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What happens when you connect two internet cables together?

Testing combinations of Cat6 and Cat6A cables with RJ45 couplers reveals physical limits on standard 100-meter copper channels, examining how multiple inline joins impact signal integrity, dropouts, and link speeds.


Where could there be a problem?

The connector that connects the two cables does not amplify the signal and simply acts as a pass-through. Each additional connection, however, is a potential point of failure. Tests with specialized equipment have shown that using three such connections generally passes the test, although one test barely passes, while four connections fail. A bad connection can cause occasional connection drops, data transfer errors, or even a reduction in speed from maximum to lower levels.

Additionally, there is a limit to the total length that a typical copper cable can have. According to the standards, the total length should not exceed 100 meters, including the connecting cables. The cable joint must take this limit into account, as the connecting fitting cannot extend it.

What can you do instead?

If you're connecting just one computer or game console, the best solution is to get a single cable of the appropriate length from the start. This way you'll save yourself the extra connection points.

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But if you want to connect multiple devices, such as a TV, console, and streaming device, another option is a small network device that provides multiple ports. You connect the cable to it and from there you provide internet to your devices.

Unlike a simple splitter, a basic five-port device costs around $15, requires no setup, but requires a power connection. Finally, basic models can't power devices like security cameras or wireless antennas directly through the internet cable, so in those cases, different equipment is needed.

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