November 26, 2018

Tech Tip: How to Install a Mud Ring

[1.5 Minute Read] 

After your cable has been pulled, it's time to install the mud ring. For this demonstration, we'll be using Data Drop in a Box the first all-inclusive data cabling kit. It has everything you need to do a single or double data drop, including:

  • Cat5E or Cat6 iCAT-ITS® Cable 100-300 ft.
  • Patch Cords
  • Surface Mount Box/Mud Ring
  • Faceplate
  • RJ45 Jacks
  • Termination Tool
  • Screws
  • Zip Ties
  • Before you begin cutting into the drywall, you want to make sure you're not going to hit a stud. There are several different methods you can use to avoid studs.

    1. If you're in a drop tile ceiling environment, you can move the tiles and look for the studs.
    2. Use a stud finder (they aren't very expensive and come in handy!)
    3. Put your mud ring on the wall and mark one of the corners. Then push your drywall saw into the wall and cut horizontally as far as you need to go. If you hit a stud while cutting, pull out your saw and cut in the other direction.

    If you're able to cut horizontally and not hit a stud, then you're in the clear. Finish cutting out the rest of the drywall and grab your mud ring.

    (Click here to watch all of our Tech Tips on YouTube.)

    The mud ring has two "ears" that will spin out and lock it into place. To begin, the ears or tabs should be facing inward. Place the mud ring in your drywall hole and use a Phillips head screwdriver to fasten the mud ring to the wall.  

    single gang bracket cable drop

    Check to make sure the mud ring is securely fastened. Once it's in place, you're ready to terminate the cable. Now that you know how to install a mud ring, continue to Tech Tip #3 for further instructions.

    Keep watching out Tech Tip series to finish your installation.

    Tech Tip 3 How to Terminate a Cable
    Tech Tip 4 How to Finish a Data Drop

    About the author 

    Doug Gies

    Doug Gies is the VP of Operations at Automated Systems Design, Inc. He has over 25 years of experience in the rapid deployment of technology to Fortune 500 retail customers. At ASD®, Doug directs and guides operational activities with the objective of maximizing growth and profitability as well as providing day-to-day support to the team.

    {"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}
    >