Future Lifestyle

IPTV for Spain

2011-02-12T04:34:00.000-08:00

Coming to Spain soon will be a new IPTV platform called Woomi. It aims to make streaming movies and television shows as simple as channel hopping. At first it will be available as an app for Samsung’s Internet@TV and Smart TV televisions, which Future Lifestyle are great fans of. Woomi corrals a diverse collection of content channels for easy browsing and uses metadata for dynamic, intelligent searching.

The founder Ian Valentine has said. ‘Woomi is the engine that enables a wide variety of content providers to stream directly to your TV. Small film labels and content owners that don’t have the resources to develop their own apps (as well as larger brands that don’t feel a need too) will use Woomi. We make it very easy for them to build a business. For viewers this means a broad selection of free and low-cost PPV TV shows and movies available with just a few clicks of the TV remote control.’

The company says it is currently in advanced discussions with other portal owners to take the service. One TV maker which has signed up is Vestel, the largest OEM supplier of TVs in Europe. Vestel is responsible for manufacturing screens and set-top boxes for a wide range of household brands including Alba, Grundig and Bush. Vestel product manager Chris Jones told HCC that Woomi would be included on its upcoming connected TV models. Vestel is partnering with Yahoo to usher in a new Yahoo Connected TV platform to more than 40 countries this year. In addition to Woomi, these sets will also include Facebook, Twitter, Sky News and Ebay apps.

So what’s Woomi have to offer?
Woomi may not be the place to go for the latest blockbuster movie releases, but the service does offer a diverse range of content for those with more eclectic tastes: EZ Takes offers long-forgotten horror movies, foreign material and animation; Disclose.tv is dedicated to weird WTF news; Box Office 365 offers classic TV shows, including cult favourite The Prisoner, while Sail TV specialises in nautical programmes. TV rentals start at 99p, with most films pegged at £1.99. All content is standard-definition, but quality varies. Some providers offer so-called HQ streams with higher bitrates. These have the potential of approaching DVD clarity. 'It’s entirely up to the content provider at what quality level they intend to stream,' says Valentine.

One aspect of the Woomi service which is compelling is its cross-channel recommendations. For example, choose to rent (for 24 hours) the 1939 animated version of Gulliver’s Travels and in the main menu’s recommendation bar you’ll be given the option of watching the trailer for Jack Black’s recent remake.

As the year progresses we will see the lines between the TV and the internet blur even more. More and more flat screens have the capability to surf the internet (although not always easy with the remote) and as bandwidth gets larger we will still increase in service like this. We say bring it on!!!.......the days of the satellite dish may be drawing to a close.........

Why do some people insist that home automation just doesn´t work?

2011-01-06T07:38:00.000-08:00

This attitude is becoming more common as our industry matures. The problem lies with peripheral tradesman trying to muscle in on the home automation explosion... electricians, satellite engineers and even computer technicians have all tried to get in on the act... people that do not have the appropriate skill set have been short changing the customer by installing a system poorly...

you wouldn´t ask dentist to take a look at your feet now would you??

We have been to meet potential clients only to be put on the back foot because of the integrator of his previous installation hadn't properly designed and carried out the job. We explain that the home automation systems that he will be purchasing for this home are different and better than his last one. Manufacturers and integrators alike have learned from (and listened to) clients just like him to make the current products enhance his lifestyle effortlessly, rather than serve as a source of aggravation. We have met clients who felt the same way he does and now regrets his decision to not at least pre-wire for resale value. The pre-planning of the design, materials and installation of just the tubework alone for such a system is a worthwhile exercise. It can be used as an added feature of the house when it comes to sell it, even if you do not use the pre-installation yourself.

Systems continue to become more reliable and robust as each generation is refined.

Architects in Spain are slowly understanding that houses of a certain standard should at the very least have some kind of control. Whether is be for the lights, air conditioning or a complete entertainment system. So if you are about to build a new house or renovate your existing home now is the time to think about at least pre-installing for a home automation system. And if you do want to move into the future, go with a company that has experience in such installations. True, the electrician or even your mate from the pub may be able to do it cheaper, but a well thought out design is the key to a good and secure system.

Installations that will grow & adapt to your wants and needs.

In truth 'you can´t win 'em all.....' Some people get their fingers burnt by inexperienced installation companies and understandably do not want to go down the same road again. We feel for these people, they have spent good money and have been sold short and now wonder what all the fuss is about with things such as, HD and 3D content, surround sound amps set ups and Blu-ray DVD. If you are one of those then maybe now is the time to give our industry another try. With the right installation company you will not be disappointed.

Words like simple, improved, dependable, enhanced, easier, stable, trouble-free, less complicated best describe a Future Lifestyle installation.

If you would like to know more about designing a home of the future or you need help with an underperforming installation, give the Future Lifestyle team a call and book a free consultation. Let us help you put your faith back in technology.......

email info@futurelifestyle.es or call +34 902 107 227

Broader than broadway.....

2011-01-05T09:26:00.000-08:00

In 2009 Philips released a flat screen with a unique 21:9 (2.40:1) aspect ratio. Its appeal to home cinema aficionados was immediate and obvious. Your favourite movies would no longer be displayed with black bars top and bottom – instead, every inch of the TV would be used to display your hi-def movies in all their glory.

Now Philips has revisited the concept, but this time adding controllable LED backlighting, 3D playback and a couple more inches of screen size to boot. And what do we think... Wow!!

The Philips 58" Cinema 21

The Cinema 21:9 Platinum leave even the most 3D-skeptical boggle-eyed. But in a good way. Real-world contrast was measured at an exceptional 259,853:1, and only minor calibration was required to achieve class-leading picture performance – including 3D visuals that are pretty much free from crosstalk.

Impressive, too, is the Philips' audio and Smart TV features - in fact, it's only really the lack of a Freeview HD tuner that lets this set down.

At around €4,000 for a 58” it's not for nothing, but quality like this never comes cheap. Philips' Cinema 21:9 platinum is undoubtedly the most technologically advanced screen you can buy and challenges Samsung's UE55C9000 as the most desirable. It takes superb pictures, boasts solid audio and extensive features and wraps them in a gorgeous, uniquely-shaped frame.

Really, the only thing wrong with it is its lack of a Freeview HD tuner – but that doesn't stop it bagging full marks. It's not a question of should you buy one, it's just whether or not you can afford to.

To find out more about the latest in flat screen technology or to find out what size TV and type of screen would best suit your home, contact the Future Lifestyle team to book a free consultation.....

The Connected Home

2010-11-24T09:31:00.000-08:00

There was a time when the commercial audiovisual experience could pretty easily trump what people had as their home systems, if they even had a home system. But now, just as with home-based IT, residential audio-video and control systems reflect what goes on in the workplace and entertainment spaces and vice versa. Everybody’s an end-user now, especially at home.

Commercial World

We know that the kind of reliability that’s seen in the commercial AV environment demands installation of the best equipment available, but we have seen the amount of products available suitable for home integration increase greatly. And it is has been proven by digital video and audio production, consumer and commercial do eventually converge.

IP Networks

With knowledge of both the residential and commercial worlds, it is important to us to get the message out about the new world of integrated systems.

Ten years ago, it was a luxury to have an ethernet network at the workplace. It was rare to have the IT department’s cooperation to understand that it was OK for AV devices to live on the network and that there were productivity gains that could be achieved by having them there....

- Now it’s a convenience and luxury that has grown into a necessity.

End-users want networks that talk to each other and networks they can access remotely and control from a web-based or phone-based graphical user interface (GUI). Being able to monitor their home, regulate it and ensure it’s energy efficiency is of prime importance.

Client’s don’t want borders between audio-video, heating & cooling, lighting, IT and security but want immediate access from anywhere via the internet or their mobile phone.

Responsibility

As stewards of both our businesses and our customers’ needs within our industry, we appreciate today’s customer is increasingly influenced by professional advice and it is our responsibility to steer them toward the proven and the bulletproof in all aspects of installation within the home.

The Future

With a Cat5e cable backbone HDTV, audio, telephony and broadband internet can function seamlessly throughout. Even wireless connection can be made a stable option using access points connected to the IP network. This combined with lighting, heating and cooling functions, security and door entry systems makes for a fully connected home.

We are entering a new time in home system control where home cable networks will truly be the backbone of the property and reflect in it’s valuation - It will drive the demand for design.

