here knows of a network wiring guide somewhere on the internet for network jacks? I've been searching and searching but only seem to come up with "how to make a patch/crossover cable" guides, which I already know how to do.. I just want to have network jacks in the walls, instead of just dragging cables along the floor and whatnot. any help would be appreciated.

Well, it's the same thing, but you use a punchdown tool for the jacks. The ordering of the wires is the same as making a patch cable. "If that [soiled bed] sheet is a [holy] manifestation, then I'm working on a miracle in my Jockey's!"

heropsycho, Thanks for that, but what exactly do I DO with the punchdown tool? where do I hook up the cables, etc? all I've seen are faceplate things with a blank socket, I can't quite work out how you make a network jack from that, what other things are needed?

This link will give an example on how to do it right. http://oit.uta.edu/oit/ns/network_wiring_standard.html It's nice that you want to do the wall jacks. For most casual installations most people don't do the wall jacks. Along with the wall jacks goes the patch panel at the other end of the line. The main reason is to avoid the cost of the additional items. Wall jack, plate, patch panel, 2 additional patch cords. To install a 16 port switch would add a minimum of $300 to the cost. Approx. $20 per port. This is parts only. Add a union technician.

wizard-fred, Thank you, thank you, thank you, and thank you some more. that guide is definitely a HUGE help to me.

Most wall jacks have the wiring pattern on them. These days they give you your choice between the A and B standard and you just have to decide which to go with. Normally, you'll want to use whatever standard the wiring panel uses as both ends have to be wired the same.

I forgot to add. If you're unfamiliar with using a punchdown tool remember one thing. The punchdown comes with cutter to remove excess wire. So, when you go to punchdown in the wiring panel or wall jacks always make sure you have the cutter facing the correct way. Take a look at the punchdown tool and you'll see which end is which if it's not clearly marked (they normally are). You can get wall jacks that do the punchdown themselves, but I don't like that kind as much myself (personal preference) but you might want to look into them. If you go with the kind I prefer, you'll need to hold the jack against the wall (or some other hard, non-moving surface) to do the punchdown. Also, be careful when punching down the outside wires. If you're not punching down straight you can easily break the plastic retainer on the outside. You will want a cable tester to test each line before you use them. A cheap one will likely be all you need. With luck you know somebody that already has one that you can use.