nextgen-multi-media

Difference Between Sonos And Heos

Fri, 30 Dec 2022 22:53:48 GMT

Whats The Difference Between Sonos and Heos?

How can you control Sonos and Heos:

Sonos and HEOS are both wireless home audio systems that allow you to play music throughout your home using multiple speakers. Both systems use Wi-Fi to connect to the internet and stream music, and they offer apps that allow you to control the music and speakers from your phone or tablet. However, there are a few key differences between Sonos and HEOS that you should consider when deciding which one is right for you.

One of the main differences between Sonos and HEOS is the number of available products. Sonos has a much wider range of products, including traditional speakers, soundbars, and even a portable Bluetooth speaker. In contrast, HEOS only offers traditional speakers and soundbars. This means that if you're looking for a portable speaker or a specific type of audio device, Sonos may be the better choice.

Another key difference is the level of integration with other smart home devices and platforms. Sonos has a strong ecosystem of integrations with other smart home devices and platforms, such as Amazon Echo, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. This means that you can use voice commands to control your Sonos system, and it can be easily integrated into your existing smart home setup. HEOS also offers some integration with Amazon Echo and Google Home, but it is not as comprehensive as Sonos.

Sonos Vs Heos Audio Quality:

In terms of audio quality, both Sonos and HEOS offer high-quality sound. However, Sonos is generally considered to have slightly better sound quality overall, with a more robust bass and a wider soundstage. That being said, the difference in sound quality is subtle and may not be noticeable to everyone.

Another key difference between Sonos and HEOS is the price. Sonos products tend to be more expensive than HEOS products, with some of the more premium Sonos products costing significantly more. This is something to consider if you're on a tight budget or if you're looking to save money.

One of the main advantages of Sonos is the wide range of music streaming services that it supports. In addition to popular services like Spotify, Pandora, and Apple Music, Sonos also supports a large number of niche and regional music services. This gives you a lot of flexibility in terms of the music you can listen to, and it's a big advantage for music enthusiasts. HEOS also supports a wide range of music services, but it's not quite as comprehensive as Sonos.

One thing to consider when choosing between Sonos and HEOS is the type of music streaming service you use. If you use a service that is not supported by either system, you will not be able to stream music from that service through your home audio system. This is something to keep in mind when deciding which system to go with.

In terms of setup and installation, both Sonos and HEOS are relatively easy to use. Both systems offer smartphone apps that make it easy to set up and control your home audio system. However, some users have reported that the HEOS app can be somewhat confusing and difficult to navigate, while the Sonos app is generally considered to be more user-friendly.

Sonos Vs Heos Conclusion:

Overall, Sonos and HEOS are both great options for a wireless home audio system. Both systems offer high-quality sound and a wide range of music streaming services. However, there are a few key differences between the two that you should consider before making a decision. If you're looking for a wide range of products and strong integration with other smart home devices and platforms, Sonos may be the better choice. If you're on a tight budget or you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, HEOS may be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal preferences and needs.

What is the difference between eero and Google mesh networks?

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 17:17:25 GMT

What is the difference between eero and Google mesh networks?

If you're in the market for a new Wi-Fi router and access points, you may be wondering if an Eero or Google Mesh router is right for you. Both routers have their pros and cons, and it can be difficult to decide which one is best for your needs. In this blog post, we will compare the two routers and help you decide which one is right for you.

When considering which router to purchase, it’s important to look at the features and performance of each. Eero Wi-Fi systems come with a variety of features designed to make your network as fast and secure as possible. They offer dual-band 802.11ac connections that are capable of up to 3Gbps speeds, and their mesh networks provide coverage for up to 5,000 square feet. Eero also offers seamless roaming between access points, allowing you to move around your home without losing signal strength. Additionally, they offer robust security features such as password-protected guest networks and parental control settings.

Google Mesh routers are designed with simplicity in mind. They use 802.11ac Wi-Fi technology for speeds up to 2.2Gbps, and their mesh networks cover up to 4,500 square feet. Unlike Eero’s system, Google Mesh doesn’t offer seamless roaming between access points. However, it does have an intelligent QoS (Quality of Service) feature that prioritizes traffic based on importance, ensuring that important tasks such as streaming and gaming have the best possible connection. Google Mesh also offers simple-to-use parental controls and password protection for guests.

When comparing Eero vs. Google Mesh routers in terms of performance, both offer excellent speeds and coverage for their respective networks. However, if you need more robust features such as seamless roaming, Eero is the better choice. If you’re looking for a more basic router with less-complicated features, then Google Mesh may be the right option for you. Regardless of which router you choose, both will provide excellent performance and coverage.

Ultimately, choosing between Eero vs. Google Mesh routers comes down to your personal needs and preferences. Both offer excellent features and performance, so you can’t go wrong with either one. Consider your budget, the size of your home, and the types of activities you plan to do online when making your decision. With this information in mind, you should be able to find the router that best suits your needs. Good luck!

What Factors Determine How Long the Home Automation Process Takes?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 15:00:08 GMT

How long will it take to install a home automation system? An hour, a day, a week, so many factors influence the length of time it takes to install home automation, there's no easy answer to that question. We can, however, give you a pretty accurate estimate after working with you to examine some of the many considerations that go into planning a home automation solution. Here are some of the most critical:

How Much Is Being Installed?

As you might expect, this probably has the greatest effect on overall time involved. Are we adding a mesh network to expand your Wi-Fi coverage or installing whole-house audio? A smart thermostat and some smart lighting, or full-on home automation including automated shades, smart locks, multiple smart device connections, and an expanded network of Wireless Access Points?

What Is Already in Place?

Existing wiring, data cabling, devices that will need to be integrated, and many other existing elements can affect the length and complexity of an installation.

Complexity

Installing just a few home automation elements can be a complex project if new wiring or other more time-consuming tasks are required, just as a much more elaborate system can take a short time if much of the infrastructure, such as networking, is already in place.

Installation Time With Nextgen Multi Media

This isn't our first rodeo, so we can give you a fairly accurate estimate of installation time after we talk about your preferences and your existing setup. We know your time is valuable and strive to offer efficient installation and minimize disruption. Rest assured, regardless of the complexity of your home automation installation, we don't consider it complete until you're satisfied and comfortable using it.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we offer top-tier home automation and networking for every home or business, and every budget, from small enhancements to luxurious, full-home or business environments. Contact us today to learn more about the range of solutions our expert team can provide.

Your Cleaning Guide to Interior Shades

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 15:00:08 GMT

Cleaning motorized interior shades doesn't have to be a chore. Add a few easy steps to your weekly cleaning checklist, and they'll look great and work well for years to come.

Basic Cleaning for Interior Shades

The main culprit you'll need to take care of is dust, which naturally accumulates no matter how spotlessly you keep your home. You probably already know this, but for the sake of completeness, we will remind everyone to not use water or sprays to clean interior shades — they aren't designed for it. So what should you do? Here are some basic steps for keeping your interior shades in tip-top shape.

Use Your Vacuum's Brush Attachment

The easiest way to clean most shades is by very gently vacuuming them with the brush attachment on. Try not to press on the shade itself, just brushing lightly across the surface. Longer brush wands can help with areas that are harder to reach.

Use a Lambswool Duster

Because they contain a little bit of lanolin, genuine lambswool dusters are great at collecting even the tiniest bits of dust with only a very light touch. Synthetic lambswool dusters are nearly as effective, too. Again, the gentlest pressure is best here.

Use a Dry Cleaning Sponge

If you need a little more power, for example with clingy pet hair, a special dry sponge can help. These sponges don't require any water, just rub gently over shades for a quick, easy cleaning. It's a good idea to support your shades from behind while cleaning, when possible, to avoid crumpling or damaging them

Call the Pros

Some shades are too hard to reach, or you may just want to have an annual deeper cleaning. If you're unsure about cleaning any shades yourself, professional cleaners can help.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we want to make your life easier with motorized interior shades. Contact us today to learn more about these and our other home networking and automation solutions.

6 Signs You Need to Replace Your Exterior Motorized Shades

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 15:00:07 GMT

As with any home improvement, there comes a time when you need to repair, replace, or upgrade it, and motorized exterior shades are no exception. In many cases, a repair can be made for a broken motor or cable, but those smaller issues are often symptoms of additional problems to come. Here are some signs it's time to replace your shades.

1. Tears or Other Mesh Damage

While it should be fairly obvious, tears or other substantial damage to the shade's mesh panel indicate it's time to replace it. A few tiny holes might not be problematic, but larger holes can indicate weak spots prone to sudden failure.

2. Fading or Discoloration

Although newer materials are designed to withstand prolonged sun exposure without fading or discoloration, some older or lower quality shades may not be as durable. Fading can also be an indication of mesh that is weakening or becoming more brittle, so shades should be examined. Worn looking shades may also detract from the look of your home and patio.

3. Bent or Broken Frames

Whether an accident, storm damage or other issues caused a bent or broken shade frame, repairs can be challenging at best. Depending on the type, quality, and age of your shades, it can be nearly impossible to match materials and colors, and replacement is generally your best shot.

4. Other Home Upgrades

If you're putting in new windows, changing your house color, or redoing the patio, your old exterior shades will probably look shabby and detract from all of your efforts. Replace them as part of the project for a fresh, clean look.

5. Smart Home Integration

While we can integrate most types of exterior motorized shades with other home automation systems, some of them can't work as smoothly with other smart home systems. Replacing those outdated shades can open up a new world of functionality and convenience.

6. You Don't Like Them

Whether it's their look, how much shade they make, or clunky controls, if you don't like the exterior shades you have, why suffer with them?

At Nextgen Multi Media, we can make replacing or upgrading your exterior motorized shades a smooth, simple process. Contact us today to learn more about all of our home automation and networking solutions.

What Rooms in Your Home Would Benefit the Most From Interior Shades?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 15:00:05 GMT

Motorized, interior shades provide benefits, from comfort and convenience to security and privacy, no matter where in your home you choose to install them. While they can improve any room, you can take the most advantage of what they have to offer in these five areas.

What Are Motorized Interior Shades?

Motorized shades offer all the benefits of traditional shades, but with much more convenience and flexibility. They can be controlled by a remote, virtual assistant, or phone, and integrated with your home automation, meaning you can control any of your shades from your couch, the backyard, or while away on vacation. They are available in countless colors and styles to complement any decor.

Living Room & Family Room

Our living rooms and family rooms are where we spend much of our time at home, whether it's curling up with a good book, family movie night, or just a regular night at home together. No need to interrupt your fun to go pull the shades down at dusk, motorized shades can protect your privacy automatically as it gets dark out.

Bedrooms

Your bedroom is a sanctuary in your home, and interior shades can add privacy and room darkening. They can adjust on a timed schedule, or you can tell your virtual assistant to close the shades before you head to bed, so your bedroom feels comfortable and secure when you go in at night.

Rooms Facing Busy Streets

Whether you want to block out glaring headlights at night or prying eyes of neighbors and passers-by, motorized interior shades make it simple.

Rooms with Direct Sun

Besides heating up your home, making your cooling system work harder, the sun's direct rays can be annoying, and can fade and damage flooring, furniture, and anything else those UV rays touch. Interior shades can automatically close when triggered by direct sunlight, helping to keep your home looking great.

If you're considering interior shades, contact our expert team at Nextgen Multi Media. Motorized shades are just one of our home automation and networking solutions to improve your life.

How Long Do Wireless Access Points Last?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 15:00:04 GMT

When something works really well, most of us tend to simply forget about it, with plenty of other things to occupy our attention. A good Wi-Fi network is just like that - reliable and fast, and taken for granted until an issue arises. Most of the time, any problems are the result of interruptions in the incoming signal from your internet service provider. Sometimes, however, the time may have come to replace outdated or failing equipment.

