Re: wiring for the future

["Robert L Bass" <no-sales-spam@bassburglaralarms>]

> What type of wire should I run for the RCA
> lines?  Do I run CAT5 or something else?

No.  Don't run video over CAT5 if you have the opportunity to run coax.  While it is possible to run it through UTP cable, you'd
need to add BALUNS at each end.  That adds to the overall cost of the job with no added benefit.

I use the expression "RCA cables" only because it is in common use.  Technically, they're just 75-Ohm shielded cables with RCA
connectors on the ends.  Any decent 22-gauge, shielded cable will carry video or audio hundreds of feet with no perceptible
degradation.  I've even used 2-conductor shielded in a pinch and it worked fine at over 300 feet.

Component video calls for the exact same thing -- 75-Ohm coaxial cable.  Because it is high definition, you should use only 75-Ohm
coax (rather than just any old shielded stuff).

Do NOT believe any of the hype from Monster or any of the other cable rip-offs.  As long as it has a good shield and the connections
are secure, there is zero difference between cable that costs $0.20 a foot and that which costs $50+ / foot.

--

Regards,
Robert L Bass

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