Do I need to have mounting bracket to install LAN cable?

Question

I am trying to install/wire CAT6 cable from basement to my dining room.(do not ask me why dining room...) I already fished cable to dining room. Next step is to connect/wire the cable to CAT6 jack and mount it to wall plate.

My question is:
Because I have wood panel installed tor my dining room, I can mount wall plate to wood panel without mounting bracket installed to wall inside. Do I need to have mounting bracket/electrical box, like Carlon product for any other reason? Can I mount wall plate to wood panel directly ?

Answer 1

You don't need a box. Boxes are for applications where AC power (switches, outlets) connections exist - the purpose being to contain and isolate any arcing or overheated connections from coming in contact with combustible materials inside the wall like wood, paper, etc.

Since LAN connections are low voltage/low power, there is virtually no risk of overheating. The only risk, and it's highly unlikely, is if somehow the LAN cable was mis-wired or otherwise became shorted to the AC power line.

Answer 2

The easiest way is to get a receptacle box and cut a hole in paneling to hold it. Punch out one of the knockouts and bring the LAN cable in through it. The box is not to keep a fire from starting - just to make a solid attachment to the wall.

Now get those thin metal retaining strips (shaped like letter F). Hold the box in the hole and slip a strip on each side of it bending the tabs to keep the box from pulling out.

Now wire the cable onto the LAN jack on the box cover and put the cover onto the box. The box will be kept from pulling out by the folded tabs and from falling in by the cover.

Now it is solidly attached to your wall..

Answer 3

it'll work but if u ever have to take the wall plate back off, after a few times and your lookin for a bigger screw b/c the holes are wore out. only other possible bad scenario would be lightening