Lifespan of Wireless Access Points

Most electronic devices are designed for long, productive use, but they are also built with the knowledge that technological innovations and advancements will render them less desirable or even obsolete. You'll want to replace some of your network components whenever you upgrade your system and require faster, more robust, more secure, or more versatile equipment. As with all devices, you'll also need to replace equipment when it approaches the end of its functional lifespan, or when security updates are no longer available, leaving your network vulnerable.

You'll be happy to know that, in general, data cabling is good for at least 25 years, and longer in most cases. Your routers and Wireless Access Points (WAPs), however, have a shorter lifespan. On average, a good quality WAP should last from three to five years, meaning you'll be ready for an upgrade before it requires replacement.

Maintaining Wireless Access Points

You can help to ensure the longest possible lifespan for your WAPs with a little minimum care that is probably already part of your housekeeping routine. Prevent dust, pet fur, and other debris from building up on a WAP which can limit air flow and cause it to run at higher temperatures. Heat is one of the most common causes of network equipment failure.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we want to provide you with the fastest, most reliable network possible, using high-quality equipment from top-rated brands. Contact us today to take advantage of our networking and automation solutions.

Do Blackout Shades Reduce Noise?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 15:00:05 GMT

Any barrier between you and the outside world will reduce incoming noise, and noise absorbing elements can help, too. How much noise is blocked depends primarily on the material blocking it. Walls, especially thick, well-insulated walls do a great job, as do soft materials such as fabrics, carpets, and upholstery which can help to absorb what does come through. Windows are less effective as sound barriers, though you may have noticed a difference if you've upgraded your windows. Even the best windows tend to be poor noise barriers.

Window Coverings as Noise Reducers

Whether it's lawnmowers and leaf blowers, loud neighbors, or traffic, noise that intrudes into your home can be a daytime annoyance and a nightmare if you're trying to sleep. Any window coverings can help to reduce outside noise from invading your space. As you'd expect, thicker, softer coverings are better at both blocking noise and absorbing the echoes and reverberations it can produce once it makes it way in.

Blackout Shades as Noise Reducers

The thicker, more opaque materials that make effective blackout shades are also better at sound blocking than their thinner, more sheer counterparts. Many blackout shades are made by adding layers of foam to the back of fabric to create a fully opaque, but still flexible fabric which retains the attractive look you've chosen. These extra layers result in improved noise reduction versus simple room-darkening shades. Better quality blackout shades are designed to fit in recessed tracks in your window openings, dramatically limiting spaces where light can filter through, and in doing so, blocking more noise than other shade styles.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we think a home that provides the lighting, temperature, and environment that keeps you comfortable is the best kind to have. Our motorized shades and home automation and networking solutions can help you achieve the comfort and convenience you deserve. Contact us today to learn more.

How to Keep Your Exterior Motorized Shades Safe During a Storm

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 15:00:05 GMT

Dallas and the surrounding area is one of the windiest metro areas in the country, and if you've been in Texas long at all, you know how quickly weather can change and heavy rain, wind, and hail can blow in out of seemingly clear skies. While you surely take regular precautions to prevent damage to your home, you may wonder what you should do to protect your exterior motorized shades from damage when stormy weather arrives.

What Are Exterior Motorized Shades

Mounted on the exterior of your home, or in outdoor spaces such as patios, porches, and pergolas, exterior motorized shades can be automatically adjusted via a remote, your smartphone, or as part of a broader home automation system. They can block up to 80% of inbound solar heat, keeping your home comfortable, and saving you plenty of money in cooling bills.

Tips to Keep Exterior Motorized Shades Safe During Storms

It's a good idea to check your outdoor shades throughout the year to ensure they're in good shape and fix any minor issues before they become real problems. Check that motors run smoothly, tracks and cables are clear of debris, shade material is intact, fits tightly, nothing is loose, and everything works properly. Exterior shades are designed to withstand the weather, but they can be damaged by more severe conditions.

Heavy Rain

Downpours shouldn't have any effect on your outdoor shades, unless accompanied by strong winds. In fact, while they can't stop all the rain, they will help keep you dry!

Strong Winds

While they're able to resist normal breezes and occasional gusts, when stronger winds blow, shades can catch the wind and be subject to extremely strong forces as they catch it like sails. If you know strong winds are coming, you may want to raise your outdoor shades to protect them from wind damage.

Hail

Outdoor shades are designed to be hail-resistant, and can add protection for your windows. Large hailstones or severe hailstorms may be damaging, though.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we think a comfortable, connected home is an ideal one, and we want to help you make your dream home a reality. Contact us today to learn more about our motorized shades and other smart home automation and networking solutions.

Why Do I Need Interior Shades?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 15:00:04 GMT

You almost certainly already have window coverings, so you may ask yourself why you would want interior shades? We think a better question is why wouldn't you want them? With motorized shade solutions to match every decor, style, and budget, there's no reason not to install them.

Benefits of Motorized Interior Shades

The best reason to install interior shades is the one that satisfies you and fits your lifestyle. Among their many benefits are:

Convenience

No more climbing over furniture to reach shade cords behind the sofa, or stopping your work or movie to adjust the shades when the setting sun is too bright. Total control is as close as your smartphone, whether you're home or away. High or difficult-to-reach windows can easily be shaded, too.

Privacy

You never have to remember to close the shades before dark to enjoy your cherished privacy — motorized interior shades can be programmed to respond to ambient light conditions or on a timed schedule.

Comfort

Your automated shades can open or close to help keep your home at a comfortable temperature, whether you're there to adjust them or not.

Utility Savings

From opening to let in warm sunshine on winter days to blocking hot summer sun, automated interior shades help you take advantage of natural heating and cooling, so your HVAC system doesn't have to work as hard. Less running time equals lower electric bills.

Value

Interior shades are an investment in your home, trading a small cost for increased value.

Beauty

With a color, fabric, and style to match any decor or personal taste, the smooth, attractive lines of interior shades will add beauty and elegance to your home.

Safety & Security

Protecting your home from nosey neighbors and passers-by, automated shades can be a burglary deterrent, too. Because they're cordless, you can rest easy when little ones are around, knowing they're safe from dangerous, dangling cords.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we strive to make your life more comfortable, convenient, and connected with home networking , automation , and other smart home solutions. Contact us today to learn more about what we have to offer.

Different Types of Wi-Fi Networks

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 15:01:44 GMT

Most of us don't think much about the kinds of Wi-Fi networks we connect to, caring only that there's a data connection. If you're considering an upgrade of your home or office network, or want to add home automation, it helps to know a little about the different kinds of Wi-Fi networks. In general, they can be distinguished by several characteristics: network structure, strength, and security.

Structure & Connections

How a Wi-Fi network is designed affects how devices connect to it.

Infrastructure (LAN) — A wireless router and any Wireless Access Points (WAPs) connected to it by Ethernet cable to expand the network. Also called LAN (Local Area Network).
Mesh — A mesh network involves a router and additional access points connected together wirelessly so the shared Wi-Fi signal is expanded for broader coverage.

Both setups, when installed correctly, can offer seamless connectivity throughout your home or office, though mesh networks can sometimes be a little slower as data moves in a less streamlined way through the network.

Signal Strength

Wireless signals can vary in performance based primarily on the incoming bandwidth from your provider, network structure, and the Wi-Fi standards your equipment supports. Evolving from the original Wi-Fi standard, called 802.11, improvements have added a letter, so you may be familiar with 802.11g or 802.11n. These standards determine, in part, the frequencies used for Wi-Fi transmission (generally 2.4GHz or 5GHz) and the speed and range for the Wi-Fi signal.

Security & Encryption

While it's important to have a strong Wi-Fi password for network security, the 802.11 standards also specify the type of encryption used to protect data traveling over a Wi-Fi network. From the original WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) through the newest WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3), wireless network security has grown alongside devices as Wi-Fi expands throughout our lives.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we offer home and office networks and automation to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Contact us today to explore Wi-Fi networking or any of our other services and solutions.

Choosing the Right Color Shades for You

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 15:00:03 GMT

Choosing your window shade colors can feel like one of the hardest simple decisions you make about your home. Choose the right color and your rooms will feel relaxing and pleasant, but select the wrong color and your room can make you miserable and disappointed. It can be as difficult as choosing paint colors — who knew there could be so many shades of white? Here are some ideas to help you identify a color that will work well for your home and your style.

If It Ain't Broke…

Don't fix it! If you have window coverings you already love and are just looking to replace or upgrade them with motorized shades , stay with the same color that's worked well for you.

Match What's There

Selecting shade colors that match some of the carefully chosen features of your room is an easy way to ensure your shades complement the space. Some elements you may want to match include wall colors, flooring, window colors, or room fixtures.

Accentuate the Positive

Shade colors that reflect some of your room accents can be an excellent choice, whether you match an accent wall, or bring out colors from a favorite piece of furniture, throw pillows, artwork, or some other special room feature.

Go for Contrast

Contrasting colors can add interest and liveliness to a room, particularly in spaces where colors and tones are fairly monochromatic.

Consider Their Effect

Use many of the same guidelines you apply when selecting paint colors. For example, dark colors can make a room feel smaller, while lighter colors can open it up. If your shades will be more light filtering than blocking, imagine what color bright sunlight will diffuse into your room.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we want to help you make your home look and feel fantastic. Contact us today to learn more about our motorized shades and other home automation and networking solutions for a better, more convenient lifestyle.

Your Guide to Roller Shades

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 14:15:02 GMT

Your Guide to Roller Shades

Since at least the 1700s, roller shades have been keeping our homes comfortable and private. By the 1850s, spring roller shades were becoming popular, and today, we can take advantage of motorized and automated roller shades.

What Are Roller Shades?

In their simplest form, roller shades are panels of fabric or similarly flexible material that can be raised and lowered from a horizontal fixture mounted above a window. Cumbersome, earliest shades were rolled up and down manually, followed by spring roller shades with a more efficient, but still manual adjustment. Newest on the scene are today's motorized roller shades.

What Are Motorized Roller Shades?

Combining the simplicity and clean lines of a roller shade with the ease and convenience of electronic controls, motorized roller shades use a motor to adjust shades to your preferences. Today's roller shades can be easily integrated into a home automation system for superior comfort, convenience, and control.

Benefits of Motorized Roller Shades

Roller shades can improve your life and protect your home in numerous ways.

Comfort & Convenience

Control every shade in your home from your smartphone or by voice with a virtual assistant — great all around the house, and especially useful for those impossible-to-reach windows.

Utility Savings

Automated shades can coordinate with your heating and cooling systems to maintain your perfect indoor temperature while using the least electricity possible.

Reduced Wear & Tear

No more tugging on finicky roller shades to raise them, or yanking cords this way and that to keep blinds in place, you only need the touch of a button or swipe of your finger to adjust motorized roller shades.

Attractive & Appealing

Available in countless colors, styles, and materials, motorized roller shades complement any decor and personal style. Quiet, simple operation means they easily blend into your home and routines.

Safety & Security

Whether you need to close the blinds when you're away, or just enjoy the privacy and convenience of shades automatically lowering at dusk, motorized roller shades add to your home's security. Without dangling cords and pulls, they are also perfectly safe for toddlers and pets, too.

Get the Motorized Shade Experts

At Nextgen Multi Media, we specialize in motorized shades and home automation to make your home more comfortable. Contact us today to learn more about our smart home solutions.

Your Personal Guide To Your Smart Home System

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 14:00:34 GMT

Your Personal Guide To Your Smart Home System

What can your smart home system do for you? Make your life easier and more comfortable throughout the day with smart home features controlled by automated programming, a centrally-located touch control panel, a voice-controlled virtual assistant, or directly from your phone.

Morning Routine

Wake up to your favorite music, and tell the shower to start warming up while your automated shades let in the morning sun and your coffee maker starts a fresh pot in the kitchen.

