In the old days of computing, each monitor used its own modem line, its own printer and its own disk drive. The recent proliferation of networking systems in homes has completely erased the lines of demarcation. By installing a system of high-speed cabling into a home, you can share files and peripherals. With a high-speed Internet connection, Web pages whiz into the PC at rates 10 times faster than a normal telephone wire can handle. Much like the networking systems used in commercial settings, these residential structured-wiring systems are one of the hottest commodities in new-home features. Nearly 40 percent of homebuilders now offer high-speed networking systems to homeowners, says research firm Parks Associates.

But networking impacts more than PC workstations. Over this bundle of cabling (typically consists of two runs of RG-6 coaxial cabling and two runs of Category 5e communications/ Ethernet wiring), music from a single entertainment system can be distributed to speakers throughout the house, video from one DVD player and one cable box can be accessed from every TV, and multiple incoming telephone lines can be shared among all telephones.

Planning Issues...

What You Need to Consider - Outlet Locations PCs, stereo gear, telephones and other equipment join a wiring network by plugging into special (multimedia) outlets that consolidate telephone jacks, data jacks and cable connectors into a single housing. Naturally, you'll need to decide in which rooms you should install these outlets. Our recommendation: Install a multimedia outlet anywhere you would an electrical outlet. Because each multimedia outlet can be configured to house a combination of different connectors, you'll need to determine what kinds of equipment will likely be used at each outlet location.

Internet Service Provider (ISP) -  A home installed with high-speed wiring can leverage the speed of a broadband Internet connection. Every PC in the house, not just one, can enjoy faster download speeds than a typical dial-up connection offers. A monthly subscription to a broadband service costs anywhere from $29 to $60, depending on the location and level of service.

Wireless Networking...

Whenever possible (like when you're building a new house), it's best to install a system on which PCs and other devices can speak to each other over a dedicated highway of cabling. It's the fastest, most reliable networking option around. Other times, you're simply looking for a quick fix. In this case, consider networking the PCs of your home through a wireless networking system. Wireless networking also affords a simple way to add wireless devices (like laptop computers and PDAs) to the networking system.

Thanks to the development of several new communications languages, wireless networking systems are widely available at home improvement stores and computer stores. Or, if you're leery of fiddling with a PC, you can always give us a call and will be happy to set you up. We can even provide you with the right equipment for your particular application.

Another option is a network that communicates over radio-frequency (RF) airwaves (HomeRF or WiFi). RF networking devices connect to computers like any other networking product; however, they can operate without having to plug into a phone jack or an electrical outlet. You can establish a connection from anywhere in the house, sometimes even areas outside of the house.