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Structured media enclosure (distribution device)

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A structured media center (distribution device) provides a central location for all home and MDUs (multi dwelling units) network cabling to interface with the public utility services to include voice, data, and video and provides a central location to also incorporate security, CCTV, audio and home automation.

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The structured media panels are designed in various sizes to accommodate all or some of the many services a customer may want to incorporate into their home and it also provides the means to add a power outlet

These distribution devices are covered by the TIA/EIA 570 standard (light commercial and residential wiring)

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Structured media enclosures are designed for either surface mount or recessed mounting and provide multiple knock outs similar to an electrical panel box

As you can see here they fit perfectly into the studs

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The distribution devices can be purchased with a hinged door panel or completely removable panel and can also be configured with a lock set

The bottom of the panel has a specific rectangular knock out to accommodate a single gang electrical outlet

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Knock outs

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In most homes the distribution device will be located in the basement where the public utility services enter the home

In MDUs the enclosures are located in closets or laundry rooms

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All new condominiums and apartment buildings (MDU) are now using the structured media enclosure for all of the low voltage systems

Many of these enclosures also have empty conduits (micro duct) for future growth in anticipation of bringing fiber optics directly into the unit

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Structured media panels are designed to house network devices such as routers and/or switches, voice modules and CATV splitters

This allows direct patching from the communications infrastructure directly to POTS lines, internet access or CATV signals that can distributed throughout the premises

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When working in a residential environment the technician will have to bore holes in wooden studs to provide pathways to the distribution device

The International residential code (IRC) as well as NEC article 300.4A1 dictates how holes are to be bored in wood members, joist and rafters

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This will require the use of a right angle drill to properly bore straight holes that will conform to NEC and IRC statues

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So far we have learned that POTS is 4 conductor, category 1 cable which is still prevalent in many homes today

What do you think is the minimum Category of UTP cabling allowed for installation in new residential dwellings?

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The FCC requires a minimum of CAT 3, 4 pair cable to be installed in all new residential dwellings

Most residential installs today consist of one CAT 5e and one RG-6 coax cable at each location and run directly to the distribution device (star network)

TIA/EIA 570 grade 1 cable calls for one CAT 5e and one RG-6 at each location with one outlet in each room

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TIA/EIA 570 grade 2 cabling calls for two CAT 5e and two RG-6 cables at each location and 1 outlet for every eight feet of wall space

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Here is a home network design diagram with the distribution device interfaced to the D-marc

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Watch the Leviton video on how to install the structured media enclosure and the Leviton video on how to load the enclosure

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