Setting up a new whole-home network – what do you think? Any ideas or concerns?
Setting up a new whole-home network – what do you think? Any ideas or concerns?
Upgrading to a new home has changed my approach. Now I’m focused on getting the basics set up without overcomplicating things. The low-voltage panel is connected via CAT6 cabling to several rooms—bedrooms, hallways, closet, living room, garage, and soffits near the rear and front doors. I’ve run conduits in the mechanical room, installed coaxial cables throughout bedrooms and the living room, and planned a dedicated NEMA 5-20R circuit for future networking needs.
Hardware is being arranged as follows: a 36U Ubiquiti server in the mechanical room with a NEMA 5-15R shared port, a NAS/BluRay media server in the same space, and a VR/gaming computer via FiberCommand. I’m also planning a rack-mounted UPS shelf and a few tower-style power supplies. For audio, I aim for a Sonos system or similar, and I’ll add a portable speaker later.
Power will come from a PoE+ setup in the ceiling, with fiber connections for media and control devices. The plan includes expanding to 24PoE for higher speeds. All wiring is organized to keep the main living areas cool and free of heat sources. This layout should balance performance with ease of use for everyday life.
Details about the iPad screen setup. I intend to use iPort hardware to convert the iPad into a connected, wirelessly powered display. Guided access on the iPad will keep it focused on one app, HomeKit, or similar for video streams. This approach is quite costly—over $800 for case, mounts, and table stand—but it enables a slim wall-mounted solution in hallways that draws power via PoE+. When placed inside the case and mounted on the wall mount, the iPad can be wirelessly charged from the same setup. You’ll simply carry it around and place it on a table stand for charging. The plan starts with video feeds; later I hope to integrate HVAC controls and other smart devices onto one screen. https://www.iportproducts.com/connectpro
I understand networking doesn't require electrical boxes, but adding them to the ceiling for my APs would be helpful. Even low voltage rings would work similarly, though I prefer using boxes. This makes it simple to replace APs without drilling new holes in the ceiling, since I'm not attaching anything directly to the drywall. The Ubquiti 6E mounting plates already have holes that match an electrical box, and I have two of those installed in my home. Just a thought.
Interesting. I might contact the low voltage specialist to check their setup. I assume they'll use flush mount receptacles, similar to those in offices or bedrooms, but I'm uncertain about the presence of a 1G box. I'm also worried about the G5 cameras—do they need a thin cable from the side or must they be mounted flush with cables coming behind the wall?
From the start I realized technology would shift my choices, so I wasn’t surprised by the need to change. Many people just recommend using drywall anchors, but I thought shared bolt patterns were unlikely. My units sit flush against the ceiling, and here’s how my original U6 Lites were mounted: They weren’t built for a single gang box, so I had to adjust the setup—just a few holes needed to be drilled. For your cameras, they’re simpler since they support Wi-Fi, but you could try some of my techniques. I’ve experimented with various methods using blank plates. Most cameras use a magnetic base; I’ve added extra washers behind the plate to make it stick. If you need a solid screw instead, a rivnut works well. You could also drill a little extra hole and fit a grommet for cable protection. A small gasket or silicone seal would help if it’s exposed outdoors.