NETWORK WIRING OVERVIEW FOR RESIDENTIAL USE. Benefits of a Wired Network

A wired local network is a group of devices that connect to one another using network cables.

Having a wired network in your home allows you to have a private, secure high-speed network of internet access, file sharing, media streaming, online gaming, IP security cameras and more. A hardwired network is also much faster and in today’s technology with more and more devices coming online, wired networks speed up delivery to wireless devices.

Importance of a Cohesive Layout

A well-designed wired home network will also improve performance. When going into a do-it-yourself project, it is always good to have a plan.

Define a Network Hub Consider a central location; also take into account where your services, such as cable,

satellite and internet come into the house. This will be the hub of your network. This is where all data will come into the house and be distributed to the rooms.

The number of ports needed in your network for each location will depend on what equipment you will be running

Each component will require a connection point, for example if you have a TV, satellite, Blu Ray and gaming console you will need a minimum of four connections. This is also a good time to consider if you will want to add on in the future. If you know somewhere down the line you will be adding security cameras that will connect to your network, now would be the time to wire for them.

Create a Schematic for your Space

Knowing what rooms you need connections in is crucial. Consider what systems you already have, where you have them and components you may want to add. This should include video game consoles, TVs, computers, and security systems. If you are planning wiring for a new home, consider wiring every room. This can save you some work down the line and be a selling point for potential buyers if you decide to sell.

This is where your cables will be running. If you have attic access or a home with a basement or crawl space, those will be the best routes to take; if neither one of these are viable options, other routes must be explored, such as through walls or outside. Try avoiding electrical wiring as much as possible, they can interfere with Ethernet. If that is not possible, try to maintain a 6 inch distance from electrical wires.

What Materials will you need for a Network?

What types of cables will I need for my network You will need to decide on the cable you want to use. This will be based on

the needs and uses of your network. Ethernet cables standardized into different Categories, such as category 5e or category 6, and are often shortened into Cat 5e or Cat 6. These are the most widely used. Both cables use a RJ-45 end, which plugs into the same jack on your computer routers and switches. Each cable has its proper place and applications, which are suitable to its specification.

 Image courtesy of hywards at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Cat5 and Cat 5e Category 5 (Cat 5) and Category 5 enhanced (Cat5e) are very similar products. Cat5e cables

are more stringently tested to ensure less electrical interference or “crosstalk.” Other than that, there are no physical differences. Cat 5e cables are commonly twisted pairs of 24 gauge wires, which can produce a 1 Gb/s network speed at distances up to 328 feet. Most homes don’t have an internet connection that can achieve a gigabit, so Cat 5e is a good choice for your cabling. It is also an affordable option to pricey Cat 6.

Cat 5e cables are also backwards compatible. This means that they support communicating at faster speeds if you have devices that will support it.

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Cat 6

It is possible to have a 10 Gigabit network with Category 6 cable. However the 10 Gigabit network on Category 6 cables is limited to 37 meters (121 feet). After 121 feet the ultimate speed is that of Cat5e. However, Cat 6 has a tighter twist in the cables, which allows communication on each pair of wires, whereas Cat 5 does not support this, comparatively the greatest difference from Cat5e is the price; Cat 6 costs approximately 20-30% more than 5e. Cat 6 cable is also backwards compatible.

Each technological advance brings about higher possible speeds and reduced crosstalk, which helps achieve faster speeds, over longer distances. There are newer Category cables like Cat 7 and Cat 7a, but those are not really relevant for home networks and the cost would far outweigh the benefits.

Solid or Stranded

Cat 5e and Cat6 both come in solid and stranded forms. Theoretically solid has better conduction, although it is unlikely you would ever notice the difference. Solid wire is more prone to damage from twists and kinks, however it is more efficient when installing punch down blocks and keystone jacks because it more rigid than stranded cable. Stranded Cable is more flexible and better for patch cords and crimp style connections.

Plenum, Riser, UV, Outdoor or Direct Burial

Plenum Ethernet cable is engineered for use in areas, where if there was a fire, its burn characteristics would prevent the spread of toxic fumes and fire throughout a building by way of the air ducts. The cable jacket is manufactured to meet higher standards than riser and general purpose cable.

Riser Ethernet is a type of CMR rated cable. This cable is intended distinctly for vertical non-plenum spaces, generally in walls between different floors of the building. In order to prevent fire and minimize any safety risks, make sure you are using the right cable for use in these space.

