Trouble Shooting Tips

Many times we receive phone calls from customers for problems with cabling and connectivity they could have probably solved themselves with some basic techniques. Before calling, try some of these tricks to isolate the problem.

1. Was the cable/jack working yesterday, earlier today or in the recent past? If so, what has changed? Has anything been unplugged? With the possible rat or rodent exception, cabling does not generally go bad. If the cable was good yesterday, then it is likely still good today. Jacks on the other hand can be damaged from excessive plugging/unplugging, using 4 or 6-pin phone cords or from moisture. If none of these situations seem to apply to you, then the jack is probably not the problem. If you’re not sure or they may apply, physically inspect the jack. All of the pins should be uniform in design. From here, you will need to check your telecommunications room. Has anyone been in or out of this room lately making network changes. Check your label against the patch panels in this room. Is there a network/phone connection in place on your cable? If nothing has changed in the TR and the jack is okay, then let’s move on to the other common problems.

2. Replace the patch cord at the computer/phone. Store bought patch cords are made with stranded cabling for greater flexibility and are factory tested. Ensure that you are using this type. Making your own patch cords to save money is a very bad practice. Crimp tools wear out over time and need to be replaced, leaving the crimped pins on the jack rounded, not flat, and therefore not making good contact with the wire. Also, these cables are made of solid conductors and not up to the rigors of being moved and bumped on a daily basis.

3. If the all of the above seems fine, check the connection with another pc or phone. Network Interface Cards (NIC) are very prone to sudden deaths. They work today and do not work tomorrow. If the connection still does not work, then it’s time for some professional tools to evaluate the problem. Check our Contact Us page for emails and telephone numbers.