Why Installing Structured Cabling Future-Proofs Your New Home
A Wireless World Still Needs Some Wires
In a world with rapid technological advancement, we continue to see more new devices going wireless. Even charging our mobile phones is going wireless! Many smart home devices can communicate wirelessly, although they still require power to operate.
That brings us to a point – even wireless devices need some wires. And in the home, many things still need cabling and wiring infrastructure. If you are looking to embark on a major remodel of an existing home or planning a new one in Richmond, VA, it would be wise to consider a structured cabling installation to ensure your home is ready for any technology. Keep reading to see why.
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Connected Devices
As homeowners look at remodeling or new builds these days, smart home control, security, and connectivity are high on the list of highly valued features. When you start thinking about all the possible options, cabling and wiring must be planned in a structured fashion. Consider the following list of possibilities:
- Lighting control systems
- Motorized Window Treatments
- Security cameras indoors and outdoors
- Telephone systems
- Wi-Fi networking property-wide
- Wired network connections for high-performance computers and video distribution
- Speakers for whole-home audio
- Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
- Water intrusion sensors
- Smart appliances
While some of these features can rely on wireless communication, many cannot or will operate more reliably with wired connections. Moreover, many of these devices and systems require a combination of wiring to install. Low voltage wiring underpins devices like sensors and smoke detectors. Speakers require high-quality wiring for the best sound performance. Security cameras require network connectivity and power, and typically the best way to do that is through network cabling that carries power and data. If you install a security camera by a gate or under the eave of a corner of the house, you need to plan the cable run for an optimal installation.
Seamless Networking
Network connectivity is critical throughout a property, both for personal devices that communicate wirelessly and smart home systems that depend on both wired and wireless connections. Consider a whole home audio system that moves music digitally throughout the house via wired connections and the wireless control you want from your smartphone or a dedicated smart touchscreen controller. All of it requires seamless connectivity. Your home should also have central panels and equipment racks for an organized approach to systems for easy access, maintenance, and replacement. Proper planning for internet routers and wireless access points (that are wired back to the router) is critical for a robust network throughout.
What You Want Where You Want It
Entertainment equipment also depends on wired connections. A projector for a home theater requires power and connections back to source and control equipment. If you want to hang a flat panel over a fireplace, you will want a network connection and power in the right place. Architectural speakers should be carefully planned for the best audio performance, and the wiring should accommodate the ideal placement. Similarly, a video doorbell should go where you want it, or a smart thermostat. With careful planning for all the different types of wiring and cabling needed, you can have what you want without limitations.
Work with a professional like Sound + Image to get the structured cabling installation that enables you to integrate everything you want in your modern smart home. To get started, give us a call at (804) 741-5816 or fill out our online form to get started today. We would love to work with you!
