Call us now:
What is an AV Integrator?
Building a house can be confusing, and the vague name of “AV integrator” doesn’t help.
An AV Integrator is tasked with the installation of audio and video equipment and often other home technology such as smart home technology. Integrators work closely with other trades to ensure technology is properly installed.
The Av industry is filled with complicated names, none of which really describe what we do. We want to do a deep dive into what exactly an integrator is, and why you probably need one.
Integrator of what?
Many trades go by the name of exactly what they do. For example:
- Plumbers – Work with plumbing
- Electricians – Work with electricity
- Framers – Frame houses
- Landscapers – Work with the land
Integrators do the same thing, they integrate.
In reality, the term integrator is a shorter form of “technology integrator”. That is a much more accurate depiction of what it is that we do. We integrate technology into your home/business and ultimately your life. Technology these days covers quite a vast range of products and processes.
Many people wonder who they should call when these technological wonders breaks, fails, or is just confusing. The answer is your local AV integrator.
There are so many aspects of technology and entertainment. Much of the time, people just don’t want to deal with technology so they end up installing a sub par experience.
The 4 Pillars of Home Technology
AV integrators are used to dealing with a wide range of technology. There are 4 categories of technology that integrators generally deal with:
- Entertainment
- Home Automation
- Security
- Communication
Each of these categories is important, but the really important part that integrators play is that they make them all work together. Home technology is complicated. Your integrator will attempt to simplify all of your tech while making it more accessible to you.
You can checkout a more in-depth look at our services here.
Let’s take a bit to dive into each one of these pillars of home technology and talk about what an integrator can do for each one.
Entertainment
The entertainment industry is constantly growing. That means people are always looking to improve the entertainment experience. With the emergence of video streaming services, that means improving the home entertainment experience. This is where an integrator steps in.
An integrator can do so many things for your media consumption.
- Better screens
- Fewer remotes
- Hanging TVs
- Integrated sound in every room
- Seamless cable management
- Awesome whole home sound
- Great outdoor speakers and video
- Devices controlled from your phone
A good integrator has a great entertainment experience at its core. That means they focus on this as their main source of revenue. Great integrators have a passion for great viewing experiences.
Home Automation
Automation is where the really cool toys come in. Some great examples of this are:
- Automatic and controllable lights
- Automatic shades
- Climate control
- Door locks
- Voice assistants
By themselves, each of these things are cool. Together, they are truly amazing. When these technological marvels are installed to work together they can accomplish amazing things. What I mean is smart home devices can work together to help you accomplish your daily tasks.
Things like presence sensing, light detection, and voice control make your life easier. The power at your fingertips to automate your life. There are so many ways that home automation can help you live.
I have learned the power of home automation, and I have to say it is so great. Firstly, it gives you the ability to do cool things. Secondly, it lets you skip meaningless tasks. Thirdly, it gives you more free time. Lastly, you eventually forget about it.
Every big business uses automation to save time. Why not apply that same principle in your life?
An AV integrator can help you set all of these things up and more.
Security
Security is so important. This world is dangerous, which can be remedied with an awesome security system. Here are some simple parts of a security system:
- Cameras
- Intrusion detection
- Fire Alarm
- Monitoring
- Access control
Each of these pieces are all part of the security puzzle. Some of these can be done yourself, but many of them are best installed by a pro. There are companies out there that only do security, but an integrator can make sure that your security system meshes well with the rest of your equipment.
One example is security cameras. A normal security company may install cameras, but they are only viewable from a computer or terminal in your basement. An integrator however can make your cameras send a live feed to any tv in the house.
Communication
Communication is a very broad topic, but really it comes down to networking.
The network is the backbone of everything that we do. Without a great network, almost nothing can work. Devices rely on the network to communicate, and therefore rely on the internet to enable their greatest features.
Some great examples that fall under the communication category:
- Networking
- Wifi access points
- Hard line cables
- Intercom systems
- Cell boosters
Each of these pieces make a great experience for your devices, and therefore you. Less dropped calls, less frustration, and faster load times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do it myself?
Many integrators will tell you that you cannot do it yourself. That is mostly false, you could take a lot of time to do research and put together products that might work together. You could find all the information on the internet, and eventually get there.
The truth is, integrators have access to more tool than you, and will ultimately provide a better product.
What does a low voltage company do?
A low-voltage company will run wire and set up devices that use a low voltage connection. This is typically associated with networking equipment. Internet devices, security cameras, speakers, etc.
Low voltage wire includes Category 6 cable (Cat6) and its variants, Speaker wire (14/16 gauge stranded copper wire), Alarm Wire (22 gauge wire), and Coaxial cable.
What are the benefits of working with an AV integrator?
Av integrators are going to be the best option if there is any more complexity to your home than just a basic wifi network.
Best possible Experience
Av integrators are going to discuss with you exactly what you want, and get it to you. Without one, you are going to have to figure out solutions on your own.
A Person to Call
Whenever you have multiple devices relying on each other, inevitably something is going to go wrong. When something does break, if you have an AV integrator you have somebody to call. If you do not, then you are on your own.
Industry Standards
There are some industry standards that would be missed if you try and do things yourself. Some builders will have their electrician run low voltage wire for you, but then the rest is on you. An integrator will help you plan for the future, and get you the best for your budget experience.
Optimize User Experience
AV integrators strive to simplify your interactions with technology. Instead of a dozen apps to control your smart home, you have one. Let’s face it, its going to take you a while to get things installed and working. An AV integrator can get things set up and working fast and well.
