[handymom77]

A mouse chewed around a cat 5 cable connecting my office computer with the router. I have plenty of cable left to reach the computer if I cut the cable at the damaged part. Question is: Is it possible to re-crimp or replace the ethernet connection?

[Perito]

Yes. You can purchase crimpers, connectors and unions.

[handymom77]

Could you direct me in the right place to purchase these? I have an infant and toddler and would appreciate any direction in order to prevent unnecessary trips :-) My first thought is best buy...

[NeedKarma]

Buying a new cable would be a lot less hassle than repairing the cable.

[Perito]

This is a bit pricey, but contains cable, crimpers, etc:

cat5 bulk cable, bulk cat5 cables, bulk cat5 cable, cheap bulk cat5 cable, cat5 crimper

Here are the crimpers and connectors for a reasonable price:

Genica 300-Ft CAT5e Cable Kit with Crimper and Connectors

Google for "RJ-45" connectors and crimpers

I don't remember where I bought mine, but I usually have to Google "Ethernet cable connections" to get a diagram of the color codes each time I do a connection:

Category 5 cable - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

TIA/EIA-568-B - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

You can use either the T-568a or T-568b wiring, but any given cable can only use one pattern or the other. You might have to look at the undamaged end to figure out the connection pattern to use.

I have to agree with NeedKarma that buying a cable would probably be easier and less expensive. The main reason to use crimpers and connectors is if the cable can't be easily replaced (it's already running through a wall, for instance), or if a custom length is required.

Check out Cables For Less. They also sell crimpers and connectors, and now that I look at their prices, they're a lot less than my previous link.

Cables For Less - networking / phone

[KISS]

Although this device will work, it's not recommended.

HomeTech Solutions: 512114 - Cat5e Connection Box - IC Intracom

It would come with the proper tool.

I agree with everyone else that simply purchasing a new cable might be a better option.

This is my favorite. The EZ RJ45. HomeTech Solutions: 100008C - EZ-RJ45 Connectors - Platinum Tools, Inc.

As you can see the tool is very pricy.

It's going to be frustrating making the standard connectors especially if you have no means of testing the connector.

Locally, you could probably get a crimper and connectors at an electrical distributer but it won't come cheap.

If you have a Lowe's or Home Depot nearby, I believe they have tools and connectors.

[handymom77]

Thanks for all the advice! I ended up taking the cord to Computer Rebooter and they charged $15 to cut off the damaged part and put a new connector on. The guy I talked to was very nice and he suggested wrapping the cord in electrical tape to hinder another mouse snack. He said that the wires make a clicking sound that the mice confuse for running water and that the electrical tape has a bitter taste. Anyhow, the computer is up and running! Also, I just want to you to know that the mouse problem is not in my home; it's at my place of business which is a metal building near a field. So, that's where the mice are coming from. God bless.

[jeneaston]

Always remember that you can find dirt cheap cables at www.monoprice.com.

I'm looking at getting 100ft cat5 cable and it's currently less then the $15 that guy spent to fix his old one.

[jeneaston]

always remember that you can find dirt cheap cables at www.monoprice.com.

I'm looking at getting 100ft cat5 cable and it's currently less then the $15 that guy spent to fix his old one.

Sorry I should pay more attention sometimes, I meant that Handymom paid. :D