BlackICE 0 Posted August 22, 2013 I'm trying to figure out the best way to get my network cables down from the attic to a downstairs office. At first I thought I would tackle the job myself but after reading buellwinkle say he hires an electrician for the drops I'm thinking that's the best route to go. I'm starting out with a single Acti E32(just ordered) to see how I like it and if it works out I plan to add 5 more. Some of the cameras will be mounted under eaves and some will be run out towards the end of our driveway about 110 feet out. As a result some of the cable will need to be direct burial grade. Since I'm new to IP camera's I've got a few questions I was hoping I could get some advice on. 1) Does it matter if I use CAT5 or CAT5e? 2) Should I buy both interior Cat5 and direct burial Cat5 or just get a big roll of direct burial and use that for everything? Since I've got to run up to 6 lines down through the wall would the thicker cable be more hassle since it would be a tighter fit....i.e should I just use a mix of direct burial for some cameras and indoor for some as necessary? 3) Should I be using something like a 6 port keystone jack in the office and then attaching to the POE switch with patch cables...or just have the Cat5 go directly from the camera to the POE switch? 4) Can someone recommend which brand CAT5/CAT5e I should use. I've found several on the various "cable" websites but want to make sure I'm using the same high quality many of you use. My plan is to run all the cables down through the wall at once and leave the unused lines coiled in the attic for when I'm ready to add more cameras. I appreciate any help/advice anyone has to offer. I've been reading over the forum for about a week and just haven't been able to figure some of this stuff out yet. Thanks, Will Share this post Link to post Share on other sites