Customers’ expectations are influenced by their experiences outside and understand the networks and the providers behind them offer what is now everyday living to them. Therefore we need commitment in delivering a quality infrastructure within the fabric of the home design which will set us apart from all the other system engineers who are talking to our customers.

Soon everyone will be speaking the language of ‘centralised control’ from their own viewpoint and vocabulary. We feel there is a responsibility now to voice how in-house entertainment should lead the way in home network installation, providing all the benefits that come with it to our mutual customers within the building industry.

The benefits

A home network enables the full integration of many sub-systems:

Independent control via wall mounted touchscreens, handheld remote control units or wifi tablets - All elements controlled through icon driven interfaces.
Fast stable internet service and wireless network for whole house coverage.
High Definition Video distribution to every screen location – streaming of video on demand programs, online film rental and other internet services to all TV’s.
Speaker points in all rooms for ambient sound throughout.
Multiple satellite systems with PVR (personal video recorder) functionality.
Share video sources (one satellite receiver can service multiple screens).
Centrally located music sources played through discreet speakers
All audio-video components hidden away with no visible wiring.
Interconnection of iPod docks, Music servers, Apple Products and internet radio sources throughout the whole house.
Home office for file sharing and networked equipment like NAS (storage), faxes and printers.
Linking games consoles and allowing online gaming in multi-rooms.
Numerous data points for intercom system and VoIP Telephony options.
CCTV and Door entry systems with sensors for security – viewable online.
Automated Lighting Control with motion sensors, timers and scene selection.
Automated Climate Control for under-floor heating and air conditioning.

All this adds value to a property and allows for future upgrades in the home.

Understanding

It is only now it is being understood that many devices can live together and interact with each other for fully integrated systems and thanks to the continual success of the commercial world, integrated home installations can benefit from adopting those solutions that IT have already solved.

Summary

Whole environment automation requires that in-home entertainment be conversant and interactive with the environmental management, security and IT elements of the system - all of these control ‘islands’ now collide into a new ‘supercontinent’ we can now refer to as ‘home automation control.’

The Digital Home

2010-11-24T04:21:00.000-08:00

A Digital Home network allows the integration of everyday products to be integrated seemlessly into the home without the need for numerous switchplates and dimmer switches or remotes to control all the features that a modern home of today possesses - An obvious benefit to the end user as we can see in other more advanced areas of the world, this type of installation is fast becoming obligatory in all reform and new build projects.

A Digital Home installation allows the end user to operate all elements of the home built into one system: multi-room audio / video playback and surround sound installations, satellite systems, security systems, heating, lighting and blinds.

The added value of a home network that a digital home provides far outweighs the actual cost to the client or developer by pre-installing one during the build stage. Many end user clients do not appreciate until afterwards the added benefit this represents and even if they are not planning to utilise the network to its full potential from the beginning, in 5 to 10 years time when they come to sell their property it will still be up to date and ready for all modern day installations which may well end up being the difference between a quick and a drawn out sale.

The importance of a Home Network - (see also our 'Connected Home' article)

A Data Network with a Cat5e/Cat6 backbone enables stable communication throughout the home for integration of fundamental elements in today's living:

Fast stable internet service
High Definition Video distribution to every screen location – streaming of video on demand programs, online film rental and other internet services to all TV’s
Home office file sharing and networked equipment like faxes and printers
Linking games consoles and allowing online gaming in multi-rooms
Numerous phone points with intercom system – with VoIP options
Speaker points in all rooms for ambient sound throughout
Touchpanels and In wall keypads installation for control with 2-way communication
CCTV security

Everyday products can now be integrated so all the different sub-systems in the home work together.

There are 4 key elements a digital home incorporates....

Comfort, Security, Energy Efficiency and Communication.

Control Options -

User Interfaces

Various user interfaces range from in-wall touchpanels, handheld remotes control units controlling a graphic interface on TV screens, wireless touchscreens and iPad tablets as well as smart phones like the iPhone.

Many controlpanels enable the user to see the files they are scrolling making source and song selection easy as the data will show up on each interface for navigating the system.

In Wall Keypads

A basic in-wall keypad normally consists of hard buttons to perform common tasks such as triggering play, stop, and pause. The benefit of keypads is that they’re usually discreet, reliable, multi-purpose and incapable of getting lost in the sofa cushions.

Handheld Controls - Wifi/Zigbee Protocol

Some still say the trusty handheld remote control is what bests suits them but these days these can multiply into a confusing mass leaving most ordinary people bemused and frustrated. Help is at hand with ‘all in one’ remote controls.

The more developed handheld controls now work on WiFi (wireless) and can operate components anywhere in the house - hidden away and out of sight.

Multi-room audio

A whole-house audio solution adds both value and enjoyment to a home by preventing the clutter normally associated with placing audio equipment throughout the house - Gone are the days when you have a large ‘music centre’ in the corner of each room.

All audio sources can be playable throughout the home with each room controllable independently from the other for source and volume selection which can be adjusted to a constant level throughout or variable.
With MP3's, entire music collections can be stored in small pocket size players or even on your phone as part of the system and shared through all areas with full control and information at your fingertips.

For larger storage capacity, servers can offer full information data including 'cover art' for album and artist or title navigation. This way all zones of the house can access the libraries of audio or video for your favourite music and film folders.

Speakers can be discreet in design and even set in ceilings to blend into the decor of any room. They provide a warm, full bodied sound.

Outdoor speakers no longer have to be brought in each night after use as they are all-weather, no do they have to be boring or stick out like a sore thumb either.

TV Video Distribution

In the past, video distribution has been most commonly achieved by way of coaxial networks for connection of all manner of satellite receivers in any number of rooms. But this is now being superseded by the more technologically advanced networks.

By installing a Cat5e (with Cat6) backbone network the integration of technologies for video distribution can be achieved and incorporate high definition Audiovideo signalling for installation of satellite HDTV channels, Blu-Ray DVD and file formatted media, to any TV location.

In the future, this same network can be used for any IPTV upgrade as the bandwidth widens and online TV services become more readily available - namely ‘video on demand’.

Most modern televisions now have excellent network capabilities with Ethernet LAN for use with the internet, DLNA compatibility for use with other components wirelessly for file sharing, storage and media streaming, as well as built in USB connections for viewing photos and widgets for browsing weather reports and watching video clips online like You Tube.

And now with the release of services such as Google TV and online film rental, video on demand is vastly expanding as quickly as the bandwidth will allow, so the flatscreen will soon become your monitor of choice for viewing all your video content.

With good planning televisions need not take over as the focal point of a room if fitted discreetly into the wall. This means flush finish and clean lines showing forethought and care in the design.

Security

CCTV

One optional extra is a CCTV system. These days not only can they be viewed from inside the property on every TV screen, but from anywhere in the world via the internet and tied in with alarm systems.

It could also be useful to have the camera images displayed on the touchscreens or iPad interfaces when selected as well.

Door Sensors

By having contact sensors on each of the main doors or windows of a house acts as peace of mind and a reminder. This will ensure that they are closed and locked as they should be. Receive alerts if something gets left open or they can trigger the security system if opened.

Automated Lighting Control

Lighting control provides the ability to change the way a room or home looks and feels. Make your home more beautiful, make your home more secure, make your home more energy efficient, and make your home simpler to operate just by adding lighting control instead of a standard lighting installation.

The use of LED lighting in place of conventional halogen light bulbs are coming more common place reducing the consumption of electricity even more. LED strips and colour changing lighting can highlight an area like the garden or emphasise a feature within the house. All of which can be controlled by the touch of a button or on a timed program.

Some features and benefits to lighting control:

The linking of lighting zones for fading and dimming down lights simply as well as change an areas appearance instantly with one touch presets.
Sensors can pick up movement and a light path activated for key areas of the property. Ideal when arriving home with shopping or getting up in the night.
Other features of lighting sensors is they only trigger lights to come on upon entering an area for a predetermined time period unless it is overridden.
An ‘Exit’ macro would turn off all lights in the house upon leaving (leaving outdoor and selected interior lights on if required) with the touch of one button.
In the event of a disturbance during the night an ‘All on’ button can be created to illuminate the whole house at the touch of a button to allow the homeowner to check on the property.
Installations can also be programmed to react to natural light levels and only come on once the sun has set or an area gets dark or programmed for daylight saving.
There is no need to have lights working at their full capacity as in standard switch installations. By reducing a bulb’s output by a fraction from its normal load, the bulbs lifespan doubles and electricity bills are greatly reduced.
The system can be placed into ‘record mode’ meaning the system will record patterns of lighting usage, which will give a realistic illusion of a presence in the property when played back upon leaving to go away.

