To use a LAN (Local Area Network) cable splitter, you plug its single end into the Ethernet port of your modem or router and then connect the two output ports to your devices using additional Ethernet cables.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Step-by-Step Guide:
-
Identify Your Needs: Determine if a LAN cable splitter is the correct solution. It's crucial to understand that a true splitter simply divides the available bandwidth between two devices. This differs from a network switch, which allows multiple devices to communicate independently with the full bandwidth available. Most of the devices marketed as "splitters" are often not true splitters and require two such devices—one at each end of the cable run—and only work if each pair of wires within the Ethernet cable carries one independent connection.
-
Connect the Input: Take the single end of the Ethernet splitter cable and plug it directly into an available Ethernet (LAN) port on your modem or router. This port serves as the source of the network connection.
-
Connect the Outputs: Use standard Ethernet cables (Cat5e, Cat6, etc.) to connect your devices to the two output ports on the splitter. One cable goes from one output port to the Ethernet port on your first device (e.g., a computer), and another cable goes from the second output port to the Ethernet port on your second device (e.g., a printer).
-
Power On and Test: Power on both devices connected to the splitter. Verify that each device successfully connects to the network and can access the internet or other network resources.
Important Considerations:
- Bandwidth Limitations: Remember that a LAN cable splitter divides the available bandwidth. If your internet connection speed is 100 Mbps, each device will share this bandwidth (potentially receiving up to 50 Mbps each, depending on usage). If you need full bandwidth for multiple devices simultaneously, a network switch is a better option.
- Not a Substitute for a Switch: A splitter does not function as a network switch. A network switch allows multiple devices to communicate independently and typically offers better performance and reliability than a splitter, particularly for heavy network usage. Switches provide full bandwidth to each device, up to the limit of the switch's capabilities (e.g., Gigabit Ethernet).
- Proper Cabling: Ensure you are using the correct type of Ethernet cables (Cat5e, Cat6, etc.) for optimal performance. Higher category cables can support faster speeds and are recommended for newer devices and networks.
- Power Over Ethernet (PoE): LAN cable splitters generally do not support Power over Ethernet (PoE). If you need to power devices like IP cameras or VoIP phones over Ethernet, use a network switch that supports PoE.
- "Splitter" Misnomer: As mentioned above, what is marketed as an Ethernet "splitter" often is not a splitter. These devices often require two units—one at each end of the cable run—and only allow two 100BaseT connections to share a single Ethernet cable. In other words, they only work if each pair of wires in the Ethernet cable carries one independent connection.
By understanding how a LAN cable splitter works and its limitations, you can effectively use it to share a network connection between two devices, provided that the limited bandwidth is sufficient for your needs. Remember, a network switch generally provides a superior solution for connecting multiple devices.
