Moving in a Wired World

It's wise to consider your technology needs carefully when moving to a new home.  Be sure to research a new neighborhood's technology choices and problems by talking with service providers and other residents to ensure that high-speed internet access is available, or that a local monument doesn't block satellite service.  In some cases, you may end up with more options than you had before, like cable, DSL, and FiOS (fiber-optics), or you may end up needing dial-up or satellite access.  To supplement your live research, visit sites like www.broadbandreports.com to avoid post-move technology regrets.  And remember, internet isn't the only concern.  Before the move, research your options for telephone service, decide if a land-line, cell only, or both would be best, and be sure to check the quality of the cellular service available in the area.

Most people move to existing homes with their own layout, so it is useful to map out rooms that will be home to computers or other electronic equipment; include walls, doors, windows, phone/cable/Ethernet jacks and electrical outlets in your plans.  Sketch out your furniture in order to avoid having jacks or outlets stuck behind immovable furniture.  If the new place's jacks don't match your desired technological equipment placements, WiFi (wireless networking) is an excellent option.   

If you're dealing with new construction or doing significant remodeling, you'll have the luxury of wiring for the future.  Currently, the most versatile and adaptable approach is to run multiple cables-phone, Ethernet, and coaxial-to a "patch panel", or central wiring point, from each room.  This allows for connectivity and equipment to be easily changed in the suture.  In addition, enclosing cables in conduit with spare space allows for future expansion.

Be careful not to schedule too many overlapping service installations in a small living space, since some installers may get in each others' way or accidentally disrupt other connections while installing theirs.  Remember, too, that multiple installations can cause fees to add up rapidly, so you may want to consider buying bundled service that combines telephone, Internet and television in order to save money.  In addition, prepare for delays since service is sometimes not fully functional for up to weeks.  Hopefully, though, you'll be pleasantly surprised.