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Basic Residential Installation Guide
Basic Residential Installation Guide
Installation Guide
Table of Contents
Introduction 1
3. System Overview 4
4. Description 5
5. Accessories 12
6. System Design 16
7. Pre-Wire 21
8. Trim Out 30
10. Warranty 46
Glossary 47
Appendix 52
Introduction
More than ever, today’s homeowners are confronted with an expanded range of technologies and choices
— with some hard decisions as a result. The three standard television channels of the 1950’s and 60’s, for
example, have exploded into hundreds of digital cable and satellite choices. With Ethernet quickly replacing
traditional satellite and cable options, video on demand and streaming video have given us the ability to
watch almost anything at any time. Additionally, the quality of the incoming audio/video signal has evolved
to the point where the luxury of a home theater is increasingly considered a standard feature.
On top of all these new incoming home technologies, age-old needs such as security, convenience,
and comfort are raising homeowner expectations in every area. Smarter lighting, better power quality,
tracking energy efficiency, and more comprehensive home control are just some of the applications
making the leap from luxury to everyday use.
For more than 100 years, the name Leviton has been synonymous with quality in connectivity. From
multimedia panels to surge-protected AC outlets, from three-way lighting to Cat 5e and Cat 6 cabling,
Leviton’s highest level of products, skills, and resources are combined to make upgrading simpler and
more sensible.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 1
1. Important Safety and Installation Information
For All Telecommunications Applications
There are special safety considerations with telephone wiring that may be unknown by workers new to this
field. The following guidelines should be followed closely to help avoid safety hazards, and ensure trouble-free
installations and high-quality telephone service.
This publication cannot, however, cover every aspect of safe installation and connection of telephone wiring.
The contractor must follow local code requirements, including Article 800 of the National Electrical Code, and
all rules or suggestions of the local telephone company and/or governmental and other regulatory agencies.
2 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
2. Local and Regional Considerations
2.1 Local Ordinances type of components in the enclosure, and certain wallplate
configurations within the home. Your builder may specify
Local ordinances require adherence to national and local
certain Leviton Connected Home packages based on the
electrical codes when installing AC and, in many instances,
availability of these services.
low-voltage wiring and devices. Make sure you follow all
local ordinances and codes according to the Authority Alarm security services may also have a service
Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) when installing a Leviton demarcation point, separate from normal telephone
Connected Home system. For example, this manual refers service. Please check with a local security services
to the use of mud rings instead of electrical boxes for provider to see if any such services will be offered.
low-voltage wallplate locations. Your local area may require CATV may or may not be offered in your building area. If
electrical boxes and conduit for all low-voltage wiring. not available immediately, CATV service is often added at
In these cases, be sure to substitute the appropriate a future date and the wiring plan should provide for CATV
type and size of outlet boxes and conduit to comply with service from a demarcation point into the house.
local ordinances. Remember to use boxes and conduit of
Please check with the CATV provider to determine the
sufficient size to accommodate and meet the cable pull,
number of service entrance cables you will need. In
cable fill, and cable service loop requirements listed in
some communities, two or more cables may be required
Chapters 5 and 6 of this Installation Manual.
to offer alternative CATV services, or to provide
an increased number of cable channels. You must
2.2 Covenants and Builder Considerations duplicate the number of required cables from the CATV
Your local community may have certain covenants demarcation point to the SMC and to the CATV jacks
that specify location of service entrance and/or in the home. Typically, the CATV provider will provide
demarcation points for CATV, telephone, and other a signal level of 0 dBmV to 15 dBmV. The signal level
special communications services. External jacks and TV at the demarcation point will dictate whether a video
antenna outlets also may be restricted. External satellite amplifier is required prior to video splitters.
antenna, TV antenna, and outdoor speaker locations may If CATV is available, check to see if cable modems are
be restricted, prohibited, or limited to certain locations in available for high-speed Internet access. Some cable
your area. modem providers want a direct run from the CATV
In addition to local covenants, your builder may have demarcation point to the location of the cable modem.
design requirements specifying the location of central A TV antenna and/or Direct Service Select (DSS) antenna
wiring locations (the location of the Leviton Structured and provision for DSS distribution throughout the home
Media® enclosure within the home). Also, the builder may from the SMC is not just an alternative to CATV. Your
specify the number and location of various wallplates, planning and installation should include provisions for
telephone, data communications, and Community Antenna DSS even though CATV is available. Many homeowners
Television (CATV), Digital Satellite Service (DSS), or want either an alternative to CATV, or both CATV and DSS
television (TV) jacks. services. HDTV reception may also need to be considered.
Be sure to check that your plans meet all local covenants The DSS antenna may require one, two, or four RG-6 quad-
and builder specifications during the planning and shielded coax cables to the SMC, and from there to DSS
installation of Leviton Connected Home systems. receiver locations. Most RG-6 quad-shield cables for video
and TV distribution within the home use a copper-clad
steel core to provide optimum video signal performance
2.3 Service Provider Coordination and cable strength. However, for the coax cable that
The telephone, CATV, and other communications service connects the satellite antenna to the satellite receiver,
providers serving your site may have special requirements many DSS manufacturers recommend solid copper-core
and services that you should know about prior to planning RG-6 quad shield because the cable must carry power
and installing Leviton Connected Home systems. (voltage switching) to switch LNBs at the antenna. Make
sure you understand the requirements for your installation.
Be sure to check the availability of Integrated Services Also, a telephone jack is required at each DSS receiver
Digital Networks (ISDN) and Asynchronous Digital location. An off-air TV antenna may require one or two
Subscriber Line (ADSL or DSL) services from local cables to the SMC, and from there to TV locations. When
telephone service provider(s). Availability of these planning external antennae or satellite dishes, make sure
services will dictate the number of Cat 5e cables from the to take all necessary grounding, mounting, and lightning
demarcation point to the Structured Media enclosure, the protection precautions that may be required in your region.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 3
3. System Overview
Structured Media®
Structured Media refers to a system that supports the range of information, communication, and
entertainment technologies available to the modern home—including telephone, high-speed Internet,
cable and satellite TV (analog and digital), and more. Leviton’s Structured Media System takes the
concept of structured cabling, as practiced in demanding commercial applications for business and
office networking, and combines it with multimedia to accommodate the convergence of audio/video,
Wi-Fi®, tablets, personal computers, telephone, Internet services, and more.
Most important, Leviton’s Structured Media program gives end users a standards-compliant system —
an important consideration today where inadequate or substandard performance may mean a lot more
than a call-back. Each properly installed Leviton subsystem is designed to meet ANSI/TIA-570-C, the
most stringent residential standard proposed by the Telecommunications Industries Association.
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4. Description
4.1 Structured Media Enclosures 4.1.1 14" and 21" Structured Media Enclosures
14" and 21" enclosures are professional-grade, whole-house
The Structured Media Center is a consolidation panel for
media enclosures well suited for a condo or typically sized
low-voltage wiring. All your points of origination are neatly
detached home. Each can accommodate two Pre-Configured
and safely contained in one protected box. Leviton offers
Structured Cabling Panels or an assortment of both full- and
the following Structured Media enclosures:
half-width expansion modules. Two or more 14" enclosures
• SMC 14" enclosure can be combined for larger installations, or you could use
• SMC 21" enclosure the 21" model for similar applications.
• SMC 42" enclosure • Enclosures with covers are sold separately or as a kit
that includes your choice of Pre-Configured Structured
• 30" RF Transparent enclosure
Cabling Panel
It is important to size the Structured Media enclosure
• The enclosure works for new construction and retrofits
accurately to your job specifications. Several factors
because it can be either surface mounted or recessed
will influence the complexity of your structured cabling
between wall studs
installations including:
• Structured media enclosures are constructed with
• The size of the dwelling
white powder-coated steel with covers featuring a
• The requirements of your customer 3/4-inch overlap to hide irregular drywall openings
• Your job budget
A 14" SMC enclosure will typically serve a two-bedroom
condominium, apartment, or townhouse.
Installer Tip:
The future will be filled with more low-voltage appliances
and devices, not fewer. Keep expansion in mind when you
discuss the system installation.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 5
4.1.2 28" and 42" Structured Media Enclosures The 28" enclosure is designed to accommodate the Leviton AC
The 28" enclosure is designed for expanded installations. Power Module and Universal Power Supply with power-surge
Using the 28" enclosure in an infrastructure installation suppression for all internal electronic modules connected to it.
ensures “room to grow.” Remember, the main difference Details
among the enclosures is the size of the enclosure and AC
power options. The 28-inch length provides abundant room • Large capacity can service more intricately wired homes
for up to eight individual distribution modules (sizes and • Accommodates quarter, compact, and standard
density of the modules will vary). This means you can use a expansion modules, with both horizontal and vertical
single distribution center for all the latest technology such placement for most modules
as home networking, security cameras, and multi-room
• The enclosure is constructed with white, powder-coated
audio. The enclosure's top and bottom panels feature
steel. The cover features a 3/4-inch overlap to hide
multiple knock-outs throughout for ease of cable routing.
irregular drywall openings
For a three-bedroom, single-family home with a 28"
enclosure, Leviton suggests the following components to
meet most homeowners’ basic structured cable needs:
• AC Power Module
• Basic Home Networking Plus Unit consisting of Telephone
Patching Expansion Module, Cat 5e or Cat 6 Voice/Data
Module, and 1x6 Video Splitter with Terminators
The 42" enclosure is Leviton’s largest enclosure. It can
accommodate several panels and modules, allowing it
to manage many high-tech functions simultaneously. Its
dimensions and details are similar to the 28" enclosure,
except for its greater length.
The 28" and 42" Structured Media enclosures can
accommodate a varying array of individual distribution
modules from Leviton’s Connected Home Structured Media
line including:
• Premium Splitters, P/N 47693-31P, 08P, 16P, and 01P for
Cable Distribution
• 1x6 Passive Audio Module, P/N 48211-6A
• Passive 1x6 and 1x8 Video Splitters,
P/Ns (2 GHz) 47690-6C2, 47690-8C2
• 5- and 8-Port Switch 47611-5PT, 8PT, 5GB Router, and
47611-WG4
• Audio Distribution, System Matching Module,
and Volume Controls
A Large Home Configuration for a four-bedroom home
would include the following components in a 42" enclosure:
• AC Power Module, P/N 47605-DP
• Advanced Small Office Unit consisting of two Cat 5e
Voice and Data Modules, a Telephone Distribution
Module, a 1x6 Video Splitter, P/N 47606-ASO
This infrastructure will accommodate a maximum of twelve
telephone locations or twelve data locations, and six video
locations. You can expand the system to accommodate
more telephone, data networking, and video locations by
adding more modules.
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4.1.3 RF Transparent
Structured Media® Enclosure
4.2 Data and Telephone Distribution
Leviton makes your work easier by offering Pre-Configured
The RF Transparent Structured
Structured Cabling Panels assembled from the most
Media Enclosure provides an
popular distribution modules. These are your system’s
excellent termination and mounting
basic building blocks. The panels and modules can be
location for in-home structured
combined easily to meet any job’s specifications.
wiring systems and components.
The enclosure uses ABS polymer
construction to permit the full
reach of a wireless network,
as opposed to standard metal
enclosures that can limit the range
of a wireless signal.
Details
• 180-degree hinged cover allows for quick and easy
access to network equipment
• Makes servicing and expansion easy with twelve 1-inch
entry/exit ports and additional 11/4-inch removable tabs These panels include combinations of the following modules:
for conduit adapters • 1x9 Bridged Telephone Module bridges up to four
• Compatible with Leviton Connected Home patch telephone lines and out to nine telephone jacks (Please
panels, voice, data, video, and audio quick-connect note that bridged telephone connections are for voice
distribution modules only and do not conform to the ANSI/TIA-570-C standard
for Cat 5e or Cat 6 data wiring; these bridged telephone
• Assures safety with UL compliant ABS
lines cannot be tested for Cat 5e or Cat 6 compliance
flame-retardant polymer
using Cat 5e or Cat 6 field test sets
• 30-inch height for added equipment space
• Cat 5e Voice and Data Module whose six Cat 5e or Cat
• Allows for installation of two single-gang J-boxes 6 ports allow for basic home networking (data, phone,
fax, or modem) and can be connected to a Telephone
Distribution Module, key system, or network switch
4.1.4 Covers and Vented Doors
The vented hinged door provides improved airflow and • 1x6 Video Splitter that is suitable for both cable TV
cooling of active gear, and is available for all Leviton and off-air antenna signals
Structured Media enclosures. ÆTake Note: Both the Bridged Telephone Module and the
Details Cat 5e Voice and Data Module are available as stand-alone
units, and can be used for expansion or special applications,
• 180-degree hinged cover allows for quick and easy when properly mounted and installed.
access to network equipment
Each metal Structured Media enclosure comes with
• Assists in airflow for cooling pre-drilled holes, spaced to accept the snap-in plastic
connectors mounted on Leviton’s modules and
Pre-Configured Structured Cabling Panels.
