Wiring TV For Cable

Answer 1

Wiring a house for cable tv can either be done by a professional, or the home owner. The former will result in better quality, but also a higher cost. The latter is probably less expensive but also most likely result in lower quality and may not even work at all.

If the house was wired for cable tv while being constructed, the job is more or less finished, if not simply easier to complete. Having a professional installer do the work is the best option. Though if it's done by the home owner, a little extra money spent on high quality material is wise.

If the house hasn't been pre-wired for cable, the only option besides fishing wires up through the walls, might be drilling through the wall to the outside and routing the cable on the exterior of the house. Before doing this, however, it is best to plan the path of the cable to avoid obstacles and hide the wire as much as possible.

When installing the cable, it is important not to bend it too tightly around corners, or squat it unnecessarily when fastening. A degradation of performance will almost certainly result if any considerable change in the physical characteristics of the cable is attained. Using "U"-shaped nails and a hammer or a staple gun, attach the wire along the baseboard. In the room where the television will be hooked up, leave about 6 feet of slack, in case the furniture is rearranged in the future.

As mentioned, the quality of cable is important. Local hardware stores may sell coaxial cable in various lengths, but usually of poor quality. If it's possible to get a wiring package from the cable tv company, that would be the best choice.

The initial time taken to wire a house for cable tv should not be minimized in a rush. Doing a good job the first time will reduce any mistakes and re- wiring or repairs later. Also, have all the tools and equipment ready when the project is started. This will save time, at least for needing to retrieve something during work.