While it is true that residential structured network cabling has been around for some time, developers and installers would do well to sit up and take notice of the recent growth in the trend for integrated consumer electronics in the home.

At present there are still several obstacles preventing smart homes from becoming the norm. For example, the installation of intelligent home control and consumer electronics is largely limited to refurbishments, causing inevitable upheaval to the fabric of the building. Yet, it is at the development stage that these systems can be installed most easily.

More and more homeowners want a house with some form of added functionality, from a flexible convergent entertainment system to improved security and safety. For example, structured network technology enables parents to monitor what their children are viewing on the Internet, or to set auto-sensors to alert them when a gas or water leak has occurred. The possibilities are practically limitless.

In the current market, there is a dearth of new properties that offer these options. By installing these features at little extra cost during the building stage, developers can create modern homes that stand out in the slowing housing market. It is time for property developers to embrace the consumers’ desires and build well connected homes.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor

Postscript

Sean Jordan, Enhanced Living, Schneider Electric