Home Structured Wiring Tips and Advantages
Structured wiring revolves around a suite of cables, which are typically bundled and sealed in plastic, and distribute various data signals, such as Ethernet, video, audio, and telephone. Similar to electrical distribution, a bundle of wires will be run through a home’s walls to wall outlets consisting of 2 to 8 ports. This will allow televisions, telephones, computers, security systems, and other online systems to be connected. The following provides guidance for home structured wiring. Once you are ready to move forward, consult with a reputable electrical services company with structured wiring experience.
Installation
Structured wiring’s most opportune time for installation is during the period when a home is being remodeled or built. Cables will need to be installed throughout the entire house behind its walls. As a result, it will be both costly and inconvenient to perform an installation in a house that is already completed.
Packages
Packages for structured wiring come in various service levels. It starts with a basic system only covering cable TV and telephone to much more complex systems. If a basic option is chosen, it is critical that all the wiring needed for an upgrade is installed. It is also important to run the cable to every room where it might be needed due to high cost and inconvenience of adding cable in the future.
Two Types
Daisy chaining is the least costly configuration. This type of cabling will run from room to room in a continuous length. Its disadvantage is signal quality, which will be poorer at the end than at the beginning. The entire system will also need inspection to pinpoint a connection problem. In contrast, with a star topology or home run configuration, each set of wires will run to a single outlet, providing consistently high quality signals to all of the areas. The location of a connection problem will also be easier to find.
Wiring Quality
It will be wise to inspect the quality of the wiring of the structured wiring bundle that is offered. Lower grade wiring can decrease the quality of audio and picture. At minimum, a structured bundle should be made of 2 coaxial cables of RG-6 quality as well as 2 twisted pair of Category 5 (CAT-5) cables. For anticipating future greater data demand, CAT-6 and 2 fiber optic cables should be chosen.
Advantages
Structured wiring will permit several computers to use one Internet connection and network. The same song or movie can be enjoyed in every room of the house. It also provides the capability of multiple phone lines, device sharing of fax machines or printers, and viewing video from security cameras.
Electrical Peace of Mind
Providing professional electricians since 1988 in Maryland, Cook Electric is the company you can rely on for all your electrical service needs, including:
- Structured Wiring
- Commercial & Residential Electrical Installations
- Marina & Residential Pier Wiring
- Electrical Service & Repair
- Specialty Electrical Services
For knowledgeable, fair, honest, reliable, and conscientious service, call Cook Electric today at 410-266-9040. They will be very glad to help you.