Installer Tip:
For both basic and residential, Leviton recommends
a minimum of Cat 5e or Cat 6 twisted-pair cable for Installer Tip:
telephone and data; RG-6 quad-shield coax cable for Leviton Pre-Configured Structured Cabling Panels
video cable, CATV, TV, DSS, and monitoring; and 16/2 combine the most popular distribution modules into
or better class III stranded copper for speakers. single units that will suit the needs of many of your
customers. These panels can always be replaced or
supplemented with individual modules should your
needs change in the future.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 7
4.3 Distributed Video (CATV, Other Services) 4.3.2 Premium Video Splitters
The Leviton Premium CATV
You have several options for distributing video service to
module is capable of handling
more than one location:
the latest cable TV or data
• Install a Passive Video splitter without video amplification technology for cutting-edge
• Install a Premium Video splitter with built-in Unity Gain HDTV, video streaming, gaming,
video amplification that automatically adjusts output and high-speed Internet,
levels on all ports to match incoming signal strength providing the best performance
with the least amount of interference and the clearest
possible reception.
This premium video distribution unit routes incoming RF
signals (HDTV, Cable TV, Antenna, etc.) to up to eight locations
throughout the home or office on coax cable. The module
incorporates state-of-the-art, bi-directional circuitry to support
advanced interactive applications such as a cable modem,
digital cable communications for video on demand, and
standard inputs like incoming CATV and over-the-air antennas.
8 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
4.5 Premium Home Cat 5e or Cat 6 Platform 4.6 Multi-Location Networking
Leviton offers components for superior voice and data With multiple computer households and home offices,
connections in its Premium Residential Platform as part of the demand for home networking is constantly growing.
the Twist-and-Mount panel system. Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable allows both high-speed and high-
capacity data transfer. A Cat 5e or Cat 6 module and
1. Telephone Input Distribution Board that distributes up to
either a 10/100 Router provides a central point from
four (4) lines throughout a home or office to 12 locations.
which to service multiple PCs and peripherals. Depending
This module does not stand alone, but connects to the Cat
on the number of devices and PCs that require network
5e / Cat 6 Twist-and-Mount patch panel, with patch cords,
access, you can choose additional Cat 5e or Cat 6
for easy changes. The Telephone Input Distribution Board
modules combined with an Ethernet switch to connect
(TIDP) acts as the initial connecting point for incoming
the termination points. Leviton offers several distribution
phone lines. The upper test jack can be used to test the
options.
incoming dial tone for all incoming lines. The TIDP provides
a security jack for interfacing with a security system, and • 10/100 Internet Router (See 4.6.1)
RJ-45 input ports for easy setup using a Triple-Play modem
• Wireless 802.11n Dual-Band Gigabit Router (See 4.6.2)
2. The Cat 5e or Cat 6 Twist-and-Mount Patch Panel is used
• 5- or 8-port 10/100 Switch
to add modular voice/data distribution. It can be used as
a stand-alone Cat 5e or Cat 6 distribution device for data, • 5- or 8-port 10/100/1000 Gigabit Switch (See 4.6.3)
or to distribute voice over Cat 5e Cat 6 cables to wallplate The combination of structured cabling and routers creates
locations. The punchdowns located on the rear of the panel an in-home Ethernet data network that can be used to easily
provide an aesthetically pleasing and clean installation. connected numerous different devices though out the home.
PAIR 1
RING
• Built-in NAT firewall protects networks from outside
PAIR 2
TIP
observation and provides secure communication for
RING
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 9
4.6.2 Wireless 802.11n Dual-Band Gigabit Router
The Wireless 4-Port Gigabit Router allows multiple users to
use a single, secure, high-speed broadband (DSL or cable)
Internet connection. It creates a private network for home,
small office, or school environments. Wireless 802.11n
Dual-Band Gigabit Router details: 4.6.3 10/100/1000 Gigabit Switch
The Leviton professional-grade 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit
• Allows multiple users
Switch connects computers and peripheral devices in
to securely share a
remote locations throughout the home or small office. The
single, protected,
switches offer plug-and-play installation and a user-friendly
high-speed Internet
design, featuring LEDs to indicate power, Link/Activity
connection
100 and 1000 Mbps. Additionally, each switch includes
• Built-in NAT firewall autodetect uplink to easily cascade additional hubs,
protects networks from switches, and routers from any port.
outside observation
• Network devices in remote rooms, such as computers
and provides secure
and printers (Network Interface Card required)
communication for
network users • Includes LEDs to indicate Power, Link/Activity
10, 100, and 1000 Mbps
• Customizes web access
and filters unwanted • Features high-performance store-and-forward switching
sites with URL blocking architecture with CRC and Runt Filtering
feature • Cascades additional switches, hubs, or routers from
• UPnP (universal plug-and-play) allows automatic any port with auto-detect uplink design
discovery and configuration of the gateway; UPnP • Connects to Cat 5e or Cat 6 Voice and Data Module
supported by Windows XP or later with Cat 5, Cat 5e, or Cat 6 Patch Cords
• Equipped with all Gigabit RJ-45 ports (10 / 100 / 1000Mbps) • Offers plug-and-play installation
of one WAN and four LAN ports
• Supports Dynamic DNS and DHCP servers as well as
Wi-Fi® protected setup (WPS)
4.7 Multi-Room Distributed Audio
New homes are becoming increasingly pre-wired for multi-
• Supports NAT firewall, IP / Port / URL-based access room audio. Once again, a single central-distribution point
control, and MAC address filtering is the best solution for most installations. Leviton offers
• Includes one USB port for sharing a printer or USB mass three options to accommodate multiple speakers across
storage device several zones.
• Supports Dual-SSID to allow users to access different 1x6 Audio Distribution Module
networks through a single AP The Leviton 1x6 Passive Audio Module is an easy,
centralized audio system distribution module
• Includes bracket for easy installation in Structured
that connects up to six pairs of speakers from an
Media® enclosures
entertainment center or amplifier. The 1x6 Distribution
• Supports Bandwidth Control (QoS) based on different Module is a cost-effective way to combine connections for
local IP addresses impedance-matching volume controls in a passive/two-
• Connects to a Cat 5e or Cat 6 Voice and Data Module channel multi-room audio system. It enables connecting up
with Cat 5e or Cat 6 patch cords to six impedance-matching volume controls and speaker
pairs to a single two-channel amplifier.
• Cascade additional switches or hubs from any LAN
port with auto-detect uplink (Designed for up to System Matching Module
253 connections) The Leviton Architectural Edition System Matching Module
takes a contractor-friendly approach to matching speakers,
• Installs in Leviton RF Transparent Structured Media zones, and volume controls to the amplifier, saving time and
Enclosure money. With the System Matching Module, all impedance
Leviton recommends use of its Vented Structured Media matching can be accomplished at the central wiring point
Door for all applications where active gear is mounted in where speaker and control wiring converge to interface with
an enclosure. the amplifier (either inside a structured cabling enclosure or
at a designated wallplate location).
10 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
Hi-Fi 4x4 Leviton also partners with JBL® to offer an exclusive
The Hi-Fi 2 Four Source, Four Zone (4x4) is ideal for controlling, line of speakers. JBL studio speakers have a reputation
sharing, and listening to residential audio systems. The for incorporating the most advanced audio materials,
system can be controlled via the included remote control, technologies, and precision engineering available. These
from an included wall-mounted Volume Source Control, same features and technologies are built into the Leviton
or directly by the free standalone iOS application. The Architectural Edition® Powered by JBL Series speakers.
4x4 system provides a maximum of four zones and four
sources of audio. If more capability is required, Leviton
suggests the larger Hi-Fi 2 eight Zone, eight Source system 4.7.3 QuickPort® Flush-Mount Plates
that provides eight zones and eight sources and may be These wallplates come pre-configured in a single-gang
expanded to 16 zones and eight sources. housing. Multiple flush-mount configurations are available
in a variety of colors.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 11
5. Accessories
Installer Tip:
Leviton recommends that you leave a 36-inch service
loop for fiber optic cable and a 24-inch service loop for
all other cable. This gives you plenty of spare cable to
correct wiring errors and for future expansion should
the end device need changing.
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5.4 Tools for Termination
Good, clean jacket removal and termination assures that
every wire connection is made with full contact between the
wire end and its termination point. This technique results
in a high-quality connection that cannot be obtained when
a wire is nicked or poorly stripped. Leviton offers several
termination tools for Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable including:
• Palm Termination Tool
• Jack Termination Tool
• Punchdown Tool (with 110 Tool Blades)
• EZ-RJ45 Crimp Tool
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 13
5.5 Tools for Stripping 5.7 Test Equipment for Telephone Installations
The recommended terminations for video (broadband) Leviton and other suppliers manufacture equipment
wiring is a compression lock male F-type connector at both for testing telephone wiring. Two key instruments from
ends of the cable. The small amount of extra installation Leviton are the Tone Test Set and the Inductive Speaker
effort will pay off in the end. Probe. Used together, these instruments will:
Leviton recommends a high-quality, commercial-grade • Locate individual wires in a horizontal run along with
coax stripping tool (e.g., Leviton C5914) for stripping all any breaks or terminations that might be present
RG-6 quad-shield cable, and a comparable crimping or
• Test for continuity
compression tool for assembling the connector (note: the
type of tool will depend on the style of F connector used). • Check for shorts and opens
Leviton offers coax stripping tools for one-step stripping of • Identify Tip and Ring polarity
RG-6 quad-shield cable. • Identify the line condition for CLEAR LINE with dial tone,
BUSY LINE, and RINGING LINE
The low-cost Tone Test Set can test for all types of wire
applications including telephone, data, CATV, HVAC systems,
and security/fire alarms. Results are shown on an easy-to-read
LED display. Telco standard 6A-type alligator clips with piercing
pins securely grip 66-clips, screw heads, screw bodies, and
wire-wrapped of threaded terminals, allowing testing of all
UTP Stripper Coax Stripper
types of configurations. A 6-position, 2-conductor plug lead is
also provided for connection to modular jacks.
5.6 Tools for Testing The Inductive Speaker Probe, used in combination with the Tone
Cat 5e and Cat 6 cables should be inspected throughout Test Set, readily detects audible frequency tones so wires, cables,
the installation. This is much easier than trying to trace and metallic circuits can be traced and identified without damage
down a problem later within a bundle of cables. Good to their installation. The Inductive Speaker Probe’s duckbill and
testing equipment will: needlepoint tips provide great flexibility for inspecting wiring in
• Help keep your installation Cat 5e or Cat 6 compliant tight spots, cables under tension, or larger cable bundles. A built-in
speaker eliminates the need for a buttset (in noisy environments, a
• Find any errors or disruptions
buttset can be attached to the probe’s connecting tabs).
• Point out problems in your installation techniques
A Modular Plug Breakout Adapter serves to breakout individual
so they can be corrected
conductors when connected to a Cat 5e or Cat 6 connector.
• Add value to your installation
When field-testing Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable installed
for data transmission:
• Use a Cat 5e or Cat 6 field test set for testing all
Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable, respectively, installed for data
transmission. Select a test set from a reputable
manufacturer and follow the manufacturer’s instructions Inductive Speaker Probe Tone Test Set
• Only those cable runs with Cat 5e or Cat 6 connectors
available on both ends of the run (wallplate Cat 5e or
Cat 6 connector and Cat 5e or Cat 6 module at the
Structured Media® enclosure end) can be tested for
Cat 5e or Cat 6 compliance
Coax cable can be tested for breaks in the cable itself and for Craftperson's Modular Plug
cable resistance. Breaks can be checked using a multimeter or Handset (Buttset) Breakout Adapter
coax cable tester. The multimeter also checks for resistance. See section 9 for documentation regarding testing.
Installer Tip:
Cable should be tested regularly during installation
so any problems can be repaired early in the job.
14 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
5.8 Other Tools for Pre-Wire (Rough-in) 5.9 Check List
The following list includes tools normally found useful Accessories and Tools
in the pre-wire or rough-in stage of installation.
Objective: Use This:
• Labels (for labeling cable)
• Drill
Termination Point Mud ring
• Drill bits (assorted)
• Extension power cords
Cable routing J-Hooks
• Screw driver set (regular and phillips)
and support
• Pliers Cable Clamps
• Hammer Velcro® Tie Wraps and Cable Straps
• Wire snips or wire cutters
• Wire fasteners for Cat 5e or Cat 6 Cat 5e or Cat 6 UTP Stripping Tool
and RG-6 quad-shield coax cable cable cutting tools
Impact 110 Wire Punchdown
• Measuring tape Termination Tool
• Level (six inches)
• Punch (for steel studs) Cat 5e or Cat 6 1x9 Bridged Telephone Module
• Grommets (for steel studs) cable termination
Cat 5e or Cat 6 Voice
• Tape (electrical and other) and Data Module
• Permanent marker
Cat 5e or Cat 6 connectors
• Flashlight
• Ladder
Coax cable Coax Stripping Tool
• Broom and dust pan
cutting tools
• Electric drill Coax Crimping or Compression Tool
• Keyhole drywall saw Coax Cable Cutter
• Wire cutters
• Cat 5e or Cat 6 UTP stripper
• Impact/punchdown tool with 110 bit and blade 5.10 What You Need to Know
• RG-6 quad-shield coax stripper • Mud rings are ideal termination hardware for
low-voltage wiring
• RG-6 quad-shield coax F-connector crimper
• 6- and 8-position telephone and Cat 5e • Structured wiring is not as hardy a material medium as
or Cat 6 plug crimp tool standard AC cable; it must be carefully supported and
• Leviton Punch-Down Tool for Cat 5e routed so the cable integrity stays intact
or Cat 6 connector termination • Specific testing and termination tools for low-voltage
• Utility knife wiring help assure a clean, trouble-free installation
• Fish tape
• Level (six inches)
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 15
6. System Design
6.1 Laying Out the Basics on the Floor Plan later to add to the run. Mark all your proposed locations
with blue masking tape or similar material and do a walk
A well-prepared floor plan done in advance of your
through prior to installation. When your are satisfied with
installation will save you headaches later. It isn’t enough
your plan, you can decide the best system installation to
to simply plan one phone jack or cable TV termination per
the plan requirements. Be sure to plan beyond the basics.
room. Your plan, or a designer’s plan, must be thoroughly
The Cat 5e or Cat 5e UTP and RG-6 coax cabling will cover
discussed. This plan should include:
three applications: telephone, data, and coax video (CATV)
• The specific locations for each type of device (phone, distribution. Additional applications such as multi-room
audio-video, data, etc.) video, multi-location stereo, and home monitoring all
• The types of cable that will be run to these locations require additional dedicated wiring.
and cable routing Remember that low-voltage structured cable requires
• Allowance for future expansion as your customer’s gentler handling during installation. When developing your
needs change floor plan, be sure that you have sufficient access to pull
the cable without damaging it.