While You're Away at Work

Once you leave for work, your smart home will monitor everything for safety and security. Keep an eye on your pets and watch for package deliveries and anyone who shows up through your doorbell camera. Hate to do chores? Your robot vacuum cleaner and mop can do some daily cleaning while your automated sprinkler system will water your yard as needed and the automated pool system will filter and clean the water. Automated shades can keep your home perfectly comfortable. Need to make sure kids got out the door to catch the bus? No problem.

Preparing for You to Come Home

Check the contents of your smart fridge to see if you need to stop at the store on the way home. Tell your smart thermostat to set the perfect temperature and even turn on your favorite music, and preheat your spa. Coming home late? Turn on the lights, so you don't come home to a dark house.

Bedtime

Set lights to dim at a certain time to remind everyone it's time for bed. Not sure you locked doors or turned off all the lights before you climbed into bed? Take care of it all without getting up. Smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors keep you safe while your family sleeps.

Weekends

Custom pool lighting, seamless indoor/outdoor audio, and a smart grill make weekend fun and entertaining a breeze. No time for weekend chores? Your smart mower can help.

Have more smart home ideas? We can probably make it happen. Once your data network is in place, the sky's the limit. At Nextgen Multi Media, we want to make your smart home a reality. Contact us today to explore our automation solutions.

What Shade Fabrics Are Best for Reducing Heat?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 05 Jul 2021 14:00:04 GMT

What Shade Fabrics Are Best for Reducing Heat?

Let's face it, Texas summers are hot. That's fine if you're poolside or at the beach, but not so great in your home or business. Air conditioning costs can eat up a large portion of any budget (up to 30% on average!), so window coverings that help to reduce how much of the sun's heat enters your rooms are not only beneficial, they're environmentally friendly, too. One way to improve window covering effectiveness is choosing shade fabrics which do the best job of blocking that solar heat.

Exterior Shade Fabrics

The special fabrics used to make exterior shades are specifically designed to block solar radiation, and because these shades can keep the sunlight from even reaching your window glass, they are the superior choice for reducing the heat transferred into your home in the summer.

Interior Shade Fabrics

Interior shades can also be very effective at reducing how much of the sun's heat your home absorbs. The best shade fabrics to block solar heat include some of these qualities:

Opacity

More opaque fabrics will allow less light, and therefore, less heat, to enter a room.

Thickness & Weave

Thicker and more tightly woven fabrics are better insulators, doing a better job of creating a buffer between the heat outside and the coolness inside.

Lighter Colors

Lighter colors are less able to absorb solar radiation, so selecting lighter colored shades will reflect more of that heat back outside where it belongs.

Cellular Construction

In the same way a thicker fabric can act as an insulating barrier, shades with a cellular or honeycomb construction are better able to prevent solar heat from traveling into rooms.

Cool It Down with Nextgen's Shade Solutions

At Nextgen Multi Media, we specialize in motorized shades as one element of our comfortable, convenient automation and networking solutions. Contact us today to learn more about how we can improve your life and help save you money.

7 Ways to Use Outdoor Motorized Shades to Stay Cool

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Wed, 30 Jun 2021 11:31:57 GMT

7 Ways to Use Outdoor Motorized Shades to Stay Cool

Texas summers can be notoriously hot, especially if you're out in the full sun. Motorized outdoor shades are an easy, convenient way to make a big difference in your comfort, indoors and out.

Add Shade to Your Patio

If you find you spend less time enjoying your patio as the summer reaches its hottest days, outdoor shades can be a great solution. On a sunny day with temps around 80°F, concrete in full sun can easily heat up to over 130°F. Obviously the opportunity to shade your patio as the heat rises is a no-brainer for cooling down.

Cool Down Your House

If you find you're spending more than you'd like on cooling each summer, try adding outdoor shades to your home. They can block up to 80% of the sun's heat before it even has a chance to enter.

Protect Your Pergola

If you have a pergola or other yard structure, adding shades can block direct sun and offer some welcome, cooler shade to enjoy.

Enjoy Your Cool Garage

Many of us have a garage that stays a little cooler in the summer. Add outdoor shades to keep it even cooler and so you can enjoy it as a bonus outdoor space.

Be Cool by the Pool

If you have a deck or other area by the pool that would benefit from a little cooler space, outdoor shades can help. They can also help make a cooler, more comfortable space for little ones to freshen sunscreen.

Breezes on a Better Balcony

Do you have a balcony or porch you can't enjoy when it gets direct sun? Outdoor shades can make it enjoyable all day long.

A Less Sunny Sunroom

Glorious in the winter, sunrooms can easily overheat in the summer. Adding outdoor shades helps you keep it comfortable and save on your cooling bill.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we think we're pretty cool, and we want you to stay cool, too! Contact us today to start planning your outdoor shade installation or other home automation solution with us.

8 Benefits of Exterior Motorized Shades

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Sat, 26 Jun 2021 14:00:04 GMT

8 Benefits of Exterior Motorized Shades

Have you thought about adding exterior motorized shades but haven't gotten around to it? Curious whether they'd be a good match for your home and lifestyle? Here are some of the fantastic things they have to offer you.

What Are Exterior Motorized Shades?

Designed to blend in with your home's exterior, exterior shades can be controlled with a remote, or from a phone, and can be integrated with other home automation for ultimate convenience. They can be adjusted on demand, on a timed schedule, or can respond to environmental triggers such as brightness or rain.

Comfort

Whether simply blocking direct sunlight, or adding shade to a patio or pergola, exterior shades can make your indoor and outdoor spaces easier to enjoy.

Privacy

Protect your privacy with shades that automatically close at dusk or which block prying eyes around your patio and pool.

Utility Savings

By blocking summer sunlight and letting it in during the winter, motorized exterior shades can help save on your utility bills. Integrate them with a smart HVAC system, and you'll save even more.

Protection

Easily keeping out insects and other pests, exterior shades offer added protection for the indoor and outdoor spaces you enjoy.

Easy to Use

Simple but powerful controls make it a breeze to use these shades — whether you're home or from your phone anywhere you have a signal.

Durable

Designed to withstand the elements and offer long, effective service, our top-quality exterior shades are manufactured to last.

Customizable

With numerous styles and designs to choose from, exterior shades can blend seamlessly with your home.

Improve Home Value

With the many benefits they offer, motorized exterior shades are an investment that will increase your home's value.

Your Exterior Shade Experts

At Nextgen Multi Media, exterior shades are just one component of the smart home automation and networking solutions that are our specialty. Contact us today to start making your home more amazing.

The Difference Between Blinds and Shades

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 15:00:03 GMT

The Difference Between Blinds and Shades

Blinds or shades, the terms are often used interchangeably, but in the world of window treatments, they actually have very specific meanings. In their simplest form, blinds are made of individual slats of a hard material while shades are made with a solid panel or connected panels of soft, flexible material, usually fabric. Details of their construction, installation, and functioning are where the most important differences between these two window coverings lie.

Materials

The slats that comprise a set of window blinds are made of a hard material such as wood, metal, or plastic, allowing the slats to maintain their shape and positioning when adjusted and tilted.

Shades are made of flexible, often woven materials such as fabric or bamboo, allowing the shade to easily roll or fold when adjusted.

Opacity & Privacy

Blinds are generally opaque, though thinner slats can be translucent. Light comes in around the edges and between slats. Privacy depends on how the blinds are positioned.

From sheer to blackout, fabric opacity mainly determines how much light shades allow into a room. Privacy varies with shade material and how the shade is positioned.

Controls

Both types of window coverings can be controlled manually with cords, or can be motorized and automated. Blinds also have the capability of angling slats for additional light control.

Versatility

Blinds are generally mounted horizontally, raising and lowering from the top, but vertical blinds are also available.

Shades are mounted horizontally, and typically raise and lower from the top, though newer shades allow both the top and bottom to be adjusted for more control.

Insulation

Blinds do an average job of insulating your windows from unwanted summer heat or winter cold, but are designed more for light control.

Shades, particularly cellular shades, can be excellent insulators.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we offer solutions to make your home more comfortable and convenient, from motorized shades indoors and out to home or business networking and full-scale automation systems. Contact us today to learn more about what we have to offer.

Wireless Access Points vs. Mesh Networks

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 15:00:04 GMT

Wireless Access Points vs. Mesh Networks

No one wants to struggle with dead spots or slow connections on a home or business Wi-Fi network. Adding Wireless Access Points or a mesh network are two effective ways to eliminate these problems by expanding your Wi-Fi network, offering you a reliable, secure connection everywhere you need it.

What Is a Wireless Access Point?

A Wireless Access Point (WAP) is a technique for expanding a Wi-Fi network by adding additional locations within the network that can broadcast your Wi-Fi signal. Each of these additional locations is connected to your main router with an Ethernet cable. Each WAP works independently without communicating with other access points in the network.

What Is a Mesh Network?

A mesh network produces a similar result to a WAP configuration, but instead of each node in the network being wired into the main router, each one connects with the other mesh nodes over Wi-Fi. Individual nodes communicate and coordinate with each other to broadcast the Wi-Fi signal and send data over the Wi-Fi connection.

How to Choose Between Them

Both Wi-Fi network expansions can expand coverage to every corner of your home or office, and offer connections that will feel seamless as you move between rooms. Mesh networks may be a little slower (though you may not notice it) because they share the Wi-Fi signal, and need extra milliseconds to coordinate data transfer with each other. While a more robust connection comes with WAPs, they do require data cabling to generate that connection. Both ways of widening your Wi-Fi signal produce effective, reliable results, and choosing between them can depend on your budget, networking needs, and other preferences.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we want to help you stay connected through home or business networking and automation. Contact us today to learn more about our exciting and innovative solutions.

7 Benefits of Interior Shades

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 15:00:04 GMT

7 Benefits of Interior Shades

Convenient and attractive, there's little reason not to like motorized interior shades. Still thinking about them? Here are some of our favorite things about them.

Comfort

One of the best things about interior shades is how comfortable they can make your space. Blocking bright, hot sun in the summer and letting in its warm glow in the winter, interior shades can be programmed to adjust automatically and can coordinate with your heating and cooling systems for ultimate, zero-effort comfort.

Better Light Blocking

Interior blackout shades can make for better sleep and more enjoyable movie viewing by more effectively blocking light from your rooms than other room-darkening solutions.

Convenience

You can control your interior shades with a remote, a central touchpad, virtual assistant, or smartphone. With all that flexibility, you can adjust them from any room of your house, poolside, and even while you're away.

Privacy

Interior shades can be programmed to close automatically at dusk and open again when the sun is up, follow a set schedule, or adjusted on demand, so you can cover your windows anytime, from anywhere to protect yourself and your family from prying eyes and nosey neighbors.

Attractiveness

Countless colors, styles, and textures are available to match your personal style and complement your decor. They can be mounted above your windows or recessed to allow you the cleanest look.

Utility Savings

Interior shades can block over 50% of the sun's heat, meaning your cooling system can work less, saving electricity as well as wear and tear. In winter, they can let in that solar warmth, so you heat less on those chilly days, too.

Protecting Your Home & Furnishings

Ultraviolet light from the sun can fade and damage your furniture and belongings. Over time, the bright, Texas sun can also affect carpeting, walls, curtains, draperies, and everything else it shines directly on. Adding interior shades can let in the light you enjoy without allowing it to cause damage.

At Nextgen Multi Media, motorized interior shades are one of our specialties, whether as a standalone system or as part of your whole house automation. Contact us today to start planning your new window covering solution.

Questions to Ask a Professional Motorized Shade Company

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 31 May 2021 15:45:02 GMT

Questions to Ask a Professional Motorized Shade Company

With so many styles, varieties, and types of motorized shades to choose from, and so many companies who advertise their installation services, how do you know what shades and which installer to choose? Here are some questions to ask a potential motorized shade installer, so you get the best quality shades from the most reliable installer.

Are You Insured?

This should be a given — choosing a properly insured installer protects you, your home, and your installer, too.

How Much Experience Do You Have Installing Motorized Shades?

