6 Structured Wiring Supplies You'll Need for the Job

Structured wiring supplies are things that you will need to have available when you install your structured wiring system in your home. Structured wiring is becoming much more popular among today's builders. Many builders are combining structured wiring with other green building features to the homes. As you add this type of wiring, you increase the efficiency and effectiveness of home electronic communication. Homes today are becoming powered with network-ready appliances, computers, home theater system, whole house audio and many additional components that make it necessary to thoughtfully layout and plan the wiring throughout the home. Below you will find the necessary supplies you need to use when tackling your structured wiring installation.

1 - Connectors, Adapters

Connectors and adapters are necessary in order to make the appropriate connections in your structured wiring system. You will need both of these components to add to the wire terminations in the system. Compression connectors, as an example, slide over the end of a cable (each connector fits to a specific size of cable) and using a compression tool you apply pressure to hold it into place. The connector is then installed. Most connectors have a water resistant seal and are easy to install.

Adapters are used to split and transfer different types of signals. If you purchase a monster cable, as an example, this will help you to transfer different audio signals. These types of adapters are great when you are looking to connect a stereo to an AV receiver and utilize a mono output. Using an adapter you can expand your AV system and maintain the same level of sound quality.

2 - Wall Boxes

You will need many wall boxes for your residential installation. These are used to install low-voltage device (such as a television or telephone jacks).

3 - Mounting Brackets

Mounting brackets help you mount all the equipment; everything from the standard structured wiring panel to the long runs of wiring will need to be installed using mounting brackets.

4 - Coax Cable Stripper

You certainly could never live without purchasing a coax cable stripper as part of the supplies you need around for your structured wiring installation. This type of tool will help you strip the cable of different sizes so that you can twist individual wires together.

5 - Cabling

Structured wiring does depend on all different types of cables. You will need to take some time to review all the cabling necessary for your design. Visit an electrical supply store and begin to stock up on the cables. For this application, it is best to purchase the cable in bulk rolls.

6 - Power Supplies

Some components within your structured wiring design will need additional, separate power supplies. You can purchase a wide variety of power supplies at your local home improvement center or electrical supply store. For example, purchase a power supply that will power a low voltage home intercom system, separate from the rest of the structured wiring solution.