Ethernet cable intended for outdoor installation is insulated and has a jacket that is able to withstand exposure to UV rays and moisture. It is sometimes called UV cable or Outdoor Cable .

Making your own networking cable

Knowing How to make your own networking cable can be a valuable skill for several reasons: firstly, is cost. In a standard box store, a relatively short cable can run you approximately $2 a foot. Secondly, it can be difficult to find a ready-made cable that is the exact length you need and making your own cable is easy, additionally you can easily make your own patch panels and wall ports. This can give you complete control over your home network.

Home Entertainment, Audio and Home Theater elements in your network.

Television into your network

Coax cable is primarily used in video. It is important to consider your service providers set-up and requirements for cables. While Coax is the standard, RG6 Quad Shield will handle all applications that include Satellite, Audio and Video uses.

Cable Network

Cable television, abbreviated CATV, delivers television programming through coaxial cables, and often consists of a single cable coming into the house from the service provider, in to a switch and a single cable to the television or DVR.

DISH Network

Dish network requires one wire from the dish to up to three satellite receivers in any of the following distribution:

Single-cable connection to dual-tuner receivers, when each input is used with a separator.

Single-cable connection to receivers.

Single-cable connection to a Legacy receiver, provided that the receiver is also connected and powered at all times. No adaptor is required.

DirecTV

DirecTV has three different setups. The Legacy setup is a where two wires come directly from the satellite Dish, and if you have standard definition receivers, you will need 2 wires from the dish to a switch that will be in your network hub, that will then connect out.

If there is but one cable coming from the satellite that is what is called the SWM system. From your network hub it goes to a power inserter then into a splitter, which will then go to your TV.

Hybrid TV System

Having a Hybrid system allows for future expansion, such as added receivers and access local channels from a single TV antenna to all the TVs in the house. A Hybrid system basically combines the two types of systems; it utilizes a legacy 5LNB dish, 4 wires out and a standalone SWM switch in your media hub.

Streaming

Streaming video, such as Netflix and Hulu are becoming increasingly popular. While most of these devices are Wi-Fi capable, most have an Ethernet port if a faster connection is needed or desired.

Adding Audio to your network: Surround Sound

To set up your home theater, you must consider installing surround sound. Think about how many speakers you will want and where you will want them. The most common set-up is the 5.1 Dolby system, which is three speakers in the front (right side, center and left side) two rear speakers (right and left) and a subwoofer.

Subwoofer Wire

The wire to a subwoofer is often different from the standard speaker wire, it should also be noted that it will need power, so it should be placed near an outlet.

Whole Home Sound System Types

There are two general configurations when it comes to running your wire for a whole home audio system.

Daisy Chain The first is called a Daisy-Chain, wiring your speakers in parallel, meaning you run one

wire to the first speaker; all subsequent speakers are wired in a chain to the previous speaker. This method will save a lot of wire, however for multiple rooms and volume control it is not ideal.

Direct Run The Direct Run method is a better method, that allows more flexibility, however will use

considerably more speaker wire. Basically this requires a separate run of speaker wire from the amp to each speaker. By installing volume controls in each room , you are enabling individual volume adjustment in each room. You can take it a step further and install a multi-zone receiver, this will permit each room greater control over, not only how loud they listen, but also what they listen to.

Speaker and Audio Wire Speaker Wire Ratings

The speaker wire for either method needs to be rated for in-wall use. This means you want a wire that has a CL rating. This wire has a PVC outer jacket and can be safely pulled through attics, crawl spaces, walls, etc.

Speaker Wire Gauge

Speaker wire comes in a multitude of gauges (AWG) and choosing the right one can be confusing. Thicker wire results in lower resistance, which is good, however you will pay more for it and it will be harder to hide. You must also consider the length, the greater distance the wire- the greater the resistance. A good balance is to use the highest gauge (thinnest) wire you can without decreased sound quality.

MultiHome Receivers

If you are planning to wire for a multi-home receiver, you will need to run networking cable as well, Cat 5e or Cat 6 are acceptable. This wire will allow volume control as well as selection of the source to listen to.

Gaming Consoles- Internet Connected

There are several gaming manufacturers that are designing games that allow you to use your gaming console to play against users around the world. Connecting your gaming console to a home network is relatively straight forward. Gamers are generally able to set up their system to play others through the Internet via a router or Ethernet modem. Another option is to play against someone right next to you or in another room, using peer-to-peer mode and this is done through your home network. This can be done easily with Ethernet connection for each console, connecting them to the router.

