***UPDATE*** This retrofit structured wiring installation has been working with no problems since it was designed and installed in 2006, and most of the concepts are still valid today. However due to advances in technology some of the plans should be changed to accommodate the latest technological developments. Please review THIS UPDATE (CLICK HERE) before proceeding with any new plans for a home structured wiring project.

The xsvtoys "RETRO" Structured Wiring Story - UPDATES

Continual Improvement Process - Version 1.1

This structured wiring system proved itself as originally installed for more than one year. After working with the system and doing more research during this time, some improvements were put into place. These changes didn't really change the overall functionality of the system, but did make things easier to manage.

The updated drawings show the new version 1.1 xsvtoys structured wiring system. The changes that were made:

The power supply to the structured media center was redone to a more convenient multiple-outlet/multiple-switch power strip. This allows easy access to each device for turning power off and on. Routers and switches and the like generally don't have easy-access power switches (or any switch at all). This is convenient for 2 purposes: 1) Easily shut off selected devices if desired to save power, for example, shut off network devices while maintaining video distribution and 2) allow for gracefully-controlled "rebooting" of the network if necessary for troubleshooting. For example, with this arrangement it is easy to first turn on the cable modem and let it initialize, then the router, then the switch. This is the recommended way to power up a network rather than flipping everything on all at once.
The wireless "G" router was moved to a more central location for better signal access. The "B" wireless access point is now connected to the G router. With this arrangement, all wireless devices can access the internet, but cannot access any of the other computers or printers that are connected to the wired part of the network. This is done as a security measure. In general, you probably don't want to set up 2 routers in a home network, but it works out well here.
A Panasonic BL-C1 network webcam was added into the network. This allows remote viewing over the internet of wherever the netcam is pointing, thus adding the first home security application to the system.


Photo SMC V1.1	Wiring diagram V1.1	Wiring diagram with patches V1.1	Network diagram v 1.1

Continual Improvement Process - Version 1.2

Color-coded patch cables. The patch cables are color-coded to match the wall plate color designation in the labeling scheme. This isn't really a necessary thing to do, but the cables are cheap and it looks cool. And it is oddly self-satisfying if you are an obessive-compulsive type. You can look at the patch cable and immediately know what room it is running to.
Labels on the equipment and power switches.
Backing board. A 1/8" piece of plywood was place behind the structured media center. This makes it easier to screw in various components. Note how the cable splitters are better aligned. Neatness counts :) DO NOT FORGET to put in a plywood board behing your enclosure box like I did!
Coax connection from cable box back to a computer with TV card. This allows shows recorded on the cable DVR to be transferred to computer file (SD only).
Minor additions to networked system. New PC, new Blu-Ray DVD Player with internet connectivity for Living Room.


Photo SMC V1.2	Wiring diagram V1.2	Wiring diagram with patches V1.2	Network diagram v 1.2

Continual Improvement Process - Version 2.0 (2013)

New Netgear GS108 1 GB switch for gigabit networking capability.
New Netgear WNDR3800 wireless router.
New Motorola Surfboard SB6141 cable modem.
The wiring diagram with patches is now left out. This drawing is a pain to maintain. The patches can change as needed. The network diagram shows eveything that is currently connected.


Photo SMC V2.0	Wiring diagram V2.0	Network diagram V2.0

Continual Improvement Process - Version 3.0 (2014)

Verizon FiOS for cable TV, internet and phone.
Verizon FiOS indoor ONT (Optical Network Terminal) mounted next to structured medial panel.
Verizon-provided Actiontec MI424WR router/modem/wireless.
The wiring diagram with patches is now left out. This drawing is a pain to maintain. The patches can change as needed. The network diagram shows eveything that is currently connected.


Photo SMC V3.0	Wiring diagram V3.0	Network diagram V3.0

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