ELECTRONIC CONTRACTORS IN CAMBRIDGE
CUSTOM HOME BUILDING.
UNCERTAIN ABOUT WHAT YOU SHOULD PRE-WIRE FOR?
Contact one of our consultants today at +1 437 679 2793.
Constructing a Custom House? Are you unsure about prewiring? What about the latest advancements in wireless technology? Do you believe that prewiring is worthwhile?
If someone tells you that in a few years everything will be wireless, don't believe them. Whether you're talking about audio, video, cameras, intercoms, or security, installing cables specifically designed for the data transfer needed is always the finest approach to incorporate electronics into your house. Pre-wiring can be done in a variety of ways, depending on what you want to allow for. This brief, point-form tutorial outlines the first things to consider when thinking about pre-wiring a project.
Keep in mind that you don't have to pay for all of the electronics up front simply because something is wired for it. The house is ready for future electronic updates, provided the right cables are installed before you shut up the walls and ceilings. What you really need is to be able to quickly access any wires that might be needed in the future as needed. It is always advisable to install as much Cat 5e or Cat 6 as possible. If you pre-wire with fiber optics, you will be ready for the majority of future developments even if there are no connections at the end.
Wire is what you want to rely on for these applications.
Generally speaking, in new construction and remodels, We prefer to prewire (roughly) for the following items:
- Projectors, TVs, etc.
- Home Audio Distribution
- Theatre Rooms with Surround sound applications
- Not all TV + Phone + Internet providers will bring the Internet or related service Wires & Cables to a custom home centralized distribution room. So, consider provisioning for Cable, satellite, and internet before hand.
- Surveillance CCTV Security cameras & Door Bells
- Monitored or Un Monitored Home Security
- Network & WiFi Distribution throughout the house
- Smart Centralized Lighting Control
- and of course On Wall Touch Panels for control of In House Control Systems like Control4.
VIDEO:
Smart TVs: Better if its hardwired into the household network, ideally using a Cat6 connection.
Projectors: Whenever feasible, We run multiple Cat6 to the projector. Over time, HDMI may become faulty or outdated; CAT6 wiring enables you to overcome unnecessary HDMI cable issues or compatibility with latest video resolutions.
Video Distribution: Multiple Cat6 cables and one fiber should be prewired for video distribution. For 4k video content, iCat6 should be used.
The frequency with which a client chooses to mount a receiver behind the TV is startling. Installing the cable at the outset is less expensive and easier than doing a retrofit afterwards.
HOME AUDIO:
Two major uses of Home Audio are Audio Distribution throughout the house, in every room and outdoor spaces like Backyards, Pool, Hot Tub, Cabana etc. Also in customized Home Theatre rooms.
For both these applications, speakers wiring planning is key. It requires various considerations like distance, type of sound eg. Stereo Sound or Surround Sound, type of speaker like landscape speaker, Dual voice coil speaker, Subwoofer for better base performance etc.
CCTV SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS:
Wired surveillance cameras are preferable to wireless ones because, despite clients often inquiring about wireless options, most wireless cameras still require a power source. Since a power cable is necessary in either case, opting for prewired cameras with Cat6 cables is a logical choice. This enables a direct network connection and allows for power transmission over the same cable.
HOME SECURITY
In home security installations, our approach involves prewiring keypads for power to maintain a tidy appearance without the need for power adapters. While wireless sensors are suitable for smaller homes, larger residences often face challenges due to limited wireless range, making hardwired sensors more effective. Additionally, interference from iron or metal doors and windows can disrupt wireless signals. Our security prewiring process is customized for each case, considering factors such as home size and construction materials.
NETWORK & DISTRIBUTED WIRELESS
- While Wi-Fi offers convenience, it's advisable to prioritize hardwiring into the network when possible. Connecting TVs and video sources through a hardwired setup is optimal, and it's beneficial to have Ethernet ports strategically placed for potential wired connections wherever needed.
- In our experience with Wi-Fi hotspots, we've found it beneficial to maintain flexibility by prewiring more locations than initially anticipated. This practice allows us the freedom to reposition hotspots later on, ensuring optimal coverage and performance.
OTHER IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS
- The first seven items are standard in nearly every home wiring setup, while the following items are more optional and vary from home to home. Although categorized as miscellaneous, their importance remains significant.
- Charging Stations for iPads, a popular choice, are among the optional items.
- Touchscreens, such as those used in systems like Control4, are wired standard in common areas and theaters but can be placed anywhere in the home.
- Intercom systems are making a comeback, particularly with the rise of Video Doorbells and Touchscreens.
- For Voice Control solutions like Alexa or Google, consider wiring nodes to the wall or ceiling for convenient voice control throughout the home.
- When it comes to Video Doorbells, wire the doorbell traditionally and add a Cat6 for enhanced functionality.
- Wiring for shades is recommended, as different manufacturers have varying setups. Especially useful for homes with large windows in a two-story great room, motorized shades provide convenient control over light and privacy through button or scene control.