• Allowance for changes as the role of various
rooms change (a bedroom becoming a home office,
for example) Installer Tip:
Your Leviton Technical Support representative can
• Allowance for multiple Cat 5e or Cat 6 and coax jacks
always assist you with any planning and installation
in location of planned modem location
challenges that occur outside of the scope of this
• The minimum-grade cable you should run is Cat 5e manual. Call the Leviton Technical Support line at
If you're unsure of a specific wall location for a device, (800) 824-3005.
then we suggest that two or more be installed to cover
all possible choices. You can’t predict furniture placement ÆTake Note: For assistance with system design, visit the
and you’re better off running more cable, than coming back online configurator homepage at leviton.com/homeconfig.
16 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
6.2 Location Matrix by Type 6.3 Cabling Types and Counts for Each Location
Location will depend on the floor plan, but you can assume AC wiring varies by gauge size. The end-use device or
the following: appliance dictates the capacity amperage of the circuit
and thus your choice of cable (14/2, 12/2, etc.). Low-
• Install a mud ring for one phone and one
voltage wiring varies by type and, to a lesser extent, by
data port per room
gauge (most will normally be 24 gauge).
• Allow for one audio/video device per room
The ANSI/TIA Standard 570-C proposes different grades of
• Allow for one analog volume control wall unit residential cabling depending on the services the cable will
per stereo speaker zone requiring a volume control be providing within a residence. There are two grades:
• Every room with a security camera will require • Grade 1 meets the minimum requirements for
one mud ring at the camera location telecommunication services. It can support telephone,
CATV, and low-speed data applications. These
minimum requirements are a four-pair 100 ohm UTP
Installer Tip: that meet or exceed Cat 3 transmission requirements
You can use a standard electrical box if you do not
and 75 ohm coax cables.
have a mud ring. However, be sure to remove the back
section from the electrical box first. This will allow you • Grade 2 meets all of Grade 1 requirements as well as
to leave a service loop in the wall while providing a multimedia applications and fiber optic wiring. The minimum
mounting surface for your device and cover plate. cable requirements for each cabled location are two four-
pair 100 ohm UTP cables that meet or exceed Cat 5e cable
and two 75 ohm coax cables. Two-strand 62.5/125 mm
optical cable is an optional cable for Grade 2 installations.
Installer Tip:
As you’ll see in Section 8, be sure to run your low-voltage
Installer Tip:
wiring in a separate stud space from the AC cable. Be
Leviton strongly suggests that you use nothing less
sure your mud ring locations keep this rule in mind.
than Grade 2 infrastructure.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 17
6.3.3 Cable for Video Home Monitoring Camera: Audio System Impedance
Cat 5e or Cat 6 UTP All loudspeakers have an impedance rating measured in
Run a single Cat 5e or Cat 6 to each potential camera Ohms. The typical impedance rating for speakers is between
location. If the camera location is more than 100 feet four and eight Ohms. Amplifiers also have an output
from the camera hub, use a local power source to power impedance rating, usually no lower than four Ohms and no
the camera (each camera has an optional input for local higher than 16 Ohms. This means the total speaker load must
power). Remember to leave enough extra cable length at be no lower than four ohms and no higher than 16 ohms.
each end to allow for any possible future relocation. When speakers are connected in parallel (the “+” terminals
are connected to the “+” terminal of the next speaker, the
terminals are connected similarly to each other, and then
6.3.4 Speaker Wire for Multi-Room Audio again similarly to the amplifier), their impedance is cut in half.
Speaker wire ranges from a concert-blasting 8-gauge
Two 8-Ohm speakers become a single 4-Ohm load.
stranded silver copper cable to a more modest 22-gauge
copper (remember, the heavier the wire’s gauge the Because a stereo amplifier is really two separate
lower the number). Leviton recommends a 16/2 or monaural amplifiers comprising of left and right channels,
better stranded copper, class 3 cable for high-fidelity the principle applies with speakers in pairs — two left
reproduction. Class 3 refers to the cable’s fire rating. 8-Ohm speakers become a 4-Ohm load on the left
Class 2 is the minimum acceptable by the NEC. Only use amplifier channel, and two right 8-Ohm speakers become
wire cable marked with at least a CL 2 or CL 3 rating. a 4-Ohm load on the right amplifier channel.
If you are planning to pre-wire to all volume control ÆTake Note: One exception to the normal 4-16 Ohm impedance
and speaker locations, it is best to run speaker wire rating for an amplifier is a 70V public address (PA) type amplifier
separately from other low-voltage cabling. used in paging and background music systems. These use
transformers to overcome impedance-matching problems, but audio
transformer designs are rarely encountered in home audio systems.
Installer Tip:
Be sure to follow the speaker manufacturer’s As a result, if you are connecting anything more than
guidelines for wire gauge, and the amplifier two speaker pairs, you must take steps to keep the
manufacturer’s recommendations for acceptable impedance between 4-16 Ohms. Running anything below
impedance loads. four Ohms can cause amplifier damage.
To avoid amplifier damage when connecting between
three and six pairs of speakers, do one of the following:
6.3.5 Multi-Room Audio Application
In the Leviton Structured Media ® concept, multi-room • Insert an impedance-matching device such as an
distributed audio is also centralized in the SMC for impedance-matched volume control between each
manageability and reliability. Two pairs of speaker wires speaker pair and the Audio Bridging Module
(left and right + and -) need to be run from the stereo • Insert a separate impedance-matching audio
system or entertainment center to the SMC; the Audio component between all speaker pairs and the
Bridging Module will distribute this stereo signal to up to Audio Bridging Module, usually as a loop back to the
six locations or zones. entertainment center or A/V receiver wallplate
Æ Take Note: Many audio/video receivers with built-in surround This manual only covers the first of these two options. The
sound have up to five speaker channels. While any full-featured second option will depend on the design and connection of
model will have a provision for connection to an auxiliary, stereo- the numerous devices on the market. Refer to your device
only speaker pair, it is important to locate and use only the owner's manual for more information.
amplifier outputs dedicated to powering remote speakers. This
Connecting the Audio Distribution Module
might also require activating the A/V receiver’s multi-room/
Just as when you’re working with AC circuits, it’s
multi-source switching functions. Consult the owner's manual
important to shut down your power source before
supplied with the A/V receiver for complete information.
working on low-voltage wiring. In the case of connecting
to the Audio Bridging Module, you must shut down the
6.3.6 Multi-Room Considerations audio system amplifier before making any connections.
Leviton’s Distribution Systems and Volume Controls To connect to the Audio Distribution Module:
provide up to six parallel speaker left/right pair
connections from a single stereo pair left/right input. • Using QuickPort® snap-in modules with speaker binding
Before connecting six pairs of speakers, you’ll need to posts, run a minimum of 16/2 CL-2 rated cable from
know the impedance ratings or levels of the speakers the auxiliary LEFT and RIGHT speaker outputs of the
you’re working with. entertainment center or A/V receiver
18 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
• Confirm that the polarity or consistency exists between Æ Take Note: Your local code ultimately determines the rules
the “+” (sometimes marked "Positive" or colored red) and guidelines that must be followed when installing either
and “-” connections (sometimes marked "Negative" AC cable or low-voltage wiring. Always refer to this code
or "Ground," or colored black). Paired speaker wire before starting your installation.
will always be marked for easy identification by a
distinctive color, stripe, lettering, or ribbing on one
wire. It is important that the “+” and “-” terminals on 6.5 System Choices and Options
the Audio Distribution Module’s "From AMP" connection The Leviton Connected Home Structured Media® system
correspond to the same terminals on the amplifier offers a complete convenient array of distribution panels
• Prepare the speaker wire by stripping 3/16 to 1/4-inch of and devices to manage your telephone, data, and multi-room
insulation and twisting the strands together tightly audio/video requirements. Options range from basic phone,
Internet, and cable TV to more advanced applications such as
• Identify the four terminals on the Audio Bridging
home theater and home offices. These systems, as described
Modules "From AMP" terminal block (R +, R -, L +, L -).
in chapter four, need to always start with one of the following
Loosen each set screw on the side of the "From AMP"
Structured Media Centers:
terminal block, insert the bare end of the wire into the
corresponding top hole up to the insulation jacket, and • 14" enclosure
re-tighten the screw. This will clamp down on the wire • 21" enclosure
and ensure a good contact
• 28" enclosure
• Repeat this step for the other three terminals. Check
• 42" enclosure
to make sure that no wire strands are loose or exposed
as this could create an amplifier-damaging short circuit. • 30" RF Transparent enclosure
Repeat the process for each connected speaker pair These systems also have several different options for
using the ROOM 1 - ROOM 6 connecting blocks covers: basic, hinged, and premium, as well as vented
doors and extension rings (note that not all options are
Æ Take Note: Each block on the Audio Distribution Module is
available for all enclosures).
removable for easier wiring. Simply slide off the blocks, make
all the connections, and replace on the module. The primary difference among the SMCs is their size: the
larger the box, the more modules and panels it can hold. In
addition, (all SMCs have surge-protected AC and universal
6.4 High-Speed Optical Fiber Cable power options to accommodate multiple active modules).
Although this manual does not deal directly with high-speed There is virtually no limit to the size or complexity of the
optical fiber cable, we recognize that an installer might be system you install in a normal residence. Every room can be
asked to install it as a primary system or as an addition to an wired for data, telephone, and multi-media. Unlike AC wiring,
existing one. Optical fiber converts electrical video/data/voice where you must meet mandatory spacing requirements
signals into pulses of light that are then beamed through a for devices and minimum installation standards, residential
thin glass cable. The advantages to optical fiber cable include: structured cable standards are more versatile.
• Noise immunity (is not affected by electromagnetic ÆTake Note: The key to structured wiring is to have a single
induction or EMI) distribution center as the point of origin for your cables rather
than a series of standalone modules. For easier, ongoing
• Low signal loss
management, updates, and troubleshooting, make sure all
• No short circuits, as it does not carry an electrical current modules are installed in a Structured Media Center.
• The ability to carry more data, faster, with higher
bandwidth than copper
Installer Tip:
The ANSI/TIA-568-C standard recognizes three fiber optic cables:
Plan to install additional SMCs for audio/video distribution
• 62.5/125um multimode optical fiber should your needs exceed the capacity of a single unit.
• 9/125um single-mode optical fiber
• 50/125um multimode optical fiber
Leviton offers a complete line of fiber optic terminations
and patching alternatives. For more information, please
contact Leviton Technical Support at (800) 824-3005.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 19
6.5.1 General Location
The SMC can be located in any well-lit area that will give
6.7 Wallplate Configurations
Structured-wire wallplates must accommodate a variety snap-in
you clear access to it and allow you to easily remove the
modules and devices. Leviton offers both single-piece wallplates,
protective cover. The SMC should not be located:
already configured for a set number of modules, and one- and
• On an outside wall two-gang wallplates that can accept 2-, 3-, 4-, or 6-port inserts.
• In an uninsulated garage wall Pre-configured wallplates allow you to standardize port
locations and speed installation. Blank wallplates give you
• At an extreme distance from connections at wallplates
the flexibility to tailor each location with exactly the number
• Next to main AC panel and type of jacks necessary. Leviton offers snap-in jacks for
Some of the NEC (Section 110-26) rules for placement Cat 5e, Cat 6, coax, RCA, HDMI, USB, and audio connectors.
of a service panel include: The Leviton wallplates described in the following sections
• Do not install your SMC above major appliances, serve these devices:
such as a clothes washer • High-speed data/Ethernet Cat 5e or Cat 6 minimum.
• Avoid moist locations, such as a bathroom or in a wall • Telephone and fax (Cat 5e and Cat 6 connectors)
over a sink
• Devices (USB connectors)
• The space in front of the SMC should not be used for
• Standard Video ports (F-connectors) and HDMI ports
or cluttered with stored items
• DSS with Video and Telephone
• A fire-rated wall
(F-connectors and Cat 5e connectors)
Mount the SMC in an area central to the rooms that will be
• Speaker terminals (binding posts)
served in the home. This is to keep all the cable runs as short
as possible to assure better system performance. Remember, • Audio/video jacks (RCAs and BNCs)
all Cat 5e and Cat 6 cables must be no longer than 295 feet.
• Fiber optic connections SC, LC, or ST
ANSI/TIA-570-C recommends that an electrical outlet be near
your SMC for Grade 1 installations and mandates it for Grade
2 installations. For your convenience and upgrade capability, 6.8 What You Need to Know
Leviton recommends using an SMC Power Module (A/C, • Lay out your floor plan, including device locations and
Universal, Mini DC, IBox Kit) with an independent 15-amp circuit. cable routing, before starting any structured cable
installation; review your plan thoroughly
6.5.2 Horizontal Location • Plan Infrastructure wiring (phone, data, and coax video), plus
Be sure that the SMC is not installed in the same stud
any additional wiring needed for applications (multi-room
space as an AC cable.
audio stereo, home monitoring, multi-room video, etc.)
