How to Install Structured Wiring

Structured wiring has become increasingly popular in new and old homes alike. Rather than install a limited selection of wires during the initial construction of a building, many contractors and builders have come to favor a complete installation procedure that sets up every room for the basic wiring needs. This increases flexibility for future use and simultaneously reduces the need for costly remodeling projects later on. If you are considering installing your own structured wiring, the process is involved, but your home will be set up for a wide variety of electrical needs for years to come.

Step 1—Collect Your Materials

There are a variety of materials and tools that are necessary to install structured wiring. These include the following:

• Full layout of the home or building, including information about wall outlets
• 500 yards of structured wiring bundle with at least 2 coax cables and 2 Cat5e cables
• Wiring panel
• Panel inserts to match the wiring bundle that you select
• Additional wiring as necessary for your needs, including phone cables, television cables, etc.
• Installation boxes and mud rings
• Hammer, nails, screwdriver, screws and other basic tools

Step 2—Set up your Installation Boxes and Mud Rings

The installation connectors and mud rings are necessary to support the wiring itself. Before you begin wiring your house with the structured wire and any other cables that you've purchased, set up the mud rings so that the wire will have support. Attach a mud ring every few feet at about the height of the wall outlets. You can screw them into support beams or use nails if you prefer. Avoid placing the rings within a foot or so of any outlet.

Step 3—Route the Structured Wire

Having set up the mud rings to support your wiring, you may now route the wire itself. Connect it through the mud rings and to the wall outlets. While routing your wiring, it is crucial that you do not set the structured wire parallel to any power lines. If possible, all structured wire should cross power lines at a right angle. Ensure also that you leave about 2 feet of extra wire at each of the mud rings. This will aid in your connecting the wires throughout the house later on.

Step 4—Identify the Wires

Before continuing, ensure that you know which wires belong to which outlets. Label both ends of each wire so that there is no confusion later on. Use this opportunity to also check that the wire wasn't damaged at all during the routing procedure and also to see that the wire is properly connected to the end mud rings.

Step 5—Trim the Wires and Attach the Head End Panel

The final step to your installation project is to trim the wires and attach the head panel. Follow the installation instructions for the panel in order to properly affix it in the home. To complete the trimming procedure, install the wall plates over the mud rings.

If you have any questions or concerns while routing your wires or setting up your structured wiring system, do not hesitate to speak with an electrician or hardware specialist. Installing wiring can be a dangerous procedure, and it is best to be cautious during the entire process rather than risk incorrect wiring or injury.