What is required in double-gang boxes with 120-volt receptacles and TV outlets to isolate TV conductors from power wiring?

In the context of NEC guidelines, double-gang boxes that house both 120-volt receptacles and TV outlets must include a barrier to isolate the TV conductors from the power wiring. This requirement serves a crucial purpose: it minimizes the risk of interference and potential damage that can arise when power and low-voltage signal conductors are run in the same box without adequate separation.

The use of a barrier ensures that the electromagnetic fields generated by the high-voltage power lines do not affect the operation of the low-voltage TV signal conductors, thereby maintaining the integrity of the TV signal and reducing noise and distortion. This is particularly important because televisions and other electronic devices can be sensitive to electrical interference, thus a barrier serves as a physical separation that protects the functionality of these devices.

In contrast, while insulation sleeves, circuit breakers, and ground wires are important components in electrical installations, they do not specifically fulfill the requirement for separating TV conductors from power wiring in a double-gang box. Insulation sleeves provide electrical insulation but do not create a physical barrier. Circuit breakers are crucial for protection against overloads and short circuits but do not address signal interference. Ground wires are essential for safety but play no role in isolating different types of conductors