DIY Structured Wiring Installation in 9 Steps

The easiest way to complete a structured wiring installation is if your home is in the process of being built. However, you can still do the installation after the home is finished, but it will take a little extra time and effort to route the cabling behind the walls or in the attic and the basement. Below are the steps involved with this type of installation.

Step 1 – Develop Your Plan

A successful structured wiring solution for a home starts with the plan. Whether you are building a new home or looking to add structured wiring to your existing residence, it all begins with the plan. Always use a pencil for your plan, or computer diagramming software so that you can re-do and change your ideas. The following should be incorporated into your plan:

1. Layout of your floor plan, showing walls, doors, windows, rooms
2. Positions of each wall outlet type
3. List of structured wiring materials and products needed
4. Location of each low voltage service (located in each room)
5. Type of panel
6. Location of main panel

Step 2 – Install the Mud Rings

If you are installing your system during the construction of your home, the only things that need to be installed are the rough in-wiring and mud rings. Attach the mud rings with nails or screws. Locate the mud rings at the same level as the power outlets that will be used to service the same type of equipment.

Step 3 – Route the Cable

Route the cable and the other wires used for the different types of communication. Do not route the cabling next to power wires. Always route the wiring at right angles. Never cross cables. Never kink the wire or change its shape in any way. Secure the cables with small hooks to the joists or the rafters.

Step 4 – Identify Each Cable

At the end of each cable, place a piece of masking tape at the ends to identify the cable type and purpose.

Step 5 – Check the Plan

Check your plan to make sure you have run all the necessary wiring. Add any additional wiring that you may have missed, per your plans needs and requirements.

Step 6 – Add the Wall Plates

Attach the connectors to the mud ring. Then attach the wall plates.

Step 7 – Attach the Head End Panel

The head end panel is also known as the ‘brains’ to your structured wiring system in your home. Each panel comes with a set of instructions on recommended wiring options. You can follow these instructions to place your wire and connect the wire to the head panel.

Step 8 – Test the Wiring

Test your home wiring with a electricity tester. You can purchase a tester at any local home improvement center. Fix any problems detected with your tester.

Step 9 – Plug Your Appliances and Electronics in

Get your whole house electronics and appliances plugged in and test away.