FAQ

Consultation
We meet with the client (the end user or authorised representative) and discuss what is required in the property. This is normally done at the client's home or architect's offices. During this process, we will ask the client which rooms require audio, video and lighting control. We will suggest different speaker and user interface options during the consultation so the client has an understanding of what goes into every room at an early stage.

Proposal
Based on the information from the consultation, we produce a written proposal. Depending on the size and scope of the installation, the proposal could be broken down by system, for example: Home cinema, multi-room audio and video distribution.

First Fix
When the proposal is accepted, we produce a set of CAD drawings of the cable infrastructure and a wiring schedule for your electrical contractor. During this phase, we make regular scheduled site visits to project manage the cable installation. This is to ensure that every cable is in the correct location and is of the correct type. We prefer to supply the cable to ensure consistency of quality throughout the installation.

Termination
When first fix is complete, we test, label and terminate the cables.

Second Fix
This is when we install the hardware. Typically, keypads or touch screens, speakers and plasma screens. In the case of multi-room systems, we would also install the equipment rack at this time.

Commissioning
This is the final phase of the installation. The systems are configured and programmed.

We recommend that the equipment is rack-mounted in a convenient, accessible location. The rack should be accessible, as the client will need to visit it occasionally to load CDs and DVDs into the server. Although equipment can be installed in cupboards, regard must be given to ventilation.

It is depends on the project. We are usually last to leave site as the cleaner the environment the better when we install the electronics. Also, some input is required from the client during programming to establish lighting levels etc.

We will liaise with an approved aerial installer to ensure that all aerial and satellite dish requirements are met. With a multi-room system, all aerial feeds are run to the rack. DAB and FM tuners, Sky or Freeview receivers are located in the rack for distribution around the home.

For audio distribution, you will have an in-wall keypad or touch screen and a pair of speakers. Most clients opt for in-ceiling speakers, as they are very unobtrusive.

A touch screen is the best interface for a multi-room audio distribution system as it can display album and track titles. It can even display the album cover art. Additionally, you will be able to quickly browse and select your archived music library and will see the metadata from DAB radio stations scroll across the screen. Keypads are good solutions for minor rooms where less control is required.

No, we refer to this as wall clutter. Depending on the systems you select, different levels of integration can be achieved. Most multi-room audio systems offer some level of integration. A dedicated control system has the ability to control your entire environment from a single touch screen.

Yes, this isn't unusual for a home theatre, where many components need to be controlled. A press of a single button could:

• Power-up the projector
  
• Lower the screen
  
• Switch on the AV processor and power amps
  
• Switch on the DVD player
  
• Close the curtains
  
• Dim the lights

Once the DVD has been loaded, use the touch screen to navigate the menu and control the volume.

Lighting control is the ability to create pre programmed lighting scenes at the touch of a button. If any rooms contain several lighting circuits such as down lights, wall lights or table lamps, these can be controlled from a single touch screen or keypad. Lighting scenes are sometimes named for convenience, for example, entertain, watch movie or read. Lighting control can be installed on a room-by-room basis or a whole house lighting control system can be installed. A whole house lighting control system offers the greatest flexibility.

Creating and changing lighting scenes in any room can have dramatic effects. Dimming lights can save up to 40% energy and can extend lamp life by up to 20 times. This is good both for the environment and your bank balance!

You need to decide whether you want a dedicated home theatre room or whether you want to incorporate the system into you main TV viewing room.

If you want to install the home cinema in your living room, consideration needs to be given to aesthetics and what impact the equipment will have on your decor. We will do our utmost to make the system blend seamlessly with your interior decoration, without compromising on audio or video quality. In-wall or in-ceiling speakers can be used and the electronics can be hidden within cabinetry. We can even utilise a plasma lift mechanism so that the screen is concealed from sight when not in use.

For a dedicated home theatre, certain parameters should be adhered to. Room proportions should be taken into account to ensure accurate and faithful reproduction of the soundtrack and picture as intended by the director. This can involve bass level and integration, power output, room equalization, screen size, display device light output, ambient light levels, background noise and listening position. All these factors are taken into account by Electric Interiors during our design process.

• We are passionate about what we do
  
• We are true enthusiasts; we have installed systems in our homes
  
• We have over 20-years experience and have countless satisfied customers
  
• We are highly trained and certified by HAA (Home Acoustic Alliance) and ISF (Imaging Science Foundation)
  
• We pay great attention to detail. We are meticulous in our work and scrupulously clean. We will treat your home with the utmost respect.
  
• We are polite, courteous and professional.
  
• We only recommend quality, performance equipment which we have selected based on our vast personal experience in the AV industry.
  
• We can either work directly for the end user or their authorised representative (interior designer or architect)
  
• We have demonstration facilities (by appointment only)
  
• From concept to commissioning, Electric Interiors has the experience, passion and expertise to design and install the perfect system for you.