Q: In which system order (control, security, home network, multiroom audio/video) do you recommend to start a fully automated home or MDU that is already built? Please be advised there’s a need to retrofit most of these systems through AC wires. Trying to avoid to run new cables. — Antonio Ducreux, Panama

Due to the limitation of not being able to hardwire the new components, I would suggest using trusted wireless technologies and products.  I would personally start with a professional grade wireless security system from Visonic or Risco and then work my way into setting up a WiFi network using equipment from D-Link, Belkin, etc.

Can’t speak much for the aspects besides Audio, but Nuvo has a pretty nice distributed audio system that is powerline based. It is called the Renovia. Its scalable and good at what it does, which unfortunately is just multi-room audio.

Look at two issues.  1) What are your passions; e.g., music, movies, etc. 2) What are the most useful/plentiful systems; e.g. security, lighting control, etc.  Budget to nstall both a common system because they are obviously thought of as necessary by many and one that appeals to your interests.

Possibly energy management?? Control4 or Zwave products like Wayne Dalton would fit the bill, and you can build from there.

Or: surround sound with wireless rear speakers/subs—plenty available

Lots of very good wireless security systems on the market, of course.

Whole-house music would be a good starting point. Sonos is a killer but you can’t build on that because it doesn’t integrate with third-party controllers. Russound and Nuvo’s powerline audio systems will be great ... when they are released.

Steve Crowe - 19 June 2009 05:37 AM

Q: In which system order (control, security, home network, multiroom audio/video) do you recommend to start a fully automated home or MDU that is already built? Please be advised there’s a need to retrofit most of these systems through AC wires. Trying to avoid to run new cables. — Antonio Ducreux, Panama

RTI just released their ZigBee 2-way capable remote systems.  These will interface via RS-232 to provide wireless access and feedback for a variety of systems, including iPod control with cover art and metadata, AprilAire communicating thermostats, Lutron lighting, Escient media servers, and others.  Pair the RTI with a Nuvo Renovia system (good advice from the other comments!) and you have a pretty impressive whole home system without having to rewire the entire house.

You may also consider going to the trouble to retro in new wiring.  With CEA2030 standard wiring (a cat5e and a 16/4) to each room, you will be able to choose from a much wider selection of brands and products, and, unlike a wireless or powerline system, it would be an investment that would add equity to your home!  (you also would have a much better sounding audio system, and much improved reliability for the home automation)

Steve Crowe - 19 June 2009 05:37 AM

Q: In which system order (control, security, home network, multiroom audio/video) do you recommend to start a fully automated home or MDU that is already built? Please be advised there’s a need to retrofit most of these systems through AC wires. Trying to avoid to run new cables. — Antonio Ducreux, Panama

I always recommend starting with your Control “layer” first with the assumption that you already have stand alone systems. Then you can integrate each system as time and budget allows. So, at first you Control system might be a glorified “universal remote”.

Next I would do AV. You will more than likely need to run new cable especially for the video. There are wireless audio and powerline audio systems out there, but not so much when you add video into the mix.

Lastly, I would integrate security, climate and lighting. I know you only mention security, but a fully automated home would include these systems.

You should take a look at Control4. They would be a good match for what you are looking to do. You will need to be a dealer or get a dealer involved. http://www.control4.com

Steve Nicola
Smarthomes Chattanooga
[ Audio. Video. Simplified. ]
http://www.smarthomeschattanooga.com

Steve Crowe - 19 June 2009 05:37 AM

Q: In which system order (control, security, home network, multiroom audio/video) do you recommend to start a fully automated home or MDU that is already built? Please be advised there’s a need to retrofit most of these systems through AC wires. Trying to avoid to run new cables. — Antonio Ducreux, Panama

Hola, i live in Panama Also. Its been said here. What is it that you want from your system first, second and third. Then you can start makink choices. There are a lot of wireless and powerline alternatives. But even if the apartment is already build there are always ways to run some wires (Best Alternative).

If you want please email me direcctly camilo at powerlink-net punto com or call me at 6611-7309

Saludos,

I’m confused, is this a home owner asking, a technical DIY type or someone who will enlist the help of a professional?

Choosing which subsystem to start with would depend on the overall approach I would think.
Will everything be located in one central area with A/V distribution throughout the home via matrix switching? Or will everything be de-centralized with equipment located locally in each room?

For a centralized system I would start with Control and A/V distribution, you will need the infrastructure in place before moving on to other subsystems. Then add wireless security, hvac and lighting products.

For decentralized, you can basically tackle it room by room, so long as you have carefully planned ahead the entire scope of the project. Even in this scenario, it may be best to start with the Control system, then bring each subsystem or room AV online one by one.