Automated Climate Control

Under-floor heating and air conditioning - HVAC

Home is all about comfort - now your home can be made even more comfortable with automated climate control. Whether it is simply controlling the house temperature from a single thermostat or using a more complex combination of multiple thermostats, motorised blinds, and remote temperature sensors, with automation control products it’s much easier to find a climate control solution that fits perfectly. We can offer various climate control solutions using the control interfaces available.

This same system can incorporate air conditioning units and be managed and controlled in a similar way to the under-floor heating system.

Other Sub-systems

Video door entry systems allow the monitoring and screening of visitors to the properties. They enhance the value of a property, provide security for the family, and provide convenience especially for those with limited mobility. Entry systems can override while TV watching so the image appears on screen when someone is at the door so you are made aware even if you are submersed in the cinema room watching a film at high levels.

Curtain and blind control can be added to form part of the automated system. Command a single shade or drape to open or close or numerous ones in a number of areas to open or close. You can view the status of each shade and drape on the touchscreen interface and even schedule any or all to open or close at particular times or for certain events like sitting down to watch a film.

Pool and garden sprinklers

Programs can be put in place for the swimming pool and sprinkler systems too so they only heat or use water during energy-efficient and / or cost efficient times of day.

Telephony

As previously mentioned the home network can communicate voice as well as data and an internal intercom system, PBX phone system and VoIP solutions.

Understanding

The Pre-installation of automated digital technology should be a top priority when planning for new projects. Homeowners have much to consider when referring to architects, project management and construction companies and it should be the responsibility of these professionals to offer such networks to their clients in readiness for what our industry now has to offer.

To allow for such technologies during the construction phase is the best way of securing a customers satisfaction whether they understand it now or not. It will be them that thank you later when they realise you have saved them the great outlay of rewiring further down the line.

The Process

To integrate the services of such a system a home network is required. It is important to follow the process of planning for the development at all stages of construction from the design stage as set out by the architect.
The architect and / or the technical engineer should insist that the procedures for a network installation be carried out using their own designs (in AutoCad or similar). This way all those involved in the project can plan properly the way in which their services can be implemented without encroaching on that of others.

For more information on the design packages available from Future Lifestyle, please contact us on +34 902 107 227

2010-11-23T13:10:00.000-08:00

Este fabricante inglés de monitores profesionales de estudio, firmemente establecido en el mundo de los mejores estudios de grabación también organizaciones de locutores como la televisión de BBC y Radio, ITV y el Sky. Ha desarrollado una gama de altavoces para satisfacer las necesidades de los melómanos más exigentes.

PMC es líder mundial en fabricación de sistemas profesionales y altavoces audiofilos y toda su gama de productos va equipada con el ATL (Advanced Transmisión Line), que proporciona una alta resolución en todo el ancho de banda de la señal.

Uno de sus conceptos es mantener las tradiciones de fabricación con características que se incluyen:

Todo está construido a mano con gabinetes chapados en ambos lados hecho en Inglaterra y Dinamarca
Cada placa de circuito esta hecho de 24 a 48 elementos y componentes para cada monitor.
Cada elemento está probado antes de fabricar la placa para mantener las mejores calidades.
Cúpulas pintadas a mano con pasta negro de rigidez.
Bobinas hecho en situ en la fábrica.
Unidades de Conductor construido a mano.
Imanes de PMC fabricado de materiales primas para garantizar el rendimiento.
Todas las unidades probadas en situ por los ingenieros de software y ‘se casan’ en pares para que el rendimiento sea garantizado para ser idéntico.
El sonido y la respuesta de frecuencia están completamente probados también, para cualquier fuga, disonante y roce utilizando varios discos de prueba para garantizar el control de calidad.

Salen en 5 acabados: Cereza, Roble, Nogal, Negro i Estudio (Negro Matte).

i Series

Solo se fabrican 4,000 unidades al año para mantener este nivel de perfección para conseguir la perfecta respuesta en la señal, claridad y perfección tonal de cada sus unidades. Los monitores producen la misma respuesta de frecuencia a 60 decibelios (para uso en estudios durante todo el día) como a 136 decibelios.

‘El impacto, la dinámica y magnitud de la última adición a la galardonada serie es impresionante. Aquellos que buscan imágenes nítidas y una buena presentación de línea delgada en un aspecto que no busque más allá de la serie i de PMC’. Un cliente satisfecho.

La Serie PMC:

Consumer HiFi

PB1i

TB2i

Fact

Fact 3

Fact 8

Custom Install - Wafer Art

Wafer Art

Pro Studio

AML1 MkII

IB2XBDS

Revisando la lista de clientes internacionales que cuentan con equipos de esta organización, podemos hacernos una idea de por qué “terrenos” se mueven. Por citar algunos como referencia: Bryan Ferry, Brian May, Amy Winehouse, Gorillaz, Stevie Wonder, David Bowie, Coldplay, Basement Jaxx, Faithless, Capital Records (Los Ángeles), Delta Estudios (Australia), BBC, Abbey Road Studio (U.K.), BHF Sport, Gosh Studios (Vienna) y un largo etc. de artistas y grandes empresas de broadcast y producción y es una de las pocas compañías galardonada con un Emmy por su contribución a la excelencia en la grabación. Titulas incluyen Spiderman 3, Piratas del Caribe, Hulk, Muerte otro Día (Die another Day), Signs.

Es por ello que es una de las pocas compañías galardonada con un Emmy por su contribución a la excelencia en la grabación.

PMC ha desarrollado a una torre domestica de un monitor profesional de referencia aplicado con la misma tecnología presentando el impresionante PMC/SEAS ® desarrollado SONOLEX™ tweeter de cúpula que trae una nueva dimensión de la imagen y la transparencia a la región de alta frecuencia.

Criticas

PMC product reviews

PMC ATL

Critica de CEC

Para mas informacion consulta aqui

El Hogar Digital...

2010-11-22T08:50:00.000-08:00

...hace referencia a equipamiento e instalaciones que en un futuro cercano incluso pueden llegar a ser obligatorias.

El valor percibido por el usuario referente a los productos y servicios del hogar digital es muy superior al coste real para el cliente o promotor inmobiliario. Y el comprador final prácticamente no tiene porque apreciar el pequeño incremento en el precio de la vivienda que con lleva dotar un construcción nuevo con el equipamiento y las instalaciones adaptadas a nuestro tiempo.

El opinión de Future Lifestyle es cualquier vivienda que se reforma o sea construido nuevo hay 4 pilares fundamentales para considera en instalar:

Confort, Ahorro energético, Seguridad y Comunicaciones.

Es importante destacar que en el proyecto no se buscaron prestaciones independientes, sino una integración entre todas ellas para otorgar unas funcionalidades que serán descritas en los siguientes párrafos. Para ello, recomendamos junto con el cliente un sistema centralizado cableado en estrella, de modo que aparte de las prestaciones de serie se pudieran ir incorporando con otra serie de funciones añadidas una vez entregada la vivienda.

1. PRESTACIONES DE CONFORT

Control automatizado

Nuestras instalaciones permite que el usuario actuar todas las prestaciones incorporadas en el sistema: de audio / vídeo con reproducción de múltiples habitaciones y montaje de sonido surround, sistemas de satélite, seguridad, calefacción, iluminación y persianas. Es un gran elemento de confort cuando el usuario no necesita un montón de diferentes aparatos para manejar las prestaciones de la vivienda.

Desde un único mando de control maneja todas las prestaciones mencionadas anteriormente. Incorporar un sistema de cámaras de circuito cerrado por el red es fácil montar, dando el cliente la capacidad de ver todas las cámaras en todas las pantallas por el pulse de uno solo botón.

2. PRESTACIONES DE AHORRO ENERGÉTICO

Control de Calefacción
En nuestras viviendas se consigue también integrar la calefacción de la vivienda. Es importante destacar que no se controla un termostato, sino que la Domotica se convierte también en el climatizador de la vivienda, consiguiendo de este modo un gran ahorro del consumo implementando las siguientes funciones:

Regulación de la temperatura de manera manual.
Encendido y apagado.
Programación horaria diferenciando entre semana y fin de semana.
Control telefónico regulado con información previa de la temperatura. Con este control es posible controlar de una manera mucho más eficiente la temperatura.

