Does Ethernet Card is damaged by shorting of LAN Cable?

s.verma · 01-28-2015, 07:07 AM

As the title suggests, I want to know whether my Ethernet Card would be damaged if my LAN cable connected to it becomes damaged and it's wires get shorted to each other.

This question popped up in my mind, because the LAN cable I am using has got it's cover damaged, and I thought what if it's internal wires are also going to be shorted/damaged. Should I replace it as soon as possible or wait until my LAN stops working.

TenTenths · 01-28-2015, 07:18 AM

Unlikely to damage a card by a short but I'd replace the cable as soon as possible anyway rather than wait for problems.

jefro · 01-28-2015, 07:20 PM

I guess it could be possible. Kinda with above as unlikely. It is not a common test I'd think to short it and then see if under some condition it might fail.

You can use simple masking tape or electrical tape to help insulate the wires ya know.

Guess it could be possible esd or other voltage could get in and damage nic too.

I rather doubt any likely shock hazard. Never know what might fail.

jlinkels · 01-28-2015, 08:17 PM

Your NIC doesn't get damaged by a shorted network cable. I don't know how badly it is damaged, but if it just the outer jacket it might remain good for years if it remains untouched. But I can assure you that if you wait until it fails, it will fail in the most unpredictable way, at the least suitable moment for you. So draw your conclusion.

jlinkels

Soadyheid · 01-29-2015, 10:52 AM

Probably depends what's shorted if anything. You can get external RJ45 loop back plugs which, er... loop back the RX and TX signals to allow you to check the operation of the NIC with diagnostics. Shorting them out if you will.
Running a diagnostic test on a NIC without a loopback will result in an internal loopback test, the external driver chips will not be exercised, so an external test is preferable.

Play Bonny!

rknichols · 01-29-2015, 11:59 AM

I suppose that if there were Power over Ethernet (PoE) being carried in that cable, then a short might have more serious consequences. For just the signal, though, there is not going to be any damage to the boards.

Now, stepping on a cable, if that pulls on a connector with enough force to break it, is another matter. (DAMHIKT)

onebuck · 02-06-2015, 01:50 PM

Hi,

Sharp radius bends can cause issues with a Ethernet cable by causing attenuation issues. Never place a cable where someone will be walking on the cable since this will change the cables resistance by pinching the cable or flattening will cause like issues. Replace any questionable cables that may be damaged.
Hope this helps.
Have fun & enjoy!

s.verma · 02-21-2015, 12:21 PM

Sorry for answering after a long time.

But thanks all.
I will look into it.

Thanks Soadyheid for giving me knowledge about loopback connector.