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| EMagazine Volume 4 Issue 5 October 1999 |
Features |
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Interviews |
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Reviews |
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Toys Interview - October99 - [HTI Home Page] |
HomeTech Hot Products Continuously Updated [Click Message To Learn More] |
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Interview - Home
Entertainment Networks The CATS system requires only a few components to distribute and control DVD video quality signals: a receiver/controller (model # 2RAVIC) in each desired viewing location, a transmitter (model # 2TAVIC) for each A/V source desired to be continuously available to all zones, simple inexpensive CAT5 cable, and any learning IR remote control. |
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1. What is an entertainment network and what makes it different from a data or communication network?
An entertainment network allows access and control of various A/V sources from remote locations throughout the home or commercial establishment. If one uses current technology to distribute and control entertainment signals over twisted pair wires, there are no gross functional differences between data, communication and entertainment networks. The "fun providing feature" of the entertainment network is the fundamental difference.
2. What equipment and wiring do I need to install to provide a basic entertainment network in my home? What will I be able to do with it? How do I interface / control it?
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Wiring is the key topic of the day for the custom home install market. The buzzword now is "structured" wiring. Traditional solutions employ increasingly expensive, highly shielded, and inflexible cable products for signal distribution. Due to the limitations of channel modulation technology, coaxial cables are still the wire of choice for video distribution. These video distribution systems also require a control system to operate. This means yet another wire to manage! I feel that a revolution is on our doorstep for video distribution and source control. With DVD quality video distribution possible over inexpensive CAT5 cable, and simple feedback control technology available over the same CAT5 cable, why would someone bother with RG-6 and a separate control system anymore?
What can the systems do? Home entertainment systems let us have fun. You should also expect them to provide an educational and informational service as well.
Interface systems are something the end user should review thoroughly before purchase. Each brand has its own style of interaction. Take a test drive before you buy, this purchase will be something you use all of the time. All systems use some form of IR or RF carrier frequencies to effect control, and are hand-held, wall mounted, or use a table top touchpad. The more sophisticated interface systems use an RS-232 interface, like a computer. In fact, computers are being used more and more for controlling A/V content. Fortunately, all existing control systems are compatible with the CATS system.
3. Can I buy an entertainment network today? If not ... when? If so ... where? What will it cost?
Yes you can buy CATS today. The CATS system has been available to the custom install community for well over two years. However, word has been slow to spread about the systems powerful video quality and relative ease of installation. This situation is changing rapidly, as evidenced by the feature article in this months issue at HomeToys, and the tremendous interest shown at the recent CEDIA show in Indianapolis. CATS is cost competitive on jobs over 2000 sq ft, and actually at lower cost in larger applications when compared to traditional methods. This is not a truly fair comparison as CATS is the only method that delivers DVD quality video to the end location.
Most independent A/V retailers are affiliated with competent custom installers that offer entertainment network solutions. I suggest you ask them if they know about the CATS system. Check our website ( www.wireless-experts.com ) for a list of representatives and dealers. The products can also be purchased direct from Pragmatic.
4. Do I need a professional installer or can I do it myself?
As a minimum, I suggest talking with a professional before you rush out and buy anything. Take the time to find an organization you are comfortable with. Remember this system will be with you awhile. If you are handy you should be capable of playing some role in the A/V install process. Systems that have multiple active signals into multiple locations should be left to the professionals. Some rare individuals will be able to do it all, design, purchase, install, and troubleshoot. Be proud if you fall into this category of end user.
5. How does your entertainment network fit in with the concept of a "Home Network"? Will it be compatible with Home Networking systems in the future?
As the entire CATS system is controlled using simple IR frequencies and/or sophisticated RS-232 interfaces, it is ready for integration into any typical home network now.
6. What set's your Network apart from the competition?
The CATS system from Pragmatic provides DVD quality video after 1000 ft on a CAT5 cable!. (CD audio up to 5000 ft!). No other system can claim that level of video performance over inexpensive twisted pair wires, period. I believe that CATS or something similar will bring an end to video distribution over RG-6 coaxial or similar cables in the near future.
Jeff Springer is a second generation Californian, born November 15,1957 in Castro Valley. He was raised in the Eastern San Francisco Bay Area. Jeff, his wife Maile, and two children now reside in the redwood forest of La Honda, CA. He has a long interest in technology, science, audio/visual media, computers, and automation technology.
A degree in Chemistry was awarded at Sonoma State University in 1981. Jeff is a recognized inventor, and has been awarded numerous US and foreign patents. He has contributed to publications in DNA sequencing, brain oncology and environmental chemistry. However, Jeff had a strong desire to become closer to consumer products. The transition was made during his last scientific job, where project management and product marketing responsibilities eventually replaced research science as the primary job function. He has spent the last few years working in the multimedia industry, specializing in audio & multi-channel home theater environments. The focus of his company, Velocity Ventures (650 747 0897) is technology licensing, marketing / sales direction, strategic business planning and product development. As a consultant for Pragmatic Communications Systems Jeff is responsible for the marketing and technology licensing effort.
