Electrified Furniture Wiring Options

Cable Storage

• Most commercial electrified furniture includes hollow legs, hidden compartments and gaps or channels in the furniture's surface for storing and organizing cords. These may include electric cords for chargers and adapters or data cords to connect devices together or connect to the Internet. Users install or simply plug in their own device cords as needed. Clips and ties hold the wires in place, protecting them inside or behind the furniture and preventing the risk of trips and falls that exposed cords pose.

Floor Outlets and Extension Cords

• The easiest way to supply a piece of electrified furniture with power is to situate it close to a wall outlet. If this isn't an option, a floor outlet with a flip-up cover provides convenient access to electricity, which powers the table and, in turn, any connected devices. Extension cords are an option if there are no outlets close to the electrified furniture. If exposed extension cords cross a room or walkway, however, they can pose dangers. Cable covers keep extension cords in place and make the room safe. They also prevent accidents that cut off power to the furniture when a cord is pulled out. In addition, a piece of electrified furniture can tip over if a cord is pulled accidentally.

Surge Protectors

• Attaching a surge protector to a piece of conventional furniture is one way to imitate the function of some electrified tables and desks. Surge protectors that feature brackets allow you to mount them to a table leg or desk back with screws. This effectively allows you to plug the piece of furniture into a wall outlet and attach any number of electronic devices using the surge protector's multiple outlets. Some surge protectors also include powered USB ports for charging devices such as cell phones and tablet computers on the desk or table without the need for a conventional adapter.

Charging Stations

• Charging stations are another option for wiring a piece of existing furniture to electrify it. Charging stations include two different types of devices. Charging organizers, which resemble small boxes with multiple compartments, feature cable management systems for installing multiple device chargers and routing their power cords to a single source of electricity. Charging mats plug into a surge protector or wall outlet directly and charge compatible devices wirelessly. This wiring solution only works with specific devices, but it allows you to turn almost any piece of furniture or surface in your home into an electrified charging station.