Skip to main content

Welcome! What's On Your Mind?

Go Ahead, Search Our Blog...

WIFI ISSUES?

WiFi_Graphic_Blog_59631e579425430e2916324927bd7112

Building materials are a big one.  If you have marble or concrete floors, you’re probably going to have issues with your WiFi signal between floors.  Are your walls concrete, stone or metal?  These are beautiful aesthetically, but also amazing WiFi blockers.  Even things like energy-efficient glass or a fish tank can impede your WiFi signal (we know – Goldie is fun to look at, but he isn’t good at boosting WiFi). 

From a technical perspective, there are a few easy things you can do to troubleshoot your signal issue.  First, check for damaged cables and make sure that cables are pushed in all the way.  Next, have you considered the age of your router and the devices that you are using via WiFi? Older devices have limited capabilities and it may be time for you to consider an upgrade.  It’s also important that you make sure you are running the latest system software. 

With so many things to consider when troubleshooting WiFi signal issues, we know that it can feel overwhelming at times, but we are here to help.  Echo Workshop has lots of networking upgrades like Wireless Access Points (WiFi 6 is available and WiFi 7 is on its way) to help boost your signal, as well as expert technicians to help you diagnose the culprit and improve your WiFi signal. 

THE AESTHETICS OF TECHNOLOGY

Photo_Blog_Interior_Design_cee7828f5a66b48d9932b03e1a6e7963

Do you want the convenience of a television in your formal living room, but hate the idea of technology ruining your design aesthetic?  Echo Workshop has a couple of beautiful options for you to consider.  If you enjoy the look of a mirror above your fireplace, the Séura Entertainment TV may be what you’re looking for.  This gorgeous mirror transforms into a television when switched on.  Or if you would like to take a more artistic approach, The Frame by Samsung would be a perfect addition.  The Frame displays a stunning 4K picture when on and your favorite art when turned off.

Your lighting should adapt seamlessly to your activities and schedule.  Echo Workshop personally designs each project to meet your specific needs.  Lutron lighting not only improves the ambiance in your space, it helps save energy and money, enhances the safety and security of your home, and can even improve your health.

Technology devices and fixtures can be bulky and, quite frankly, ugly.  Trufig is designed to make things like power outlets disappear.  With no trim and finishes to match every surface, your eye is no longer drawn to it and it blends into your space. 

The Sonance Invisible Series produces beautiful ambient sound with no impact on your design.  These speakers are installed in your ceiling or walls and are finished over with the surrounding surface, making them invisible.  Yes, you heard that right – they are completely invisible.

There are so many options for integrating technology into your home without compromising your design dreams.  From TVs that will go completely unnoticed until you want to watch them, to speakers that are invisible, Echo Workshop has the ability to integrate all of the most advanced technology into your home while taking nothing away from its beauty.

TECHNOLOGY & CONSTRUCTION PLANNING

Home_Being_Built_d52b0daffce98265ac155806f6f3b9bd

In this day in age, good connectivity is everything and we want to be able to connect with ease in every room in the house!  Having a solid cabling infrastructure is the beginning of that.  Where do cables need to be run for cameras, TVs, WiFi access points, and other tech devices, where will your computer sit in your new office, where will you house your modem, will you need a rack for your technology components, does your rack room need a vent, where will the optimal location for your wireless access points be, do you know where your main cable from your internet service provider will be entering your home?  There is a lot of planning that goes into this and our experts can help.

You may have heard that there are current supply chain challenges in the building industry.  The same holds true with technology.  Having an expert guide you through options in entertainment, lighting, shades, and networking takes a lot of the sting out of the planning.  Our experts can see what is available or when your favorite brand may be available again.  Early planning is also optimal when it comes to selecting smart home features that can save you time and money and improve your quality of life.  Features like programmable thermostats and automated shades and lighting by Lutron are big energy savers.  Smart locks, fire and carbon monoxide detectors, and whole-home security will give you the peace of mind that your family is protected when you’re home or away. 

Technology is evolving daily and is an extremely important aspect of our work and leisure time.  Getting all of your choices outlined and sourced before the day of installation is obviously the best plan.  At Echo Workshop we spend a great deal of time listening to what you want and designing a system specifically for you – a system that not only works today, but is designed to grow with you in the future.

SMART HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Smart_Home_78e883e12ed4bd2b23451a7175f38d91

Lights and Shades:  To simulate human activity, just like your parents were attempting, you can now set your TV, lights, and shades to varying schedules.  With one touch you can set your smart home to “vacation mode” to make different rooms throughout your home “come to life” on a schedule that will make it seem like your home.

Smart Thermostats and Locks:  Oh, no!  You’re at the airport and forgot to set the thermostat to “vacation mode?”  You can take care of that remotely, via an app.  Does Aunt Martha need to get into your house to borrow your rolling pin?  You can unlock your door remotely, and then re-secure your home when she’s gone. 

Security:  We could talk about options in security all day, but taking some simple steps like motion-sensor lighting, cameras, smart smoke detectors, and video doorbells are a great start.  Give yourself the ability to monitor your home while you’re away.

Of course, using your smart home technology when you’re home for the holidays can also streamline your life.  Consider having your holiday lights or winter village programmed into your smart system.  Or set your favorite holiday “scene” in your smart system for the perfect lighting, sound, and video with just one touch.

Whether you already have a smart-home system and need help making it work right for you, or are considering upgrading your home with smart technology, Echo Workshop is here to help.

Tags

Categories

Blog 44