Types of Structured Wiring
Telephone
Your telephone locations should be wired with CAT-5E cable, the same wire used for computer networks. This cable allows up to four phone lines per wall jack. It can also be used for converting the phone jack to a computer connection.
Television
Quad Shielded RG-6 is an enhanced coaxial cable that preserves your television-signal strength and provides you with the highest quality picture when viewing digital cable or satellite TV. With the proliferation of High-Definition TV (HDTV), RG-6 is one of the most vital pieces of cable in your home. Your cable box or satellite receiver will convert the HD signals from the service provider and send the signals to your TV using one of several types of connections.
Analog connections:
Component video cables are the minimum requirement to transmit HDTV signals from your cable/satellite receiver to your television.
Digital connections:
HDMI cables are the most advanced HDTV connection. These cables are expensive and difficult to install in new construction environments. For most application where the cable length exceeds 7 meters, multiple CAT 5/6 cables are run together and baluns are used on each end of the cables to make the necessary connections.
A cable TV signal amplifier is part of a properly designed structure-wiring system. This resides inside the structured-wiring enclosure and ensures that each TV location receives the best possible signal.
Computer Networks
Port City Sound and Security recommends the installation of an "Internet Station" that will accommodate both cable and/or DSL modems. In addition, a data line is run back to the structured-wiring enclosure to facilitate network configuration and internet sharing. Dedicated data lines are usually placed in a common area where family and guests may need internet access.
In addition, today's audio and video equipment also need internet connectivity to update their operating software and access internet information such as music and TV programs. Televisions already have Ethernet connections that allow connection to the internet without a computer interface.
Port City Sound and Security recommends installing dedicated computer network lines in the following locations:
- Office or study – Internet station location
- Kitchen
- Guest bedroom
- Bonus room
- Media equipment location(s)