Hello:
I'm looking to wire my home with CAT-X (where X is probably going to be CAT-6, unless someone can convince me differently. ;) ).
I'm seeking advice on what equipment I'll need for the job, and any things I should watch out for.
It's a two story half-duplex I'll be wiring, roughly about 1800 sq ft.
Here's what I believe I need so far:
Bulk CAT-6 Ethernet cabling
CM Rated
Gigabit switch(es?)
Patch panel
Equipment for cutting, terminating wire, fishing through walls, etc
Wall outlet covers, etc.
Questions I have:
Does it matter the MHz rating on the Ethernet cable? If so, why?
I have two gigabit switches currently, an 8-port and a 5-port. Should I buy one massive switch to cover all the connections I need, or should I just chain the two together and buy a switch for however many other connections I need?
Do I really need a patch panel? I understand it keeps the cables looking cleaner than coming out of a hole in the wall, but is there some other product I can use, perhaps combining a switch with a patch panel or some such?
Ideally I'll have all this running out of a relatively small closet, so the less components (or smaller) the better.
Any advice, links, or suggested product to use/avoid would be appreciated!