Control de Persianas Motorizadas

En el caso de las persianas motorizadas, se pueden realizar programaciones horarias para aprovechar el calor del sol durante el día y “sellar” la vivienda en el momento de que el sol deje de radiar calor sobre la vivienda. Con esta prestación se aprovecha el calor natural del sol y en algunos casos (según la orientación de la vivienda) puede suponer un 30% de ahorro.

Control de la Iluminación

Otra prestación de ahorro energético es el control de todos los circuitos completos de iluminación de la vivienda. De este modo, al salir de la vivienda y pulsando en un único icono de la pantalla, todas las luces de la vivienda quedarán apagadas con el fin de que el usuario nunca se deje un luz encendida con su consiguiente ahorro.

También se puede programar escenas para usos diferentes como llegar, despertar, y cenar. Cuando se mueve por la casa los sensores se activa el iluminación a niveles diferentes depende en la hora.

3. SEGURIDAD

Alarma de Intrusión

El propio sistema domótico tiene la capacidad de detectar presencia y activar el sistema de seguridad en caso de una intrusión no deseada. En caso de tal intrusión, el sistema es capaz de realizar una de estas dos opciones (escogida por el cliente final).

Aviso a los números personales predefinidos por el cliente
Aviso a empresa de Seguridad

Por otro lado, el sistema permite armar la seguridad en zonas concretas o en toda la vivienda. De este modo, por ejemplo, se puede activar únicamente la seguridad de la planta baja a la hora de dormir para tener únicamente armada esta planta y detectar un intento de intrusión mientras el usuario descansa.

Simulación de Presencia a través de la iluminación y las persianas

El usuario puede realizar programaciones horarias sobre la iluminación y las persianas para que dé la sensación de que la vivienda está ocupada. Con esta prestación, se disuade a posibles ladrones que busquen viviendas deshabitadas.

4. PRESTACIONES DE COMUNICACIONES

Las prestaciones explicadas anteriormente pueden ser controladas telefónicamente o tras el internet con lo que la vivienda adquiere un valor añadido adicional gracias al alto nivel de comunicaciones. Las prestaciones controlables así son:

Calefacción
Iluminación
Persianas
Temperatura y clima
Cámaras de circuito cerrado
Alarma
Vigile la apertura y cierre de puertas (supervisar movimiento)

EL PROCESO

Para integrar estos servicios, sistemas y productos de hogar digital, basta con seguir el proceso normal de la promoción, construcción y comercialización. Lo que tiene que hacer es pedir al Arquitecto y/o el Ingeniero que incluya los productos, sistemas y servicios que desee, en el Proyecto (planos, memoria, mediciones y presupuesto).

El Arquitecto y/o Ingeniero puede pedir del proveedor y integrador de sistemas, la ayuda técnica para el desarrollo del proyecto.

Para proyectos con un nivel de implementación de sistemas avanzados con un alto nivel de programación, puesta en marcha y mantenimiento, es recomendable contar con un "Integrador de sistemas."

PREINSTALACIÓN PARA EL CLIENTE

Hogares digitales con tecnología incorporada ocupan los primeros lugares de la lista de prioridades cuando consideran la compra de una nueva propiedad.

Los propietarios tienen que considerar mucho cuando están consultando a sus arquitectos y empresa de construcción pero un cableado para disfrutar de la tecnología domótica en la fase de construcción ahorrará la necesidad de un futuro recableado.

Además, como Future Lifestyle no son dedicadas a un fabricante específico, sus diseños valen para la mayoría de productos para que realmente quiera el usuario final, hoy y en el futuro.

"Apocalypse Now" en Blu-ray

2010-11-22T03:35:00.000-08:00

El clásico de 1979 “Apocalypse Now” dirigido por Francis Ford Copolla y protagonizado por Martin Sheen, Marlon Brando, Robert Duvall, Laurence Fishburne, Harrison Ford y Dennis Hopper - está lanzado finalmente en Blu-ray. Cada cuadro es impresionante de la nueva versión en Blu-ray de “Apocalypse Now” que fue supervisada personalmente por Francis Ford Coppola....

En la épica película sobre la guerra de Vietnam, Martin Sheen interpreta al capitán Willard, un hombre atormentado enviado a una peligrosa misión secreta a Camboya para asesinar a el coronel Kurtz (Marlon Brando), que se ha atrincherado en la jungla. Willard se embarca en un extraño viaje que lo llevara a Kurtz, pero también lo obligara a estar cara a cara con la visión aterradora de la guerra.

Codificados a través de AVC, en 1080p y 2.35:1, esto es lo más perfecto de una imagen como se podía esperar, sobre todo para una película que es ahora más de 30 años de edad. Además, los discos Blu-ray contienen una notable cantidad de jugosos extras, como entrevistas a los principales artífices del film (el propio Coppola, Martin Sheen, John Milius, Walter Milch…) en las que irán desgranando los diferentes aspectos del film tales como el guión, el rodaje, el montaje, el diseño y la mezcla de sonido, el cásting de actores … Además, también se incluyen las consabidas escenas eliminadas, y documentales sobre la restauración y preparación de la nueva transferencia en HD del film.

La mejora en detalle y el color es increíble con este nuevo Blu-ray. Desde los primeros escenas amarillas de la selva explotando hasta la escena final no para.

Los imágenes de Willard saliendo del compuesto de Kurtz en su barco está llena de detalles.

Ojo también, la escena donde Willard está examinando el expediente de Kurtz: que, literalmente puede contar el numero de pelos en el cuello de Sheen, tan clara es la imagen.

Las imágenes se parecen completamente natural, nunca fallando, pero aparente y dar la profundidad de la película, agradable en su textura. Contraste y niveles de negro son nada menos que excepcional.

Una de las razones por utilizar esta película para la prueba de las instalaciones en salas de cine es el sonido. Esta película prácticamente inventó modernas mezclas con el sonido surround 5.1 y la atención al detalle aquí es simplemente alucinante. Esa primera secuencia icónica cuando el sonido comienza incluso antes de obtener una imagen es un buen ejemplo.

Como se puede notar estamos en admiración de esta versión Blu-ray y se lo utilizaremos para demostrar nuestras futuros instalaciones de cine en casa.....

HDMI reclassification

2010-11-22T01:58:00.000-08:00

HDMI cable manufacturers can no longer describe cables using a number HDMI 1.4, 1.3 or any other version number or compliance test specification.

The changes that were announced a while ago came into effect last week (18th Nov 2010) and mean manufacturers must now remove all references to those numbers from their products and packaging and no longer using them in promotion.

From now on, there are just five descriptions allowed, and these are mandatory on both cables and packaging:

- Standard HDMI Cable
- Standard HDMI Cable with Ethernet
- Standard Automotive HDMI Cable
- High Speed HDMI Cable
- High Speed HDMI Cable with Ethernet

The office line from the HDMI Licensing people says that 'In order to enforce the cable market and ensure that only compliant HDMI cables are sold in the market.´

Contact the Future Lifestyle shop to purchase good quality HDMI and interconnect cables to get the most out of yoru home entertainment system.

El Hogar Interconectado

2010-11-19T09:57:00.000-08:00

Hubo un momento en que la experiencia audiovisual de comercio podía fácilmente triunfar con lo que la gente tenía como sistemas en su casa, si hubiera tenido un sistema en casa. Pero ahora, al igual que la tecnología informática en casa, el audio-video residencial y sistemas de control refleja lo que sucede en el lugar de trabajo y espacios de entretenimiento y viceversa. Todo el mundo finalmente acaba siendo un usuario ahora, sobre todo en casa.

El Mundo Comercial

Sabemos que el tipo de fiabilidad que hemos visto en el entorno comercial de audio-video demanda instalaciones de los mejores equipos disponibles, pero hemos visto que la cantidad de productos disponibles adecuados para la integración del hogar aumenta en gran medida. Y se ha demostrado por la producción de vídeo y audio digital, de consumo y comerciales se terminan convergiendo.

Redes IP

Con el conocimiento de ambos mundos, residencial y comercial, es importante para nosotros llevar el mensaje sobre el nuevo mundo de sistemas integrados.

Hace diez años, era un lujo contar con una red ethernet en el lugar de trabajo. Era raro tener la cooperación del departamento de tecnología informática para entender que estaba bien para los dispositivos audio-video vivir en la misma red y que incluso podía aumentar la productividad. Ahora es una comodidad y un lujo que se ha convertido en una necesidad.

