Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
your local construction codes may require that the outlet be mounted in an enclosed
box in some cases.
Traditional outlet boxes are the same design as those used for electrical circuit
wiring. The boxes are available in metallic or plastic styles and different designs are
available for prewiring, during initial construction, and for postwiring, when the
building is complete. Figure 6.1 shows several types of outlet boxes that are suitable
for telecommunications use. The 2-in-wide box is the most common for this style of
wiring, although a 4-in-square box with a 2-in-wide mounting ring may also be
used. In general, the telecommunications outlet plates that mount to these boxes are
designed for the 2-in opening. The opening sizes are also referred to as “1 gang” (2
in wide) and “2 gang” (4 in wide) in the building trades.
Outlet boxes for prewire use will have nail plates for attachment to vertical
supports or studs in the walls. Some of these boxes have captive nails already
attached. The box should be securely attached to its support and positioned to allow
for clearance through the wall sheathing.
After the wall is complete, the mounting plates of the box should be even with
the wall surface. The boxes should be positioned at the same height as required for
electrical outlets. This might not necessarily be a construction code requirement, but
it enhances the appearance of the final installation. The cable may be run through
a bare knock-out hole in the box or through a conduit or flexible cable connector.
Plastic sleeves are also available to minimize any chance that the cable might be
damaged by the hole's sharp edges.
FIGURE 6.1
Several types of outlet boxes that are suitable for telecommunications use.
