The late Steve Jobs was a visionary well beyond his years and our expectations. His products have forever changed how we interact with the world. We can use iPhones to remotely start vehicles, find the best restaurants and even perform banking transactions – all with the tip of our fingers. Savant is the developer of the world's only Apple-based home control, automation and media system native to the iPad, iPod Touch and iPhone. Before … [Read more...]
It seems that HDTV manufacturers are continuing to release larger panels that eclipse the previous generation by several inches whether it's plasma, LED, or LCD. These new HDTVs are also becoming slimmer in profile which results in a smaller footprint in your entertainment unit despite the increase in screen size. This is fine and dandy if you want a wall mounted or free standing panel but if you truly desire a home theatre in its purest form, … [Read more...]
There are many types of motion sensors on the market today. Over the years, motion sensors have evolved enough to be able to protect any type of situation. These devices have pulse counters, dual sensors, harsh environment settings, curtain motions, long range, short range and ceiling detectors to name a few; there are sensors for every application out there. Large and small corporations make use of these technologies; they realize that, when … [Read more...]
While not a new technology, Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) TVs are poised to become the next big thing in home entertainment. The exciting aspect of today’s OLED products is the considerable reduction in price point. A year ago a 1-inch OLED TV had a price tag of $2600! Now you can expect to purchase a 55" OLED for around $5500 when they finally hit the market later this year. Believe it or not, companies that currently don't produce … [Read more...]
It costs money to have a good alarm technician, with a truck and tools to come to your house to install an alarm system. And the alarm company has to buy its parts from a supplier and make a profit when it sells the parts to you. Here are some rules to remember when purchasing a security system. Always get at least three quotes. If you have a friend who has an alarm system, ask them about it. Would they recommend their company? Why or … [Read more...]
Firstly, let me start by saying that 3D TVs are not a passing fad, but the evolution of the home viewing experience. In a couple of short years, the technology is already improving and a number of big name players are already in their second and third generation of products. Prices will drop with continued competition while quality will improve. Now, for those of you who must have it now, there are a few things that you be should looking out … [Read more...]
Wireless key fobs have been available for a quite a few years to unlock or start your car as well as open your garage door remotely. You can also have these devices added to your home security system so you can turn your alarm system on and off remotely. You can use this type of device as a panic alarm if you have a retail business like a jewelry store and have all your employees wear it around their neck or have it anywhere in the store. A … [Read more...]
You’ve decided that you want to create a movie theatre experience in your own home. You have purchased your big screen HD TV and whatever media players that you want to accompany it. The only things left are the smell of popcorn and a sticky floor, right? What about the sound? For a home theatre aficionado (or up and comer), surround sound is a key element in the “just like being there” experience. Instead of hooking up a bunch of … [Read more...]
The majority of alarm systems use the telephone network. The alarm company installs a device that uses the telephone line to communicate with the central monitoring center when an alarm goes off. No one can stop the alarm signal from communicating; no one can use the telephone. Today’s criminals are tech-savvy and know that cutting the telephone line before they enter the house prevents the alarm signal from being sent to the central … [Read more...]
“Let’s see now...Cable line goes to the TV...there! I did it!” ...and then came the VCR...and the cable descrambling box...and the DVD...and the stereo integration...and the gaming system...and the Blu-Ray...and the headache! Before we go into a basic explanation of some of your audio video cable options, it is strongly recommended that you consult a professional installer before you make your purchase to ensure that your current and … [Read more...]