Los usuarios quieren redes que se comuniquen entre ellos y redes que se pueden acceder de forma remota y controlar desde una interfaz basada en la web o línea telefónica. Ser capaz de controlar su hogar, regularlo y asegurar su eficiencia energética es de gran importancia.

Los clientes no quieren fronteras entre audio y video, calefacción y aire acondicionado, iluminación, informática y seguridad, pero quieren tener acceso inmediato desde cualquier lugar a través de Internet o su teléfono móvil.

Una Responsabilidad

Como administradores de nuestros negocios más las necesidades de nuestros clientes dentro de nuestra industria, apreciamos que los clientes de hoy en día están cada vez más influenciados por el asesoramiento profesional y es nuestra responsabilidad dirigirlos hacia el probado y reprobado en todos los aspectos de instalación del hogar.

El Futuro

Con una red de cable de Cat5e TV de alta definición, audio, telefonía e internet de banda ancha puede funcionar a la perfección en todo. Incluso conexiones inalámbricas pueden ser una opción estable con puntos de acceso conectados a la red IP. Esto, combinado con la iluminación, la calefacción y aire acondicionado, la seguridad y sistemas de video portero hacen un hogar totalmente conectado.

Estamos entrando a un tiempo nuevo en el control de sistemas del hogar donde las redes de cable domésticas serán verdaderamente la columna vertebral de la propiedad y reflejara en la valoración suya - Se impulsará la demanda para diseños profesionales.

Las expectativas de los clientes están influenciadas por sus experiencias fuera y entienden que las redes y sus proveedores detrás de ellos ofrecen lo que hoy conocen como su vida cotidiana para ellos. Por tanto, necesitamos el compromiso en la entrega de una infraestructura de calidad dentro de la estructura del diseño de hogar que nos distinguen de otros ingenieros que están hablando con nuestros clientes.

Pronto todo el mundo estará hablando el lenguaje de "control centralizado" desde su propio punto de vista y el vocabulario.

Creemos que existe una responsabilidad ahora para expresar como el entretenimiento en casa debe liderar el camino en la instalación de redes domésticas, proporcionando todos los beneficios que vienen con él a nuestros clientes mutuos dentro de la industria de la construcción.

Beneficios

Una red de cable en casa completa permite una integración total de muchos sistemas:

Control independiente por panales táctiles empotrados, mandos de distancia con wifi y productos comunes como iPhone e iPad - Todos los elementos controlados por interfaces con iconos.
Servicio de internet estabilizados y red inalámbrica con cobertura en toda la casa.
Distribución de video en alta definición en cada sitio de la pantalla – Streaming programas de ‘video-on-demand,’ alquileres de películas, y otros servicios dentro de internet.
Puntos de altavoces en todas las habitaciones para un completo sonido ambiental.
Compartir fuentes de video (Un receptor puede servir para varios pantallas).
Múltiples receptores de satélite con funciones de PVR (Grabación) en alta definición.
Fuentes de música centralizadas, sonando en discretos altavoces - Todos los dispositivos audiovisuales están escondidos, ¡¡Sin llegar a ver ningún cable!!
Interconexión de iPod, Servidores de música, Productos APPLE y radio internet a lo largo y ancho de todo el hogar.
Oficina casera con acceso a carpetas de información y equipos en la red como maquinas de fax e impresora.
Consolas de videojuego unidas, permitiendo ‘gaming online’ en habitaciones múltiples.
Variedad de puntos de datos con capacidad de conectarse con sistemas de llamadas internas y opciones de VoIP.
Cameras de circuito cerrado y sistemas de video portero con sensores para buena seguridad – Monitorización en cualquier parte del mundo.
Eficiencia energética por controlar de iluminación, el suelo radiante, aire acondicionado, persianas y cortinas automatizadas con sensores y regulación y configuración horario – Control y monitorización a través de internet.

Este tipo de instalación integrada mejora el aspecto general de la casa, agiliza la comercialización, aporta un valor añadido y un toque especial.

Entendiendo

Es sólo ahora que el entendimiento de muchos dispositivos pueden convivir e interactuar en los sistemas totalmente integrados, y gracias al éxito continuado del mundo comercial, instalaciones integradas en casa pueden beneficiarse de la adopción de las soluciones que ya han resuelto.

Resumen

La automatización de todo el entorno requiere que el entretenimiento en el hogar este en versado y interactiva con la gestión de media ambiente, seguridad, y la tecnología informática elementos del sistema - todas de estas 'islas' de control se chocan ahora en un 'supercontinente' nuevo que ahora podemos llamar 'automatización de hogar.'

Philips Pronto winds down.....

2010-11-09T01:18:00.000-08:00

Philips Pronto, which has been a major competitor in the home cinema market for years has announced that it is to shut down production. Insiders would know that Philips has actually been struggling to find a buyer for the Pronto remote line since 2009. They haven't been successful in the search, so they're simply shutting it down and saying that Pronto "no longer fits with the Philips strategy." Here's the official line:

“In December 2009, Philips announced the intention to relocate some of its existing remote control activities in Leuven, Belgium to Asia. At the same time, the intention was communicated to investigate alternative strategic options for the Pronto business, as this activity no longer fits with the Philips strategy. Following thorough research, no suitable partner was found for the acquisition of these activities. As such, Philips confirms today that it will discontinue the Pronto product line and related activities.”

Future Lifestyle had no prior knowledge of this decision and is both surprised and disappointed by Philips decision to close such a successful division. It is clear from the statement that the decision was taken at a senior board level outside of the Pronto team, and is related to a wider divisional restructure rather than a reflection on the Pronto range itself.

It is not yet clear if this is the end of Pronto, as there is apparently new interest from various parties regarding a possible buyout. If anything confirmed comes to light we will be sure to inform you, but in the meantime we would like to do is clarify that:

Future Lifestyle will continue to support all of the Pronto remote controls it has installed over the years. We have also found a replacement for all-in-one remote control installations to fit all size and complexity of set ups.
For more information contact a member of the sales team on +34 902 107 227 or at sales@futurelifestyle.es

I love the smell of napalm in the morning.

2010-10-26T02:35:00.000-07:00

One of our best test DVDs and one of my personal favourite has been given a Blu-ray make over... and what a makeover it is as well.....

Every breathtaking frame of the new Blu-ray version of Apocalypse Now was personally supervised by Francis Ford Coppola..... Encoded via AVC, in 1080p and 2.35:1, this is about as perfect an image as one could hope for, especially for a film that is now over 30 years old
An incredible upgrade in detail and colour this new Blu-ray reveals. From the first yellow haze shots of the jungle exploding in flames to the final, devastating shot of Willard leaving Kurtz's compound on his boat, Apocalypse Now fairly bristles with detail. Look for example at the scene with the backlit Willard in profile examining the dossier on Kurtz: you can literally count the hair on Sheen's neck, so clear is the image. Grain is completely natural looking, never obtrusive, but apparent and giving the film and nice depth and texture. Contrast and black levels are nothing short of exceptional. The "Brando act" of this film, swathed in darkness as it is, is a revelation, with brilliant delineation between the bald head of Kurtz and the inky black background. The colours throughout this film are astoundingly vivid and beautifully saturated. No source element damage of any major import is noticeable, aside from some very minor blemishes which are very transitory. Simply a superior job all the way around.

If I say its safe to surf this beach, Captain, then its safe to surf this beach! I mean, I'm not afraid to surf this place, I'll surf this whole fu€king place!

One of the reasons we use this film for testing is for the sound. This film pretty much invented modern 5.1 sound mixes (ok Star Wars helped) and the attention to detail here is simply mind boggling. That first iconic sequence, which starts with sound before we even get an image, is a perfect example. The weirdly synthesized helicopter rotor noise clearly starts in the right rear channel and then careens around the room channel by channel until finally The Doors' music kicks in. But it's not just the action and battle sequences that are alive with surround activity. Even small scale dialogue scenes, such as when Willard is given his mission, are filled with ambient effects and simply awesome channel separation. Fidelity is exceptional, with Carmine Coppola's synthesized score has never sounded better (or stranger). The soundfield here is one of the most consistently brilliantly realized pieces of art (yes, art) in film history, and this lossless track is, to put it plainly, reference quality.

I will not hurt or harm you. Just give me back the board, Lance. It was a good board... and I like it. You know how hard it is to find a board you like...

