About Different Types of House Wiring

About Different Types of House Wiring

As more and more types of electrical appliances and personal computers are used in today's homes, it has become more important than ever for homeowners to understand the basics of wiring and the types of wires used for different situations. Electricity as been available for home use since the late 1800s, but today's choices include wired and wireless options. The type of wiring needed depends on the needs of the homeowner.

• Domestic Cable
• Domestic Circuits

1. Significance

   • Wiring for today's homes needs to take into account all of the different types of access needed. Appliances, personal communications, internet, home networking, cable or satellite TV, home entertainment systems, home security systems and outdoor access are just some of the demands to be met. Many older homes are underwired because they were not designed for the electrical loads and dedicated circuits necessary for the appliances of today.

   History

   • Lewis Lattimer invented the long-lasting carbon filiment for light bulbs.

     Thomas Edison and Lewis Lattimer devised the first electric power plant to bring electricity to people's homes in the late 1800s in New York City. However, the current used was "one-way" and could not be transported long distances. After alternating current (AC) was devised, it became possible to send electricity long distances. George Westinghouse's invention of the transformer helped to supply electricity safely and efficiently to homes and businesses located miles from the nearest electricity generating plant.

   Types

   • Wiring for homes today include more than just the standard electrical connections. Standard wiring options also include dedicated wiring for telephones, audio, video, and data; as well as appliances. Structured wiring describes different types of wiring for sending data signals to cable television, telephones and computers and include higher-end fiber-optic cables. Coaxial cables are structured wiring used for connecting a VCR or DVR to a television, while twisted pair cables run from the wall telephone jack to the landline telephone. Usually structured wiring is installed in bundles.

   Benefits

   • 2X2 Box Faceplate

     Bundling of a suite a cables that is then covered with a plastic coating is beneficial because it is easier to install. Additionally, the stronger wires (RG-6 types) help to protect the weaker wires (CAT-5 types) during installation and protect against loss of performance and interference between types of wires. The entire bundle can be connected into one wall faceplate that is similar to regular faceplates. This type of bundling really helps when setting up a home network for computer access. Using an advanced control box, also known as a router, various types of data can be deciphered and sent (routed) to the proper location. This makes possible the simultaneous use of more than one computer with no interference.

   Warning

   • Although many people are afraid to do simple electrical projects because of the danger, with the proper tools, safety practices and time allotments, it is possible for homeowners to complete basic wiring. The temperature in the working area should be above 16 degrees Fahrenheit, and gloves and safety goggles should be worn. Consulting a handbook such as the model code book published every three years by the National Fire Protection Association would be extremely helpful.

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