What is the first step when routing drop cable within an interior wall from an attic?

Routing drop cable within an interior wall from an attic involves a systematic approach to ensure proper installation and functionality. The first step is to lower the fish chain into the wall fish hole. This step is critical because it allows for the establishment of a pathway through which the drop cable can be pulled down to the desired location.

Using a fish chain helps to navigate through the internal structure of the wall, allowing the installer to guide the cable more effectively. By lowering the fish chain first, the installer can ensure that there is a clear route for the cable to follow and can help to prevent potential snags or kinks that could occur if the drop cable were attempted to be fed directly through without first establishing a pathway.

After establishing the pathway with the fish chain, subsequent steps can follow, such as attaching the cable to the fish tape, drilling the necessary hole for the cable, and measuring the depth of the wall if needed. Each of these steps is important, but they come after the initial action of lowering the fish chain, making it a foundational step in the process.