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Old 01-22-2015, 06:22 AM   #1
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Cat 5/6 Through the roof

Opinions wanted here. I am installing a custom WiFi setup for my unit, and need to get an Cat 5/6 wire through the roof. I have 2 options.



#1, the same way as the coax. That would mean that I would have to break the seal, and get it resealed. That would also mean that I would wait until spring to run the wire.

#2 Running it through the fridge vent.

Either way will put me in nearly the same spot, with easy access from removing my speaker that is right there.

Side note, I hope to upgrade in a year or two, so unless the next folks want to buy it with the WiFi system, I will be removing it before it is sold.
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Old 01-22-2015, 08:33 AM   #2
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Fridge vent is what folks usually use for solar setups. That would be my vote.

As for selling in a few years- I'd leave the wiring since it usually isn't expensive and would just pull the hardware out.
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Old 01-22-2015, 08:49 AM   #3
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That a power awning? Cat 5 will fit inside the cover for the awning's power cable, that's how I ran the extension between the led strip's controller in my basement and the led strip.

I pulled the covers off, push the cat 5 through the existing opening into my front storage compartment and then ran it up the inside of the awning support to the top and replaced the covers. Might be able to run a similar route to avoid doing anything to the seals on your roof. Just an idea to look at.






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Old 01-22-2015, 09:06 AM   #4
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Run it through the (Bathroom or Kitchen) vent,no need to break the roof seals! Youroo!!
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Old 01-22-2015, 09:54 AM   #5
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Thank you guys, looks like through the vent it is!

Kaadk, it is a Portuguese (Manuel - Local Joke) Awning.
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Old 01-22-2015, 10:26 AM   #6
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Definitely fridge vent, easy peasy. Not all that much heat in there, but I might run plenum cable anyway.
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Old 01-23-2015, 05:02 PM   #7
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I would stay away from the fridge vent. Even though it's not too hot, the consistent heat will degrade the Cat 5 wire over a short period of time and eventually degrade the wireless data signal you get. It might work for about a year or two, but then slowly start degrading. I would go in through the awning power connector if you have one. Make sure it's shielded and outdoor wire.
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Old 01-23-2015, 05:38 PM   #8
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To protect your CAT5 from harsh environments (like UV light, heat, cold) go to the auto parts store and buy "wire loom" or "split wire conduit" and slide it on over the cable. Also good for coax and other wire/cable in any harsh environment.

Dorman/Split wire conduit 86663 at AutoZone.com - 1 reviews
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Old 01-23-2015, 07:54 PM   #9
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Outdoor and shielded. Ubiquiti recommended shielded in their literature. 2 years will be fine, as we are going to upgrade. I will definitely get the wire loom for protection.
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Old 01-27-2015, 09:08 PM   #10
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For what it's worth:http://www.forestriverforums.com/for...ing-67374.html
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Old 01-28-2015, 12:33 AM   #11
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Quote:
Originally Posted by khocke View Post
Thank you. I will definitely do this with the next camper.
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