As you may tell I am quite taken aback by this Blu-ray release and shall be using it to demonstrate new installations of a home cinemas.....Although if the original DVD was anything to go by we will need to have a few copies in stock, as after seeing a couple of the more memorable scenes our clients tend to want to ´borrow´ the film to watch it in its entirety......and I can´t blame them........

Disneyland? Fu€k, man, this is better than Disneyland!

The Rocky Horror is 35 years old........

2010-10-22T00:36:00.000-07:00

The Rocky Horror Show has been giving the blu-ray treat to celebrate it´s birthday....
If you have never seen this movie then you are in for an over the top, camped up performance.....
The Rocky Horror Picture Show is without doubt the definitive cult movie. Now 35 years old, this film adaptation of Richard O'Brien's stage musical is more popular than ever, still drawing in the crowds as it plays at midnight screenings across the US and UK.

It probably doesn't hurt that it's also a marvellously madcap piece of cinema, packed with outrageous performances, big laughs and catchy songs that stick in your head forever. So what are you waiting for? Isn't it time you give yourself over to absolute pleasure...

Brief overview of the story line is that the newly engaged couple Brad and Janet encounter a problem when they car halts in the rain. They both look for contact only to find themselves at the castle of Dr. Frank-N-Furter a transvestite. A place to stay is offered, but will Brad and Janet want to remain there? Especially when a large group of Transylvanians dance to the 'Time Warp', Dr. Frank-N-Furter builds his own man and a whole host of participation for the audience to enjoy...........

So gather a few friends around your home cinema and treat yourself to a night of Rocky Horror, for an evening of outrageous hilarity .....

And don´t forget your props.......
Rice and Confetti.... check...
Newspapers...check
Water pistols....check....
Candles or lighter....check....
Rubber cloves...check.......
Party whistles ....check....
And a party hat... check.....

LET'S DO THE TIME WARP AGAIN!

No tricks, just treats.......

2010-10-21T23:35:00.000-07:00

Throughout the Luna month of November (October 23^rd to November 21^st) the lunatics have defiantly got out of the Future Lifestyle asylum..... They have gone on a rampage decapitating prices....

Our Design fee* has been scythed in half......

Projects over a certain size or complexity require good planning where the use of architect’s drawings form part of our design pack alongside, cable schedules drawn up and schematics created. If you engage our services before the 21^st of November 2010 we will waiver half of the design fee, which could save you €€€€€

Prices for flat brackets, projector mounts** and all HD connectors like HDMI cables*** have been hacked to pieces by the FL demons and are completely free when supplied as part of an installation package carried out by one of the ghoulish engineers.......

For these and more horrific horrors contact a member of the sales team on +34 902 107 227 or sales@futurelifestyle.es......if you dare............

*The design fee discount only applies for one off projects or houses and is not applicable for developments or multiple units.
Any prices of products or installations referred to here will ONLY be valid for 30 days from date of issue.

**Offer includes ONLY manual mounts. Motorised mounts are available. Contact a member of the sales team for further information sales@futurelifestyle.es

*** HDMI leads 5m or less will be supplied free of charge with any flatscreen purchase. If longer cable is needed we can offer a range of HDMI solutions including HD over Cat5 cable.

Future of Home Entertainment part 2

2010-10-20T04:47:00.000-07:00

Following on from our media player basics here is part 2.

In this post we will cover what you will need to start unleashing your media from your PC. If you already have an internet connection and a computer then you´re half way there, why not contact Future Lifestyle to help you get the most out of the internet and your stored media.

The great thing about this form of entertainment is that it can be retro fitted into your home using wireless routers and extenders. However if you are about to build a new house or undertake some renovation work on your home, a little forward thinking about your home network will ensure you will get the best out of next generation of home entertainment.

Here is what you’ll need:

Digital media files. You´ll need content—photos, and/or music and movies.

Content can come from any number of sources:

Download photos and movies from your digital camera or digital camcorder.
Download photos from friends and family from photo sharing websites like Picasa or from emailed photos.
Copy music CDs, or use a device to record from vinyl record albums or cassette tapes.
Download movies from the Internet, or digital versions of movies included on DVD/Blu-ray Discs. Note: digital versions of movies may be copyright-protected and may not be compatible with many network media players.

Storage. The content must be stored on your computer(s) or a networked attached storage (NAS). When deciding where to store your files, consider:

The benefit of a media server or a NAS is that you don’t have to leave your computer turned on in order to access your files.

If you store your files on your computer, you will also need to turn on media streaming or acquire special software:

A router that connects to the computers you want to include on your network. A router is a device that creates a path for all of your computers and network devices to talk to one another. The connections can be wired, wireless or both.

Most internet providers will supply you with a modem / router combination, however these standard routers are not always the best for coverage or handing large amounts of data transfer. So spending a little on a good router is always advisable, you wouldn´t build your new home on an unstable foundation would you?

Connection to the router, either wireless or wired. Connect your computers and devices to the router either with Ethernet cables or wirelessly. Most laptops come with a built-in wireless card. For desktops and NAS devices, you will probably need to connect by means of cables.

If you connect devices or computers wirelessly to see each other and communicate, they all must be on the network of the same name. The available networks will appear in a list of selections, both on computers and when setting up a wireless connection on a network media player. Make sure you have the correct network name and any passwords when setting up the connection.

Forego Configuration Hassles by Using a Wired Connection

The easier and more reliable way to connect is to use an Ethernet cable to connect your device or network media player to the router. If you have a newer home with whole-home in-wall Ethernet wiring, you will simply connect your Ethernet cable to your device or computer and then plug the other end into the wall outlet.

However, if you don’t have built-in Ethernet cabling in your home, it is doubtful that you would want to add cables running from room to room. Instead, consider a powerline Ethernet adaptor. By connecting a powerline adaptor to any wall electrical outlet, it sends data over your home’s electrical wiring as if it were Ethernet cables.

Once you have set up your network, connect your media player to your TV and loaded your content you are ready to start enjoying what we believe is the way we will all watch TV in the future. There will be no more need for huge satellite dishes on your roof or the picture breaking up due to bad weather, the power of the internet and world wide entertainment will be at your fingertips.

To find out more about unleashing the power of the entertainment on your PC or the internet contact the Future Lifestyle team on +34 902 107 227 or email them at info@futurelifestyle.es.

Future of Home Entertainment

2010-10-20T04:21:00.000-07:00

So here is the problem... you’ve got all these cool movies, photos & music stored on your computer but you don´t want to sit at your desk or with your laptop to enjoy them.... it is a little like still being at work..... so what do you do???

It´s time to set your digital media files free and enjoyed on your TV and quality music system.

So what do you need??? A network media player that retrieves the media from your computer or other network devices thet plays your movies, music and photos on your home theatre.

We have mentioned on here before about AppleTV and the new Google TV, but it struck me that not everyone knows these products or what exactly they do......So today we´re going back to basics.........

Here are a few terms that you may be familiar with, but as we are doing the basics we may as well cover everything.....

Network: - You (or your internet provider) probably set up a “home network ” to enable all of the computers in your home to share one internet connection. That same network makes it possible to share files and media that are stored on one connected computer, viewing them on other computers, your TV or even your smart phone.

Media: – This is the term commonly used to refer to movies, videos, TV shows, photos and music files. Certain network media players may play only one type of media. When choosing a network media player, you will want to make sure that it can play the types of files you have stored on your computers.

Player – While the definition of a “player” may be obvious to you, it is an important distinction for this kind of device. The first function of a player is to connect to your computers or other devices and to play the media it finds. You can then watch what it is playing on your TV screen and/or listen on your home-theatre audio/video receiver.

Many network media players not only have internal hard drives for saving media (1Tb is not uncommon) but also can stream movies, music and photos from the internet. You no longer need to browse the web on your computer to enjoy videos from popular websites like YouTube or Netflix; to hear music from Pandora, last.fm or Rhapsody; or to see photos from Picasa and Flickr.

A number of manufacturers make network media players—Roku box, Seagate, Western Digital, D-Link’s Boxee Box, Popcorn Hour—that are stand-alone devices. Their sole function is to stream music, movies and photos from other sources to be played on your TV and audio/video receiver and speakers.

These set-top boxes connect to your home network, either wirelessly or by using an Ethernet cable. They are often small, about the size of a thick paperback novel.

