The wiring and cabling setup in any office or home plays a critical role in managing cables and keeping them organized. With so many devices connected to computers, Ethernet switches, patch panels and more, it is important to properly route and conceal cables to maintain cleanliness and functionality. Cable channels and raceways provide an effective solution for routing cables along walls, ceilings, floors and other surfaces in an organized manner. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of cable channels and raceways available, factors to consider when choosing them and tips for installation.
Types of Cable Channels and Raceways
There are various cable management products on the market to choose from depending on your specific needs and installation surface. Some of the main types include:
Wall Channels
Plastic wall channels: These rigid PVC channels simply snap into place and mount on walls for routing cables vertically or horizontally. They come in various depths and sizes.
Metal wall channels: Similar to plastic types but made of aluminum or steel, making them durable for high traffic areas.
Ceiling Channels
Drop-ceiling cable channels: Designed specifically for drop-tile or suspended ceilings, they rest between tiles and have clips to securely hold cables.
Surface-mount ceiling channels: For hard ceilings, these channels mount directly to ceiling surfaces instead of resting between tiles.
Floor Channels
Plastic floor mats: Flexible mats lay on floors and contain cables without permanent installation. Good for temporary settings.
Metal floor trenches: Resemble narrow metal troughs that mount inside flooring for permanent cable routing in high foot traffic industrial areas.
Cable Raceways
Plastic wiremold raceways: Modular straight sections and corners snap together for customized runs along any surface. Lower profile than channels.
Metal wiremold: More durable version of plastic raceways, often used in harsh commercial/industrial environments.
Choosing the Right Type
When choosing between cable channels and raceways, here are some important factors to consider:
Surface material: Match your routing solution to the surface it will mount on - walls, ceilings, floors, etc.
Cable capacity: Consider the number and size of cables to route to ensure adequate channel/raceway space.
Traffic levels: Highest durability options like metal are best for high traffic areas to prevent damage.
Aesthetics: Open channels may not be ideal in certain decorative areas, so look at lower profile raceway options.
Permanence: Temporary floor mats vs. permanent ceiling/wall mounts suited for planned installations.
Budget: Plastic is more affordable but metal withstands abuse/hazards better in tough settings.
It's also a good idea to test cable fittings beforehand to ensure cables securely stay in place during and after installation. Proper selection results in smooth, long-lasting installations.
Planning & Measuring for Installation
Prior to installation, take time to properly plan your cable routing layout. Some planning tips include:
Create a diagram of the layout with channel/raceway runs marked on a floorplan.
Measure cable runs accurately and mark on diagram with efficient bends/corners in mind.
Note any obstruction points that may impact routing like beams, HVAC vents, etc.
Consider future expansion needs when designing pathways vs point-to-point runs only.
Cable types should be logically grouped when multiple are present for easier tracing.
Maintain sufficient space between runs for service access if issues arise down the road.
With accurate measurements mapped out, you can efficiently cut channels/raceways to proper lengths beforehand instead of constantly cutting on site. This results in cleaner, neater finished runs.
Mounting Channels & Raceways
Once correctly sized, it's time for physical installation. Proper mounting techniques are important for long-term reliability:
Wall Channels:
Mark mounting hole locations based on included template/dimensions
Drill pilot holes and secure channels with appropriate anchors/fasteners
Snap channel cover closed securely after cable installation
Ceiling Channels:
For dropped ceiling, rest channels between tiles
For hard ceilings, mark/drill holes and screw mount channels
Ensure proper support if extra long runs employed
Floor/Wiremold Raceways:
Mark locations and cut-out areas as needed
Drill pilot holes to bolt/screw down sections securely
Seal gaps airtight to prevent spider/pest intrusion
Taking time for accurate measuring and clean, solid mounting results in inconspicuous cable routing that performs well over the years. Consider cable fill ratings to prevent overstuffing.
Cable Installation and Labeling
With channels/raceways mounted, it's now time to populate them:
Pull cables into place one by one to avoid tangling
Gently bend cables as needed using proper radius techniques
Secure cables within raceways regularly using included ties
For extra security, add additional tie points as necessary
Group similar cables together for easier maintenance later
Apply machine-printed labels to both ends of every cable
Clearly labeled cables not only aid future troubleshooting but also make additions/changes simple down the road. Leave pull strings/cords in for future cabling needs as well.
Conclusion
Implementing an organized cable routing strategy with the proper channel and raceway selections results in an efficient, long-lasting infrastructure within any professional or home setting. Taking time for accurate measurement, neat mounting and clear labeling leads to smooth installation while maintaining proper cable support and aesthetics. With the right choices, management can be achieved without comprising functionality for years to come.
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