Audio, Video and Control System Solutions
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Frequently Asked Questions
I'm building a new house, and am interested in "future-proofing" it. Where do I start?
The basic concept of 'future-proofing' is that of having various cables run from a central location (a head-end) to any location where a connection of some type might be desired. This could include a computer connection, TV location, lighting control, HVAC control, security interface, closed-circuit TV cameras and so on. Multiple connection points within a single room are not uncommon. And because all of the cables are home runs (all cables are individual runs) back to the central point / head-end, making changes as to which connection point is going to be used is a snap.
Wiring the house for a central (or 'multi-zone') audio and video distribution system would also fall into this category. This could include everything up to speakers in every room and wall-mounted or wireless touch panels that allow complete control and monitoring of all of the subsystems installed.
For further information, contact us. We'll be glad to help.
My friend has a computer network in his house. What are the benefits?
Small, family type networks are great for file-sharing, performing back-ups to a different computer / drive, sharing a high-speed internet connection, sharing things like printers and so forth. Hard-wired connections usually include CAT5 cable (or better) run from a central location to all computer locations. A router, hub or switch of some type is installed at the central location, as is the broadband hardware.
Wireless options are also available for areas where running cables isn't practical.
My cable company offers high-definition channels. Can I get them on my TV?
That totally depends on the type of TV / monitor hardware you have and the cable box being used. You'll need to check the specifications on both.
If you are having problems, contact us and we can set up a visit.
I have about a dozen remote controls on my coffee table and I always pick up the wrong one. What can I do to make things easier?
There are various options available to get rid of remote-control clutter. There are basic learning remotes where you enter a code to make the buttons control your equipment with preset commands, repeating the process for all components. The next step is a similar remote that not only stores the commands by a code number, but which also allow you to create 'Macros' - a single button press that sends multiple commands.
There are also remotes with both hard buttons and touch sensitive windows that allow graphics to be used as buttons to control the equipment. These usually require programming to suit the system.
At the high end, there are systems which use color touch screen panels and a processor to control the equipment (and other items, such as lighting, HVAC, etc.). This type of system is more costly and requires programming but has all the advantages of being custom-designed just for you.
I've been thinking of adding a Home Theater to my house - where's the best place for it?
There are several factors to think of - how will the new space work with your family's habits, will the sound from the room disturb others, are you able to darken the room enough to comfortably view the source, etc.
Every situation will be different depending on the house design and current family habits. Please contact us and we will arrange a visit. While there we can go over the good and bad points for the areas in your home and make suggestions based on the information available.
I have a lot of MP3's that I made from my CDs. I use them on my computer, but is there a way to use them with my music system?
We have several solutions that might work for you. They vary in both cost and performance, but are a great solution overall.
Using some type of music server allows quick access to the artist or albums you like using playlists that can be can set up for different moods. With the higher-end models, and interfaced with a control system, you can fully manage your music collection and have on-screen information for added convenience.
New interfaces even allow you to control and play your iPod throughout your home.
