Teacher of Cert II Applied Digital Technologies class, Marcus Wynwood, has answered some questions about the hands-on aspects students are currently experiencing making ethernet cables in the course. 

What are ethernet cables used for and why is it important for students to learn how to use this?

Ethernet cables connect computers together to create networks, and ultimately, the internet. Student need to learn this skill to help support and maintain the integrity of these networks so users can go about their day uninterrupted, whether it be completing school work or just gaming!

How does this fit into the bigger picture of the course?

The Certificate II in Applied Digital Technology has a focus on IT support, with a pathway to the Certificate III in Information Technology. We offer both these courses at Don and the college is the only place on the North West Coast to offer the Cert III course. 

What are the challenges of making ethernet cables?

It can be quite fiddly, as there are eight little wires in each cable which all need to be connected just right at both ends for the cable to work. We use a device called a cable tester to test the cable to see if it works. Not everyone can get it first go!

Below: Applied Digital Tehcnologies student Haydn making ethernet cables