Hard Wired Game Sets

Furthermore your gaming experience can also be enhanced by a hard wired set, increasing performance and speed. While most game systems have built in Wi-Fi some systems still have Ethernet ports. Sony PlayStation and Microsoft Xbox 360 are two game systems that excel when connected to a wired system opposed to a wireless. Even the older systems can be connected via Ethernet ports.

Connect TV, Internet through your Game Console

It should also be noted that gaming consoles can be used for web surfing, email, watching movies and more. So having it connected to your home network is a bonus.

Telephone

While many homes no longer employ a home telephone line, they can be part of your phone network as well. This may be important to you if you have a home business or make a lot of international calls. Typical phone wire is Cat 3; however you can use Cat5e for telephone wire. A single Cat 5e Ethernet cable can carry 4 individual phone lines.

Your Security System

A bare minimum in security would be one motion sensor near the entrance into the house and any major areas on traffic, for example, the path an intruder would travel to get to your valuables. From here the possibilities for a security system are pretty broad. Not only will your network serve the security system, the phone system and the audio system, but I will also run things such as your doorbell. For example, the common wire used for a doorbell is an 18/2 solid bell wire ran to a transformer then to the bell. A simple upgrade would be a Cat 5e cable to the door as well. This will enable the addition of a security camera and/or intercom.

Your Security Camera and Surveillance equipment

A security system can be as simple of as elaborate as you like. With advances in technology there are a multitude of options and variables and are fully expandable. With the power of Wi-Fi and the internet combined with smart phones and tablets; you can have greater management over your home environment. Keep in mind though, even if your system is wireless there are still wires that will need to be ran, for example power to cameras or an Ethernet connection to the system receiver.

Generally 22-2 (2 wire) or 22-4 (4 wire) cables are commonly used; they are designed especially for security equipment. Which one you use depends on the system requirements, however typically things needing power need four wire otherwise 2 is sufficient.

Computers

Naturally your computer will be part of your network, if you have more than one computer, a network will allow multiple computers to share a single internet connection, open or copy files from a different computer, share printers and play multi-user computer games. There are many different standards when it comes to computer networks. All require a broadband modem, and a router connected to your internet provider to create a LAN or Local Area Network.

Ethernet

Ethernet is the most popular physical technology for establishing a LAN. A standard Ethernet can transmit data at a rate up to 10 Mbps and supports virtually all popular network protocols. It also is a good balance between speed, cost and ease of installation.

HomePNA

A Home Phoneline Networking Alliance or HomePNA for short, connects computers within a home using the homes phone line and an adaptor, and does not interrupt normal voice or fax services. Currently HomePHA 2.0 can achieve 10 MBPS, which is comparable to Ethernet.

Putting it all together

Determining length of cabling

Once you have determined the type of cable you will use, before you buy you will need to consider how much cable you will need to complete your network. This can be difficult to pinpoint exactly and depends on two primary factors, the size of your home the number of cables you are running. Consider buying bulk, which typically comes in a convenient pull box that makes running your wires considerably easier than a spool.

Wall Jacks

These are very similar to the electrical outlets you already have in your home. They look professional and are easy to install.

Patch Panels

Instead of cables coming into a central location and connecting them directly into the switch or router, patch panels can be used. If you have a wired network with multiple ports in multiple rooms, a patch panel simplifies wire management and organization. Patch panels are available in 8 – 24 ports; you can even use multiple panels together to supports more jacks.

RJ-45 Connectors

“RJ” stands for Registered Jack and are the standardized connectors for telecommunications and data equipment. Registered Jack 45 is an eight wire connector, used primarily to connect equipment such as computers to a network.

There are few specialty tools that will be needed to run your home network. These tools are typically inexpensive, especially if compared to hiring a professional installer.

Punch down tool or a Krone tool – This is used to connect keystone jacks and connecting blocks

RJ-45 crimper – These are available as a multi-purpose tool and will cut, strip and connect RJ-45 connectors to network cable.  

References

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Tuohy, J. (Amy 28, 2015) Home security demystified: How to build a smart DIY system, http://www.networkworld.com/article/2925722/security0/home-security-demystified-how-to-build-a-smart-diy-system.html

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