Today while reading an article on cabling from an industrial perspective I decided it would be best to cover this all important topic from the AV perspective. The wire you use or don’t use an important decision.

There is a mass of wire types and all have their uses, specifications and limitations. Determining the right one should be decided with care. You can have the biggest and best system in the world but if you don’t plan the wiring properly then you will have a system that either works poorly or even cause damage to the equipment. So before you start, ask yourself these questions.

1. What type of cabling is needed?
This is only determining what you need. Make sure you match up the right cable for the right job. Simply put, you want mic cable for mic cable and video cable for video. This is the point where I have seen some interesting adaptions that involve duct tape and cut AV cables the come with cheap DVD players.

2. Will it be used for a portable or permanent install?
This is an important decision for both quality and cost savings. Installation (PVC jacketed) cable can sometimes be cheaper because it does not require a tough outer jacket made for portable (rubber jacketed) applications. Most installations will use a combination of PVC and rubber jacketed cables but at a cost difference of sometimes $.20 per foot or more the savings of the right cabling can be significant.

3. What environment will the cable be used in?
This is important for a couple of reasons. If you are putting cable in a harsh environment (like outdoors) you will want a cable that is designed to survive in this type of situation. Environment dependent codes (ex. plenum spaces) which affect cable selection will also be important considerations. Make sure you understand how certain these (plus all other codes) will affect your cabling selection.

4. What about quality?
Some people insist on buying the top of the line cable with the best connections. I have even heard of directional copper! However, unless you are installing broadcast studios or multimillion dollar recording studio and just have money to burn then no excessive cash need be spent. In the end, you need quality cabling from a reputable company that meets the specifications of your equipment. You may even choose to make your own if you have (or willing to learn) basic soldering. Very easy to do.

5. How are the connectors installed?
There are many different ways to install connectors. Crimp, compression, solder, phoenix, punch down and molded are the main types. It is important to know which of these you prefer to use or the application requires. A permanent install may allow for a punch down connection however a portable system will likely require solder or molded connections. You should also make sure you have the correct tools and spare connectors to repair cables as needed.

Always make sure that you plan through you cable selection so that your systems operate efficiently and costly mistakes are avoided. I’m sure we would all rather spend the leftover money on other cool things, like say, a nice new effects unit or an upgrade to an HD projector, right?

Let me know if you have any questions. Please post them below in the comment section.