Q. I currently am a remodeling contractor, and I am looking to concentrate on home theater rooms from basic to extreme. I have installed dozens of flat-panel TVs and ran concealed wiring for the TVs and surround sound systems. What type of training do you suggest for marketing and equipment specs as I move forward? Thanks - Rodger

Hi Roger, there are several training programs from organizations such as the Imaging Science Foundation (ISF), the Home Acoustics Alliance (HAA), CEDIA, CEA TecHome Division and THX that all provide a great foundation for correctly installing home theater and A/V.

THX’s education is the easiest to market to consumers because some people already know the logo or are familiar with its association with George Lucas and Lucasfilms.

THX has a popular certification program that tests and brands everything from TVs, speakers, A/V receivers, USB mics, automobile audio systems and sheetrock. Its logo is featured on countless DVDs and Blu-ray discs.

The other organizations I’ve listed do not have that type of reach and/or brand recognition.

I would recommend that you take the THX courses first to get certification and then augment it with the other groups, because they all bring something different to the table.

THX also lists dealers on its website and allow certified dealers to use its logo, and these are nice marketing points to consider, too.

There are also solid computer and IT educational programs from BISCI and CompTIA. CABA also offers educational resources on the building automation category as well.

Rodger,

A well executed home theater build requires expertise from several disciplines.

Several electronic pieces come together to make a great home theater electronics setup.  Among those are the display, whether a wall-mounted flat panel TV or front or rear projection system; the surround processor; video sources including Blu-ray, satellite receivers, cable boxes, AppleTV, etc. and their attendant video signal needs such as HDMI; speakers; and theater seating and their options (such as bass transducers).  The level of complexity of the system will determine the necessary level of control, from a simple programmable remote up to a full control system with touch panel.  At the top end there are also additional video processors such as Crestron’s DVP-HD picture-in-picture processor.

Also, depending on the owner’s budget, you may need interior decorating expertise, experience with custom cabinetry and a knowledge of available products that fit well into a custom theater.

With a good understanding of the electronics and aesthetics, you’ll be able to design a unique space that takes issues such as acoustics and motorized accents into account.

Hope this helps
Lance Beasley
http://www.encoelectronics.com

Hang in there Roger! There are training/certification courses under development to certify individuals, such as yourself, as Home Theater/Screening Room builders!

Best wishes and Happy New Year

Dennis Erskine
Erskine Group, Inc.
Architectural Acoustics
http://www.erskine-group.com