Cable management is an important part of your workspace, and you need to stay consistent in how you arrange your cords. However, if you reside in a small space, you’ll find that creating an organized system of cables is challenging, but it’s not impossible when you have the right knowledge. Use these effective ways to manage your cables in tight spaces without having them running along the floor.
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How To Extend the Lifespan of Your Computer Cables
All technology eventually degrades in appearance and performance, including your computer cables. But before you throw away the computer cables you’ve used for years, there are ways to help them last longer. Read on to learn how to extend the lifespan of your computer cables and get the best use out of them for longer.
Continue readingHow To Choose the Correct Cable Connector
Correctly using cables requires the correct components, and the connector piece of the cable is an essential part. The cable connector determines how the cable will connect to a device. When you need to install or replace a cable connector, you need to choose the best option. Read on to learn what to look for when choosing the right cable connector.
What Is a Cable Connector?
A connector is what allows a cable to plug into a port. Connectors come in varying formats and shapes that have various benefits. For example, an RJ45 connector for an Ethernet cable ensures all wires in the cable connect to the termination point and transfer the data through the cable.
The Importance of Cable Connectors
Cables require a connection to a port to transfer data or electricity. This transfer occurs in various ways, from a single electric current to a single beam of light, in the case of fiber-optic cables. The correct cable connector is essential for the cable’s function; without it, the data can’t transfer properly.
Connectors have configurations to ensure the device or termination point processes the transferred data. Every part of the cable aims to form a fully functioning device that makes a connection, and the connectors are the beginning and end that establish and maintain that connection.
What You Need To Know About the Cable
When searching for the correct connector for your cable, you’ll need information about the cable. Since dozens of different cables exist, varying in size, purpose, and wire count, you’ll need to note the different features that make your cable unique. Once you understand these features, finding the correct cable connector will be easy.
Cable Type
Just like specific ports require specific connectors, specific cables require specific connectors. Learn the cable type to ensure you choose the connector that matches the cable’s needs.
Cable types such as Ethernet, HDMI, or VGA have noticeable differences in their connectors because they are different cables with different purposes. Each transfers data in a different way to produce an Internet, video, or audio signal to a device from a source. Understanding the cable type will help you determine its purpose and the connector it needs to carry out that purpose.
Wire Size
The wires that lead from one end of the cable to the other connect to a device via the cable connector. A cable connector must be compatible with the size and configuration of the wires. This ensures the connector works well with the cable and establishes a connection where the wires transfer data.
For example, an HDMI cable has 19 pins that carry audio and video data, each with a wire connecting to the cable’s ends. These wires are large in size, contributing to the HDMI cord’s thickness and necessitating a larger connector. So always learn the wire size to know which cable connector is necessary to establish a connection.
Cable Size
Along with the wire size, the overall size of the cable is an essential factor in choosing a connector. The wire and cable size may vary depending on the cable’s needs to facilitate operations. Choose a cable connector that is the correct size and doesn’t squeeze the cable into the endpoint.
If the terminated cable end fits too tightly into the connector, the wires and cable jacket may sustain damage, leading to poor performance and potential malfunction. So keep the whole cable in mind when selecting a connector, as failing to do so could harm the cable.
Consider the Environment
Cable connectors play an important role in maintaining the cable, and the environment where the cable is will put the connector to the test. If the cable is in an environment where it might move and wiggle constantly, the cable connector will need extra-secure features to ensure it doesn’t disconnect from the port. For instance, you might need a connector with a cover to prevent accidental disconnections in RJ45 connectors.
Overall, considering the cable’s environment before choosing a cable connector will ensure the best function in a network or system. You’ll reduce the risk of system failure and network disconnections.
Choose the Right Material
Most cable connectors consist of a mixture of plastic and metal, but there are variations to consider for better connections. The connector needs a material that will maintain function in high heat and won’t degrade over long periods of exposure to environmental hazards.
Therefore, choose a cable connector with a tough plastic material—such as polyphenylene sulfide—as its housing. This plastic polymer will withstand most chemicals and has a high thermal resistance, making it optimal in hot environments and warm devices.
The metal in the connectors forms the parts that connect to the device, and copper is a common material since most wires are copper. Copper has good conductivity and heat resistance, but other alternatives are brass, bronze, and an alloy combining copper and another metal such as gold or nickel.
Consider How the Connector Works With the Cable Features
All cables have certain specifications concerning their current rating and operating voltage. The current rating is the maximum amount of electrical current flowing through a terminal. The operating voltage is the amount of voltage that the connector will withstand.
If your cable provides a strong current and large voltage, you’ll need a connector that supports these features, allowing the current to flow easily and withstand high volts. Choose durable and long-lasting connectors that will serve your connected devices well.
Where To Find Cable Connectors
Cable connectors are valuable parts of the cable; without them, there wouldn’t be an established connection between the two points. Now you know how to choose the right cable connector to ensure your cable’s optimal functionality when connected to a source.
You’ll find most cable connectors in cable shops online or in person. Cable suppliers have a plethora of options to choose from for various cable types and sizes. These stores are great places to ask questions about the best connector for your cable, as techs and experts are often available there to help you find the right choice.
8 Clever Ways To Conceal Your Network Cables
The cables used in our networks may become damaged when they are out in the open. Concealing your network cables is the best way to keep them safe, and there are some clever methods to tuck them away. Read on for creative ideas to conceal and keep your network cables safe.
Continue reading5 Top Tips for Maintaining Your Data Center
Your use of data requires a greater need for data centers and their reliability. The reliability of a data center comes from its maintenance, and you’ll need ways to ensure its operation remains reliable. Read these tips for maintaining your data center and keeping the data it manages safe and sound.
Continue readingCommon Myths About Industrial Network Cables
Every industry has certain beliefs surrounding it. These myths tend to derive from speculations that aren’t completely true. There are numerous myths about industrial network cables and their price, effectiveness, and components. We’ll clear the air so you can feel more comfortable using industrial network cables.
Continue readingTips for Choosing the Right DisplayPort Cable
We use various cables, such as the DisplayPort cable, to perform daily tasks. This cable is known for producing quality imaging on a screen and is trustworthy technology. However, since there are different types of DisplayPorts cables, you’ll need to know which one will work best to achieve the best image display.
Ways To Watch Your Security Camera Through Your TV
Many rely on surveillance systems to add a layer of security to properties and protect valuables. Most security cameras supply a live feed to a monitor, but sometimes you want a larger screen or summon the feed from the convenience of home. Your TV can become a screen to watch your security camera feed, and these ways will make the setup possible.
What To Know About Choosing Fiber Optic Connectors
Many of our systems and technology require data transfer, and certain locations, such as data centers and server rooms, need high-speed connections. A fiber optic cable is an excellent tool that transfers data extremely fast, but you’ll need a fiber optic connector to join two cables. For the best connection between two fiber optic cables, you’ll need to know the various aspects of fiber optic connectors to make the best choice.
Types of Shielding Used For Network Cables
Cables allow us to connect technology and create functioning systems. One of the main components of cables that will enable them to work is shielding. There are different types of shielding, each with another form inside the cable.