Fight the Cable Clutter

August 31, 2010, By William Busse 0 comments

The unfortunate consequence of owning a sophisticated A/V setup is the cluttered tangle of power cords, video cables, computer cables and audio wires that result from attaching each component. Not only is the mess ugly but tangled cables can add interference to the signal and cause confusion and frustration should the system require repair.

Fortunately, there are a number of solutions available for organizing media cables that will clear the clutter and make the pathways in the system much easier to understand.

Labeling

Many enthusiasts start a media room with a TV, a receiver, a DVD player and two speakers. Labeling cables with such a basic configuration seems pointless. However, as systems start to expand to include additional speakers, a computer, a video game system and other components, the mass of cables grows and they soon become indistinguishable from one another.

Applying labels when the system is uncomplicated will keep it organized, and save time should a component malfunction and require troubleshooting. Inexpensive labeling devices print neat self-stick labels. Start with power cords and work through the different cables, labeling each end for easy future identification.

Cable Snakes

Originally designed for the theatrical and music industry, cable snakes are now being manufactured for home theaters. Each end of the snake has a variety of plugs and attachments, male on one end female on the other. The wires are combined and wrapped together in a flexible plastic sheathing so that there is only a single unobtrusive cable to deal with.

Cable snakes come in standard configurations which include balanced and unbalanced ¼” connectors, HDMI connectors, RCA connectors, 3.5mm jacks and Ethernet connections, or they can also be made to custom specifications as well.

Cable Sheathing

There are lots of commercially available sheathing products that hide cables. These are usually made of flexible plastic with a seam. The cables are gathered together and pushed inside the tubing. The sheathing sometimes includes a zipper that will keep the cables neatly tucked inside.

A less expensive alternative is to use a piece of closed cell rubber or foam insulation for the same purpose. Select a diameter that will accommodate all of the desired cables and purchase the insulation style that contains a self-seal closure system. After pushing the cables inside the insulation, peel away the strip and press the seam together for a sleek professional look. Using common zip ties on the cables before insertion is also helpful in this application.

Cables Trays

Cable trays are hidden from view and can accommodate a number of AV cables. The tray contains a large surface and numerous wire loops where the cables are placed and zip tied to the tray. Place the tray on a wall or under a piece of furniture and the cables remain secure and concealed.

Power Strips

Since many electronic components use in-line transformers, a power strip designed to accommodate these devices will eliminate unusable power receptacles and reduce the power strip requirements. Whenever possible, avoid purchasing components that use in-line transformers. They add clutter, constantly draw electricity, and can break easily.

With a small investment in material and labor, organizing media cables will make the A/V system far more presentable and much easier to service.