In the Adafruit shop, we offer a fantastic range of waterproof and weather - proof items. Once your project is built, you'll need to enclose it. But how can you keep the enclosure waterproof and weather - proof while still connecting power, data, or sensor cables? That's where our cable glands shine! By installing them over the cable, they form a perfect seal, protecting your project box from the elements. This specific cable gland is tailor - made for RJ - 45 cables, also known as Ethernet or Cat - 5 cables. It works seamlessly with any existing Ethernet cable and comes in two parts for easy attachment and detachment. First, install the dual - socket part (the leftmost one) into the enclosure. It has two RJ - 45 sockets. Then, disassemble the gland and slide the Ethernet cable through it. Start with the over - nut, then the rubber gasket, and finally the contracting gland. Plug in the cable, screw the first over - nut to attach it to the socket, and tighten the gland to complete the seal. Please note, if your Ethernet cable has an over - molded boot, it might get in the way. You can carefully cut it off or use cables without boots. Adafruit's BFF Akiba at Freaklabs.org has a great tutorial on using cable glands to keep enclosures waterproof even with cables coming out. Check it out for useful tips! And remember, Ethernet/RJ - 45 cables are not included.
Using this cable gland is a breeze. First, locate the dual - socket part and install it into your project enclosure. It's the one on the far left and has two RJ - 45 sockets. Next, take apart the gland. Slide the Ethernet cable through it, starting with the over - nut, then the rubber gasket, and finally the contracting gland. Plug the cable into the socket and screw the over - nut to attach it. Tighten the gland to make a good seal. Now, your project is protected from the weather. Here are some things to keep in mind. If your Ethernet cable has an over - molded boot, it might cause problems. You can either carefully cut it off or use cables without boots. As for maintenance, occasionally check the seal to make sure it's still tight. If you notice any signs of wear on the rubber gasket, replace it to keep your enclosure waterproof.
