Free Tool · New 2026
Network Cable Length Calculator
Enter the number of cable runs (camera drops, access points, network points) and the average distance per run to calculate total cable length needed, including a slack allowance, and how many standard 305m boxes to order.
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This calculator gives a strong planning estimate. For an exact, guaranteed figure, our engineers confirm everything during a free site survey.
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The cable length formula
- Total cable needed = Number of runs × average distance per run × (1 + slack allowance)
- Boxes to order = Total cable needed ÷ box size, rounded up
A slack allowance (commonly 10-20%) accounts for vertical drops at each end, routing around obstacles rather than a perfectly straight line, termination loops, and future re-termination if a connector needs replacing. Cat6 and Cat5e cable both commonly ship in standard 305m (1000ft) boxes.
Planning cabling for CCTV, WiFi access points or a full network
This applies directly to planning cable runs for PoE CCTV cameras, wireless access points, or general structured cabling points in a villa or office — get an accurate total before ordering to avoid a mid-installation supply run.
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We handle end-to-end cable planning and installation for CCTV, networking and smart home projects, including proper cable management and testing.
Frequently asked questions
10-20% is typical, covering vertical drops at each end, routing around obstacles, and leaving enough slack for termination and any future re-termination.
Cat6 and Cat5e cable most commonly ship in 305m (1000ft) boxes, though smaller reels are available for small jobs.
Always measure (or estimate) the actual route the cable will physically follow, including vertical runs up walls or through ceiling voids, not a straight-line distance, since actual routing is almost always longer.
Yes, the same length and slack logic applies whether the run is for a PoE camera, a WiFi access point, or a standard network data point.