On Sun, 21 Nov 2004, John Hebert wrote: > The problem is that I don't want a bunch of cables > going from the router back into the wall to feed the > network to other rooms in my house. Putting the > network devices in the attic would save me from a lot > of cabling. However, it looks like it can't be > avoided, as the devices might not last long in the > heat of the attic.
Is it that you don't want the wires at all, or don't have/want the time/money/hassle needed to make it look professional? You mentioned moving the DSL modem close to where Bell lines enter the house. Normally this is close to the electric panel in the laundry or utility room? This is a good spot to terminate wiring. If there's no closet there to use, mount a small shelf or metal cabinet high on the wall, in the corner where wall meets ceiling. Shelf/cabinet needs to be big enough for DSL modem, router, and DMZ switch. Patch panel is optional, but looks good. Punch a few holes in the ceiling to run cat5/power through. If there's any slack just push it up into the ceiling out of sight. The shelf would work and is mostly out of sight, but a wall mounted cabinet is ideal since nothing would be visible. Alarm companies do this to hide their wiring and electronics. Cabinet needs to be ventilated. Downside is, for troubleshooting, you may have to climb on a chair and open the cabinet to check LEDs of equipment. But i'd still rather climb on a chair than climb in the attic to check on things. ray
