Poke-Thru Devices for Audio/Video Applications in Renovated Buildings
Ideally, audio/video (A/V) connectivity is part of an integrated system that incorporates technology into building design. This is a relatively straightforward process with new construction, but it is problematic in existing structures. While A/V connectivity can be incorporated into existing walls, locating the connections in open spaces - where they are most often needed - calls for a unique solution: poke-thru devices.
Poke-thru devices are a proven method of providing power and data/communications connections in open spaces. They are the system of choice for renovation and retrofit because they enable wiring and cabling to be located virtually anywhere on the floor plan using core-drilled slab openings while also maintaining the fire rating of the slab. But until now, poke-thru devices could not accept the full breadth of specialized A/V connectors, due to the size and shape of the A/V modules and space limitations within the poke-thru device.
Wiremold/Legrand has developed high-capacity poke-thru devices that accept the most popular A/V devices and support a wide variety of video, audio, control, and voice and data connectors, as well as active modules such as VGA line drivers, audio buffers, and twisted pair transceivers.
Why poke-thru devices?
Poke-thru devices are among the most versatile systems for adding or upgrading audio/video capabilities in an existing multistory concrete slab building. (Since poke-thru devices require access to the space below them, they cannot be used in slab-on-grade structures.) Holes must have a minimum on-center spacing of 2 ft.; and not more than one hole is allowed per 65 square feet in each span. Thus, poke-thru density can be as great as one for each 8-ft. by 8-ft. work area.
Poke-thru devices offer maximum design flexibility for open office space. Moreover, they can also be used for partitioned and modular offices, as well as specialized spaces, such as reception areas, conference rooms, and training centers. The placement of activations is not constrained by partitions or by the grid pattern of an infloor wire and cable management system. Among commonly installed wire and cable management systems, poke-thru devices typically have low initial installation cost.
The push for improved aesthetics is also seen in systems that offer flush and recessed activations that are very nearly invisible. Poke-thru devices offer receptacles and data/communications ports in unobtrusive flush profiles. High-capacity service activations accommodate more outlets, making them less obtrusive than older, low-capacity fittings.
Fire rating and scrub water protection
Fire-rated poke-thru devices incorporate fire stopping material into the fitting itself, guaranteeing that each penetration maintains the slab's fire rating. The key is rings of intumescent material around the conduit stem at the slab level. When exposed to high temperatures, this material expands to fill any space between the fitting and the floor slab. In the event of a fire, the slab penetration is quickly filled by the expanding material, effectively blocking flames and heat and maintaining the slab's fire rating.
UL standards require that the power compartments of poke-thru devices meet tests for scrub water exclusion on both tile and carpet surfaces. These standards are designed to ensure that water does not enter power outlets during routine maintenance, such as wet mopping and carpet shampooing. Poke-thru devices that meet the water exclusion standard can be used in either carpet or tile settings.
Poke-thru devices have multiple openings where water can enter, including power slide covers that snap in place to prevent dirt and debris from entering the system. These covers feature a specialized gasket that remains in contact with the slide cover at all times and in all positions. The gasket material provides the proper balance between water resistance and the ability to spring back into the closed position.
Although the standards deal only with electrical compartments, there are advantages to excluding water from the communications portions of the device as well. The presence of water can degrade signals and eventually damage electronic components. Further, systems that are designed to deter water also keep out dust and debris that can degrade the performance of sensitive connectors.
Aesthetics
Perhaps it was because technology developed so quickly, aesthetics were at one time an afterthought. This is no longer the case. Today's integrated building systems are designed to be aesthetically pleasing as well as functional. Poke-thru devices are unobtrusive, enabling A/V connectivity to be easily accessible when needed and out of sight when not in use.