• Install an appropriate size SMC for current use and
Installer Tip: future expansion
You want to keep electromagnetic interference (EMI) to a
• Use mud rings whenever possible instead of standard
minimum (a five-foot separation is considered minimum).
electrical boxes
Mount the SMC in an accessible, centrally located,
interior wall that does not require a two-hour fire rating.
Installer's Checklist:
• It’s easier for the installer, homeowner, and inspector CATV, TV, DSS, and Quad-Shielded RG-6 Coax
to review the work Monitoring
• The installer can better trace the system and any Video Monitoring Cat 5e and RG-6 quad-shield
problems that might arise Camera coax cable
• Allows for easier upgrades, additions, and changes
Speaker Cable Minimum 16/2 stranded copper,
Standardizing your installations allows you to do a better class III
job and cut down on your punch-list time.
20 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
7. Pre-Wire
7.1 The Walk-through 7.1.1 The Reality of the Job and the Installation
The definition of the ideal job depends on the trade. For an
A pre-installation walk-through during the framing stage
electrician or an installer of structured cable, it would mean
will do the following:
unfettered access for routing cables and no damage to their
• It better familiarizes the installer with the job work by other contractors' trades. A realistic installation has two
• It allows a comparison between the plans and any phases, the Rough-In and the Final Testing and Connections:
changes to the building construction The Rough-In:
• It allows the installer, general contractor, designer, and • The low-voltage cable is carefully installed, observing
customer to alter the proposed installation or head off all routing/handling rules and standards, and then
any foreseeable problems or conflicts visually inspected
• It gives the installer an opportunity to formulate a work plan • Any damaged or questionable cable is replaced,
If the installer is a separate contractor from the never spliced or repaired
electrician, the two contractors will have to coordinate • Steel nailing plates are installed anywhere the cable can
their respective installations to avoid problems with be damaged by a screw or nail through a framing member
locating devices and sharing stud and joist spaces. In fact,
• Both ends of each cable run are left with sufficient
the installations of AC and low-voltage wiring are often
excess cable and service loops that are then wrapped
done at the same time. If they are done separately, the
and protected in plastic bags or similar material until
low-voltage follows the AC.
other trades have finished their work
A walk-through also allows the installer to mark off
locations for mud rings and the SMC. At this point, the
rough-in wiring can begin.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 21
Final Testing and Connections: 7.2.1 Location of Mud Rings
• The cables are connected and tested, and the system is Every wallplate location will require a mud ring, as will
checked for damage; if damage is detected, the installer then any empty conduit run for future wiring purposes. The
negotiates the repairs with whoever caused the damage floor plan will indicate specific locations. Mud rings should
be located away from AC wiring and devices, baseboard
The best way to avoid damage and costly repairs to ports, heaters, and potentially wet areas such as sinks. Distances
wallplates, and Structured Media® enclosure contents is from the floor will be determined by:
to protect all your cables and regularly discuss to other
trades the importance of protecting these cables as well • Convention, using AC wiring standards
(you also want them to report any damage to you when it • Specifics of the job
happens so you can repair it while the walls are still open).
• Matching existing devices
22 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
7.3 Structured Media ®
Center
To flush mount a SMC:
Proper mounting procedures, and installing the optional AC 1. Remove required knockouts from
Power Module. the unit prior to installation
2. Allow 12 inches of access
above and below the unit
7.3.1 Location Matters for conduit fittings, cable
Each job and building design will determine the location of
routings, and, if called for,
your Leviton SMC. Location guidelines were mentioned in
the installation of a power
Section 6. To summarize:
module
• Do not mount the SMC in a fire-rated wall
3. Position the SMC unit so that its
• Choose a dry, well-lit room top is about five feet above the
floor
• Be sure you have convenient access to your SMC
for future additions of structured cable 4. Hold the unit between the wall studs
with mounting tabs, folded out against the studs to
• Keep a minimum distance of five feet between
accommodate any drywall installation
the SMC and the service panel
5. Mark the knockout locations on the wall studs if using
• If possible, consider a central location that will result
side-wall knockouts
in the shortest distance between the SMC and the
structured cable termination points 6. Remove the SMC and drill out the studs at the
knockout locations
• Mount the top of the panel approximately five feet from
the floor 7. Insert the SMC between the studs
A room over an unfinished basement or crawl space or 8. Install the wood screws that come with the SMC
under an open attic space will allow structured cable to be through the mounting tabs (shimming may be required
installed in the SMC at a later date if expansion or updates if studs are warped or twisted)
are desired. Typical locations include utility rooms, closets,
To surface mount the SMC:
and basements, but any room can be used.
1. Provide some structural support in the form of
bracing (such as 2x4s between the studs or a piece
Installer Tip: of 3/4-inch plywood)
An open, clear space in a closet makes a fine location
2. Remove any required knockouts from the back
for an SMC. For maximum flexibility, install a removable
of the box
wood panel above and below the SMC, thus providing
access to the wall cavity. This makes future cable 3. Position the SMC unit so that its top is five feet above
installations considerably easier. the floor
4. Install the wood screws through the keyhole-mounting
holes on the back of the unit, tightening them securely
7.3.2 Mounting your SMC to the plywood or framing
There are two ways to install a SMC:
1. Flush mounting between wall studs
Installer Tip:
2. Surface mounting Use the cardboard mud guard to cover and protect
the interior of the box and unterminated cables during
drywall finishing. The mud guard will defray damage
from other contractors and workers on the job. Store
What You’ll Need to Mount Your SMC: the SMC metal cover, in its original plastic protective
• Tape Measure • Pencil or marker
covering, in a safe place until ready for trim out.
• Drill and bits • Shims
• Mounting screws • Plywood or 2x4s
(for surface mounting)
• Hammer
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 23
7.3.6 Installing the Power Module
Bushings Like any piece of electrical equipment, the AC Universal
Power Module should be installed following all appropriate
Cables
Grommet electrical codes and safety precautions. Leviton
recommends that a licensed electrical contractor perform
the following steps.
• Be sure the power to the circuit is off before wiring the
Power Module
• Running a dedicated 15-amp circuit to the SMC
• Using 14/2 or 12/2 electrical cable
• Cap off and safely secure until trim-off phase
• Using only copper or copper-clad wire from
7.3.3 Grommets or Plastic Bushings the power source
Leviton requires the installation of protective grommets or
plastic bushings at every SMC knockout. This protection will ÆTake Note: Understanding that the Power Module cannot
act as a lightning arrestor (it will not provide protection for the
prevent damage to the cables as they enter the SMC. Without
equipment should it withstand a direct lightning strike).
grommets or bushings, the insulation on the cable can tear or
otherwise be compromised if it is pulled against the bare edge
of the opening. The supplied adhesive backed self-healing foam 7.3.7 Grounding the SMC
grommets are ideal for protecting cables as they enter the SMC. A grounding screw can be found at the bottom of the
SMC. An appropriate ground wire should be secured
between the grounding screw and an earth ground point,
7.3.4 Cable Entry to the SMC
such as the main electrical panel. Wrap the ground wire
Low-voltage cables typically enter and leave from the top of the
into the screw and tighten with a screwdriver. A minimum
SMC. AC power cables, for the AC and Universal Power Modules
No. 10, solid conductor, bare copper wire is recommended
available on the 14", 21", 28", and 42" enclosures, typically enter
to ground the unit.
through knockouts on the bottom of the module.
7.3.5 Powering
The Leviton SMC is designed as a distribution device for
low-voltage wiring only. It is not designed for the installation
of standard AC cable or Romex®. When universal power
is required for distribution modules, a Leviton AC Power
Module or Universal Power Module should be installed. The
AC Power Module has the additional benefit of providing
surge protection for the distribution modules.
Safety Notes:
• Never wire live AC cable. The circuit must be disconnected
at the power source and confirmed with a tester
• Communications wiring and components should not
be installed during lightning storms or in wet locations
(unless specifically designed for such locations)
• An installer should never touch uninsulated wires or
terminals unless the wiring has been disconnected at
the network interface
• Only a licensed electrician, or in some cases a
homeowner, must connect the AC Power Module
24 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
7.4 Structured Cabling ANSI/TIA-570-C calls for star topology in all residential and
light commercial cabling systems (see below).
A Cat 5e compliant installation involves more than simply
the use of Cat 5e cable. For full compliance, connectors TIA/EIA Preferred Wiring Method
and cable must meet ANSI/TIA-568-C electrical and The wiring method preferred by the Telecommunication Industry Association (TIA)
is a star wiring method (see Figure Below). Each Individual workstation in a
mechanical specifications and transmission requirements. residential or commercial building is wired directly to the distribution device with
four-pair twisted wire.
A category-compliant installation will minimize the
attenuation, near-end crosstalk (NEXT), return loss, and NETWORK
signal-degrading factors that can greatly affect a system’s INTERFACE DEVICE
• Troubleshooting and repair are easier because the • To the service entrance point
problem can be isolated (for telephone and cable service)
Be sure to install a pull string inside each run of conduit to
assist in future cable installations.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 25
7.4.2 Cable Routing, Dressing, and Strain Relief A single, low-voltage cable running through a stud hole is
Cat 5e and Cat 6 cable is manufactured to deliver high-speed unlikely to get damaged by a drywall nail or screw, but a bundle
performance to multiple end points and does its job best when of cables would certainly be subject to damage. For the cost of
it’s handled appropriately. It is not a forgiving material medium some nailing plates, the nuisance and expense of replacing a
that can be pulled, stretched, and stapled the same way as damaged low-voltage wire inside a finished wall can be avoided.
standard Romex®. A light touch on the installer’s part goes a long It is especially important on vertical runs between wall
way towards guaranteeing system integrity and performance. studs that bundles of low-voltage cable be secured with
Leviton recommends the following materials for cable Velcro® straps. When in doubt, you can never go wrong
installations: adding more support in the form of:
• J-hooks and similar cable supports instead of staples for • J-hooks and similar cable supports
supporting cable along joists • Cable clamps
• Cable clamps on individual cable runs • Velcro® wraps and straps
• Velcro® tie wraps and cable straps for wrapping multiple
cables and for securing cable to studs
Standard staples are not recommended. The methods Installer Tip:
recommended here are more forgiving. The cost of time While many requirements for AC cable can apply in
spent tracing down and replacing one damaged cable will low-voltage cable installation, others do not. The
surpass any lower material expense or labor cost saved by FCC calls for the distance between an electrical box
using less expensive staples. and the first strap or staple securing AC cable to not
exceed 12 inches. This rule does not apply to low-
voltage wiring and in fact would prevent you from
leaving a service loop securely tucked inside of a wall.
DON'T DO
Don't allow cable to form right Use sweeping bends
angles or sharp bends
Use Velcro® tie wraps and cable straps to secure large bundles.
26 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
7.4.6 Pulling Low-Voltage Wiring Through
CABLE BEND RADIUS
Wood and Metal Framing Members
Cable
Diameter Like standard AC cable, low-voltage wiring will run through
holes in wall studs, floor joists, and rafters. Although
NEC rulings for protecting electrical cable apply to AC
conductors, structured cable systems can be protected
the same way. These rulings state:
Minimum bend radius for CAT 5e
and 6 cable (Cable Diameter x 4) • Cable running through framing members must be 11/4-
inch or further from the nearest edge of that framing
Minimum bend radius for RG-6 quad-shield coax and fiber cable (Cable Diameter x 10) member
• If a cable cannot meet the 11/4-inch rule, it must be
ÆTake Note: When pulling coax or optical fiber cable, protected by a steel nailing plate attached to the edge
maintain a minimum bend radius of 10x the cable diameter, or of the framing member
about three inches.
• Cable running in intermediate and rigid metal conduit,
rigid non-metallic conduit, and electrical metallic tubing
7.4.4 Service Loops is exempt from the 11/4-inch rule
Mud ring installation gives the installer access to the stud • Cable running through metal framing members must be
space. This in turn allows for a service loop or extra cable protected by a bushing or grommet unless the cable is
to be stored in the wall and made available in the event of: running inside a conduit
• Damage to the wire at its termination A single, low-voltage cable running through a stud hole is
• A change of devices unlikely to get damaged by a drywall nail or screw, but a
bundle of cables would certainly be subject to damage. For
• Errors when installing a connector
a cost equivalent to some nailing plates, the nuisance and
Leviton recommends: expense of replacing a damaged low-voltage wire inside a
• A 24-inch minimum service loop for Cat 5e or Cat 6, RG-6 finished wall can be avoided.
Use plasic low-voltage staples and
quad-shield coax, and speaker wire leave wire loose inside staple DO NOT SHARE BORE
HOLES WITH POWER
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 27
7.4.7 Video Speaker Cable on the Right 7.5.1 Labeling
Video amplifiers and splitters should be mounted on the It is critical that low-voltage cable be properly labeled.
right side of the Structure Media® enclosure, and their The last thing an installer wants is to trace an errant
RG-6 quad-shield cables brought in through the right side connection or incorrectly placed wire because it isn’t
knockout at the top. This allows for a straight drop for the identified properly. Good labeling will include:
cables with virtually no bend to them.
