Tech To Make Guests Feel At Home, Part Two

In my last column, I discussed the generational improvements my custom installation company has witnessed since we started installing whole-house distributed audio systems back in 1995. Of course, almost everything has gotten better—and cheaper—over time, but one thing often overlooked in modern installations is operational simplicity for the guests who visit your home.

- John Sciacca

Many new systems require that visitors log in to your network, or even download an app, to use Wi-Fi or do something as simple as play music. In the first part of this column, I offered suggestions for: setting up a simple-to-access guest Wi-Fi network; using volume controls in guest areas; installing Bluetooth or Smart Speakers for easy streaming; and providing a dedicated automation controller from companies like Control4 or Crestron. Those topics all mainly dealt with audio, so this time around I’m going to offer suggestions to make the video side of your system guest-friendly as well!

BEDROOM BASICS