There is an ongoing conflict between computers and networks. As businesses and homes grow, the number of devices increase, along with the amount of data being transferred. Also, components like switches and Wi-Fi access points are added without regard to the technical capabilities of each device. Inexpensive data switches will cause the network to run at a slower speed when they are added. Wiring and connections also degrade over time, requiring a network be tested to uncover where the choke points are located.
Projector or LED Display in Commercial Environments?
There is a balance of features that determine whether a conventional video projector or an LED pixel display is the best choice for commercial and church environments. Projectors are dropping in price, making them the better option for rooms with well controlled ambient light. However, LED displays are bright enough that they will perform vibrantly in the brightest of rooms. With a ten year lifespan, the higher initial cost of an LED display is offset by not needing to replace lamps until hitting the 5 year useful life of a projector.
Another issue is the lack of mounting locations for projectors, especially in older churches. We can help you sort of the details to make the most advantageous decision between the choices available.
How do I know if I need home automation?
Go into any room in your home that has a TV. Is there more than one remote control on the coffee table? Can you fire up the whole system and start enjoying the experience with only one button press? If not, you are in danger of “tech overload”. It should not take “work” to enjoy your AV experience. Call us for a rescue!
Are all “App” controlled devices automated?
No. Automation is meant to grant total control of everything through one application or interface. Using a variety of different devices that all have their own app is the modern equivalent to a coffee table full or remote controls. Fortunately, almost all devices that have their own app or remote control can be unified into an automated system. Even devices that do not have any form of remote control can often be adapted into an automation system.
What is Home or Office Automation?
Very few people understand what automation means. It usually requires a conversation to uncover all of the ways that automating a task can improve a home’s “livability” or an office’s “efficiency”. For example, you can have a switch near the front door that turns of all of the lights in the building. This can be done with a simple “master switch”, but an automation system will perform the same function while not turning lights off where there are still occupants! It can also allow you to control from more locations, and even remotely with a smartphone or tablet. Note that this is not the same as having an “app” on a smartphone. Multiple apps on a smartphone is the same as multiple remote controls—automation combines and eliminates all of the confusion.
What is Futureproofing?
Every year new products come to market, and eager buyers snap them up without considering how they will integrate into their current technologies, or if they will become a stumbling block for future upgrading. For example, we recently completed the technology wiring in a home where the original integrator had been dismissed. When we arrived on site, drywall and painting was complete, and this brand new home had the correct network wiring installed, but no TV cable. The day the owners moved in, they had no way to connect their TV without special converter systems. It is a critical step to consider what the needs will be in a few years to ensure that the ability to upgrade is kept intact.