technology
HOLIDAY TECHNOLOGY TEXT BY SCOTT FUELLING, PRESIDENT, PHOENIX UNEQUALED HOME ENTERTAINMENT
The holiday season is upon us and many of us are in search of the perfect gift for that special someone to let them know we care. Some of us are preparing for the entertainment events that are always part of holiday celebrations. But mostly, we are all trying to get caught up so we can spend time with family and close friends, the most important part of this festive season. There are many technology-related gift options available in a wide range of price points; it would be a disservice for me to try and fill you in on only a few of them. I can, however, provide a bit of advice that might assist with shopping for the tech lover on your holiday list. Personal electronics are the hot items for the season. With all of the recent smartphone releases, there are plenty of accessories available that offer many benefits. Tablet computing has exploded, so there are plenty of options for consideration as well. Music and movie gifts are always thoughtful and appreciated, especially if you know specific tastes and tailor selections accordingly. When considering giving a tech-related gift do some research. Find out what the recipient enjoys, uses or needs, and follow that down the Internet rabbit hole until you’re happy with your selection. An
infinite number of websites, blogs, etc. will show up when you start the infamous “Google” search for a specific topic. The more reputable sites will offer genuine advice and product reviews. We have many clients with completely automated homes. This basically means the house has audio/video, lighting, heating/cooling systems, security, pool/hot tub control and, in some cases, specialty items designed to meet specific needs, which have been tied together to allow ease of use and one-touch operation. During the course of the year, these homeowners can program lighting scenes, entertainment events, security functions and more to meet their specific desires, offering the easiest of interfaces while providing maximum benefits. These systems even automatically compensate for seasonal time changes to ensure anything set for dusk or dawn operation works effectively year round. When we meet with our clients whose homes are fully automated, we discuss specific needs and then program specialty events for the season that can include entertainment and parties, fireplace control, outdoor holiday lighting, specialized music playlists and even the Christmas tree. Through a combination
56 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • December 2014
of timers, calendar scheduling and onebutton programming, we are able to automate even the most complex of events with ease. Imagine setting up a home’s atmosphere for a big party by pressing a single button, with everything responding to meet your needs. Even better, the same button press will return everything back to normal. Very convenient… We have also assisted clients with needs for religious purposes such as the Sabbath, when interaction with technology is frowned upon. The clients who request this function appreciate that the systems in their home automatically operate through a predetermined series of events that meet even the staunchest criteria. My overall point is, no matter what your technology desires, we live in a very exciting time. There are multiple products to meet your needs readily and reliably. So whether you’re searching for a gift for someone else or you are looking to make your own life a bit easier by automating your home, you can bet a solution exists. Please enjoy this wonderful season with all those you love. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and a very Happy New Year to all! Till 2015…