Cabling your home for computer network - still a requirement
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Computers Technology -> subcategory Networks.
Is Cabling Your Home for a Computer Network Still Necessary?
Overview
In the age of wireless technology, the idea of cutting the cord is enticing and can save money. However, can a wireless network meet all the needs of a typical computer user? Let's explore the benefits and drawbacks of cabling versus wireless connectivity.
Advantages of a Wired Network
1. Speed and Bandwidth:
Wired networks, particularly those using inexpensive CAT5E cables, can provide speeds of up to 1000Mbit/sec. In contrast, even the best Wi-Fi standard, IEEE802.11g, offers only 54Mbit/sec. While this difference might seem negligible for basic internet browsing, tasks like printing large documents or transferring files highlight the advantage. For instance, a 100MByte print job could take 15 seconds over Wi-Fi but only 1 second on a wired Ethernet connection.
2. Power Transmission:
Currently, it’s not feasible to transmit power via a wireless link without exposing devices to unsafe levels of microwave radiation. Devices marketed as wireless still need a power source, often requiring frequent recharging. Wired connections can deliver both power and data, which is crucial for devices that need to be always online, such as phones.
3. Versatility and Compatibility:
Wired systems using CAT5E cables can support multiple types of signals?"phone, data, audio, video, and more. While Wi-Fi can handle data, other multimedia signals typically require pricey converters. Using simple adapters like baluns, a single CAT5E cable can transmit multiple channels of broadband television or baseband video over long distances.
4. Cost-Effectiveness:
While a wireless setup seems to save on cabling costs, most homes still require various kinds of wiring for devices like phones, thermostats, and security systems. If you’re building a new home, including computer cabling from the outset can be more economical than adding it later. Modern computers often come with built-in Ethernet cards, which can support high-speed connections at no additional cost.
Planning and Standards
There’s a wealth of information on setting up residential cabling for diverse applications?"voice, data, audio, and video. A key resource is the TIA/EIA-570B standard, last updated in 2004, which offers guidelines on cable types, distribution principles, and the number of cables based on the house size.
Conclusion
While going wireless might seem liberating, it’s wise to consider a balanced approach. Properly designed cabling systems offer significant advantages and should remain a part of your home networking considerations for the foreseeable future.
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