• A master list or index of all cables
Æ Take Note: These cable routing patterns are
• A letter or number system for identification
recommendations. The Structured Media panels are
quite versatile and allow for many different cable routing • A label on both ends of all cables
patterns based on installer preference and Structured
Media Center customization. Installer Tip:
Cable connections at the various modules, panels, and One method for cutting down the confusion of multiple
devices in the Structured Media Center will follow the same Cat 5e or Cat 6 cables is to use one color of sheathing
principles as corresponding connections at termination for your phone system and a second color for data and
points at wallplates. Minimum bend requirements must be networking. The cable is all the same, but two different
met to maintain the integrity of the cables, a minimum of colors (say, blue and gray) make it easier to keep track.
cable jacket removed, and clean wire contact made with
a punchdown/termination tool. Following these standard
7.5.2 Label Placement
procedures will help assure you of a properly working system.
Labels should be placed near the termination point, but far
enough from the end to remain readable after termination.
7.5 Labels Attaching a label to each end of the cable, both at the SMC
and behind the wallplates, greatly simplifies identification later.
Label all of your cable ends BEFORE pulling them to their
Either write your numbers or letters clearly in permanent ink, or
termination points. The importance of properly labeling your
affix pre-printed labels. Letter and number cable identifiers are
various low-voltage cables becomes readily apparent during
available from label manufacturers, such as Dymo.
the testing phase. Accurate test results come, in part, from
accurate labeling of the cables both at the distribution
point in the Structured Media Center and at the point of 7.5.3 Wiring Chart
termination. The numbers or letters on the cables assure Every AC installation comes with at least a rudimentary
accurate testing (you don’t want to discover that the reason circuit map attached to the door of the service entrance.
the wire is producing an incorrect reading is because it has Your SMC serves the same purpose as a location for a
different labels on each of its ends). wiring identification chart for your low-voltage system.
This chart (see page 37) should include pathways for:
Installer Tip:
For an even more foolproof identification, duplicate
labels can be placed on the inside of the wallplate.
28 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
7.6 Pre-Wire for Individual Devices 7.7.1 Standard General Practices
• Always use a Structured Media enclosure as your main
Each end-point device calls for its own wiring requirements,
distribution point
such as cable type and location. The following summarizes
these requirements: • Do not install the Structured Media enclosure in a fire-
rated wall; choose interior wall spaces
• Run Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable to every data and phone jack
• Install your structured cabling following the star-wiring
• Run two RG-6 quad-shield coax cables to every
or home-run pattern
TV/video outlet
• Use tools made specifically for low-voltage structured
• Run RG-6 quad-shield and Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable
cable installation
to every indoor camera location
• Observe the maximum distance rule that limits a Cat 5e
• Run additional RG-6 quad-shield and Cat 5e or Cat 6
or Cat 6 run from the SMC to a wallplate to 90 meters
cable to any location where multi-room audio/video
or approximately 295 feet
is planned
• Inspect your runs as you install them
• Run two cables of minimum 16/2-gauge speaker wire and a
Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable from each volume control location to
the SMC. Run one cable of minimum 16/2 gauge from each 7.7.2 Wire and Cable Installation
volume control to each speaker in the same room. A simple • Low-voltage wiring is not as damage resistant as
method for assisting drywall installers to accurately locate Romex®, so be sure to handle it carefully
speaker wiring (without an electrical box or mud ring) is to • Drill independent 1-inch holes 11/4 inches from the edge
attach cardboard to the appropriate wall stud or ceiling of framing members to run your cable; never run low-
joist. Then, drill a hole in the cardboard at the desired voltage cable in the same drill holes as AC wiring
location, just large enough to pull the speaker wire through
• Use nail plates to protect the cable
ÆTake Note: You may have a higher cable count than • Avoid damage to twisted pairs by using less than 25 pounds
needed for the number of connection points in the SMC. This
of pull force, and by only going around one bend at a time
approach enables future expansion and can save much time
and expense in the long run. • Make sure to use proper bend radius per manufacturer's
guidelines; for optimal cable performance use sweeping
bends in installation
Installer Tip: • Secure large bundles of cable loosely with Velcro®
Common applications use speaker wire or twisted pair.
straps‚ secure smaller bundles with tie-wraps
Running both during installation will allow for easy
upgrades or changes in the future. • Always use proper cable support, such as J-hooks and
Velcro® straps, never with standard staples
• Run your low-voltage cable separate from AC cable by using a
7.7 What You Need to Know separate stud space whenever possible; otherwise, maintain at
least a 12-inch distance (more is better) when running parallel
• Unless they are in violation of your local codes, use mud
to AC and if you must cross it, do so at a 90-degree angle
rings instead of electrical boxes for mounting devices,
wallplates, and terminating the cables • When running your cable in conduit, leave a pull cord to
facilitate new wiring (do not exceed a 40% fill rate)
• Choose a centrally located, dry, well-lit room for
installing the Leviton Structured Media® enclosure • Install your cables inside inner-wall spaces to avoid outer
-wall insulation and firebreaks
• The enclosure is intended for low-voltage distribution
only; any AC power needed for distribution modules is to • Keep your cable away from sources of heat such as hot
be supplied by a Leviton AC Power Module water pipes and heat ducts
• It is important that all low-voltage cable be properly • Avoid running external wires; if you must, install them
labeled on both ends of the cable as well as on a wiring in a conduit
chart inside the Structured Media enclosure, even if that
cable is for future expansion and not yet connected 7.7.3 In Summary
Leviton wants your installations to be successful and
error-free. Like AC installations, low-voltage wiring has
its own guidelines and standards. By following them, you
will ensure the installation works from the start, and any
future upgrades will go smoothly.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 29
8. Trim Out
8.1 QuickPort ®
Connectors and Wallplates A. Band-Striped
Twisted-Pair Wire
B. Solid-Color
Twisted-Pair Wire
The foundation of the Leviton Connected Home installation
TIP
is its distribution centers and the cable itself, but the
system is just as dependent on its smaller hardware RING
GREEN
components. These include:
PAIR 1 RED
• QuickPort Snap-In Modules and connectors
TIP
PAIR 2
• QuickPort Wallplates
BLACK
RING
Cable terminations at connectors, modules, and Cat 5e
or Cat 6 connectors are critical to the integrity of your YELLOW
PAIR 3
structured cable installation. The next four sections TIP
describe terminations at wallplates.
RING WHITE
Cat 5e or Cat 6 Cable Primer
PAIR 4
Each twisted pair must attach to its own color-coded BLUE
TIP
location on the eight positions of a Cat 5e or Cat 6 Bandcolor
connector. Standard 4-pair UTP color coding uses five Basecolor
30 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
8.1.1 Terminating Cat 5e and Cat 6 Connectors 8.1.2 Terminating F-Type Connectors
All voice and data Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable is terminated 1. Cut the cable to allow for adequate service loop (24
in a Cat 5e or Cat 6 connector with 110 insulation- inches at wallplate locations). Use the RG-6 quad-shield
displacement contacts (IDC) cable stripper, properly
using the T568A wiring What You’ll adjusted, to strip off the What You’ll
pattern. ANSI/TIA 570-B correct amount of cable
recommends the use of Need: sheath, shields, and foam Need:
8-conductor Cat 5e or Cat 6 • UTP Stripping Tool insulation. The exposed • RG-6 Quad-Shield
compliant connectors only. wire core should be about Compression or
To terminate a cable at a Cat • High-Impact Wire 3/8 of an inch in length. The Crimp Connectors
5e or Cat 6 connector: 110 Punchdown Tool exposed shield should be
1/4 of an inch in length • RG-6 Quad-Shield
1. Allow a 24-inch service • Leviton Palm Stripping Tool
loop at the wallplate Termination Tool 2. Fold the outside braided
with Jack Holder shield evenly back along • RG-6 Quad-Shield
2. The jacket must touch the
the cable sheath and Compression or
connector when cabling
insert the connector onto Crimping Tool
(Normally 11/2 to 2 inches of cable jacket is removed
the cable end depending on type
when terminating the connector)
3. For compression fit of connectors.
3. Use a Leviton UTP Stripping Tool (or equivalent) to strip
connectors, make sure Leviton recommends
the jacket
the foam core seats flush using a compression
4. Follow the color code, matching up like colored wires against the inside end of connectors and tool.
to their counterpart’s locations on the connector. For the connector (You can
residential installs use ONLY the T568A wiring pattern, see the foam core position by looking in the threaded
as shown on the lower portion of the label when wiring end of the connector)
the connector
4. Place the connector and cable into the compression tool,
5. Untwist each cable pair a maximum of 1/2 of an inch and actuate the tool to install the connector onto the cable
from the termination point
5. Check to make sure the center conductor is straight
6. Use a Leviton High-Impact Wire Punchdown/Termination Tool and extends 1/8 of an inch beyond the threaded end
(or equivalent) for inserting the cable into the connector and of the connector
trimming off the ends, one wire at a time, one pair at a time,
6. For crimp style connectors, make sure the foam core
starting at the rear of the connectors with the blue pair
seats flush against the inside end of the connector.
You can see the foam core position by looking in the
threaded end of the connector
7. Place the connector into the crimp tool at the proper
position according to tool instructions, and crimp the
connector onto the cable
8. Check to make sure the center conductor is straight
and extends 1/8 inch beyond the threaded end of
the connector
Installer Tip:
The Leviton palm termination tool for holding connectors
during punchdown provides a flat, level surface for
punching down cable and cutting off the ends on the
connectors. The tool fits in your pocket and is readily
available when you don’t have a convenient work surface.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 31
8.1.3 Terminating Other Connectors 8.2.1 Placing and Mounting
Low-voltage cable can also be terminated at one of the Devices
following connectors: Most devices will be installed
horizontally, but the SMCs are
Terminating RCA connectors on 40735-Rxx
designed to accommodate
1. Remove approximately two inches of cable jacket from vertical installation as well.
cable Your choice of devices will
2. Note the color-coded label located between the determine how they are
connector slots, including pin numbers mounted inside the SMC.
Follow these guidelines when
3. Route the wires for termination. Terminate one pair at installing these devices:
a time, placing cable so that the jacket touches the
connector’s edge. Start from the side of cable entry. • Install the most cable-
Terminating each pair after placement will prevent intense components at the
crushing the inside pairs with the punchdown tool top of the SMC
4. Using a 110-style impact tool (set to low), seat the wires • Placement of devices
into the IDC slots. Maintain wire pair twisting as close as should allow for easy
possible to the IDC contact. Must be 1/2 inch or less looping of cables to avoid
sharp angles and to
5. Place the cap over the terminated wires for secure maintain the minimum bend
connection and added strain relief radius mentioned in Chapter 6
6. Insert connector assembly into platform or wallplate. • Always install your AC Power or Universal Module at the
Note the “UP” position of the connector bottom of the SMC
Terminating Speaker binding posts and banana jacks • Spending extra time organizing and wiring your SMC is time
1. Remove approximately two inches of outer cable jacket well spent, as future moves, adds, and changes will be easier
2. Remove 3/8 of an inch of insulation from one of the wires Your most cable-intensive installation will be an SMC with
multiple application modules.
3. Twist the strands together to prevent fraying
4. Back set screw out of rear of connector
8.2.2 Installing the
5. Insert wire into back of connector so that the
Power Module
insulation is flush with the rear of the connector
The above diagram shows
6. Tighten set screw and give a tug on the wire to make the installation of a Leviton
sure it is secure AC Power Module:
1. Remove the large,
8.1.4 Placing QuickPort Connectors
® rectangular knockout at the
into QuickPort Wallplates bottom of the Structured
Leviton makes installing connectors at wallplate locations a Media enclosure
simple and an easy operation. To install QuickPort Connectors
2. Punch out one or
into the QuickPort Wallplates:
both of the cable-entry
• Match “UP” on the wallplate to “UP” marked on the connector knockouts that are located at the bottom of the power
module housing and pull your cable(s) through
• Seat the lower catch on the connector into the wallplate
retention feature 3. Feed electrical cable through the power-module mounting
• Roll the connector into place until the latch snaps in place 4. Secure your electrical cable with a standard conduit
fitting or cable clamp (not included)
32 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
8.3 Residential Infrastructure
The Residential Platform serves networking and its multiple
PCs as well as multi-room audio/video requirements.
(47609EMP)
7. Secure the Power Module to the Structured Media®
enclosure using the four #6x3/8-inch screws that come 7. The Cat 5e or Cat 6 Voice/Data Module is used to add
with the module, tightening the module securely; these modular voice/data distribution. It can be used as a
screws also secure the module’s housing to the SMC stand-alone Cat 5e distribution device for data, or to
distribute voice over Cat 5e cables to wallplate locations
8. Test the module by turning the power to its dedicated
circuit(s) on, at the service panel
The module can accommodate six (6) Cat 5e or Cat
9. Until the work is completed, install safety plugs into the 6 cables; each terminates on the 4-pair 110 IDC
receptacles to protect them from construction debris Connectors lining its sides.
If you’re installing two separate dedicated circuits, each
incoming cable will connect directly to a single receptacle
without the use of pigtails or wire connectors. Installer Tip:
It's worth repeating — to avoid removing too much of the
jacket from the first (blue) or last (brown) wires, install
8.2.3 Routing and Dressing Cable either the orange (#2) or green (#3) wire first at the punch
in the Structured Media Enclosure
down block. This helps to center the cable. Otherwise, if
Make sure to maintain an appropriate bend radius for
the blue pair is installed first and terminated close to the
all cables in the Structured Media enclosure, per the
cable, the brown pair will extend further than the one-half
instructions in paragraph 6.4.3. It’s easier to keep track of
inch from the jacket and therefore be more exposed than
the cables in a Structured Media enclosure and establish
the standard calls for. Remember, the more exposure, the
a consistent installation pattern if you follow one design.
greater the chance for a substandard installation.
