 |
|
|
| |
 |
|
| |
|
|
| |
 |
|
| Of the many digital technologies designed for the modern home, it is perhaps home networking that stands to make the greatest impact on lifestyles. Whole-house entertainment and flexible home offices promise to enrich home life by introducing an element of freedom and ease of access to entertainment media, Internet, and computers that never existed before. Many so-called home networking options have been introduced, but most fall short of true networking. The most important question becomes how to evaluate and select a network solution that will serve your needs both now and in the future. |
| |
 |
| A True Network has [click one]: |
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
 |
| Simply put, all of your personal and work-related content should be accessible on demand. |
| You should be able to watch and listen to whatever you want, whenever you want – throughout the house – with totally seamless and unencumbered access. Any content stored on a device or available through a subscriber service (such as cable or satellite TV) should be accessible from anywhere. Personal computers should also be an integral part of your network, allowing you to communicate and access files with the same ease with which you access entertainment. There should be no restrictions in accessing anything stored as a file, or anything that can be experienced “live.” |
| |
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
| |
 |
 |
|
Want to cook alongside your favorite TV chef? tecStream can make it happen. Details |
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
| There certainly is a place for wireless connections, but wireless should not be used as the core networking technology. |
It was simply not designed for secure communications or capacity (i.e., bandwidth) for uninterrupted video streaming. Wireless communication is prone to interference from microwaves and other electronic devices, as well as from the materials used in constructing floors and walls. These are called “dead spots.” Conversely, “Category wire,” such as Cat5, Cat 5e, Cat6, and others to come, supports the streaming of large live action and stored video files and images. It also works for integrating telephone, data, and even power over a single wire. And it provides ample room for all to operate simultaneously. Wireless access points connect to Category wire, but wireless should not serve as the network itself. There are no compromises with Category wire, which has become the standard type of wiring used for new home construction and for retrofitting preexisting homes.
Just as wireless networks are limited in bandwidth and security, IP-based networks, such as Ethernet, or devices that operate over IP-based networks, are limited in their ability to stream video perfectly. They are also prone to virus attacks, and in certain cases, congestion from high traffic and/or from transferring large files. A true home network incorporates Ethernet. But Ethernet should not be the network backbone. |
| |
|
|
|
 |
| A true network is a purpose-built network. |
| It’s the infrastructure that allows devices to connect and services to be accessed. Some devices, such as Media Center PCs and TiVo units, try to play the role of a network. But they’re really intended for recording, storing, and transferring files point to point or between devices, and do so over IP-based networks, which cannot provide the same level of service and security. Moreover, a true network provides multiple inputs and the ability to view DVDs, VCRs, and live streaming video. A true network incorporates a Media Center PC or TiVo so that you can get the most out of their intended recording and storing capability throughout the house – without compromise. |
| |
|
|
|
 |
| Often claimed but rarely achieved, the best home networking technology offers ease of use and installation. |
It shouldn’t require any configuration or addressing of devices. It should be intelligent and immediately recognize whatever is connected to it. It should operate the way you think and speak, meaning that activating all functions is done through commands that are logically labeled and organized. It should not require any training. Access to all files, devices, and subscriber programming is made available through one consistent and familiar interface. Using all of your TV screens is the best way to run your network.
Simplicity also means having custom capabilities without the cost of custom programming or the after-installation support that often goes with making custom systems work. The best home network is one that you can simply plug in and enjoy immediately. |
| |
|
|
|
 |
| Today’s networking solution should also be tomorrow’s. |
| Select a home network that connects everything and leverages every past consumer electronics investment that you have made. Buy one that connects analog and digital devices, and that allows you to incorporate more digital devices over time as well as high definition devices as they become more readily available. A true network is forward-thinking in its design and in how it has anticipated your needs and lifestyles may change long-term. Make it digital – one that also works with what you have now. |
|
| We should know. We’re UStec. Pioneers and innovators of home networking technology. |
| |
| Back to top |
| |
 |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
 |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