Poorly or incorrectly installed motorized shades can not only be unsightly, they can work less efficiently, less effectively, and can fail much earlier than properly installed shades. Experienced installers can offer suggestions to improve installations and do an efficient, quality job that will last well.

How Long Will This Take?

An experienced motorized shade company will have the experience to give you a pretty accurate estimate of both lead time and installation time for your motorized shades.

What Do I Need to Do?

A good motorized shade company will offer full-service solutions, so your job is to choose the shades you want, then sit back and enjoy them once they're installed.

Do You Integrate Motorized Shades with Other Home Automation?

Motorized shades aren't much benefit if you can't coordinate them with your other home automation. Ensure you choose a company that can do it.

What Does My Warranty Cover?

Make sure you know exactly what your motorized shades warranty covers. At Nextgen Multi Media, we offer a generous 5-year warranty on motors, a 10-year warranty on fabric, and a 90-day warranty on our labor.

Do You Have References?

Companies who do good work have the satisfied customers to show for it. Don't be afraid to ask for references.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we offer premium installation, support, and other services, working with only the most reliable, well-made and attractive brands of home automation products. Contact us anytime to ask us your questions about motorized shades and our other smart home and networking services.

Ways to Customize Exterior Motorized Shades

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 24 May 2021 15:30:02 GMT

Ways to Customize Your Exterior Motorized Shad es

When many people think of exterior shades, they picture an unattractive, outdated, clumsy apparatus that was more trouble than it was worth. Today's motorized, exterior shades are light years away from those old, clunky versions, offering a stylish appearance and powerful controls with a remote, your smartphone, or as part of your home automation system. Even better, they can be customized in many ways to complement your home and fit your lifestyle.

What Are Exterior Motorized Shades?

Modern, motorized exterior shades offer all the comfort, convenience, utility savings, and security of traditional shades with the amazing benefits of motorized adjustments and integration with other home automation systems.

Ways to Customize Exterior Motorized Shades

Exterior Shades can add value to your home, but they only add value to you if they're customized to meet your needs and preferences. Some of the ways you can customize them include:

Size

Exterior motorized shades can accommodate nearly all window sizes and shapes as well as wider openings like garage doors and around pergolas.

Mounting

Shades can be mounted on an exterior surface or recessed, and can use tracks or cables for raising and lowering them, so shades can easily blend into your home's exterior style and fit in the spaces where you need them.

Frame Color

Exterior shade frames come in a variety of stock colors, and can be custom colored to fit with your home's existing color scheme.

Screen Materials

Multiple screen fabrics and materials are available with varying degrees of visibility, UV blocking, and other qualities. Clear screens are also available if that better suits your needs.

Selecting the motorized exterior screens that will work best for you can be a complicated decision, so don't be afraid to ask the experts. At Nextgen Multi Media, we specialize in motorized shades as part of our full array of home automation systems. Contact us today to learn more or to plan your own installation.

Types of Home Automation Systems

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 17 May 2021 15:30:02 GMT

Types of Home Automation Systems

These days, it seems like almost anything can be connected to and controlled by your phone, from the usual suspects like lights and speakers to unusual choices such as toothbrushes, salt shakers, egg trays, and mattress covers. Home automation generally falls into broader categories, though, and here are some of the major players.

Audio & Video

One of the most popular home automation systems, from enjoying your playlist seamlessly through every room of your house (and even outdoors) or streaming video to multiple devices without extra converter boxes. AV automation can be a game changer.

Doors & Security

From traditional security cameras to video-enabled doorbells and monitors to check on kids and pets, and smart locks, so you don't lock yourself out, home automation has your safety covered.

Lighting

Whether you want to turn all the lights off as you climb into bed, or enjoy presets for movie nights, automated lighting makes it easy.

Shades & HVAC

While these are technically two separate systems, when coordinated they are a powerful combination that can efficiently keep your home at the perfect temperature.

Pool & Spa

Hate to clean the pool and monitor chemicals? Want the spa to heat up before you get home? Do it from your phone.

Yard & Garden

Smart sprinkler systems can work on schedule and adapt to current and forecasted weather conditions to save water and comply with water use regulations, all while keeping your yard looking lush and healthy.

Appliances & Smart Devices

Whether it's warming up the shower, brewing a pot of coffee, or checking fridge contents on your way home from work, smart devices can be part of an amazing network in your home.

Smart Home

Best of all? Combine all of the above into a single, integrated network you can control from anywhere via your phone or virtual assistant. You can even set routines so, for example, when you turn off your alarm, the shower heats up, coffee starts to brew, shades go up, and your home's temperature adjusts to suit your preferences.

At Nextgen Multi Media we work with you to design the smart home system and networking that suits your needs and exceeds your expectations. Contact us today to take advantage of our automation expertise.

Why Is Sunlight Bad for Your Home's Interior?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 10 May 2021 15:15:02 GMT

Why Is Sunlight Bad for Your Home's Interior?

It makes us smile, warms us on chilly days, helps houseplants grow, and fills our rooms with welcome light, but sunlight can also damage the interior of our homes. Standard window glass only blocks a small percentage of the sun's damaging rays, so adding interior or exterior blinds can help dramatically. Automated, motorized shades can even make it simple and convenient to protect your home's interior from the harm of ultraviolet light while allowing you to enjoy letting the daylight in.

Furniture

Many pieces of furniture are placed close to walls to leave space within rooms to move freely. Unfortunately, this means sunlight often shines directly on them whenever window shades are open. Fabric-covered pieces such as sofas, recliners, and easy chairs are the most vulnerable to damage, with textiles bleaching and weakening the longer they are exposed.

Carpeting, Rugs & Other Flooring

Other interior textiles such as carpeting and rugs can easily be damaged by bright sunlight, causing both natural and synthetic fibers to break down. You may not notice as readily on wall-to-wall carpeting, but damage can be particularly obvious on area rugs and runners. Hardwoods and their protective coatings can lighten or darken with UV exposure, too. Vinyl flooring can buckle and warp, turning your beautiful flooring into an unsightly mess.

Books, Photos & Artwork

Paper and ink are very vulnerable to sun damage and can easily fade and become yellow and brittle with ruined bindings. Precious photos and artwork are also quickly and irreparably damaged by sunlight.

Clothing & Bedding

Sunlight in bedrooms can easily fade your bedding, pillows, and any clothing it can reach, weakening their fibers and, over time, ruining them.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we specialize in motorized interior and exterior blinds as one component of our full array of home automation solutions. Contact us today to protect your home and start planning your dream smart home.

What Type of Shade Fabrics Let in the Most Light?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 03 May 2021 15:10:39 GMT

What Type of Shade Fabrics Let in the Most Light?

Shades can serve many purposes, including blocking light, enhancing privacy, making a room more attractive, and keeping your home comfortable. If you're interested in adding motorized shades, you may be wondering which fabrics allow the most light through, whether you want to enjoy that light or to block it out.

Blackout Shades

As you might expect from the name, blackout shades block virtually all outside light from coming in, whether they're interior or exterior installations, offering complete privacy.

Interior Roller Shades

Unless they're made of blackout fabric, roller shades are generally considered to be light filtering, meaning they allow varying degrees of light to shine through depending on the fabric selected. A fabric's opacity usually determines more about how much light comes through than color choice does. Typical shade opacities include:

Sheer Fabrics

The lightest shade fabrics perform similarly to sheer curtains — they merely filter incoming light and add a little privacy by blurring what anyone can see looking in or out.

Semi-Sheer Fabrics

Slightly heavier fabrics add a little more privacy and allow most of the light through with a more diffuse glow.

Semi-Opaque Fabrics

Shades with medium-weight fabrics allow the light to come in as you'd like, but prevent viewing through the shades in either direction.

Opaque Fabrics

One step below blackout fabric, opaque fabrics, also called room-darkening, block most of the light and offer superior privacy.

Exterior Shades

Exterior shades are most frequently installed to provide shade and privacy, with multiple mesh choices available to offer those comforts in varying degrees. Generally measured by their "openness factor", lower values, such as 3%, indicate a tighter weave which will block more light, but also offer greater privacy. Moving up to 5% can maintain your view and moderate privacy while allowing more light through. Both openness factors can still block solar heat and UV rays effectively. Shade color can also make a difference, and darker colors, surprisingly enough, tend to allow you to see through them better than lighter colors.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we have the experience and expertise to help you choose the best shade system for your lifestyle and budget, and to install it for you. Contact us today to learn more about motorized shades or any of our other smart home solutions.

How to Service Exterior Motorized Shades

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 13:00:02 GMT

How to Service Exterior Motorized Shades

Installing motorized exterior shades around your home can beautify and protect it, while keeping it more comfortable and saving you money. When added to patios, pergolas, and other outdoor spaces, motorized shades offer privacy, protection, and comfort for a more enjoyable backyard. We work with only the highest quality brands which require a bare minimum of regular maintenance to stay in peak condition and serve you for many years to come.

Cleaning Exterior Motorized Shades

If you've been in Texas very long, you know the dust can blow around, and one of the places it can settle is your exterior shades. Add in some cottonwoods and other trees in the area, and you'll need to plan on a little minimal cleaning.

Basic Maintenance

Besides occasional, regular cleaning to remove any accumulated dust, leaves, and other debris that may have gathered, you should raise and lower your shades on occasion to ensure the motors remain well lubricated.

Basic Cleaning

Most of the time, a soft-bristled brush and similar broom will do the trick, allowing you to gently and quickly remove any dust and debris. A cordless hand vacuum can also come in handy after you've brushed or swept the shades, allowing you to collect any of the small bits that may have been left behind. If any spots need additional care, a soft sponge and a little mild hand or dish soap can help — rinse carefully and leave your shades down to air dry. If you hose down your screens when deeper cleaning is needed, be careful not to spray the motor area and avoid high-pressure sprays.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we offer unparalleled expertise with motorized shades, and can install, service, and repair them for you, indoors and out. Contact us today to learn more about all of our home automation and networking solutions.

What Are the Best Wireless Access Points?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 19 Apr 2021 13:00:02 GMT

What Are the Best Wireless Access Points?

Whether you want to eliminate dead spots or expand your home's automation, improving your Wi-Fi network can solve many home networking issues. One of the most secure and reliable ways to boost your coverage is by adding Wireless Access Points.

What Are Wireless Access Points?

Wireless Access Points (WAPs) are small devices that broadcast your home or business Wi-Fi signal into additional spaces, offering strong, speedy connections in places where your main Wi-Fi router doesn't reach. WAPs are connected to your main router with Ethernet cables, so you can enjoy seamless Wi-Fi access throughout your space.

Best Wireless Access Points

The best WAP is, of course, the one that works well in your home or business. We work with a variety of high-quality brands to ensure you have the reliable and secure networking you deserve. Top brands we recommend include Netgear, TP-Link, Cisco, Aruba, Eero, and Ubiquiti. In addition to their main job of creating a broader Wi-Fi network, some aspects to consider when selecting WAPs include:

Guest Login. Share your network with visitors without allowing them full network access to other devices such as networked computers and printers.
Flexible Installation. Many WAPs can be placed on walls, ceilings, or other locations to suit your specific needs and preferences.
MU-MIMO Capabilities. This "Multiple User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output" technology enables your Wi-Fi connections to be more evenly shared across many connected devices instead of traditional first-come, first-served systems which can become congested with multiple, simultaneous connections. In brief, faster, more reliable connections come with MU-MIMO.
Outdoor Options. Need to expand the network around the pool, spa, patio, or other outdoor space? Outdoor-rated WAPs to the rescue.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we have the expertise to select the best equipment and network design to ensure you have cohesive network coverage throughout your space to support your productivity, safety, communication, entertainment, and home automation. Contact us today to start planning your home or business network improvements.

The Best Time of Year to Get Interior Shades Installed

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 13:00:04 GMT

The Best Time of Year to Get Interior Shades Installed

Motorized, interior shades are an excellent way to improve the comfort, safety, and convenience of your home. Many home improvements are best installed in particular seasons, so you may wonder when is the best time of year to have interior shades installed. You'll be happy to know there are benefits to any season you choose, and the best time to install interior shades is when you want them.