Sometimes, such as in the case of add-ons after the
completion of a job, you might have to deviate from this
design, but a new service offers an opportunity for a clean
installation based on Leviton’s recommendations.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 33
To configure the connections for voice (with a Telephone
Distribution Board), simply connect a 6-position, 4-conductor
telephone patch cord from a port on the Telco Distribution
Board to the port on the Cat 5e Voice/Data Module that you
wish to activate. The jacks on the Cat 5e or Cat 6 module
are designed to accommodate 6-position, 4-conductor
telephone cords as well as 8-position, 8-conductor cords.
8.4 Multi-Location Networking Application The Wireless Dual-Band Gigabit Router is an easy-to-use
To configure your connections for data, identify the cable wireless router that offers a hassle-free way to access a
you wish to activate and connect one end of a Cat 5e or private network from anywhere in the home or small office.
Cat 6 patch cord into the corresponding jack and the other The wireless router allows multiple users to share a single,
end into a port of an installed switch or Internet router. secure, high-speed broadband (DSL or cable) Internet
connection, and it easily fits into the Structured Media
enclosure. Simply align the pins to the mounting holes in
the Structured Media enclosure and push them in.
The Internet router has four ports for Local Area Networking
access. The modem will plug into the WAN port using a Cat 5e
or Cat 6 patch cord. Plug Cat 5e or Cat 6 patch cords from the
different ports on the gateway to the Cat 5e or Cat 6 Voice
10/100/1000 Mbps 5- and 8-port Ethernet Switch and Data module. This will send the signal from the Internet
The Leviton professional grade 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Gateway out to the room where each Internet access point
Switch networking device is created for home or small resides. If you need more Internet access points, simply
office networks. This does not necessarily include Internet connect one port of the Leviton Ethernet switch to any port
sharing unless an Internet router is attached to one of the on the Internet router using a Cat 5e or Cat 6 patch cord.
ports of the switch (In certain circumstances, DSL modems Additional switches can be connected to your Internet router
have routing capabilities and will be connected directly to ports as needed (i.e. port one on the router goes to the first
the switch rather than to an Internet router. Contact your switch and port two goes to the second).
ISP to find out if your modem has routing capabilities). There are several lights on the Wireless Router:
Like all Leviton modules and panels, the switch easily • Power — indicates that power is being supplied to the router
installs inside of a Structured Media enclosure with the
included mounting pins. It can be mounted horizontally or • WPS — indicates security protection is active
vertically. Simply align the pins with the mounting holes • 5Ghz — indicates dual band 5Ghz WiFi frequency is activated
and push them in, securing the switch to the Structured
• 2.4Ghz — indicates dual band 2.4Ghz WiFi frequency is
Media enclosure.
activated
Leviton switches have three LED lights on the face of the unit:
• LAN — indicates one to four ports on the router are
• Power — indicates that power is being supplied to the switch active
• LNK/ACT — indicates that a device is connected and working • WAN — indicates a modem is plugged in and working
• 1000 — indicates a device connected is working at 1000 • USB — indicates the USB connection is active
mbps. When light is out but LNK/ACT is on, the device is
operating at 10 mbps
34 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
Passive Distribution with the 6- or 8-way Splitter ÆTake Note: An uncapped connector can provide an open
The simplest distribution method is passive distribution. It video circuit that can cause extra noise to plague the system.
is a satisfactory solution for distributing coax cable TV to Do not use terminators on satellite distribution system.
multiple rooms in a single-family home. Leviton splitters Active Distribution with the 1x8 and 1x16 Premium Modules
come with six or eight outputs to correspond to the number Active Distribution with Leviton Premium CATV Modules are
of video locations covered in your installation. The 6-way designed to distribute incoming RF signals (Cable TV, HDTV,
splitter, which is included with the platform, is designed to Antenna, or other modulated sources) to 8 or 16 locations
meet the majority of video distribution needs, for example: throughout a home or office on coax cable. The modules
• Two separate wallplate locations in the living room incorporate state-of-the-art bi-directional signaling to
support advanced interactive communications via a cable
• One location in the kitchen
modem or cable box as well as standard CATV and antennas.
• One location in each of the three bedrooms The premium line optimizes the performance of digital cable
To install a stand-alone splitter: signals to handle advanced technologies offered by cable
operators, including delivery of HDTV.
1. Line up the module’s pins with the mounting holes
in the Structured Media enclosure (the module can be To install the 1x8 or 1x16 Premium Modules:
mounted horizontally or vertically) • Line up the module’s pins with the mounting holes in the
2. When set in the desired location, push the pin plungers Structured Media enclosure (the module can be mounted
to secure the module to the Structured Media enclosure horizontally or vertically)
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 35
8.6 Installing and Connecting the Impedance- • Use the painting template provided to paint the visible
part of the speaker frame
Matched, Transformer-Free Volume Control
Each room or area can have its own volume control. • After the paint has dried, remove the template
To install a volume control: • Anti-rust aerosol paint is recommended for the grill
• Prepare the speaker wire by stripping 3/16 - 1/4 inch of
insulation and twisting the strands together tightly 8.8 Installing the Speakers
To install Leviton speakers:
• Connect the wires coming from the SGAMP located in the
Structured Media enclosure identifying the room # block to • Position the mounting template between the studs (use
the four input terminals on the back of the volume control by the wire location as a guide) and trace the inside of the
loosening the set screws and inserting the stripped, twisted template with a pencil
end of the wire. Be sure to connect the wires so that the • Use a carpenter’s level to ensure accuracy and evenness
correct channel and polarity are observed (R+ to R+, R- to R-,
• Center in ceiling joist or stud to ensure proper clearance
L+ to L+, L- to L-). Check for loose braids to avoid short circuits
for dog ears.
• Next, strip and twist the ends of the speaker wires
• Repeat for the other speaker locations and check
and connect them to the four OUTPUT terminals on
that they are even with the first speaker
the back of the volume control. Be sure to connect
the wires so that the correct channel and polarity are • Drill a one-inch hole directly in the center of the traced
observed (R+ to R+, R- to R-, L+ to L+, L- to L-) area, avoiding contacting the speaker wire or anything
else in the wall
• Check all connections for loose strands, and check
connection integrity as there can be considerable • Use a drywall saw or jigsaw to cutout the traced center area
pressure exerted on these connections by the relatively • Grasp the cut drywall using the one-inch center hole, and
stiff and thick speaker wire when the wired volume carefully pull it out taking care not to rip the drywall.
control is stuffed back into the mud ring bracket. Once
• Remove the speaker grill using a very small screwdriver
all Audio Distribution Module connections, volume control
(careful—grilles are easily bent)
connections, and speaker connections are complete,
turn the system on with the volume turned all the way • Hold the speaker up to the hole and check the fit
down and slowly raise it to test performance. Check the • Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of the speaker
included instructions for more information on installing wires and twist the strands together tightly
more than one set of speakers on each volume control • Connect the stripped speaker wire to the corresponding
terminals on the back of the speaker (red for "+" and
8.6.1 Setting Impedance for the Leviton
black for "-") and tighten the terminals
Impedance-Matching Volume Control
Since most consumer amplifiers are designed to run only • Position the speaker into the opening with the brackets
one pair of speakers, a balancing system is required to allow behind the drywall and evenly tighten the screws until
a greater number of speakers to be installed. The Leviton the speaker is secure with the drywall
impedance-matching volume control serves this purpose by • Place the supplied rubber strips on the inner portion of
allowing the installer to adjust the overall system impedance the speaker frame and insert the grille; the strips ensure
to match the amplifier. When setting the impedance at a a tight fit and eliminate vibration problems
volume control, it is important to know how many other
volume controls are connected to the same amplifier. It is
this number of speakers or volume controls that dictates the Installer Tip:
setting of each volume control. For example: Reversing polarity, or connecting a “+” on the amplifier
to a “-”on the speaker, will not cause any damage. It will
• One amplifier is to power six volume controls that
result in a weak or thin bass sound and somewhat echoey
each control one pair of speakers. The total number
or vague vocals. If you hear substandard sound from any
of speakers for this system is six pair, so each volume
installed speaker pair, shut the system off and simply
control will balance the load on the amplifier
reverse the connections to the back of one speaker only
8.7 Preparing the Speakers for Mounting in that room. If the problem goes away, you have reversed
polarity somewhere in the wiring. Make sure you check
Leviton Structured Media® Speakers may be painted
the connections right back to the amplifier because the
to match room décor.
other speaker pairs in the system may still be incorrect.
To paint the speakers:
• Remove the grill and remove the cloth attached to its back
36 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
Telephone Distribution Module Data Module Bridged Voice Module
Telco Lines from Demarcation Point: Selected Panels Only From Telco
A: _________________ B: _________________ Demarcation Point
C: _________________ D: _________________
Cables to Rooms Telco Lines
Demarcation Point Label Each Cable from Demarcation Point:
RJ31X 1: _________________________
For Alarm
Override
A B C D 1 2: _________________________
3: _________________________
2 Cabled to:
4: _________________________
5: _________________________
Out to Rooms
Telco
Distribution 3 1: ____________________ 6: _________________________
2: ____________________
Line Ports
4 3: ____________________ Cabled to:
1: _________________________
4: ____________________
5 5: ____________________
2: _________________________
3: _________________________
Expansion 6: ____________________
Port 6 4: _________________________
5: _________________________
A or A/B C D 6: _________________________
8.9 Wire and Cable Installation 1. Run cable into enclosure from telephone demarcation
point
Telephone Distribution Module:
2. Punch pairs down using industry-standard 110 tool
1. Run cable into enclosure from telephone starting with the blue pair/line one
demarcation point
3. Telco line is then bridged on the matching color only to
2. Punch pairs down using industry-standard 110 tool; (A) all remaining connectors on the module
wht/bl – blue pair/line one; (B) wht/or - orange pair/
4. Terminate individual outlet cables, one per connector,
line two; (C )wht/gr - green pair/line three; (D) wht/br -
on lower nine bridged connectors. Label cables to
brown pair/line four
identify locations they run to. Use “Cabled to” area for
3. All three columns are now active with dial tone; use additional cable identification
patch cords to link whichever line you need to the
Wiring Identification Chart For Cat 5e or Cat 6 Cables:
outgoing port on the Cat 5e or Cat 6 Voice/Data Module
Instructions: Label every cable that enters the enclosure
Cat 5e or Cat 6 Voice/Data Module:
and record in the following chart. The reason to do this is
1. Run cable into enclosure from telephone demarcation point that the cables are a structured part of the house and will
2. Terminate (by punching pairs down with an industry- not be moved. Components are not structured, may be
standard 110 tool) individual outlet cables, one per changed, re-cabled, disconnected, etc., and should not be
connector. Label cables to identify locations they run used to identify functioning of cables.
to. Use “Cabled to” section to identify which Cat 5e or
Cat 6 port corresponds to which cable
3. Use patch cords to link the Cat 5e or Cat 6 ports to the
Telephone Distribution Module or to a Network Hub
Bridged Voice Module:
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 37
9. Documentation, Testing, and Troubleshooting
38 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
9.3 Basic Testing
A normal AC device load that trips a circuit breaker Basic testing does not cover network performance
alerts an electrician that there’s a problem in the circuit. testing, but can be used for the following:
Problems with low-voltage wiring installations do not • Inbound cable from the telephone service provider
always show up as readily as those with AC cable. Testing demarcation point
is critical to confirm that the system is working properly.
• Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable used for powering video cameras or
You may be performing your tests before any dial tone is IR targets and IR emitters
available from the telephone service provider, or signal
• Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable for telephones that terminate on
is available from the CATV service provider, or a TV or
the 1x9 Bridged Telephone Module
DSS antenna has been installed. Therefore, the testing
described below assumes that no signal or attached • Audio cable (for speakers and volume controls)
consumer electronics equipment is available.
• RG-6 quad-shield cable
In basic testing, you will be testing the cables for
To perform your basic tests, you’ll need the testing
the following:
tools listed below:
OPEN: Also known as an open fault. This means that the
• Multimeter or Volt-Ohm meter
circuit is not complete or the cable/fiber is broken.
• Cat 5e or Cat 6 Field Tester Level II compliant
SHORT: An incomplete circuit caused by a hot conductor
coming into contact with a ground or metal component; • Cable Tester for coax and other cable
the current does not follow its intended path. • Modular Plug Breakout Adapter
CROSS: The occurrence of a short between two terminals; • Tone Test Set
usually occurs when too much bare copper conductor is
• Inductive Probe
stripped and then the end is not trimmed after connection.
• Craftsperson’s Handset (buttset)
SPLIT: This occurs when two wires of a pair are split
or separated and improperly matched with wires from All tests should be recorded and documented.
another pair.
REVERSED POLARITY OR ROLLS: A rolled pair results when
the tip and ring leads are reversed in connecting to the Installer Tip:
network. During rough-in, continually do visual inspections
for damaged cables. Look for the most obvious
FINAL VERIFICATION: Performed with either a buttset or problems before spending too much time doing
a telephone set once dial tone is installed and all initial instrument testing.
testing completed.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 39
9.3.1 Cat 5e or Cat 6 in Non-Network Applications Please follow the directions included with these testers to
Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable that terminates on the 1x9 Bridged check your wiring and solve any problems that may exist.
