How to Pull Ethernet Cable From Box
There are many factors when it comes to installing cable and one of those factors that is overlooked is the proper way to pull Ethernet cable from a pull box. When you purchase your brand new box of cable you might be thinking I am ready to go! Well hold on, believe it or not there is actually ways in which pulling an Ethernet cable can damage the wire. So let’s jump into the basics of how to pull cable and wire which will make the whole process easier.
Choose Your Ethernet Cable
First you want to decide on which Ethernet cable to choose. We have some helpful guides which will show you the different variations of cables and the uses for each. Whether you are using this for home use or upgrading your business network we highly recommend using solid 100% bare ethernet cable. Simply because it will provide you with the best results during and after installation.
Not All Pull Boxes Are the Same
After you have chosen the cable you want to use we want to bring your attention to what is housing this cable. Did you know that all pull boxes are not the same? This is another factor to keep in mind when deciding what brand to go with. Getting the right kind of pull box can make a huge difference in your pulling experience. With all the different kinds we recommend using Reelex II technology because of its durability and trademarked technology in design and structure. To quickly summarize Reelex packaging technology is meant to make pulling your cable easier and smoother when lugging it around town or in difficult install locations. Its payout technology reduces kinks and straightens out the cable when pulling. It does this by having a larger opening and funnel for the cable to be pulled through. The other aspect is the way the cable is coiled in a neat and specific design to help with the cable on its way out of the box. It’s an overall great box for standard use or if you even have to install in more difficult locations like up in the ceiling or attic.
Pulling Ethernet Cable Guide
Once you have your networking cable in a pull box there are a couple options for optimal performance. When pulling cable you want to make sure that you are pulling your cables in the direction that you will be installing. This is very important to reduce any kinking or snags that cable might endure during pulls. As a quick reference on the safest way to pull cable is to check out this picture:
This is a great quick and easy image guide for you to follow. You can see that it is recommended to use the first two options.
The first image shows the cable being pulled horizontal with the payout hole in the same direction.
The second image shows the cable being pulled in a vertical direction, again with the payout hole in the same direction. This way is used very often because of how numerous installation require you going upwards during install.
The third image shown has the packaging on its side. This is not recommended because of how a cable is wrapped. By having a box on its side the cable itself will begin to start pulling from a different starting position.
This can cause the cable to tangle and interfere with each other during your runs. Also if you were to try and run this cable more vertically with the box in its side it can catch the box lifting it up causing too much tension on the wires and jacket. This tension can cause damage to the wires which we don’t want happening.
Other Things To Keep In Mind
Some other tips you want to keep in mind is to not pull too hard or fast on the cable. Keeping a steady controlled pull with help in reducing the the amount of pulling tension that can also stretch or damage conductors inside the cables.
Conclusion
We hope this quick guide can be of help in your next installation. Whether you are brand new to this or experienced having proper care for the cable is very important. The packaging your cable comes in should be carefully thought out when deciding what cable to go with. Not all the boxes are made the same and having any advantage in your installation will make the process that more enjoyable.
Let us know if there is anything we can add to this article. What are your experiences with different types of packaging? Maybe you have a tip to let our readers know when installing cable. Feel free to comment below and join the conversation.