Spring Installation

If we absolutely had to choose an ideal time to add interior shades to a home, spring would probably be our favorite. A spring installation allows you to have everything in place before the heat of the summer arrives, so you can take full advantage of the comfort and savings that come with these shades.

Summer Installation

If you're sweating out the summer and dreading high utility bills from keeping your home cool, adding motorized interior shades can simplify everything while saving you money. Coordinate them with an automated cooling system for optimal comfort and savings.

Autumn Installation

If you've made it through another North Texas summer and want to make the next one more comfortable, it's probably a good time to add interior shades to your home. Automating when they open and close can simplify busy days as your family returns to the hectic schedule that comes with the beginning of each school year. As an added bonus, automated shades can help save on both heating and cooling bills.

Winter Installation

During the winter, you probably enjoy taking advantage of as much sunshine coming in your windows as you can, catching that little bit of added warmth. Motorized interior shades can make that easy, and can help reduce your heating bills by taking advantage of the sun's natural heat.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we specialize in motorized shades and home automation systems to help make your home the amazing place you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about how we can make it happen.

Are Interior of Exterior Shades Best For Me?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Fri, 09 Apr 2021 20:13:05 GMT

Are Interior or Exterior Shades Best for Me?

With a dizzying array of window coverings available for the interior and exterior of your home, choosing the best type of shades can feel overwhelming. Figuring out your primary reasons for adding shades to your home can help you choose which will be the best solution. Both interior and exterior shades offer privacy, comfort, security, and can be motorized and automated. Of course, there's no right or wrong choice, but here are some guidelines to help you explore your choices, depending on how you want your shades to improve your life.

Comfort & Utility Savings

Both types of shades can block sunlight in the summer and allow it in on cold days, so your cooling and heating systems can work less, saving you on utility bills and equipment wear and tear. Up to 75% of the sun's heat is transferred through windows when the sun shines on them. Because they block that sunlight before it even reaches your window glass, exterior shades will offer the greatest energy efficiency and savings.

Aesthetics

The appearance of your shades will certainly be one of your main concerns. Both styles of shades can be mounted in a variety of ways to suit your architecture and style. Interior shades come in a wider variety of colors, textures, and materials, and can complement your decor, adding a splash of color and interest. Exterior shades generally blend into the background and can add flexibility to your indoor decorating by leaving indoor window areas more open.

Budget

While there's no hard and fast rule, exterior shades tend to be a little more expensive because of the added durability they require.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we offer motorized interior and exterior shades as part of our full range of automation and networking solutions for homes and businesses. Contact us today to learn more about what we have to offer.

Integrating Your Home Automation System

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 19:06:24 GMT

Integrating Your Home Automation System

Want to turn on mood lighting, heat the spa, and come home to your favorite music? Want to tell the coffee maker and hot shower to start after you turn off your alarm via voice control. Without an integrated home automation system , each of those tasks will require a separate step and likely a separate app and controller.

What Does Integrated Home Automation Mean?

Many individual components and devices work together to create a smart home experience. Often, each device has its own, proprietary software and a remote or app to control it. Some may be compatible with popular virtual assistant systems such as Alexa, Siri, or Google Home but generally can't work with each other. Unless they are incorporated into a single, functional, communication network with central control, they aren't fully integrated, and you will miss out on the full convenience, comfort, and fun such a connected system offers.

Benefits of an Integrated Home Automation System

Integrating the smart devices and systems in your home is a smart, efficient, convenient approach to take that offers numerous benefits, including:

Central Control

One control to rule them all...well, one system at least, though most setups allow multiple ways to access the central control such as a wall-mounted touchpad, physical remote control, and apps for computer and phone. No need to open separate apps or find a lost remote again!

Flexibility & Upgrading

With a single network, you can easily add, remove, and upgrade components to suit your needs.

Improved Security & Monitoring

All of your systems working together create a cohesive network to monitor everything from doors and windows to temperature and water leaks.

Seamless Functionality

Enjoy whole-house audio from room to room, or stream video to multiple screens, access door locks and lighting in every room from wherever you and your phone are, without hesitation.

Maximum Convenience

Everything works together, just for you so you can have it just the way you like it.

Utility Savings

Integrated devices can work together for greater efficiency, for example automated lighting, HVAC, and motorized shade systems can coordinate to keep your home perfectly comfortable using the least electricity necessary.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we can install and integrate your smart home devices to create the automated palace of your dreams. Contact us today to get started.

How Do Exterior Motorized Shades Save Energy?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 19:02:02 GMT

How Do Exterior Motorized Shades Save Energy?

The added comfort and convenience exterior motorized shades can bring to your home is reason enough to install them. Did you know they can also save on your utility bills? Around 75% of the sunlight that hits the average window will be transferred inside as heat. Exterior motorized shades can both protect against that unwanted heating in the summer and can take advantage of it in the winter.

What Are Exterior Motorized Shades

Exterior motorized shades include all the wonderful comfort and privacy benefits of traditional shades, but shift them to the exterior of your home, and add the convenience of motorized controls. To take advantage of their full functionality, they can be integrated with a broader home automation system to work in tandem with your HVAC system for ultimate comfort and savings.

Summer Energy Savings

Most people know that adding window coverings can keep a home cooler by blocking direct sunlight from coming into rooms. What many people don't think about, however, is that the vast majority of the heat has already entered a home by the time it reaches the interior blinds , shades, or drapery installed to block it. Exterior shades, on the other hand, stop the sunlight before it even reaches your windows, offering superior heat blocking. Less heat coming in means your cooling system runs less, and you save money. Even better, the less your air conditioning needs to run, the longer the equipment will last and the less servicing it's likely to require.

Winter Energy Savings

You can take advantage of the reverse system in the winter, with exterior shades that open to allow the sun's radiant heat to enter, so your heating costs can be reduced.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we want to make your home more comfortable, convenient, and to save you money with our motorized exterior shades and other home automation and networking solutions. Contact us today to start planning with our expert team.

How Can I Make My Wi-Fi Stronger?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Fri, 26 Mar 2021 19:09:44 GMT

How Can I Make My Wi-Fi Stronger?

Between working from home, streaming content, smartphones, virtual school, and smart devices, we depend on Wi-Fi more and more. Unfortunately, this also means most of us are finding flaws in our Wi-Fi service, from slow or dropping connections to dead spots. Here are several ways to improve it and make your connected life easier.

Equipment & Signal

Make sure your modem, gateway, and router are all functioning properly, cables are in good shape and fully plugged in, and that everything has its latest firmware updates. Also, check that you're really getting the download bandwidth you pay for from your ISP by running a connection speed test. Many routers offer dual-band signals, and the higher frequency signal offers faster downloads and less interference.

Location, Location, Location

It really does matter where you put your Wi-Fi router. Walls, furniture, floors, ceilings, and distance from the router all limit the ability of a Wi-Fi signal to travel from its source. Many household devices may also be interfering with your Wi-Fi signal if your router is installed near them, especially if you're using the 2.4GHz band, including common culprits: microwaves, baby monitors, and TVs. We can help you choose its best placement so everywhere in your home gets the best coverage.

Network It

Wi-Fi signals can only travel so far, so expanding the devices which transmit your Wi-Fi signal can dramatically improve spaces with intermittent or slow connections and troublesome dead spots. Mesh networks can be created to bring new Wi-Fi signals into your network, so that devices connect to the best signal in their range. Adding wireless access points (WAPs) with data cabling carry your router's signal into more of your space, expanding your Wi-Fi coverage wherever the WAPs are installed.

Need help with any of these Wi-Fi signal improvements? At Nextgen Multi Media, home and business networking is one of our specialties. Contact us today for better Wi-Fi or to explore our other home automation and networking solutions.

How to Prepare for Your Motorized Shades Appointment

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 21:36:19 GMT

How to Prepare for Your Motorized Shades Appointment

Having an appointment to explore and choose motorized shades requires only a little preparation on your part, so we can make the most of your valuable time.

Features to Consider

If you're not sure what you want from interior or exterior motorized shades, that's one of the reasons we're here — to offer you our expertise and advice. After all, we've been doing this a long time, and have learned a lot about what our customers like along the way.

Main Goal

Think about your main goal in adding motorized shades. Are you primarily concerned with protecting your privacy, keeping your house more comfortable, adding convenience, saving on utility bills, or a combination of those? We can help you choose the best system to meet your needs.

Controls

Motorized shades can be controlled with a remote, with a smartphone or laptop, or fully integrated into a home automation system . Consider how much control you'd like to have over your setup.

Interior, Exterior, or Both?

Are you interested in only interior shades, exterior shades, or do you imagine interior shade in your home and exterior shades in your outdoor space? We can accommodate any combination of shades you'd like.

Think About Your Budget

While we offer solutions to fit virtually any budget, some options will naturally involve more expensive materials and labor. After we talk with you and do some measuring, we'll write up a proposal for you to review, so you'll have a clear picture of the costs involved.

Other Automation Plans?

Are you interested in automating anything else around your home? Want to integrate your shades with your HVAC system for premium automated comfort? We can discuss possible options when we come to meet with you.

At Nextgen Multi Media, our goal is to make it as easy as possible to add convenient, helpful motorized shades to your home. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

Your Guide to Pool and Spa Automation

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 19:01:38 GMT

Your Guide To Pool and Spa Automation

Long day at work, and you'd love to come home to a preheated spa with your favorite mood lighting and tunes in the background? Tired of daily pool maintenance tasks? Most of us have a love/hate relationship with our pools and spas — love to enjoy them, hate the maintenance and the electric bills. Adding an automated system can help with the parts you don't enjoy, so you can kick back and relax more, maintain less, and save some money — who ever thought you could save money by making your pool better?

How Does Pool & Spa Automation Work?

As with other home automation systems , a pool and spa setup connects a central control hub with your pool and spa controls to communicate with your home network, so you can run it from your laptop, smartphone, virtual assistant, or through its own integrated controls. Systems can be very simple and perform on the most basic maintenance tasks, or can be integrated into a full backyard experience.

Benefits of Pool & Spa Automation

Easy. Control lighting, water features, temperature, and other personal preferences from anywhere
Convenient. Automate daily tasks such as sanitation, filtration, and cleaning
Comfortable. Automatically adjust heater use based on weather conditions or scheduled settings
Cost-Saving. Program pump settings to maximize efficiency and off-peak electrical usage, saving you money. Additional savings with automated water chemistry — real-time analysis and adjustment, so you don't have to test and do it yourself
Flexible. Systems for every pool and spa setup, and can stand alone or fully integrate with other home automation for a complete experience

At Nextgen Multi Media, we think your backyard should be an oasis for relaxation and entertainment, not a chore. Our pool, spa, and other home automation solutions can help you make it so. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a consultation.

How Do Wi-Fi Extenders Work?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 19:14:02 GMT

How Do Wi-Fi Extenders Work?

Slow connections or dead spots in your Wi-Fi coverage can range from mild annoyances to critical challenges to communications and workflow. Wi-Fi extenders are one solution to expanding the reach of your Wi-Fi signal to help alleviate these problems.

Types of Wi-Fi Extenders

Wi-Fi signals are limited in the distance they can be transmitted and that distance can be limited quite a bit by the quality of your router and by obstacles blocking Wi-Fi signals, including walls, furniture, ceilings, and more. Several types of Wi-Fi signal extenders exist to expand the range of fast, reliable Wi-Fi in your rooms. While the names are often used interchangeably, they all perform similarly:

Receiving Wi-Fi Signals

Wi-Fi extenders are dependent upon the signal coming into your home or office. They can access that signal from your router either over a Wi-Fi connection or a hardwired (Ethernet) connection.

Transmitting Wi-Fi Signals

Wi-Fi extenders retransmit the signal just like your main Wi-Fi router broadcasts it. The strength and space covered by the signal depend on the source signal strength, type of connection, and device capabilities.