A network media player makes it pretty easy to share your media on your home theatre. Whether you choose a dedicated-network media-player device, or a TV or home-theatre component to enjoy your media, be sure you have what you need to set up your home network and network media player.

But you need more than just a network media player to make it work, click here to check out part 2 in our the Future of Home Entertainment.....

It is getting nearer..............

2010-10-18T02:52:00.000-07:00

Unless you have been living under a technological rock you should be aware that Google threw its hat into the internet TV ring sometime ago.... with promises of a full interactive web service for your TV .

Google and Intel have teamed with Sony to develop a platform which is based on its Android operating system for cellphones. This they hope will encourage software developers with the same creativity that the consumers have seen in phone apps.

Well it is getting closer to becoming a reality .... last week Sony has unveiled its first products based on Android technology, using Google to add Internet functionality to TV and BD models.
The Google TV system comes with a hand-held RF QWERTY-type keypad remote control incorporating an optical mouse to simplify content navigation.

Launch partner Logitech announced a Google TV set-top box, along with remote control handsets and keyboards. The Google TV system runs the Google Chrome browser and features an Intel Atom processor. It's designed mainly to enable searching for TV content across the Internet, using technology developed in part by Rovi. Other built-in applications including Netflix, Android Market, CNBC, Gallery Player, Napster, Netlife, Facebook, Pandora and Twitter.

Sony's Mike Abary said "We're combining the power of HDTV, the power of the full Internet, and the power of apps to create a seamless experience. TV and Internet together at last. Systems in the past have failed because they held back the success of the Web on TV."

Features include support for customised homepages, Google-powered playlists of favourite videos and music, creation of personal radio stations via Pandora, access to music via Napster and photo galleries using photo-sharing sites or mobile phones.

Although not a new idea, the muscle behind this product should surely set the standard of future home entertainment. Not set for a European launch until next year, all eyes will be on the states to see how successful this new interface will be.

To keep up to date with all of the new technologies for your home why not sign up for the Future Lifestyle newsletter or browse our website to see how we may help you upgrade your lifestyle.......

Being green can also be funky......

2010-10-01T01:18:00.000-07:00

Check out these light bulbs from Hulger Plumen. Not only are they incredibly funky looking but also good for the planet and your pocket.

This wonderful bulb has a lifetime of up to 8 years, and uses 80% less energy than the conventional bulb.

There is now no need to hide your light bulbs away, as these is ones you would want to show off. It screws into any standard bulb fitting, gives off a warm white light. You can put a shade over it... but really would you want to??

These Hulger Plumen 001 Light Bulbs definitely make going green appear even more appealing.

For other ideas on how to make your lighting more energy efficient check out the lighting section of the Future Lifestyle website or contact us to find out how we can help.....

Apple tries to take over your entertainment world......

2010-09-30T01:32:00.000-07:00

Steve Jobs and his AppleTV believe they have reinvented the way we watch TV in the future...With the new AppleTV it is possible to rent individual television episodes it appear to be a great solution for the consumer. Why then are so few television studios backing the idea? Right now only Fox and ABC are on board. So where are all the other studios?

Some prominent studio executives are staying away from Apple and this deal - and it doesn't look like they will be warming up to it anytime soon. Why?? Because Apple is trying to do to the television industry what it did the music industry, and the networks isn´t going down too well. Selling TV shows by the episode is a little too much for some television executives to digest. They see what Apple did to music and view them as a threat to their best profit centers for television shows, including home video and syndication.

The iTunes store and the iPod have been a revolution in the way the consumer experiences music. Thanks to Apple - gone are the days of sitting down to listen to an album start to finish, or even in its entirety at all for that matter. Drop the songs you want into a playlist and head out, sync it around your home or beyond. Or if that is too much work or too much time to waste, there is even the option to let iTunes make lists for you with the Genius function. Everything has become about convenience to the consumer. Even if it is at the expense of the quality of the audio. For many consumers, especially younger ones, there is no real need to buy an album any more. Don't like the third track? Don't buy it. Buy all the songs you want a la carte and play them in any order you want. Never mind what the intention of the artist was. Instant gratification in low definition is what music retail has become in an Apple driven marketplace.

Nobody is more worried about the role of iTunes more than television studios. Today's television studios make a great deal of revenue from the sale of their properties on DVD, Blu-ray and even via download. This new system Apple is putting into practice allows consumers to pick an episode and watch it, whenever they want, for a pretty low price of $0.99 per rental. This is ground breaking pricing and distribution but television and the Internet compete in ways that the Compact Disc and the Internet never really did. Yes, there was Napster but the legal and convenient way Apple sold music brought people back into the fold. With television - you have a more direct competition for distribution method and many don't want Steve Jobs to own that.

There are other venues that allow television content providers to sell their products in ways that pay differently than Apple. However, Jobs has a way taking control or whatever he sets his sights on and right now he has his eyes set on television content. With the success of the iPad, iTunes, and the lowering of the price of Apple TV - he might again win. If he were to make an Apple app for today's TVs to compete with the likes of Cinema Now and many other download services - he'd have an even more compelling argument as to why he owns so many distribution channels. The studios may then very well have to fold and give him the content.

So, has Apple finally solved the "second box" problem, or are they still struggling to turn this hobby into a real business?

AppleTV isn´t the only option out there if you want to stream video content directly to your TV. Contact Future Lifestyle

Mickey´s day´s are numbered.....

2010-09-27T00:45:00.000-07:00

What is this? Mitsubishi have put a price on the head of the world´s favourite mouse?!
Mitsubishi's new projector range will include a 3D model, code named Diamond 3D. was previewed at IFA under the slogan 'an end to Mickey Mouse cinema'

This range is touted to provide quality home cinema whatever your budget. The flagship product is the 3D model with three SXRD panels, a contrast ratio of 120,000:1, brightness of 1000 lumens, motorised focus, zoom and lens-shift, and two HDMI 1.4 inputs.

Also in the range are the HC4000, a DLP all-rounder with DarkChip 3 technology and a contrast ratio of 3600:1; and the HC3200 DLP model which will sell for under €1,000 and features an output of 1,100 lumen.

We will let you know more as we find out the details, this is now when 3D home cinema will begin to come into its own........

Are you thinking of installing a new home cinema? Contact Future Lifestyle and let them help design and install your ideal cinematic experience.....

Control 4 goes over the edge...

2010-09-23T12:18:00.000-07:00

As our homes and technology become more entwined with one another, it makes sense that we desire a central unit to control everything. How many of us have to use a number of remotes just to switch on the TV??
Control4 has the intelligent solution, making it possible for virtually any appliance or device in your home to communicate with one another. And they do it with style as well......

“We’re bringing the elegant InfinityEdge™ line of in-wall touch screens to market at prices that are unheard of in the custom residential industry,” stated Control4’s CEO Will West, “This introduction supports our vision to provide affordable home control solutions that will allow homeowners to access their Control4® system from every room in the house.”

Control4 InfinityEdge™ Touchscreens offer intuitive, fingertip control of lights, music, climate, entertainment and security systems. These touchscreens feature edge-to-edge capacitive glass and the full functionality of Control4® OS 2.0, including a new Flash-based user interface and the ability to access and extend Control4® system capabilities with apps from the 4Store™ Application Marketplace. Full-featured intercom capability is optional and allows customers to monitor rooms, communicate between rooms, or to broadcast messages to multiple InfinityEdge touchscreens in the home.

Future Lifestyle offers the full line of Control4 products to their customers, for the very simple one room solutions to the whole house control system. Control 4 can be installed in modules, so as your needs grow so can your system.. We have expertise in whole house audio, lighting controls, home security and home automation.

To see how you could benefit for a automation system contact a member of the Future Lifestyle team to book your free consultation.

Happy Birthday Denon.......

2010-09-23T12:09:00.000-07:00

Denon have always delivered the highest quality AV experiences to the consumers and has become a firm favourite of Future Lifestyle. From the beginnings of CD technology, to the rise of surround sound, and now to mobility, streaming, and networking, Denon has not only evolved with technologies, but it has been the leader and innovator that has developed and introduced these technologies to the world and made it accessible to consumers.

Today Denon make some of the finest surround sound amplifiers on the market capable of delivering new formats like 3D video. With video up scaling & Audyssey DSX sound processing they ensure that the end user gets the best possible home cinema experience.

