FAQs

The residential electronic systems industry is rapidly growing, with more and more homeowners realizing the benefits of home theaters, whole-house lighting control and audio, media rooms, and whole-house subsystems that control security and HVAC systems. As the industry grows, so do the homeowners search for answers to some frequently asked questions.

Below, we have listed some of the most frequently asked questions and answers about the residential electronic systems industry.

1. What is Home Integration?
The meaning of this term can vary depending on who is using it. Other related terms include home networking, home automation, residential electronic systems, and smart homes.

When Custom Installers talk about integration, they are referring to the ability to integrate television/home theater, lighting control, multi-room audio, HVAC, security, appliances, and other systems through a centrally-controlled network. These systems are custom-designed to allow the homeowner the convenient, time-saving, and cost-saving benefits of controlling electronics through a central control, or even remotely.

Many think of home networking as simply connecting PCs. While this is a growing segment, it’s only the tip of the iceberg in terms of what can be connected in a home. Our Custom Install Dealers are on the cutting edge of connecting electronics systems for consumers. And more consumers are demanding the benefits of connectivity, convenience, safety, and lifestyle enhancement.

2. How big is the Home Integration market?
Since there is no universal definition of home integration, it’s difficult to measure the size of the market. However, the number of homeowners who have embraced home connectivity has grown tremendously in the past decade as newer and less expensive technologies have been developed and consumer awareness has grown. More homeowners are beginning to understand the value of these systems in providing security, comfort, and cost savings to their families.

3. What are the Benefits of Home Integration?
According to CEDIA Members and industry research, those who have integrated homes or are interested in integrating technology into their home view these systems as a way to save time and spend more quality time with their families. Most customers invest in home electronic systems for the benefits, not for the sake of owning technology.

4. Will an Integrated Home become out of date quickly,
How can I make sure I stay up to date?
iLED’s Custom Install Dealers are on the cutting-edge of technology and develop systems that are practical and pragmatic for today’s homeowners and can take advantage of new innovations as they come to market. Our Dealers stay at the forefront of industry trends and up-and-coming technology through continuing education and professional development as well as networking with leading manufacturers at industry events. This up-to-date knowledge allows them to deliver technology that will not only merge seamlessly with the client’s existing lifestyle but will also provide convenience, security, and entertainment for years to come.

5. Can Home Owners install their own systems ?
Many mass-market retailers provide do-it-yourself home networking kits or theater-in-a-box products. While consumers can often install these products, iLED Dealers provide significant value to homeowners interested in a networked solution.

iLED Professionals’ have a deep product knowledge that allows them to select the best audiovisual components to suit a client’s home design and usage patterns. They have the skill to optimise room acoustics and seating and calibrate video settings beyond the capabilities of the casual hobbyist.They can work with the homeowner to develop a plan - much like an architect draws out a house plan - to ensure the best integrated home experience.

Residential electronic systems designed by our dealers are a sound investment in the value of a client’s home. These systems are developed to handle a customer’s needs today, as well as expand to meet the needs of tomorrow.

6. What are some of the things Home Owners should keep in mind when they build?
Home Owners should work with an architect, builder, or interior designer who sees the benefit in consulting a Custom Install Professional. The beginning stage of the design/build process is the optimal time to think about wiring a home for connectivity and designing your space to account for your future home integration needs.

7 Reasons Electricians are not the same as Electronic Systems Technicians The residential electronic systems industry requires well-trained and knowledgeable electronic systems technicians who can install both wireless and wired applications and can integrate these systems to work through a single control device. Electronic systems technicians have specialized skills including computer programming, systems interfacing, acoustical expertise, and video calibration.