Basic Wi-Fi Repeaters/Boosters — These devices can only rebroadcast a Wi-Fi signal into a small area, but are a simple and inexpensive way to extend Wi-Fi into a small dead spot. Because they share a single Wi-Fi signal, performance is usually good enough for normal activities but weak for streaming or other intensive uses.
Mesh Network Wi-Fi Extenders — Mesh network devices work similarly to basic repeaters, but they have the ability to coordinate with each other over the network to offer seamless coverage and good performance as you move through rooms and connect to different points in the mesh network.
Wireless Access Point (WAP) Wi-Fi Extenders — The ultimate in Wi-Fi extenders, WAPs are hardwired by Ethernet cable from your main router to their installation points, and perform with the same quality and signal strength as your main router, only in a different location.

Ensuring strong, reliable Wi-Fi signals through your home or office can be challenging, so our expert team at Nextgen Multi Media is ready to help you choose and install the system you need. Contact us today to find your perfect Wi-Fi solution.

5 Reasons To Get an Automated Cooling System

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 19:05:47 GMT

5 Reasons To Get an Automated Cooling System

Knowing your home will be a cool, comfortable refuge is a great feeling on a hot, humid summer day. With an automated cooling system, you can make sure it stays that way no matter where you are, and you can save money at the same time.

Savings

One of the greatest benefits of having an automated cooling system is knowing it can keep your home perfectly comfortable while being more efficient. Automated systems can be set to maximize off-peak usage hours, and these smart systems can "learn" your preferences so they can cool your home based on learned predictions.

Comfort

Because they are finely tuned to your space, can be controlled on your phone from anywhere, and can coordinate temperature control with other smart home devices such as motorized shades, automated cooling systems are able to keep your home consistently comfortable.

Convenience

Whether you want to design preset cooling schedules based on your usual habits, adjust cooling via your phone as you head home from work, or want a system that will pretty much run itself, automated cooling can make it easy.

Longer-Lasting Equipment

Because automated cooling can learn and predict cooling needs and can coordinate with other smart devices in your home, your HVAC system doesn't need to work as hard or run as often to maintain the comfortable temperatures you desire. Less running time means less wear and tear on compressors and other critical components.

Safety

Do you need to make sure the house stays cool for your pets while you're away? With automated cooling, you can rest easy knowing automated settings can take care of it, and you can check in and adjust temperatures from your phone, too.

At Nextgen Multi Media, our customized automation systems are designed to make your life easier and more comfortable, from automated HVAC systems and motorized shades to home networking and audio/video systems. Contact us today to start designing your smart home solutions.

5 Ways Blackout Shades Will Enhance Your Mood

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 20:08:39 GMT

5 Ways Black Out Shades Will Enhance Your Mood

Motorized blackout shades can perform many functions around your home, but even better, they can enhance your mood! How, you may ask? Read on to learn more.

What Are Motorized Blackout Shades?

Motorized blackout shades are the fancier, improved cousins of traditional blackout shades. Able to be controlled with a remote, smartphone or computer, they can be programmed to respond to their environment such as how sunny it is or the time of day. They can also be incorporated into a home automation system for the ultimate in control and convenience.

How Blackout Shades Can Enhance Your Mood

Of course, blackout shades will block light from coming through your windows, making rooms darker and protecting your furniture and home from harmful UV rays, but they have a lot more to offer.

Feel Secure — Relax Better

When you're confident the windows and doors of your home are secure and can check and adjust them wherever you can use your smartphone or computer, The safer you feel, the more you can relax.

Improved Sleep

From the security of knowing your windows are covered to the superior light-blocking ability of our blackout shades, you'll sleep like a baby. Better sleep means a more refreshed you.

Fun & Romance

Whether you want to recreate the famous dance scene in "Risky Business" or engage in some frisky business, blackout shades offer the privacy you want, making it easy to have fun.

More Privacy

Whether it's curling up on the couch with a pint of ice cream to binge-watch your favorite guilty pleasure, or just keeping your private life private, blackout shades can keep neighbors and passers-by from peeking in, so you can relax and live your life how you'd like.

Look Great

An attractive home that matches your style and feel is a home you can feel proud about, and our blackout shades can complement any decor for a perfect look.

At Nextgen Multi Media, our home automation systems can do more than simplify your life, they can make it better. Interested in a home that improves your mood? Contact us to learn more about making it a reality.

5 Ways an Automatic Sprinkler System Can Enhance Your Yard

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 19:57:11 GMT

5 Ways an Automatic Sprinkler System Can Enhance Your Yard

Most of us enjoy surrounding our homes with lush, green grass and healthy, attractive landscaping. In drought-prone North Texas, this can often mean using yard sprinklers to keep things looking their best. Changing weather patterns and water conservation measures can make it challenging to know when to run your sprinklers, but installing an automated sprinkler system can keep it simple, saving you time, money, and water!

Save Time

Between water conservation rules and weather changes, it can be complicated and time-consuming to know when you can water your yard. An automated system can do that job for you, freeing you to enjoy that time doing something more worthwhile.

Save Water

Without tedious soil examination, weather checks, and other precautions, it's easy to overwater your yard and landscaping, using precious resources and costing you money. Automated sprinklers use a combination of zones, site-specifics, and weather details, along with your input, to only use the water needed for optimal results.

Save Money

Naturally, the less water you use, the less money you'll spend on it. Because an automatic sprinkler system can adjust and carefully specify the amount of water needed to keep your outdoor spaces looking great.

Customization

Automatic sprinkler systems offer many ways to customize your watering for best results, including:

Zones — Water differently for different areas; for example, you can water your grass more than your shady plantings.
Reactive — Systems react and adjust to rain, extreme temperatures, and other weather conditions.
Site-specific — You can specify your preferences, as well as environmental details such as sun exposure, soil type, planting type, and more.

Healthier Lawn & Plants

Automated sprinklers take the guesswork out of watering your yard — no overwatering or underwatering — providing you a beautiful, well-kept lawn and plantings with the satisfaction of saving water, money, and time.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we can install smart sprinkler systems that harness a powerful combination of data and technology to help you create the landscape you desire. Contact us today to learn more about our automated sprinkler systems and other home automation solutions.

7 Ways Data Cabling Can Help Your Business

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 19:08:37 GMT

7 Ways Data Cabling Can Help Your Business

In today's ultra-connected world, a high-quality network is critical for most businesses, and good data cabling is an effective way to ensure the quality and reliability of those connections. In many cases, networks have developed in uncoordinated stages as business needs and resources evolve. A proper, structured data cabling setup can be a great improvement, and here are seven ways such a system can help your business succeed.

Simplicity — Having a single, well-designed, well-managed networking system means an organized, coordinated setup where any problems are easier to identify and connections are consistent, reliable, and predictable.
Less downtime — Since problems are more easily identified in a single, connected system, they are also more quickly resolved. Wiring used in a new network will also be more reliable, and will be located for best performance.
Improved speed — Updated cabling installed appropriately will offer better connection speeds than older systems. Thoughtful network design will also include appropriate equipment to boost signals and ensure plenty of bandwidth business-wide.
Adaptability & Flexibility — Planned data cabling centralizes and organizes your network structure so making changes is much easier to do.
Ease of Managing — An organized, labeled, structured setup means connections are easily traced and monitored.
Scalability — Need to upgrade or expand? A data cabling system makes it a much more straightforward process. Also, because structured data cabling systems are installed with superior bandwidth, you'll have no problems as your business needs and network usage grows.
Safety — Besides looking messy, loose, disorganized network wiring can be easy to trip over, risking injury, liability, and possible damage to attached equipment.

Adopting a data cabling system for your business, large or small, is an infrastructure improvement that will more than pay for itself in your network's improved speed, reliability, and simplicity. At Nextgen Multi Media, we specialize in keeping you connected and productive. Contact us today to start planning your data cabling system or to learn more about any of our other services.

7 Ways That Smart Home Systems Can Make Your Life Easier

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 20:00:20 GMT

7 Ways That Smart Home Systems Can Make Your Life Easier

From top to bottom, inside and out, adding smart systems into your home can improve and simplify your life in countless ways. Here are just a few:

Perfect Temperature

Between smart thermostats and automated shades, keep your home at the perfect temperature whether you're there to adjust it or not. Even better, adjust it remotely anytime you want.

Whole House Music, Audio & Video

Love the idea of enjoying your music or other audio seamlessly throughout your home ? Want to stop streaming a movie in the living room and continue in the bedroom without extra hassles? Home automation can make it happen.

Total Security Control

All the features of traditional security systems combined with monitoring, so you can keep an eye on pets while you're away. Monitoring and alerts can also be triggered for sudden temperature changes, water leaks, possible equipment failures, and other issues. Smart systems can also unlock your house via your phone, so you don't need to take a house key when you go out for a run.

Vacation Peace of Mind

While traditional security systems can monitor your home, a smart home system allows you to remotely adjust lighting, and other devices connected to your smart home network such as TV and audio to make your home look occupied.

IFTTT Customization

Do you want your motorized shades to go down at a certain time of day, or the lights in the family room to dim when it's bedtime for the kids? If This Then That (IFTTT) settings allow you to program a series of triggers and their resulting actions to make your smart home truly yours.

Smart Device Integration

From virtual assistants and doorbells outfitted with cameras to smart kitchen appliances and automated sprinkler systems, nearly any smart device can be integrated into your smart home system.

Automated Lighting

Have you climbed into bed and wondered if you left the kitchen lights on? Arrive home later than usual and hate to go into a dark house? Smart lighting controls let you set up automated programming and control it all from your phone.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we offer smart home systems to meet your every need and provide the ultimate in convenience. Contact us today to start automating the smart home of your dreams.

5 Benefits To Automated Heating Systems

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 19:52:00 GMT

5 Benefits To Automated Heating Systems

Want to make your home warmer or cooler with a tap on your phone or by asking Alexa or your Google Assistant? Want to save on your home's heating bills? Want to have a home heating system that learns your habits and heats your home accordingly? If you answered "yes" to any of these, you already know some of the many benefits of an automated home heating system.

How an Automated Heating System Helps You

Any automated system is designed to do some of the work for you, freeing you to relax or do other things, and automating your home heating system is no different. Here are some of the ways installing such a system can make your life better.

Convenience

With an automated system, you can set your heating however you like, from wherever you like. Tell your virtual assistant to warm the house to 74° or turn down the heat from your phone while you're away for the day.

Simplicity

No need to figure out complicated thermostat programming, let alone adjusting those settings as the weather changes! Automated heating systems feature powerful but user-friendly controls that make it simple to stay comfortable.

Comfort

Automated systems can learn your preferences. For example, keeping it cooler when you go to sleep and warming it up just before you wake, so you start the day with cozy, warm rooms.

Saving Money

Do you like to save on utilities by turning the heat down when you leave for work, only you forget to do so in the hustle and bustle of the morning rush? Do it from your phone when you remember, or automate your system to lower the heat when the garage door opens during the time you normally head to work. Automated systems can also be programmed to minimize use during peak hours and use other efficient ways of running.

Safety & Security

Sensors in an automated system can detect potential problems with your heating system, such as blocked airflow or temperature fluctuations, and notify you of any issues.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we make it easy to have a comfortable home. Contact us today to learn more about our automated heating systems and other smart home solutions.

4 Ways Lighting Control Can Help You Save Money

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 19:36:11 GMT

4 Ways Lighting Control Can Help You Save Money

Convenient? Yes. Customized? Yes. Money saving? Yes! The average household spends around 5% of its electric bill on lighting. While replacing incandescent bulbs with more efficient ones can help save electricity, adding a lighting control system can dwarf those savings. Curious how? Read on.

