Insights on home technology
Clear, practical answers about networking, audio, video, security, and smart home systems, written by Christopher Khachigian and drawn from real-world installations.
The best security camera systems without a subscription: how local recording works
How security camera systems with no monthly fees work, what an NVR is, how long footage is kept, and how many cameras a typical home needs.
Why does my Sonos keep cutting out or not connecting?
Sonos keeps cutting out, disconnecting from Wi-Fi, or not connecting at all? Here are the most common causes, from weak Wi-Fi to router settings, and how to fix them for good.
UniFi vs. eero & mesh Wi-Fi: what's best for a large home?
Comparing Ubiquiti UniFi with consumer mesh Wi-Fi like eero, Nest Wifi, and Orbi: coverage, speed, reliability, cost, and which one fits your home.
Control4 vs. a DIY smart home: what's the difference?
How a professionally installed Control4 system compares to a DIY smart home with Alexa, Google Home, or Apple Home: reliability, control, cost, and who each is right for.
Smart home wiring for new construction: the pre-wire checklist
Building or remodeling? What to pre-wire before the drywall goes up: Cat6, Wi-Fi access points, speakers, cameras, TVs, shades, and an equipment rack. A practical checklist for homeowners and builders.
Wi-Fi not reaching upstairs, the garage, or the backyard? Here's how to fix it
Why Wi-Fi doesn't reach upstairs, the garage, the back of the house, or the backyard, and how to fix dead zones for good: router placement, extenders, mesh, and wired access points.
Mounting a TV over a fireplace and hiding the wires: what to know
Thinking about a TV over the fireplace? Heat, viewing height, pull-down mounts, brick and stone, and how to hide TV wires in the wall safely and to code.
Why don't the Ethernet ports in my house work?
Ethernet wall ports in your house not working? The most common reasons: nothing connected at the other end, no switch, phone jacks instead of Ethernet, or bad terminations. How to find and fix the problem.
The best whole-home audio system: Sonos vs. traditional multi-room audio
Choosing a whole-home audio system: Sonos vs. traditional distributed audio, in-ceiling vs. outdoor speakers, how many zones you need, and what installation involves.
Control4 vs. Crestron vs. Savant: which smart home system is right for you?
Comparing Control4, Crestron, and Savant home automation: ease of use, flexibility, device compatibility, cost, and why the installer matters as much as the brand.
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