Can I pull a network cable from the middle of the run?

  • Context: Electronics 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Richard Crane
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Cable Network Pull
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the feasibility of pulling an Ethernet cable from the middle of a spool toward both ends, particularly in a constrained space. Participants explore practical methods for managing the cable installation process in a basement with limited access and layout challenges.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that pulling from the middle may cause the first half of the cable to rewind, questioning if there is a method to avoid this.
  • Another participant mentions that mechanical devices exist for releasing cables from both sides, but doubts their applicability for Ethernet cables.
  • A suggestion is made to simply unspool the second half of the cable instead of trying to pull from the middle, as it may be easier to manage.
  • One participant proposes removing one side of the spool to pull from the center, although they express concern about introducing twists into the cable.
  • Another idea involves respooling the cable starting from the center and pulling both ends simultaneously, but this is viewed as potentially more labor-intensive.
  • A participant mentions the possibility of using splice connectors and female-female adapters to facilitate the process, indicating that they are already equipped to crimp connectors.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the best approach to pulling the cable, with no consensus on a definitive method. Some agree on the challenges of pulling from the middle, while others suggest alternative strategies.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the limitations of working in a confined space and the potential complications of twisting the cable during the pulling process. The discussion does not resolve the technical challenges involved.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in DIY home networking, particularly those facing similar installation challenges in constrained spaces.

Richard Crane
Messages
4
Reaction score
3
TL;DR
Is there a way to "unspool" cable from the middle toward both ends?`````
I need to run about 70 ft of ethernet cable through my basement, which is actually two separate unconnected spaces ( there is a small gap above the dividing wall). Because of the layout -- bends and very limited space -- it will be much easier to start near the middle and pull toward each end. I made a simple holder for my spool of cable, but cannot figure out if there is a way to actually do this. Obviously if I pull 1/2 the length of cable then switch to the other end it is going to rewind the first part. Can anyone suggest a way, or confirm that I just have to pull for the entire length?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
There are mechanical devices which release cables from two opposite sides, but I don't think for ethernet cables. It would probably be easier to use connector plugs and more than one cable.
 
Richard Crane said:
Summary: Is there a way to "unspool" cable from the middle toward both ends?`````

I need to run about 70 ft of ethernet cable through my basement, which is actually two separate unconnected spaces ( there is a small gap above the dividing wall). Because of the layout -- bends and very limited space -- it will be much easier to start near the middle and pull toward each end. I made a simple holder for my spool of cable, but cannot figure out if there is a way to actually do this. Obviously if I pull 1/2 the length of cable then switch to the other end it is going to rewind the first part. Can anyone suggest a way, or confirm that I just have to pull for the entire length?
Why not just unspool the 2nd 35 feet? It's not that much cable to have loose. I don't see a good way if it has to stay on the spool.
You could remove one of the sides of the spool and then pull some from the center, but you will put a lot of twists into the cable that way. I'm not sure if that matters in your case.
I guess you could respool it starting from the center and pull each end simultaneously, but that sounds like extra work to me. You would still have to unspool half of it, but you could do that in a more convenient location than your basement.
I also like the splice idea since you are probably already set up to crimp connectors on the ends. You would just need to buy a female-female adapter, which are easy to find where I live.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: davenn
Richard Crane said:
Summary: Is there a way to "unspool" cable from the middle toward both ends?`````
Obviously if I pull 1/2 the length of cable then switch to the other end it is going to rewind the first part.

That's too difficult

Richard Crane said:
Summary: Is there a way to "unspool" cable from the middle toward both ends?`````

Can anyone suggest a way,

this ...

DaveE said:
Why not just unspool the 2nd 35 feet? It's not that much cable to have loose. I don't see a good way if it has to stay on the spool.

Totally agree with you Dave
Dave
 

Similar threads

Replies
9
Views
5K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 36 ·
2
Replies
36
Views
5K
Replies
4
Views
20K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
4K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
11K
  • · Replies 42 ·
2
Replies
42
Views
7K