Reducing Electric Bills

Automated lighting, or, lighting control systems, almost always generate savings on your electric bill. Here are some of the ways that works:

IFTTT (If This, Then That)

One of the simplest ways lighting control systems can save electricity is scheduling how the system works based on different triggers. For example, occupancy sensors can turn on lighting when someone enters a room and off again when the last person leaves. Other sensors can automatically adjust lighting based on the amount of natural light available, or the time of day and week, so you use electricity for lighting on bright, sunny days or times you're regularly away at work.

It Never Forgets

If you're the kind of person who passes through rooms leaving a trail of blazing lights behind you, lighting control can help! Motion and occupancy sensors can automatically turn off lights in empty rooms. Centralized controls mean you can also turn off all the lights from your phone when you realize you left them on.

Smart Controls

Newer lighting control systems are even "smarter" than their predecessors, and can track your lighting usage and habits, incorporating that information into their systems. This setup can be very effective at reducing electric usage with its ability to predict and adapt to your actual usage. Controls can also be set to minimize usage during peak hours.

Coordination With Other Systems

Smart lighting can communicate with other smart home components to offer even greater savings.For example, a system with both automated lighting and motorized window shades can work together to keep your space at a comfortable temperature and brightness, while using the least amount of electricity needed to do so.

A lighting control system isn't just an investment in convenience and cool gadgetry, it's an investment that can pay for itself over time. At Nextgen Multi Media, we are smart home design and installation experts. Contact us today to start exploring our lighting control system options and more.

What Is the Difference Between a Router and Wireless Access Point?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 19:18:09 GMT

What Is the Difference Between a Router and Wireless Access Point?

If, like most people, you find yourself adding more mysterious internet technology and equipment in your home or business, you may not feel quite sure what the differences are between some of them. Routers and wireless access points are two of the most confusing to differentiate, since their functions overlap quite a bit. Put briefly, a wireless access point is a subtype of router, but let's look a little deeper.

What Is a Router?

A router allows devices connected to your home or business network to communicate with each other. It can be a self-contained unit, or can be combined with a modem (a device that allows your network to access the internet) in a single unit, often called a gateway. Router communication can be wired (connected by a cable) or wireless (Wi-Fi) and includes:

Communication between devices in your home or office network, for example from your laptop to a shared printer, or casting from your phone to a Smart TV over Wi-Fi.
Communication between devices and the internet using the wired or Wi-Fi signal from your router, such as reading email or reading this article.

What Is a Wireless Access Point & How Is It Different?

As an end-user, the only difference you're likely to notice between a wireless access point (WAP) and a router is that you can only connect to a WAP over a Wi-Fi network, while most routers allow both wired and wireless connections. WAPs are connected to a router via high-speed data cables, and allow your network to expand further from a router (no more dead spots!), allow additional connections, and can create Wi-Fi if your router doesn't already. Typically, WAPs only communicate within your home or office network, while a router communicates both within that home or office network, and with the internet at large.

With rapidly changing technologies and requirements, choosing the best home or business network setup can be complicated and confusing, even if you feel tech-savvy. At Nextgen Multi Media, we're here to help you make sense of it all, and ensure you have a quality, cost-effective network that meets or exceeds your needs. Contact us today to see how we can put our expertise to use for you.

The Top 5 Home Automation Brands of 2021

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 08 Feb 2021 20:05:14 GMT

The Top 5 Home Automation Brands of 2021

Home automation is on the rise, and with so many players and brands out there, how do you know which to choose? Here at Nextgen Multi Media, home networking and automation is what we do, and we won't install anything we wouldn't use ourselves. Here are some of our favorites.

Control4

With a full range of home automation solutions, Control4 can help automate everything from climate control and home security to smart lighting, and multi-room audio systems . Even better, Control4 supports a vast array of third-party equipment and controls such as virtual assistants, streaming services, lighting, and smart locks.

Hunter Douglas

Familiar to anyone who's shopped for ceiling fans, Hunter Douglas offers automated blinds and shades to help keep your home comfortable and save on your energy bill.

Sonos

Would you like to enjoy your music throughout the house and outdoors without interruption? Sonos can provide it all, from seamless audio throughout your space to voice-controlled, theater-quality 3D sound, your ears will be in paradise.

Somfy

At Somfy, they design automated shades, blinds, and other window covering systems , as well as motorized projection screens, that can be integrated with other home automation systems and virtual assistants for ultimate comfort and convenience indoors and out. Their motorized shutters are an easy way to protect your home from severe weather and for added security, whether you're home or remotely.

Universal Screens

Versatile and stylish, Universal Screens produces motorized screens that can be used for any window, garage door opening, four season room, or other space where you want a screen's privacy and protection from insects and other pests at the touch of a button.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we offer top-quality networking and automation solutions for your home or business using only equipment from carefully selected partners. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

Create a 4 Seasons Room with Motorized Patio Shades

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Fri, 05 Feb 2021 20:09:58 GMT

Create a 4 Seasons Room With Motorized Patio Shades

Nearly everyone enjoys spending time outdoors when we're comfortable and conditions are pleasant. That changes when outdoor time is uncomfortable, or filled with annoyances like mosquitoes and other pests.

What Are Motorized Patio Shades?

Motorized patio shades are just like regular outdoor shades that you might mount around a patio or pergola, but these are motorized for easy control with a remote. Even better, they can be integrated with other smart devices and as part of a whole home automation system , so you can adjust them with your virtual assistant or smartphone, even when you're away.

How Can Motorized Patio Shades Create a Four Seasons Room?

If your patio or three seasons room has become more of a two seasons room, motorized patio shades can come to the rescue, making it comfortable to use in the hottest and coldest parts of the year.

Solar Heat

One of the primary reasons sunrooms aren't used is when they are too hot or too cold, even when the rest of the house is quite comfortable. Motorized shades can automatically close to block up to 80% of heat that enters your home through windows for summer comfort. In winter, they can open to help heat your space with that same solar power.

Light Blocking

Blindingly bright spaces aren't conducive to much relaxing, but patio shades can block the direct sun, so you have a well-lit, comfortable space to enjoy.

Privacy & Security

All the windows in a four seasons room are wonderful until you want more privacy. Motorized shades can be easily adjusted to your comfort level at the touch of a finger.

Convenience

Whether you adjust them with your virtual assistant, phone, on a timed schedule, or with sensors that respond to weather conditions, motorized patio shades are the ultimate in convenience, making your four seasons room completely comfortable.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we specialize in motorized indoor and outdoor shades as part of our line of home automation systems and solutions. Contact us today to see how we can make your space more comfortable, convenient, and fun.

How To Care for Your Automated Cooling System

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 19:47:04 GMT

How To Care for Your Automated Cooling System

Hot, humid, summer days make us grateful for the comfort of air conditioning, but the costs of keeping our homes cool and comfortable can be disheartening. Installing an automated cooling system in your home is an effective and convenient way to help lower those bills while keeping you cool, and requiring only a little routine maintenance.

What Is an Automated Cooling System?

Imagine a system that not only works like any thermostat to turn your air conditioning on and off, but one that can learn your preferences and patterns and predict when to cool things down more and when to ease off. Automated cooling systems can also be responsive to the environment, whether it's cooling more when you have extra people in the house, or when it's more sunny or humid outside. Systems can also be set to minimize running during peak hours, saving you money. Better yet? You can control all of it from your laptop or phone, making it easy to set the house to cool down if you're going home early.

Caring For an Automated Cooling System

You probably know all the basics of caring for your air conditioning system such as keeping the fins and evaporator coil clean, removing debris from the outside unit, replacing air filters, and so on. Caring for an automated system doesn't involve much more. These systems will generally notify you if they sense any issues such as weak airflow, compressor issues, or possible low refrigerant levels, and they can usually detect problems long before a person would. Catching any problems early on can save you a bundle in repair costs. Automated systems can also remind you about performing routine maintenance so you don't need to remember when to change your air filters.

Adding an automated home cooling system allows you to enjoy the comfort and convenience of a perfectly cooled home, and the added satisfaction that it's helping you save money. At Nextgen Multi Media, we can design and install a system to match your needs and exceed your expectations. Contact us today to learn more about all of our home automation and networking services.

Routine Maintenance for Your Automated Heating System

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Fri, 22 Jan 2021 19:30:19 GMT

Routine Maintenance for Your Automated Heating System

Among the many ways you can take advantage of home automation is making sure your home is always comfortable with an automated HVAC system. While this is an excellent way to simplify your life and add convenience, some routine maintenance will ensure your automated heating and cooling will keep your home comfortable for years to come.

What Is an Automated Heating & Cooling System?

Automating your heating and cooling system is an easy, affordable way to make your home more comfortable while saving on utilities, repaying your investment in short order. To do so, a smart thermostat (linked to your home network) is connected to your HVAC system to control when heating and cooling are needed. Similar to using a simple programmable thermostat, an automated system can be configured to heat or cool your home to specific temperatures at scheduled times of the day and week. This allows you to run your system less, and only keep it in your comfort range when you're home to enjoy it. Smart setups require less manual programming, and instead "learn" when and how long you typically need to use heating or cooling based on current conditions. Change of plans? Access the system on your phone and make the adjustments you need. Smart systems can also maximize off-peak electricity periods, and generally optimize your heating and cooling usage throughout the year.

Routine Maintenance for Your Automated Heating & Cooling System

Most of the routine maintenance an automated HVAC system requires is the standard type performed on this equipment regardless of how it's controlled. Smart setups usually also offer sensors and alerting systems. Many home automation systems will send notifications if potential problems are detected, from equipment failure or air flow blockages to filter replacement time and scheduled maintenance reminders — pay attention to these alerts and take action if necessary. Smart devices can catch problems before you might even notice.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we know how important it is to have a comfortable home. If you'd enjoy the convenience, safety, and reliability of a smart HVAC system, contact us to start planning.

Your Guide To Understanding Data Cabling

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 19:13:57 GMT

Your Guide To Understanding Data Cabling

In brief, data cabling is an organized home or business communications network. More specifically, data cabling is a carefully designed and installed network of wiring and connections which enable users and their devices to connect and communicate, sending and receiving data from each other and the internet and other telecommunications systems. Typical types of data cables include:

Coaxial — Familiar from cable TV; also used for broadband internet and others
Twisted Pair — Network and device connections, Ethernet, phone lines, and more
Fiber Optic — High-speed data, cable TV, and others

What's Connected?

These days, it seems like there's not much that's not connected (or connectable) to the internet. Data cabling can improve performance and reliability for your whole network, small or large, home or office, including such connected devices as:

Wi-Fi service
Laptops & desktop computers
Printers & copiers
VoIP phone service
Home theater systems
Data storage systems
Security cameras
Streaming and gaming services
Smart home (IoT) devices
Smartphones and tablets

How Data Cabling Helps You

Because it's a planned, organized system, rather than the build-as-you-go type of setup many of us have ended up with, a data cabling system can improve existing network:

Speed
Reliability
Expandability
Performance
Simplicity
Ease of use

Signs You Need a Data Cabling System

Some indications you could benefit from a data cabling system include:

Slow or lagging connections
Dreaded Wi-Fi dead spots
Network downtime
Adding Wi-Fi extenders, extra cables, and other stopgap solutions

At home or business, installing a data cabling system won't just make your life easier, it can improve productivity, add home value, simplify working from home, streamline maintenance, and more. At Nextgen Multi Media, we want you to take full advantage of the bandwidth and services you pay for, and our data cabling services are a cost-effective, long-lasting way to do so. Contact us today to learn more or to start planning your installation.

What Factors Affect Successful Data Cabling?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 18 Jan 2021 19:04:22 GMT

What Factors Affect Successful Data Cabling

Planning a home or business data cabling project can be a success if a few crucial factors are taken into consideration when planning the installation. Properly done, data cabling can improve your home networking and can greatly simplify adding smart devices and other connected products.

Benefits of Data Cabling

Data cabling is simply a system of connections (computer wires and outlets) in a network so that devices can share and communicate with each other over an internet connection.

