What Is Softwiring?

What Is Softwiring?

Softwiring is a modular cable management system used in commercial office fitouts. It handles power and data connections at the workstation level without the permanent infrastructure of traditional hard-wiring.

How It Works

The system connects to the building's fixed electrical infrastructure at a floor box or ceiling outlet, then routes power and data through a series of pre-terminated cables and connectors to the workstation. Each connection uses a standardised plug-and-socket interface — no electrician needed for moves, adds or changes.

Components of a Softwiring System

A complete softwiring installation typically includes:

• Floor box — Fixed outlet point in the floor that connects to building services
• Umbilical — Cable from the floor box up to the desk
• Power rail — Mounted under or on top of the desk, distributes power to devices
• In-desk modules — USB chargers, GPOs and data ports built into the desk surface
• Cable management — Wire baskets, clips and cable tails to keep everything tidy

Australian Standard: AS/NZS 61535.1

The CMS Electracom range is certified to AS/NZS 61535.1 — the Australian standard for modular wiring systems. This certification covers the connector systems, cable ratings, and installation requirements for commercial softwiring in Australian buildings.

When Does Softwiring Make Sense?

Softwiring is most commonly used in:

• Commercial office fitouts with open plan layouts
• Tenant improvements where electrical infrastructure is fixed
• Hot-desking environments where workstations move regularly
• Projects requiring faster installation than traditional hard-wiring
• Relocatable partition (RP) systems where power needs to move with the walls

Softwiring vs Hard-Wiring

Hard-wiring is permanent. Softwiring is not. If you need flexibility, faster installation, or a system that moves with your furniture, softwiring is the answer. If you need a fixed, permanent installation with no future changes required, hard-wiring may be more appropriate.

Shop the Range

Browse the complete CMS Electracom softwiring range: power rails, floor boxes, umbilicals, in-desk modules, GPOs and cable management. All products AS/NZS 61535.1 certified. Ships from Newcastle, NSW.