One of the blanks on the StudioNet Application is for the walljack number you are requesting to use.This page describes how to connect to a walljack and how to identify which walljack you are using.

Each walljack must be activated before it will work. You must include the walljack you wish to use in the StudioNet application and receive notice that it has been activated before it will work. Even if you have plugged in both ends correctly, the walljack will not work until it has been activated.

Category 5, Twisted-Pair Ethernet Cable

The College of Design StudioNet uses Category 5, twisted-pair ethernet cables. These cables are also known as RJ45 cables. The plug looks like a large telephone plug, but it is different. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO USE TELEPHONE CABLES. THEY WILL NOT WORK. The pictures below show the end of a cable and the ethernet port in the back of the computer. Almost all computers have a built-in RJ45 ethernet connector. Some Windows computers may need to have a separate ethernet adapter installed.

You will need to purchase your own ethernet cable to connect to StudioNet. Ask for a Category 5, twisted-pair ethernet cable. If you don't have one already, these are available in several lengths at the NCSU Bookstores or computer stores such as CompUSA, Best Buy, the Apple Store, or online.

Once you have obtained your ethernet cable, plug it into the ethernet port on the back of your computer. (See pictures above.)

Plug the other end into the walljack as shown below.

There are two types walljack outlets in the College of Design. One is the "Standard" type. It contains four different connector types: a telephone jack, a Category 5 (RJ45) ethernet jack, a BNC network jack, and a video jack. See the picture below.

Standard Outlet with Four Different Walljacks

On Standard Outlets, use only the UPPER RIGHT WALLJACK for network connections—as shown above. The upper right walljack is marked "908-1 CATEGORY 5". The other walljacks will not work for network connection.

In the blank on the StudioNet Application, enter the number from the white label at the top of the outlet. In the picture above, the white label shows 203H-11 as the number you would enter on the StudioNet Application.

The other type of outlet is known as the "Quad" type. All four connectors are Category 5 (RJ45) ethernet jacks. They may all be used for network connections. See the picture below.

Quad Outlet with All Four Walljacks the Same

In the blank on the StudioNet Application, enter the number from the white label corresponding to the walljack you are requesting (above the top jacks, below the bottom jacks). In the picture above, the white labels show 203H-C165, C166, C167 or C168. Select the walljack you want to use and enter the number on the StudioNet Application. Try to use the lowest numbered jack first to keep them in order.

Remember, each walljack must be activated before it will work. You must submit a StudioNet application for the walljack you are requesting or if you move from one walljack to another. Even if you have plugged in both ends correctly, the walljack will not work until it is activated.