Category: Home Networking

Why Do I Need A Service Plan?

Why do I need a service plan? We’re asked this question a lot – and it’s a fair point. While it’s true that a well-designed and properly-installed smart home system should last 3-5 years, there’s no guarantee the occasional issue won’t pop up. Smart home technology can be a big investment, so you should make sure […]

Adding RGBTW Color to My Coastal Source Outdoor Lighting

I fell in love with outdoor lighting during the pandemic when Coastal Source sent me a truckload of gear to install around my yard. It took me a while to trench, dig, cut and cajole all the lights in place, but when I did, the end result was well worth the effort. My property stands out after […]

Wall-to-Wall Wifi for Home Automation

Have you ever had to struggle with faulty wifi?  We’ve all had that one room that always seems to have a spotty signal. Or maybe that one system that seems to go in and out of service. It can be frustrating to feel like your need to be tethered to a router to get a […]

Select The Right Technology For Your Renovation Project

When renovating your home, it can be overwhelming to choose the right technology to include in your updates. Here are some tips to help you pick the right technology for your home renovation project: 1. Identify your needs and goals Start by thinking about what you want to accomplish with the renovation. Are you looking […]

Integrating Siri Voice with the Control4 Halo Remote Control

The world of universal remote controls has been in a funk for the last few years. Only Savant has managed to produce a decent voice remote and Control4’s Neeo launch in 2019 felt rushed and incomplete. But when Snap One announced its Control4 Halo remote with Siri integration at last Fall’s CEDIA Expo, I couldn’t […]

Planning for Technology During a Home Renovation

When planning for technology during a home renovation project, it’s important to first identify your needs and consider the technology you currently use and what you would like to have in your new space. This may include things like home automation systems, home theater systems, and smart appliances. Identify Your Needs Once you have identified […]

Control4 vs. Savant: A Home Automation Showdown

Smart homes are becoming increasingly popular, and with so many options out there, it can be difficult to decide which home automation system is best for you. Two of the most popular systems are Control4 and Savant. Both of these systems have a lot to offer, but it’s important to understand the differences between them […]

Product Review: IOGEAR 4K Video Extender/Splitter

I’ve been frustrated and occasionally delighted (but mostly frustrated) by the little black boxes we use in the custom installation channel to send out HD video from a stack of gear in the main AV rack across the room (or house) to its intended destination while praying that the signal makes the journey in one […]

Common Amazon Alexa Problems & How To Solve Them

Those of us with smart home equipment can attest to the many glories of web-connected hardware. One of the most popular Internet-of-Things (IoT) families is Amazon’s Echo lineup. Comprising smart speakers, displays, and a host of other equipment, these products can act as smart hubs for the rest of your home’s IoT gear. But like […]