OTHER TECH

GETTING WITH THE PROGRAM Even on the smallest installs, something usually requires programming. This can be as simple as a learning remote control or as complex as a house-wide controller that ties into HVAC, lighting, and security. Most programming requires a computer, and it isn't unusual for one of us to spend hours - or days - cycling between programming, downloading, and testing until everything is running properly.

Because every manufacturer has its own programming software, installers are forced to learn many different interfaces and control "languages," which makes the task of programming a whole system even more complex. And since this software is regularly updated, there are always new tricks to learn. That's often why installers stick with one brand. Another reason is that each brand often requires proprietary hardware, which frequently costs $500 or more.