Routing of wired home network

scamartist · 12 Sep 2016 at 12:53

We are currently in the process of getting our loft converted and during this process I thought it would be worth putting in some network cable and sockets as it is a lot easier during the build work.

Current plan is:
4 sockets in bedroom 4 located at 2 tv points
2 sockets in bedroom 3 located at tv point

Due to the conversion bedroom downstairs will then become a small study where main computer will be located so will most likely have 2 sockets there as well.

Where is the best place for the network cables to converge?
Or do you just place a switch near the router and route all network cables to that location?

Any advice would be appreciated.

ov_sjo · 12 Sep 2016 at 12:55

scamartist said:
Where is the best place for the network cables to converge?

Wherever makes the job simpler.

psd99 · 12 Sep 2016 at 15:46

hidden place like an airing cupboard etc
under the stairs in my case

APM · 12 Sep 2016 at 21:01

In whatever loft/eaves space is left that you can still access?

scamartist · 13 Sep 2016 at 08:16

Would it matter that the remaining space in the loft would not be as well temperature controlled as inside the converted areas?

bledd · 13 Sep 2016 at 09:02

Switches can take a lot more heat than PC equipment

scamartist · 15 Sep 2016 at 12:56

My 2 options are now to either terminate cables and locate switch in the remaining uninsulated loft space or in office space downstairs next to location of the main PC.

Is terminating the cables and just plugging into the switch a suitable option or is there a more elegant solution?
The network equipment will not vary and shouldn't need to be plugged and unplugged regularly.

DragonQ · 15 Sep 2016 at 13:06

What if your switch dies or you want to upgrade it later? Always best to use a patch panel IMO, they can be had cheaply for home use.

bremen1874 · 15 Sep 2016 at 16:16

DragonQ said:
What if your switch dies or you want to upgrade it later? Always best to use a patch panel IMO, they can be had cheaply for home use.

What difference does a patch panel make to replacing a switch?

Either of the suggested termination options will work fine. Do whatever suits your situation best.

The only thing you'd need to check is that the plugs you use are rated for use on solid core cable.

scamartist · 20 Sep 2016 at 22:26

Rather than a patch panel could I just terminate to a multi port cat 6 faceplate in the office with PC in it?

That way I get the functionality of a patch panel without it looking too industrial then run patch cables to a switch?

bremen1874 · 20 Sep 2016 at 22:32

Of course you can. Do whatever suits you best.

scamartist · 20 Sep 2016 at 22:43

Any recommendations for best place to purchase Cat6 faceplate's and roll of Cat 6 (100m)?

Preferably with fast delivery.

DIABLO · 20 Sep 2016 at 22:52

scamartist said:
Any recommendations for best place to purchase Cat6 faceplate's and roll of Cat 6 (100m)?

Preferably with fast delivery.

The river?