Pre-wiring can help almost any smart home system, including wireless ones. After all, wireless devices must ultimately "connect" to cabled equipment.
However, if you have the opportunity to build a new home, our best recommendation is to put prewiring at the top of your priority list to ensure a smooth build that anticipates all of your new home's future demands.
Think twice about hiring an electrician to pre-wire you’re building for home automation.
Electricians lay wires for electrical switches and outlets, but the majority of smart home wiring is low voltage and unique, which is what we specialise in.
Running a speaker wire beside an electrical cable, for example, could cause issues with your AV system. There are other important aspects to consider as well, some of which an electrician may be unaware of.
You may save a few dollars in the short term, but you may end up paying for it (and more) in the long run.
The following systems should be wired while building and designing a home:
Recommended Pre-Wiring
• TVs & Projectors
• Surround Sounds
• Home Audio
• Landscape Speakers
• Satellite & NBN
• Home Security
• Network & Wi-Fi Access Points
• Security Systems & Cameras
1. TV’s & Projectors
• TVs – RG6/Coaxial cable to each TV and Satellite/Cable services. Smart TVs should be wired into the home network.
• Projectors – Cat5/6 Cable for HDMI to eliminate problems and the ability to upgrade technology.
2. Surround Sound Systems
Most people pre-wire a Surround Sound System in their main media room or theatre. You should also consider prewiring for Secondary areas. You may want to provide more volume in larger rooms where TVs don’t have the speaker capacity to fill the room. Master bedroom, Covered Deck, Pool, Outdoors, etc. If there’s a room where you could enjoy more sound, consider a Soundbar or full Surround Sound.
3. Home Audio
This is the area that should have the most focus on prewiring.
Once a client experiences quality home audio, it is almost guaranteed, they will want it throughout the home. If you are going to spend a lot time in any room of the house, we highly recommend prewiring for audio.
4. Outdoor Speakers
Outdoor speakers are designed so you can hear the music but not see the speakers. Also, landscape speakers can be incorporated with your outdoor speakers in other areas eg large entertaining areas , open patios, pool areas and throughout your backyard.
5. Satellite & Internet Providers
• Internet Prewire- This is where the utility companies (NBN) enter the home.
• Satellite Prewire- This prevents Satellite companies from installing plastic conduit ducting on the outside of your home.
Some service providers require special cabling, we work with them for the best outcome.
6. Network & Wi-Fi Access Points
• Hardwired Network- Wi-Fi is great, but you still need to hardwire into the network where we can. It’s best to hardwire TVs, and Video sources into the network. Likewise, Ethernet ports anywhere you may want a hardwired connection.
• Wi-Fi Access Points- Through our experience, it’s best to leave yourself options for Wi-Fi Access Points. We usually prewire multiple locations for the option to move Access Points around later for maximum coverage.
7. Security Systems & Cameras
Security Systems & Cameras should be prewired. Currently wireless cameras are not stable enough to give you a clear image.