Flat Refurb Considerations

[robbigee]

Hi guys,

Pretty simple yet vague question really.

What considerations do I need to give to telephone/computer networking in a 2 bed flat I'm refurbing (see the projects folder).

Do I need anything more than telephone points nowadays with wireless etc being so readily available ?

If I put the main telephone point in the living room and run a wirless modem/router off it I figured I would hardwire my media computer t the router for streaming stuff on to my TV. Other than that I couldn't think of a reason to have fixed network points anywhere.

What're your thoughts??

 

[Ricardus]

Most if not all modern laptops have wi-fi, a wi-fi modem/router is relatively cheap and USB wireless dongles are available for £10-20, so wireless networking would seem a more sensible option than hardwired.

You can stream media over wi-fi, but for high def stuff you need a fast connection with very good signal quality and reliability. With that in mind, I'd run in a couple of network cables if I could.

 

[festive]

Yep agree with above poster, make sure you are running Cat6 feeds to each room running back to your area where the router/switch will be located.

I for one would prefer to use wired over wireless especially shifting large files/HD etc.

 

[timtheenchanter]

I also agree, wired is the way to go for a refurb, buy a roll of the stuff and if its only a flat there should be plenty for at least 2 feeds to each room, you don't have to terminate it now, but if its there you can use it later, most single faceplates can have 2 outlets in.

if noting else, the huge range of baluns avaliable means you could use the cat6 for other a/v stuff at a later date.

 

[Monkeh]

If you're doing a complete rewire you might as well do it properly and run some cat5e or cat6 around. Get the master socket moved into a convenient cupboard where you can terminate all your cabling.

 

[foxhole]

Totally unnecessary cost for refurbishment, you should be making money on it not spending money on it.

 

[Monkeh]

Totally unnecessary cost for refurbishment, you should be making money on it not spending money on it.

Do you know what it costs to run some cat5e around a small flat?

If your profit is going to be seriously affected by a hundred quid, you should rethink the entire idea..

 

[Ricardus]

Totally unnecessary cost for refurbishment, you should be making money on it not spending money on it.

I'd agree, but the OP kinda indicates he's refurbing to live there himself rather than to resell.