Security — Cabled networks are a little bit more secure than wireless networks, and can simplify adding security systems.
Reliability — No more dead spots or poor connections
Speed — Faster cabled connections than wireless
Flexibility — Easily move devices around and connect anywhere

Factors Affecting Successful Data Cabling

Size and Layout of the Space to be Networked — Some cabling, like Ethernet, has limits on how far it can effectively carry data.
Network Speeds — Your cabling setup will depend on the data speed you need — and, room to grow in the future so your network remains effective.
What's Being Connected? — Do you just care about connecting computers, printers, and TVs, or are you planning on a home theater, security system, indoor or outdoor speakers, and multiple smart home devices? How many access points per room?
Types of Cabling — Different options such as broadband, fiber optic, Ethernet, or a combination can work better in specific installations.
Available Cabling Pathways — Where will your cabling run? Since most homes in our area lack basements, cabling often runs behind walls and baseboards and along other hidden routes. For best results, we'll want to plan on the shortest pathways to each access point.
Future Plans — Futureproof your home network by thinking ahead — are there smart devices you'll want to add later? Have you realized after recent times that having additional connections for home offices and other needs might be helpful?

Planning a home network data cabling project sounds complicated but it doesn't have to be. At NextGen Multi Media, our expert team is ready, willing, and able to partner with you in designing and installing a successful data cabling system. Contact us today to learn more and see how we can help.

Types of Motorized Interior Shades

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 20:08:09 GMT

Types of Motorized Interior Shades

Privacy, convenience, comfort, and protection, motorized interior shades have a lot to offer you and your home or business. Several types of interior shades are available in a variety of styles and colors to fit every lifestyle, decor, and budget.

What Are Motorized Interior Shades?

As you probably expect, motorized interior shades are what they sound like — shades for the inside of your home or business which are motorized for convenience, security, utility savings, and flexibility. They can be easily adjusted with a remote control or from your phone, tablet, or laptop, offering full control from wherever you are. While of course, you can adjust shades on demand, they can be programmed to open, adjust, and close at whatever times you'd like.

E ven better, motorized interior shades can be customized with your specific preferences, for example, a "Good Morning" setting can raise shades halfway in the bedroom to make it easier to get up, or a "Nighttime" setting can lower shades at dusk each day. Create a "Wake Up" setting to raise the blinds in kids' rooms to help wake them up for school in the morning!

Types of Motorized Interior Shades

Two popular styles of motorized indoor shades, blackout and roller shades, are distinguished primarily by the amount of light each style allows to pass through.

Blackout Shades

Best for keeping a room darker, blackout shades are popular for bedrooms, media rooms, and home theaters where you want to block most of the light out for better sleeping or viewing.

Roller Shades

Roller shades work best pretty much everywhere else — keeping your home or office well-lit while reducing the annoyance of overly bright light and the damaging effects incoming UV light can have on your furnishings and belongings.

At Nextgen Multi Media, motorized shades are one of our specialties. We have the expertise and years of experience to create an ideal shade system for your home, as a standalone setup or integrated into a home automation system. Contact us today to learn more.

Why Should I Get Video Distribution for My Home?

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 19:40:55 GMT

Why Should I Get Video Distribution for My Home?

Imagine throwing a party with multiple indoor and outdoor TVs showing the big football game? How about binge-watching your favorite new show as you move from room to room without missing a minute? If that sounds appealing to you, a home video distribution system might be a great addition to your home.

What Is Home Video Distribution?

A home video distribution system allows you to centralize the devices which receive video signals from the internet, cable, satellite dish, DVD, Blu-Ray, or other sources, in one spot and transmit them to any number of connected TVs in your home with the same high quality the signals enter your home.

Why Choose a Home Video Distribution System?

You may be wondering why you might want such a system — here are some great reasons.

Share Programming & Sources

Have you ever started watching a movie on your DVR in the living room but wanted to finish it in the bedroom, only you can't because it's on a different DVR? With a video distribution system, all connected TVs can receive signals from any of the source devices, so both TVs can connect to the same DVR.

Less Equipment & Subscription Savings

If you imagined the previous scenario, then you probably also caught on that a video distribution system can allow you to have fewer devices, since each device can send its signal to as many connected TVs as you'd like. This can eliminate the need for a separate cable box, satellite receiver or any other piece of equipment needing to be connected to individual TVs. Less equipment usually means fewer equipment rental fees, too.

Simplicity

By centralizing your equipment, not only can you reduce the number of device cords and cables that look messy and take up space by each TV, you can also keep your central system hidden away and your media stored all in one place, making your home tidier and opening up more space in other rooms.

If you like the idea of a powerful, easy-to-use system that makes it easy to access any content on any TV anywhere in your home, a home video distribution system is a good fit for you. At Nextgen Multi Media, we have the expertise to design an amazing video distribution system for your home. Contact us today to get started.

Understanding the Types of Lighting Control Systems

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Thu, 07 Jan 2021 19:26:34 GMT

Understanding the Types of Lighting Control Systems

Would you like some of your home or office lights to automatically come on when someone enters the room, or your outdoor lighting to come on at dusk and go off at dawn? No longer only for the wealthy, anyone can add a lighting control system to a home or business and take advantage of the comfort, safety, convenience, and energy savings they can offer.

What Is a Lighting Control System?

A lighting control system can be as basic as an on/off switch or as complex as motion sensor-triggered lighting. When these controls are networked together and are programmed and controlled through computers or smartphones, they become a lighting control system.

Benefits of Lighting Control Systems

Lighting systems have a lot more to offer than just the convenience of turning lights on from your phone. Some benefits include:

Energy Efficiency & Savings
Convenience
Safety
Personalization

Types of Lighting Control Systems

Lighting control systems can be standalone setups or they can be part of a full home automation installation. Types include:

Basic — Familiar, simple on/off switches
Dimmers — Switches, sliders, dials, or touchpads to select the brightness of lights connected to that control
Occupancy & Motion Sensors — Lighting that automatically goes on or off when people or movement trigger it
Integrated/Networked Systems — Customizable lighting that can be controlled from a remote, laptop, or phone to do everything from turning off all lights in a house from your phone to automatic lighting programmed to complement ambient light, to preset lighting combinations personalized for different uses of a room or for each person's individual preferences.

With the incredible technology now available, and frequent innovations, smart lighting control systems are available to meet every budget and fulfill every lighting dream, from single rooms to entire buildings. At Nextgen Multi Media, we can help you plan and install a system that will exceed your expectations. Contact us today to get started.

4 Reasons To Consider an Automation System for Your Business

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 28 Dec 2020 20:04:22 GMT

4 Reasons Why You Should Consider an Automation System for Your Business

Most people choose home automation systems for the comfort and convenience they offer. Security and utility savings are some of the benefits that fall a little further down the list, but these are two of the most compelling reasons to add an automation system for your business.

Utility & Other Cost Savings

Automating your business lighting and temperature control is one of the most effective ways to save on utility expenses. Systems can be designed to respond to environmental cues such as the weather or time of day, to take advantage of ambient light, outdoor temperatures, and other triggers. HVAC systems, similarly, can be set to function at peak efficiency with predictive "learning" and streamlined responses. By using your lighting and HVAC systems in a coordinated, more efficient way, you'll save on utility bills and minimize wear and tear on your equipment. Many lighting and HVAC retrofits are even eligible for tax deductions.

Added Security & Control

Automated systems can enhance your existing business security system, from motion sensor activation to monitoring activity, unusual usage patterns, and more. A reliable, effective data network is critical to any automation system, and with an upgraded network comes improved network security.

Increased Productivity

Fights over the thermostat in the office? Workers leaving a trail of lights on in storage rooms, closets, restrooms, and elsewhere? Dead or slow spots in your Wi-Fi coverage or problems with networked printers or other devices? From presets for specific work areas to one-touch after-hours settings, automated systems can help eliminate these issues, leaving you and your employees more time to focus on work.

Sometimes It's a Perfect Fit

Some types of businesses are just begging for automation. Imagine your restaurant with automated shades so the sun doesn't suddenly shine on diners, and coordinated audio and video indoors and for customers on the patio. How about automated lighting and shades in your conference room to make it easier to see screens and focus on presentations? Wow your customers with responsive lighting in your showroom.

At Nextgen Multi Media, we have automation solutions to improve any space, indoors or out, in any setting, home, office, or other business location. Contact us today to learn more about what we have to offer and how we can save you money.

8 Benefits to Home Automation

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 20:05:43 GMT

8 Benefits To Home Automation

If you're here reading this, there's a good chance you're already interested in what home automation has to offer. Whether you're just starting to explore the options and want to start with a smart heating and cooling system or whole-house audio, or are eager for all the bells and whistles, inside and out, home automation has a solution to make your life easier, more comfortable, and often, to save you money.

Benefits of Home Automation

Outfitting your home with an integrated automation system can improve nearly every aspect of your daily life. Here are a few:

Comfort

Combining the benefits of motorized shades and automated lighting and HVAC systems, your house can be perfectly comfortable all the time.

Convenience

Whether you're cozy on the couch, driving home from work, or away on vacation, using a central touchpad control, or your computer or smartphone, you can easily control any part of your home automation from anywhere at any time.

Labor-Saving

From simple tasks such as opening and closing the shades each day to chores like vacuuming and pool maintenance, home automation can do a lot of the work for you, leaving you free to enjoy yourself more.

Fun & Entertainment

Seamlessly stream your playlist to every room of the house, show the big game in multiple rooms at a time, or enjoy colorful lighting presets around the pool and patio. Home automation can make it happen.

Privacy

Home automation can add to your privacy with such tasks as automatically lowering shades at dusk or showing who's at the door, so you don't have to go and look.

Protection & Security

From cameras and monitoring to adjusting lights and connected devices, home automation can add to your security and peace of mind. Systems can also detect potential problems in HVAC systems, let you monitor your pets or children while you're away, and detect leaks and other problems.

Saving Money

Integrated HVAC and window shade systems can minimize electric use while keeping your house completely comfortable.

Adding Value

Automated systems are an investment in your home that pay off in increased home value.

At Nextgen Multi Media, home automation and networking are our specialties, from motorized shades and home theater to wireless networks and whole-house audio, we can make it happen. Contact us today to start fulfilling your smart home dreams.

Choosing the Best Motorized Shades for Your Business

Larry@nextgenmultimedia.com (Larry Baltazar) — Mon, 21 Dec 2020 22:42:34 GMT

Choosing the Best Shades for Your Business

Office and workplace decorating styles can vary as widely as the businesses they contain. They can add a clean, professional look and help create the environment you want. Unfortunately, there's no one-size-fits-all solution to selecting shades for a business. What works well in an office may be completely unsuited to a retail store or restaurant. Here are some ideas to help you select the type of interior motorized shades that will work best for your business.

Offices

Today's offices are filled with screens: computer screens, projector screens, phone screens, and more. Well-lit offices make it easier to work, but too much or too direct light can produce screen glare or fade out projected images, reducing productivity and wasting meeting time. Automated, motorized screens can be an excellent solution, automatically closing when direct sunlight triggers sensors. Blackout shades can make conference rooms dark enough that presentations are easily viewed.

Showrooms & Retail

If you have large display windows, you'll probably want to choose shades that prevent bright sunshine from damaging your valuable merchandise, but which still allow passers-by and future customers to easily look inside and be tempted to go in.

Restaurants

Depending on your restaurant style, you may want shades that block direct sunlight but still create a bright, light environment, or you may want room darkening shades for a cozier, more private feel. Regardless of your restaurant style, there's a motorized shade to suit your needs.

General Shade Features

The shades you choose will also depend on your primary goals, including blocking light and glare, adding comfort and privacy, and saving on heating and cooling costs. Easy cleaning and automated operation are equally important benefits that come with adding automated shades to your business.

At Nextgen Multi Media, motorized interior and exterior shades are one of our specialties, for both commercial and residential applications. Contact us today to learn more about installing them or adding them as part of an automated system.