Ethernet cables like Cat5e, Cat6 and Cat 6a are widely used to connect devices on local area networks such as computers, routers and switches. DIY for your home network is a trend in the IT community, and also worthy to try for those non-professionals.
In most successful connections with Ethernet cables, keystone jacks that connect a device to a network port play an important role.
In this article, we'll intend to introduce the basics and benefits of toolless keystone jack and how to use it.

What is Toolless Keystone Jack?

Toolless keystone jack is with the snap-fit cap design, conductors can be terminated simultaneously when the cap is pressed into place, allowing for a simple installation without the need for a punch down tool. The most commonly used one is RJ45 (8P8C) toolless keystone jack.

Benifit and Features of Toolless keystone jacks:

- Hinged cap (either 90 degree or 180 degree) that is used to push the conductor wires into the IDC (insulation displacement connector) metal contact prongs
- Separate color coded wiring cap, used to pre-thread and pre-seat the conductor wires into the proper sequence
- Zip tie to keep the toolless mechanism closed in some cases
- Often a strain relief bar that keeps cable jacket pressure from shifting conductor wires and causing a loose connection (usually the zip tie goes around the cable jacket and this bar). This causes the overall jack length to be longer.
- Generally, more parts to lose

Types of Toolless Keytone Jack: Shielded vs Unshielded

There are shielded and unshielded toolless keystone jacks in the market. The difference between them is whether there is a shielded STP cover outside that is designed for protection from external radiated noise. Choosing a suitable keystone jack should be based on the cables you’re connecting to. In a word, toolless keystone jacks are an ideal solution for terminating and connecting network cables.

How to use Toolless Keystone Jack?

This toolless keystone jack and these instructions are suitable for any of our unshielded toolless keystone jacks, regardless of Category. Just be aware that Cat5e cable does not have a center spline, and the rest is the same. Nothing is genuinely toolless, so let’s get that out of the way first. You will need some tools, just not a punch down impact tool.

Step1. Made the Ethernet cable pass through the TOP case
Step2. Peel away the jacket and removal cross frame
Step3. Fixed the cable core
Step4. Cut off the excess part
Step5. Add the bootom part
Step6. Press into the dust cover snap-fit cap to terminate
Step7. Complete