Home automation continues to grow in popularity across the US, with an adoption rate of 32.4% or 41 million households. Recent technological advancements in IoT, including access control, HVAC systems, smart lighting, and entertainment controls, continue to fuel the growth spurt. Internet installation and connectivity remains a key pillar for the full implementation of home automation.
Prior to purchasing your smart home device, you may need to figure out your internet connectivity. At first glance, it would appear that going wireless has become the preferred option for most homeowners. However, rising concerns over home security are pushing users to consider wired ethernet cable installation.
An ethernet network installation remains unmatched in throughput speeds, low latency, and stable connections. Besides, there are lower security risks as one may need to be physically connected to the cable to effectively hack your home. Here are five tips for a proper ethernet cable installation within your home.
1. Do: Consider a Professional Installation
Ethernet cable installation is more than just running a bunch of CAT6A wires across your home to the connection drops. It requires careful planning and execution as mistakes can result in a variety of network issues. You may lack the necessary tools such as crimp tools, jacket strippers, and flush cutters to complete the job. Residential ethernet cable installation services include a layout design for your wiring to ensure that you do not punch holes in the wrong walls.
2. Don’t: Forget About the Future
A common error that homeowners make is designing their internet installation for the present and ignoring the future. If you plan on adding smart home devices that utilize ethernet cabling, it is essential that you leave enough drops to accommodate them. It may be less expensive than having to add additional hardware or replacing your devices.
3. Do: Take Time with The Cable Selection
Selecting the right category of ethernet cables is critical to the success of your installation. Cables can influence the quality of connection as well as the final cost of the project. Typically, most residential properties would be fine with a Cat6 ethernet cable. The cable length and the bandwidth you desire are also vital factors to keep in mind. You can ease your selection burden by opting for a professional ethernet cable installation.
4. Don’t: Run Parallel to Electric Cables
You may need to consider your installation environment before laying your ethernet cables. Power cables carrying electrical currents or signals can create an EMF interference in unshielded network cables. To minimize the interference to your connection, you may need to reduce crosses over power cables and do so at a 90° angle if you have to.
5. Do: Install A Cable Management System
Ethernet cables strewing across your floors and walls can be a safety hazard within your home. A wire management system can help guide your cables to the right spots and racks without uglily sticking out. The proper organization also allows for easy troubleshooting of network issues.
Residential ethernet cable installation is gaining popularity as more homeowners become enlightened on the dangers of open, wireless connectivity. You may need to properly plan for the structured cabling project within your home. For more information on our ethernet network installation, home automation services, and outdoor lighting installation, contact Trident Residential at (919) 761-5696.