Telephone Module in the SMC may be tested for continuity Another testing method using the Modular Plug Breakout
in two ways. In the first and preferred method, you will Adapter tests any 6- or 8-position modular jack (and
use a Cat 5e or Cat 6 field tester. Plug the remote tester can be used in series) while using the Tone Test Set or
into a Cat 5e or Cat 6 connector at any wallplate. Plug the the Craftperson’s Handset. Alligator clips connect the
handheld tester into another connector connected to a contacts to any test apparatus or to a Lineman’s Test
cable that also terminates in the 1x9 module. Run the Wire Set. These test tools allow you to test that any given
Map test on the Cat 5e or Cat 6 tester handheld unit. pair terminates at the correct position on the jack. These
This test will indicate any splits, rolls, continuity, or shorts tools can be especially useful when terminating more
in between the handheld and remote tester, through the than one phone line (up to four different phone numbers)
1x9 Bridged Telephone Module. Leave the remote where it on jacks throughout the dwelling.
is, and move the handheld unit to plug into all connectors
connected via cable to the 1x9 Bridged Telephone Module.
All cable runs must pass the test. If any cable run fails or
all runs fail, verify that all punchdowns at the connector
are correct and follow the T568A pattern (see color code
on the connector label). Then verify all punchdowns
are correct at the 1x9 Bridged Telephone Module. If all
punchdowns look correct, disconnect one cable at a time
from the 1x9 Bridged Telephone Module punchdown IDC,
and retest at a connector terminated on a cable that
remains connected to the 1x9 Bridged Telephone Module Should the various cable runs not pass the test, you can
until the trouble is found and corrected. use the Inductive Speaker Probe, used in combination
You can use a tester similar to the FLUKE MICROSCANNER with the Tone Test Set, to detect audible frequency tones
PRO™ to detect miswires, location, and run lengths for so wires, cables, and metallic circuits can be traced and
the Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable that does not terminate at both identified without damage to their insulation. The Inductive
ends on category-rated connectors, RG-6 quad-shield Speaker Probe’s duckbill and needlepoint tips provide great
cable, speaker wiring, or alarm wiring. The tester can find flexibility for inspecting wiring in tight spots, cables under
pair polarity (wire map), excessive length, shorts, opens, tension, or larger cable bundles. In noisy environments, a
and other problems in your cable runs. It can also help you buttset can be attached to the probe’s connecting tabs.
determine if your cable labeling is correct by enabling you
to locate which cables terminate in various rooms.
ROLL
RING
GROUND
FAULT
SHORT CONTINUITY
CROSS
TIP (2ND PAIR) SPLIT TIP
RING RING
40 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
9.3.2 Audio Cable 9.3.3 RG-6 Quad Shield Coax Cable
For installed speaker cable there are really only two tests, For RG-6 quad-shield cable runs, use the MicroTest
looking for shorts and looking for opens. Set your digital Microscanner to determine shorts, continuity, termination
multimeter to the continuity or alarm setting and place location (for checking labeling), and length of cable. As an
the probes on the black and red wires on one end of the alternative for unterminated RG-6 quad-shield cable, use
speaker cable (nothing should be attached at the other a multimeter or volt-ohm meter to check the resistance
end for this test). You should not hear the alarm; if you between the shield and center conductor on RG-6
do then there is a short between the wires. Look at the quad-shield cable. If the meter shows a finite resistance
terminations first for loose strands of copper that may be reading (below 100 K-Ohms), then the cable has a short
touching the other wire. If all is well at the ends and you and that cable run fails the test.
still have a short, new cable will need to be pulled.
For RG-6 coax that is terminated in a Leviton CATV
To test for opens attach a single piece of wire between splitter, or in a run with a 75 Ohm termination cap,
the red and black wires at one end. At the other end place the resistance measurement should be near 75 Ohms
the multimeter probes on the black and red wires. You to pass the test.
should now hear the alarm. If you don't, there is an open
somewhere in your cable and a new one will need to be
pulled.
The following companies manufacture handheld cable testers. This information is listed as a courtesy for your
reference only and is not an endorsement nor a recommendation. You are advised to contact each company directly
to request detailed information about their products. Some of these companies also sell their products through
other companies under other product names; you are advised to ask which of these companies is the actual
manufacturer of the tester.
www.flukenetworks.com
www.agilent.com www.idealindustries.com
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 41
9.4 Cat 5e or Cat 6 Network • Qualified adapter cords should be used to attach the
test instruments to the link under inspection
Performance Testing
A measurement must be done for one of the following: • If you make a channel test, the end-user patch cords
should be tested in place
• Permanent Link
• The field tester must meet ANSI/TIA-568-B.1 accuracy
• Channel
requirements for Level 3 requirements
A Permanent Link is the permanent part of the cable run.
It can be up to 295 feet (90 meters) long from the SMC to
Æ Take Note: Your networking performance test equipment
requires you to plug in at both the SMC module and the
the termination point.
wallplate jack on the same link to perform the auto test
A channel (or user model) includes the patching or routines. You will need to enter the cable number and then
equipment cords after they are added onto the link. The record the test result, Pass or Fail, as displayed on your tester.
total allowable length for a channel is approximately 328
Most testers will record the pass/fail information internally
feet (100 meters). The equipment cords, patch cords, and
and then allow you to download the information to a PC file.
jumpers cannot exceed 33 feet (10 meters) in total length.
Follow the instructions that come with your network field
For field testing Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable, your test tester to record and download test information.
instruments must meet or exceed the applicable
requirements in ANSI/TIA-568-B.1. Commercially available
instruments will specify whether they meet level accuracy. 9.5 Documentation of Test Results
You will want to use those that meet Level 3. To meet As we’ve mentioned, you should record your results as you
ANSI/TIA-568-B.1 standards, the network performance complete each test. Use the forms provided at the end of
testers must be able to perform the aforementioned tests this chapter to write in your results by hand, or, if using a
for length, for all pairs of an installed link, attenuation, and network performance tester, use the built-in database for
Near-End Crosstalk (NEXT). Testers may also measure for recording your data.
delay on an installed link (the time it takes for a signal to
Note: The cable name or number from the label on the
travel from one point to another).
cable must be entered into the tester or the form to
Æ Take Note: A non-ANSI/TIA-570-C system that coincide with the test on that cable run.
passes network performance testing does not make it
Record the results of the test as pass or fail, with a print
ANSI/TIA-570-C compliant.
out and/or by checking the appropriate column opposite
Test Rules for Cat 5e or Cat 6 Cable the cable run under test. There may also be special
circumstances you want to record, such as a short, break,
• Cabling and components cannot be moved during testing
miswire, or some other condition in the "Notes" column.
• Both pass/fail indications and the actual measured
The test forms and/or files from the Cat 5e or Cat 6 tester
values (frequencies) should be recorded
are valuable information and prove you have completed
• Reconfiguration might require re-testing your installation satisfactorily.
Cross Connect
Permanent Link
(or patch panel)
Channel
42 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
Test Documentation Form
Test Results
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 43
10. Warranty
44 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
Glossary
A C
Amplifier A component that boosts the strength of a Cable Assembly A fixed length of cable with connectors
transmitted analog signal as measured in decibels (dB); installed on both ends. Sometimes called a patch cord or
an amplifier is similar to a repeater in digital systems. patch cable.
Analog A method of transmitting information by a Cable Bend Radius The amount of bend that can occur before
continuously variable electrical signal. a cable may sustain damage or increased attenuation.
Attenuation The decrease in the power of a signal, light Cat 5e A category of performance for inside wire and
beam, or light wave as they pass through a transmission cable. Used in support of signaling rates of up to 100
medium. Measured in decibels, attenuation is the opposite MHz over distances of up to 100 meters. Calls for tighter
of gain. Attenuation often increases with frequency, cable twists, electrical balancing between pairs, and fewer cable
length, and the number of connections in a circuit. anomalies than its predecessor, Cat 5. Cat 5e is intended
to support 100BASE-T, ATM, and Gigabit Ethernet.
Architecture The way that a system (hardware, software,
and the network) is structured and its components fit Cat 6 A category of performance for inside wire and cable;
together. standard for UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) intended
to support signaling rates up to 250 MHz. Applications
AWG (American Wire Gauge) Standard measuring gauge for include 100BASE-T, ATM, and Gigabit Ethernet.
non-ferrous conductors (i.e. non-iron and non-steel). Gauge
is a measure of the diameter or cross-sectional area of the CATV Community Antenna Television. A broadband system
conductor (the thickness of the cable). that transmits signals from a central antenna throughout a
community via coax cable.
B
conducting wire wrapped in another cylindrical conductor
(the shield). The whole thing is usually wrapped in another
insulating layer and an outer protective layer. A coax
Bandwidth The difference between the highest and cable has great capacity to carry vast quantities of
the lowest frequencies of a transmission channel (path information. It is typically used in high-speed data and
for information transmission). Bandwidth identifies the CATV applications.
amount of data that can be sent through a given channel,
measured in Hertz (Hz or cycles per second). Higher Compliance A wiring device that meets all characteristics of
bandwidth numbers mean higher data capacity. a standard is said to be in compliance with that standard.
BICSI (Building Industry Consulting Service International) Conductor Any substance, usually a wire or cable, that can
BICSI is a non-profit industry association concerned carry an electrical current.
with promoting correct methods for all aspects of the
Connector A device that connects wires or fibers in
installation of communications wiring.
cable to equipment or other wires or fibers. Wire and
BNC A connector used to terminate coax cables. BNC optical connectors most often join transmission media
stands for Bayonet-Neill-Concelman. to equipment or cross connects. A connector at the end
of a telephone cable or wire is used to join that cable to
Broadband Sufficient bandwidth to carry multiple voice, another cable with a mating connector or to some other
video, or data channels simultaneously. telecommunications device.
Bus A network topology in which nodes are connected Cross-connect Distribution system equipment used to
to a single cable with terminations at each end. terminate and administer communication circuits. In a wire
cross-connect, jumper wires or patch cords are used to
make circuit connections. In an optical cross-connect, fiber
patch cords are used. The cross-connect is located in an
equipment room, riser closet, or satellite closet.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 45
D H
Daisy Chain In telecommunications, a wiring method where Hertz A unit of frequency equal to one cycle per second.
each telephone jack in a building is wired in series from Abbreviated as Hz.
the previous jack. Daisy chain is NOT the preferred wiring
method, since a break in the wiring would disable all jacks Home Run Phone system wiring where the individual
“downstream” from the break. See also Home Run. cables run from each phone directly back to the central
switching equipment. Home Run cabling can be thought of
dB (Decibel) A dB is a unit of measure of signal strength, as “star” cabling. Every cable radiates out from the central
usually the relation between a transmitted signal and equipment. All PBXs and virtually all key systems work
a standard signal source. Every three dB equals 50% of on Home Run cabling. Some local area networks work on
signal strength. Therefore, a six dB loss is a loss of 75% of Home Run wiring. See also Star Wiring, Daisy Chain.
total signal strength.
Hybrid Connector A connector containing both optical
fiber and electrical conductors.
E
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) The interference in
signal transmission or reception caused by the radiation of
I
electrical and magnetic fields. Insulation Displacement Connection (IDC) A type of
wire termination where wire is punched down into a
Ethernet A type of local area network used for connecting metal holder, which cuts into the Insulation wire and
computers, printers, workstations, terminals, etc. within makes contact with the conductor, causing the electrical
the same building. Ethernet is a physical link. connection to be made.
F
body responsible for many standards used in LANs.
Interconnect
46 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
J N
Jack A receptacle used in conjunction with a plug Near-End Crosstalk (NEXT) Electrical noise coupled from
to make electrical contact between communication one pair of wires to another within a multi-pair cable.
circuits. Jacks and their associated plugs are used in a
variety for connecting hardware applications, including Network A network ties things together. Computer
cross connects, interconnects, information outlets, networks connect all types of computers and computer-
and equipment connections. Jacks are used to connect related things— terminals, printers, modems, door-entry
cords or lines to telephone systems. A jack is the female sensors, temperature monitors, etc. The networks we’re
component of a plug/jack connector system, and may be most familiar with are long distance ones, like phones
standard, modified, or keyed. and trains. Local Area Networks (LANs) connect computer
equipment within a building or campus.
L O
LAN (Local Area Network) A short distance network
(typically within a building or campus) used to link together Open (Fault) Means that the circuit is not complete, or the
computers and peripheral devices (such as printers) under cable/fiber is broken.
some form of standard control.
Ohm A unit of electrical resistance. The higher the value,
Link A transmission path between two points, not the greater the resistance.
including terminal equipment, work area cables, and
Outlet A telecommunications outlet is a single-piece cable
equipment cables.
termination assembly (typically on the floor or in the wall),
Loopback A diagnostic test in which a transmitted signal containing one or more modular telecom jacks. Such jacks
is returned to the sending device after passing through a might be RJs, coax terminators, fiber-optic couplers, etc.
data communications link or network. This test allows the
comparison of a returned signal with the transmitted signal.
P
M Patching A means of connecting circuits via cords
and connectors that can be easily disconnected and
Mbps (MegaBits Per Second) One million bits per second. reconnected at another point. May be accomplished by
(Different from Mbps, or a million bytes per second.) using modular cords connected between jack fields or by
patch cord assemblies that plug onto connecting blocks.
