search.noResults

search.searching

dataCollection.invalidEmail
note.createNoteMessage

search.noResults

search.searching

orderForm.title

orderForm.productCode
orderForm.description
orderForm.quantity
orderForm.itemPrice
orderForm.price
orderForm.totalPrice
orderForm.deliveryDetails.billingAddress
orderForm.deliveryDetails.deliveryAddress
orderForm.noItems
INTERIORS - CONNECTED & INTELLIGENT HOMES 67


MAKING SMART HOMES FIT FOR THE FUTURE


Matt Nimmons of CEDIA EMEA discusses how to install smart home installations that can stand the test of time, and details the elements that need to be considered when designing a wider home integration project.


the country. T


Every project is different, and every homeowner has different priorities and needs. For example, while one person may want to install multi-room audio, another may want to create a compre- hensive AV system that integrates automated blind control, projection screens, multi-room audio, and integrated smart lighting to create an all- encompassing smart home. Each of these should be carefully considered and planned. The key benefit is that all integrated technology can be controlled from one interface, either through control panels situated throughout the home or via mobile devices, proving simplicity and ease of managing home automation. From finger-tip electronic control over


any aspect of the home, to pre- programmed settings that turn on your lights and unlock your doors when your car pulls into the drive, home automa- tion clearly represents the future of 21st century homes. One of the most important factors to


consider before starting any home integration project is to establish the level of technology you require for the property. The simplest way to do this is to look at a floor plan of the house and highlight the kind of technologies you’d like to install in each room. The best way to prepare any smart home installation project for the future is to ensure you have a wiring infrastructure in place that can deliver all current and new technol- ogy efficiently and reliably.


WWW.HBDONLINE.CO.UK


he integration of smart home technology is fast becoming the norm for households up and down


PLAN AHEAD Any smart home system needs to be expertly planned out beforehand. This will provide a clear idea of how rooms will work once furnished, so TVs and speakers can be positioned in the optimum locations and all power points and cables can be terminated, so as


not to be seen when the equipment is finally installed. A properly designed wired and wireless


infrastructure has the potential to deliver reliable content and services throughout the home for many years, but it is essential to work with a technology integrator, as they understand the requirements and can provide a solution that fits with your scheme and your expectations.


THINK CABLING FROM THE START The basis of any smart home project is the infrastructure – i.e., the cables. Not all properties require technology at an early stage, but it is crucial for the correct


wiring to be in place so that it is ready for the future. A phrase heard commonly among the home technology industry is “the most expensive cable you have to install is the one that did not get installed in the first place.” Cables cannot be easily retrofitted, nor


can space for the essential boxes driving a system be easily found, once the property has already been decorated. A wired infrastructure can set up the home for future applications, which can then be easily upgraded and expanded at a later point. Developers can enhance the value of their product by incorporating sufficient wiring that provides the basic infrastructure for a smart home. In a competitive situation a wired home with the potential for deep connectivity is likely to sell quicker than one without. It also allows developers to ‘upsell’ electronic products, systems and services to meet their customers’ requirements in an approach that can create extra revenue and bring about a more attrac- tive, clutter-free space. To achieve any degree of wireless technology implementation in the home, a certain level of cabling for power and communications for ‘wireless’ equipment will still be required.


TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATORS When working on a project, it is important to build a relationship with a technology integrator from the ‘get-go’. They will be the best informed and trained in the latest technologies, design, project management and installation techniques, and will understand that technology in the home is a significant investment. Working with a technology integrator is the best insurance you have that the final system will meet your expectations.


Matt Nimmons is managing director of CEDIA EMEA


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52  |  Page 53  |  Page 54  |  Page 55  |  Page 56  |  Page 57  |  Page 58  |  Page 59  |  Page 60  |  Page 61  |  Page 62  |  Page 63  |  Page 64  |  Page 65  |  Page 66  |  Page 67  |  Page 68  |  Page 69  |  Page 70  |  Page 71  |  Page 72  |  Page 73  |  Page 74  |  Page 75  |  Page 76