In the era of online shopping and curbside pickup, there are thousands of options of different gadgets and gizmos that all claim to be “just what you need”. Here’s our top picks on the things that really are beneficial to your system:
1. IP Controlled Surge Protectors & Power Conditioners
Power surges are inevitable and if you don’t already have all your household electronics on a surge protector – especially your expensive home theater system – you are already in a bad spot. A surge protector provides basic protection from high voltage spikes; a power conditioner takes it a step further and provides thorough filtration of disruptive electrical signals and fluctuations. Either way, it is crucial to make sure your system and the equipment you invested in is protected. It is also highly convenient to be able to access the system to check its status and troubleshoot without having to call in a professional. The Wattbox IP controlled surge protectors & power conditioners we recommend can be accessed through an app called OVRc, which will give you a breakdown of what devices are or are not connected to the network, and allow you to reboot each product or the whole system. OVRc can also be accessed remotely by an admin, so the installer can monitor your system, proactively resolve issues in the background and provide peace of mind.
2. UPS Battery Backup Systems
If you want to go a step further, you can get a UPS battery backup system that can keep your system running even after a power outage. This is especially important if you work from home and rely on wifi. Not only can a UPS battery backup provide a backup power option for your system, but it can regulate the voltage to your system to prevent damage as well as prevent data loss that can occur if your system shuts down at random. In addition, having a battery backup can eliminate the risk of voiding manufacturer warranty of your system components, which sometimes requires voltage protection to qualify for warranty. Keep in mind the capacity and voltage rating of each backup system will affect how long it will run during a power outage.
3. Audio Video Racks
Even if you don’t have a very large system, it is better to have a centralized location for all your equipment. A rack allows for proper spacing & ventilation, and provides better accessibility. A/V racks are easily adjustable, with removable shelves and have the option to be wall mounted, or even set on tracks to fit within a cabinet. Most manufacturers provide “rack mountable” models of their products and also can provide kits to make your equipment rack mount ready.
4. Universal Remotes
Multiple remotes means more headache and a higher likelihood of not being able to control one component because the remote you thought belonged to it turned out to be for something else. A universal remote can be tailored to your system and setup so that a single button can send out a whole list of commands – such as “system on” will turn on your TV, AVR, speaker system and cable box all at once. Another benefit of having a universal remote is being able to use it on multiple systems, so that your lighting control, shade control and audio control is all on one remote.
5. Outdoor Access Point
If you spend a lot of time outside, whether it be by the pool or in the garden, having an outdoor wifi access point would be a good investment, especially if you are looking to stream music or watch TV outside. Plus, you’ll be able to keep your pool controller, irrigation system or security system online and easily accessible. Having a strong wifi signal shouldn’t just be reserved for indoor activities. Outdoor wifi access is a huge benefit for your guests and your family; if you’ve got teenagers they may be more likely to go outside and if you’re a sports fan, you won’t have to miss the big game because of the “spinning wheel of death”.
Have questions or would like to see these products in action? Stop by the Bond’s showroom at 1010 West Lynn Street in downtown Austin. Or, give us a call at (512) 476-3551.