Proper Project Planning

Okay, we installers know this to be true and have heard it countless times about past projects we have embarked on. But in the case of electronics installations what exactly does "Proper Planning" mean. Some installers take the "It's all in my head" approach while others may make attempts at planning only to end up throwing their plans out the window when changes start to happen. My intention here is to give self-installers or those hiring contractors a basic set of steps to help achieve an end result that turns out "As Planned." Most of us have seen and/or worked with installed systems where the cabling was an un-labeled, twisted, confusing mess. This is all too common yet can be avoided with a few basic steps.

1. You need a system design. Of course you do. Even if you are doing this yourself, draw out what you are going to accomplish. This should include a room-by-room list of all the equipment you will need, including notes outlining how this equipment will get controlled and any integration that will take place. (Lighting, HVAC, security, etc.) The key here is making sure to count up all your inputs and outputs and make sure you have enough. Sounds simple but all too often designs are flawed by simple errors involving not having enough amplifier channels or not enough A/V inputs. Leave room to grow. Don't max everything out. You will also want to double check that all the equipment specified will properly fit in the intended cabinets. It's not a bad idea to make up a binder of cut sheets showing all the sizes of the equipment to be used.

2. If you are lucky enough to be in the stage of pulling wire, you now have time to set yourself up for success. Pull extra, don't skimp on this. Structured or bundled cable is great in many ways but can sometimes be limiting. No matter what "future proof" system you have chosen, make sure you are adequately covered. I realize it adds expense but this may end up far less expensive than trying to retrofit cables in later. I strongly advise running empty conduit to a few key areas, those being from your main equipment area to attics, crawl spaces, satellite dish locations, projectors etc. Obviously you can't cover everything but running conduit to a few key areas is a great way to future proof your project.

3. Where is your equipment going to reside? Will it be in a cabinet, a rack system or a shelving unit? Whatever you plan on, just make sure you have plenty of dedicated 20amp power circuits, active cooling or ventilation and ample room to manage all of your cables. Start thinking about this early and try and think of all the possibilities. It may keep you up late at night but it's well worth it to reach a nice outcome.

4. Make system layout diagrams. They can be ultra-detailed or fairly basic using many different methods, but by all means do it. Include point-to-point line drawings of all of your connections. Try and include input/output names and/or numbers. This is your road map and like any road map it helps to plot your course. Complete this before you start your installation, not during. Taking the time to lay out your project electronically on a computer will help you think through the full process in full detail. Later, if you need to make changes or if you need a reference, you will have something to look back on.

5. Assemble a list of every cable you will need to make your system work. Type out how your cables will be labeled on both ends. This is very important and requires complete detail. It will serve two purposes: 1/to get you thinking exactly how your install will go together; and, 2/ to serve as a template for identifying the cables that are to be used.

6. ID and label your cables before starting to install any equipment. The best method is to use a cable tone and probe kit. There are many to choose from on the market but here is an example of one that I have used for many years: The Classic Tone and Probe Kit

If you follow this process for every cable that is needed you will ensure that everything has an accurate label on both ends. Use the list you created in step 5 and simply check them off as you go. This helps to make sure nothing has been forgotten. It also gives you early detection if you have any damaged cables.

Now, with these steps completed, the installation can be accomplished intentionally and with confidence. Most problems will have been discovered and solved early. You will have good documentation on hand to help you with the final stages of the install. This can also be put together in a binder to be used in the future for servicing and upgrading your system.