MHz (Megahertz) A unit of frequency denoting one million
Hertz (i.e., 1,000,000 cycles per second). PBX Private Branch Exchange. A small, privately-owned
version of the phone company’s larger telephone central
Modem A device that converts digital signals to analog switching office.
signals for transmission over communication lines. Stands
for Modulator-Demodulator. Performance Compare with compliance. A device can
exhibit performance characteristics without being
Mud Ring The recommended low-voltage mounting compliant to an industry standard.
bracket.
Plug A male component of a plug/jack connector
Multimedia A combination of more than one type of media, system. In premises wiring, a plug provides the means
such as audio, video, and text. for a user to connect communications equipment to the
communications outlet.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 47
POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) The basic service Switch The point on a network where circuits are
supplying standard, single-line telephones, telephone connected. Also, a switching node. In Local Area Networks,
lines, and access to the public switched network. Just a switch is the core of a star as on ARCNET, StarLAN,
receive and place calls. No added features like Call Ethernet, and Token Ring. Switch hardware can be either
Waiting or Call Forwarding. active or passive. Wiring switches are useful for their
centralized management capabilities and for their ability to
Pre-Configured Structured Cabling Panels Leviton isolate nodes from disruption.
hardware that combines various distribution modules onto
single installation panels. Surge Suppression The prevention of voltage surges from
reaching and damaging electronic equipment.
Punch Tool A spring-loaded tool for cutting and connecting
wire in a jack or module.
T
R T1 A standard for digital transmission in North America.
A digital transmission link with a capacity of 1.544
RCDD The RCDD (Registered Communications Distribution Mbps (1,544,000 bits per second). T1 lines are used for
Designer) title is a professional rating granted by BICSI connecting networks across remote distances. Bridges and
(the Building Industry Consulting Service International). routers are used to connect LANs over T1 networks.
RCDDs have demonstrated a superior level of knowledge
of the telecommunications wiring industry and associated Telco An Americanism for Telephone Company.
disciplines.
Terminate To connect a wire conductor to something,
Return Loss A measure of the similarity of the impedance typically a piece of equipment.
of a transmission line and the impedance at its
terminations. It is a ratio, expressed in decibels, of the TIA (Telecommunications Industry Association) A trade
power of the outgoing signal to the power of the signal organization of manufacturers which sets standards for
reflected back. use of its member companies. Formerly fell under the
umbrella of EIA (Electronic Industries Alliance).
Ring As in Tip and Ring. One of the two wires needed to set See www.tiaonline.org.
up a telephone connection. See Tip.
Tip
RJ Registered Jack. RJs are telephone and data jacks/
applications registered with the FCC. Numbers, like RJ-11, • The first wire in a pair of wires. (The second wire is
RJ-45, etc. are widely misused in the telecommunications called the “ring” wire.)
industry. A much more precise way to identify a jack is to
• A conductor in a telephone cable pair which is usually
specify the number of positions (width of opening) and
connected to positive side of a battery at the telco. It is
number of conductors. Example: 8-position, 8-conductor
the phone industry’s equivalent of "ground" in a normal
jack or 6-position, 4-conductor jack.
electrical circuit. See Ring.
48 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
U
UL (Underwriters Laboratories) A privately owned company
that tests to make sure products meet safety standards.
UL also administers a program for the certification of
category-rated cable.
W
Wi-Fi® Any wireless local area network (WLAN) allowing
computers, smartphones, or other devices to connect to
the Internet or communicate with one another wirelessly
within a particular area.
#
10BASE-T This is the IEEE standard that defines the
requirement for sending information at 10 Mbps on
unshielded twisted-pair cabling, and defines various
aspects of running Ethernet on this cabling.
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 49
Appendix
Frequently Asked Questions Why not use Cat 3 cable when it will satisfy the job
requirements?
Why should I install Leviton’s Connected Home system rather Leviton recommends Cat 5e or Cat 6 for all low-voltage
than assembling my own from off-the-shelf components? installations because of its greater carrying capacity
that is more suited to current and future high-speed data
Leviton offers a single, convenient package of tested
applications. You’re always better off installing a higher
materials that meet commercial-grade requirements. They
grade, Level 2 structured cable system, as it is far more
are designed to work together without conflicts. They are
adaptable to system changes and additions.
also, in part, simple plug-and-play components that make
the installer’s job easier. The most popular structured I understand that I can use Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable instead of
cable functions are brought together in our Pre-Configured coax for video applications. Is this true?
Structured Cabling Panels that conveniently meet most You can use Cat 5e or Cat 6 UTP for video distribution with
system requirements. Panels and components can easily suitable adaptive devices. You might need coax-to-UTP
be combined to build even larger systems. converters at both ends of the cable run. However, it is far
simpler from an installer and troubleshooting standpoint
to, for each system, employ its respective cabling.
I’ve always used electrical boxes. Why do you recommend mud
rings for cable termination and device installation?
A mud ring gives the installer easy and ready access to Should I be installing optical fiber cable instead of Cat 5e or Cat 6?
the stud cavity and allows for a long service loop to be It seems that this is the direction future installations are headed.
left in the wall without damaging the cable. Remember, Fiber optic applications are not currently in common use in
low-voltage cable has to be handled more carefully than residential systems, and equipment that can accept a fiber optic
AC cable. Stuffing the cable in a box is not recommended connection is not found in most residential settings. You are
since cable kinks and pinching can occur, which impacts correct that this is the likely direction for future application. As
cable performance. a cost savings, optical fiber cable can be run and terminated at
wallplates with service loops stored in the walls. Another option is
to run conduit with pull strings installed to various room locations
Why can’t I push my Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable into a connector or
and leave the cable for later use. Leviton will be addressing optical
distribution module with my screwdriver and clip the ends off
fiber installation in a later update to this manual.
with a wire cutter?
Cat 5e or Cat 6 twisted pairs are made from a small-
gauge wire (usually 24). It can easily be damaged with the
wrong tools, and the system that depends on the cabling
might not operate properly. The proper tool to use is a
punchdown/termination tool.
50 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
Installer Tips - Quick Reference • Just as the NEC prohibits the installation of AC
electrical outlets above most baseboard heaters
Structured Media System
®
(Section 110-3[b]) because of the potential damage
• The future will be filled with more low-voltage appliances to any electrical cord plugged into that outlet, you will
and devices, not fewer. Keep expansion in mind when want to avoid installing a low-voltage device above
you and your customer discuss the system installation these heaters for the same reason
• For both basic and residential, Leviton recommends • As you’ll see in Section 8, be sure to run your low-voltage
a minimum of Cat 5e or Cat 6 twisted-pair cable for wiring in a separate stud space from the AC cable. Be
telephone and data; RG-6 quad-shield coax cable for sure your mud ring locations keep this rule in mind
video cable, CATV, TV, DSS, and monitoring; and 16/2 or
• Leviton strongly suggests that you use nothing less than
better class III stranded copper for speakers
Grade 2 infrastructure
• Leviton Pre-Configured Structured Cabling Panels combine
• Make sure all wire and cables meet all local safety and fire
the most popular distribution modules into single units that
codes, and make sure that they are rated for in-wall use.
will suit the needs of many of your customers. These panels
Approved wire and cabling will feature a classification
can always be replaced or supplemented with individual
(such as CL-3, or Class 3) to indicate suitability for
modules should your needs change in the future
installation. Failure to follow this procedure could result in
• In addition to its AC Power Module, Leviton also offers exposure to insurance and even legal problems
a DC Power Supply Module that supplies DC power to
• Be sure to follow the speaker manufacturer’s guidelines
multiple modules within a SMC. Each DC component is
for wire gauge, and the amplifier manufacturer’s
wired to the module’s outputs and the module itself plugs
recommendations for acceptable impedance loads
into a standard 120-VAC outlet. This eliminates the need
for multiple, individual power supplies within the SMC • Plan to install additional SMCs for audio/video distribution
should your needs exceed the capacity of a single unit
Accessories
• You want to keep electromagnetic interference (EMI) to a
• Leviton recommends that you leave a 36-inch service minimum (a five-foot separation is considered minimum).
loop for fiber optic cable and a 24-inch service loop for Mount the SMC in an accessible, centrally located,
all other cable. This gives you plenty of spare cable to interior wall that does not require a two-hour fire rating
correct wiring errors and for future expansion should the
end device need changing Pre-Wire
• Be sure not to bend cable during the installation process. • No job will go flawlessly, but good communication
The integrity of the cable is important for maintaining skills coupled with your own vigilance will keep
optimal levels of performance problems to a minimum
• Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable requires precise termination. • Using two-way communication devices will easily allow
Removing too much insulation can adversely affect the the installers to talk with each other during testing
efficiency of the cable. Tools manufactured specifically • Even the best technical installation can be marred by sloppy
for trimming low-voltage cable will work more precisely trim work. A crooked mud ring will yield a crooked wallplate.
than knives or diagonal cutters Take your time and mount the mud rings carefully
• Cable should be tested regularly during installation so • An open, clear space in a closet makes a fine location
any problems can be repaired early in the job for the SMC. For maximum flexibility, install a removable
wood panel above and below the SMC, thus providing
System Design
access to the wall cavity. This makes future cable
• Your Leviton Technical Support representative can installations considerably easier
always assist you with any planning and installation
• Use the cardboard mud guard to cover and protect
challenges that occur outside of the scope of this
the interior of the box and unterminated cables during
manual. Call the Leviton Technical Support line at
drywall finishing. The mud guard will defray damage from
(800) 824-3005
other contractors and workers on the job. Store the SMC
• You can use a standard electrical box if you do not have metal cover, in its original plastic protective covering, in
a mud ring. However, be sure to remove the back section a safe place until ready for trim out
from the electrical box first. This will allow you to leave
a service loop in the wall while providing a mounting
surface for your device and cover plate
LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005 51
• Quad wire is not an appropriate conductor for modern Trim Out
multi-line installations, and will result in poorly
• The Leviton palm termination tool for holding jacks
performing telephone/modem/fax services, as it will not
during punchdown provides a flat, level surface for
allow high-speed data network communications. If you
punching down cable and cutting off the ends on the
run across it during remodel work, replace it with Cat
jacks. The tool fits in your pocket and is readily available
5e or Cat 6 structured cabling. Any quad wire in a Cat
when you don’t have a convenient work surface
5e or Cat 6 installation makes the entire wiring system
susceptible to noise. The FCC has now made the use of • It's worth repeating — to avoid removing too much of
quad wire illegal the jacket from the first (blue) or last (brown) wires,
install either the orange (#2) or green (#3) wire first
• While many requirements for AC cable can apply in
at the punchdown block. This helps to center the
low-voltage cable installation, others do not. The FCC
cable. Otherwise, if the blue pair is installed first and
calls for the distance between an electrical box and the
terminated close to the cable, the brown pair will extend
first strap or staple securing AC cable to not exceed 12
further than one-half inch from the jacket, and therefore
inches. This rule does not apply to low voltage wiring and
be more exposed than the standard calls for. Remember,
would prevent you from leaving a service loop securely
the more exposure, the greater the chance for a
tucked inside of a wall
substandard installation
• An insulated staple is an ideal fastener for low-voltage
• If you have run extra RG-6 cable through the home, it
wiring. The insulation acts as a built-in stop that
is a good idea to spec in enough splitter capacity and
prevents the staple from crushing or stressing the
coax to handle an additional two television locations,
cables. Be sure the cable diameter does not exceed the
more than the actual number of terminations required.
staple’s capacity
This will allow for future expansion. If doing so, follow
• To ensure optimal performance, keep cables six inches the same rule on any video splitter and cap all unused
from all speaker and electrical wiring F-connectors with Leviton 75-ohm terminators
• You can always install a second label some distance out • Check with your CATV provider to determine the signal
from the termination point, say six inches, as a backup. level at the house demarcation point. The input signal
This is especially useful during rough-in work where level from the CATV provider or local antenna will be
cable ends might get damaged. Also, you may want to between 0 dBmv and 15 dBmv. The lower end of that
trim the cable during termination range will require a video amplifier. At the high end of the
range, you might have sufficient signal to make a video
• One method for cutting down the confusion of multiple
amplifier unnecessary for up to eight video terminations.
Cat 5e or Cat 6 cables is to use one color of sheathing
Beyond eight video terminations, you will probably need
for your phone system and a second color for data and
a video amplifier
networking. The cable is all the same, but two different
colors (say, blue and gray) make it easier to keep track • Reversing polarity, or connecting a “+” on the amplifier
to a “-”on the speaker, will not cause any damage. It
• For an even more foolproof identification, duplicate
will result in a weak or thin bass sound and somewhat
labels can be placed on the inside of the wallplate
echoey or vague vocals. If you hear substandard sound
• Common applications use speaker wire or twisted pair. from any installed speaker pair, shut the system off
Running both during installation will allow for easy and simply reverse the connections to the back of one
upgrades or changes in the future speaker only in that room. If the problem goes away,
you have reversed polarity somewhere in the wiring.
Make sure you check the connections right back to the
amplifier because the other speaker pairs in the system
may still be incorrect
52 LEVITON.COM | 800.824.3005
Residential Structured Wiring
Installation Manual
When you connect to an audio, video, or data system in a conference room, classroom, or living room
you expect quality and optimum performance. That expectation is the force that drives the design
of our innovative line of audio, video, and data connectors. Leviton connectors and our modular
Multimedia Outlet System (MOS) provide outstanding signal quality, cost-effective custom options,
and dependable connectivity solutions for today’s technology.
Contact Information
Tech Support
Tech Support 800.824.3005 425.483.5270
and Custom Orders
E international@leviton.com
J15 3860