Denon is marking its 100th anniversary with a Special Edition Anniversary product collection.
The A100 collection comprises seven components, each finely tuned, hand-tested and accompanied by a signed certificate of authenticity from the chief production engineer who hand-crafted the product. Also included is a 'brand book' that explores the history of Denon.

The AVR-A100 9.2-channel AV receiver features Denon’s Link 4th, high-bit i/p conversion and scaling, advanced connectivity, network audio/photo streaming, gold-plated inputs/outputs and cast iron footing to stabilize sound quality. It's also works as an 11.2-channel pre-amplifier.

The matching DBP-A100 Universal Player is compatible with Blu-ray, DVD, Super Audio CDs, DVD-Audio discs and CDs – and features Direct Mechanical Ground Construction and Multi-layer Chassis Structure. The DBP-A100 is also equipped with Denon Link 4th to minimize jitter during HDMI transmission, and features an anniversary edition coupling condenser and cast iron footing for sound stabilization.

Also part of the centenary range are a number of hi-fi products, including the PMA-A100, an integrated stereo amplifier, and its partner, the DCD-A100 CD/SACD player. The former features a newly engineered construction designed to form a solid foundation for a pure, clean sound, and the latter uses sound-enhancing technologies like Advanced AL32 Processing and the latest 32bit/192kHz DACs, is SACD compatible, and features a USB port for connecting an iPod or USB memory.

Stereophiles can match these with Denon's new AH-A100 over-ear headphones for a luxurious listening experience. These offer a piano mahogany finish, and pack a high-grade driver unit, newly designed skin-soft ear pads and headband, and come in a storage case with wiping cloth.

The final products in the range are the DP-A100 turntable, a direct-drive design equipped with the DL-A100 cartridge, and based on the design of the classic DL-103.

The A100 range will be available from only a selected number of outlets that will display the Denon centenary logo.

Sony steps into the future....

2010-09-23T00:29:00.000-07:00

Sony's newest announcement from the pre-IFA press conference was the launch of their Qriocity network service platform. This new service will provide streaming music and movies to Sony’s network-enabled devices.

Sony´s European president said, “Via Qriocity, Sony will deliver a variety of digital entertainment content and services that are “powered by Qriocity”. This will include video, music, game applications, and e-books over time, and through these services, and in combination with its networked devices, Sony aims to bring new and exciting entertainment experiences to customers.”

Qriocity will be a 'cloud'-based service offering hundreds of movies on demand from top Hollywood studios and local content providers, plus the Music Unlimited service with access to thousand s of music tracks and synchronisation to Sony networked devices. 'This will change the way in which we all enjoy our digital music' he predicted.

Available here in Spain and the UK in the autumn, Qriocity media providers include 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, Lionsgate, MGM, NBC, Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Walt Disney and Warner Bros. Movies will be available in HD and SD, and can be rented for 14 days.
Prices have yet to be announced. Network-enabled BRAVIA TVs and Blu-ray Disc players, Blu-ray home cinema systems and the PlayStation 3 will support the service, with portable devices to follow.

This is just another example of the way Future Lifestyle believe we will all be enjoying our media at home in the near future. Soon unsightly dishes on the exterior of our homes will be a thing of the past as we stream and download everything from the internet.
Are you interested in what the future holds and how we can improve your home entertainment experience today? Contact us and book a free consultation to see what the future may hold............

Internet TV is coming

2010-09-22T00:38:00.000-07:00

Speaking at the pre-IFA press conference in Berlin, Sony CEO Sir Howard Stringer announced the world's first true TV/internet combination, designed in cooperation with Google. He also emphasised Sony's progress with 3D in TVs, BD players and projectors.

Details are a bit sketchy, but Stringer called this 'an important strategic alliance to bring the first true internet TV to the market', and emphasised that the un-named product would allow full Internet browsing and TV viewing at the same time.

Using the Android operating system and Intel processing, the TV would need some form of internal storage to operate with web browsers, though the form this would take, whether HDD or solid-state memory, is not yet clear.

The set is due for launch as soon as Christmas in the US, with a UK availability date should be released soon.

Sony spokesmen could only say that the TV would 'not incorporate any groundbreaking screen technology', and that Google's search expertise would be used to make sure that internet searches would yield results appropriate to the TV platform - so for instance a search for 'Mad men' would show sites about the TV series, rather than just any sites associated with the key words.

The development of the 'Google TV' will apparently not affect Sony's commitment to the Bravia Internet platform which offers access to selected services from a range of content providers.

For more infromation or to keep up to date with all the latest home entertainment trends join the Future Lifestyle mailing list at www.futurelifestyle.es

Introduction to good home cinema.

2010-08-27T10:28:00.000-07:00

Here are a few considerations when thinking of how to go about your dream room.

It is always good to perform plenty of research, tour existing home cinemas, sought ideas from fellow enthusiasts, and speak to installers and homebuilders when considering a home cinema installation. Incorporate suggestions in all areas - from cost-effective sound-absorption techniques to equipment choices. If you have the right working relationship with your contractor he should field your ideas and needs, and explain how they can be incorporated into the job and within budget.

Here are some ideas for consideration when in the process of making decisions for that outstanding home cinema….

Make style and functionality part of the process and bring it all together...

1) Give It an Elegant Design

Poor decor and insufficient lighting are the main failings of what should constitute a decent home cinema and it must be said affects the whole cinematic experience. There is little point having 'all the kit' if it is put in a room that doesn't have the right dimensions, acoustics and of course overall finish.

Reasons for this cop out is normally down to budget but ways should be found to ensure the whole package can be brought together.

The lighting scenes, seating and overall arrangement contribute greatly to the rooms overall feel and are as important as the devices that create the audio and video.

For true cinema....

2) Build a completely dark room

Perhaps this will be a controversial suggestion because people have different tastes or purposes in viewing environments: Some people think a home cinema is a thing to be enjoyed as part of a larger entertainment area, and some people desire a more “dedicated" cinema experience.

We lean towards the latter but this is not always practical and we have seen a large increase in the installation of systems in living areas for multi-purpose entertainment use.

It's just that light pollution can be considered a distraction and the very essence of a successful home cinema is replicating the actual movie-theater experience so the room will preferably be capable of becoming completely dark.

With lighting key features can be lit to provide sufficient light if done correctly.

An acoustically transparent screen gives a cinema a clean look….

3) Use an Acoustically Transparent Screen

Admittedly, this tip applies only to front-projection setups (which are becoming more popular in the high-def era), but one of the design elements we most like to see is the use of an acoustically transparent screen and place the centre speaker directly behind it and in some cases all 3 of the front channels.

This obviously leaves cleaner lines and most closely replicates that of an actual cinema but it also means the sound is coming from the most natural direction, where the action is taking place onscreen.

Check out the selections from Draper and Screen Research, and view their room-size and image-size recommendations for this type of screen.

Easy access to equipment with a 'rack'....

4) Ensure Easy Access to the Back of Your Equipment Rack

This is more of an installer requirement as it is unlikely that the end user will ever have much need, let alone desire, to start pulling at any cabling but having access to the rear of the equipment for any custom installer is essential.

Component housing cabinets or 'Racks' as we call them, are vital for not only the maintenance of the equipment but can be mounted in such a way the cabinet allows air to pass through it, reducing the likelihood of overheating thus preventing the chance of faults developing. Additional 'rack mountable' ventilation units can be fitted for those enclosed fixtures where the rack is to be hidden away out of site to compensate the natural flow of air.

Get the best from your system….

5) Calibrate your set up

It is our perception that people seemed to care more about proper image calibration with their standard DVD players than with the newer High Definition Blu Ray versions…

For what reasons we are not sure because surely as the equipment in question is now more advanced it needs just as much if not more setting to reach its peaks..

For us it is essential to use a calibration software package that enables a series of audio and video signal tests to be carried out. Don’t take these state of the art components for granted - they need to be set up correctly to reach their optimum perfoming levels. It is the difference between a pretty good high-def image and an outstanding high-def image. The audio tracks help you balance the sound in the room, giving the right weight to each individual loudspeaker as perceived from the listening position.

It’s in the details

These are some of the details to be considered when designing and planning ahead of construction. There are so many tiny and even budget - friendly details that you can incorporate into your design to take it to the next level you just need to seek the right advice from people that have experince and the ability to carry out such projects.

Lets start by asking “What do you think would be really cool in your cinema?” and then find someone who can make those things work.

To see a full case study of a true cinema installation see our link.

For more on all aspects of home cinema installation speak to the experts -

future lifestyle or email sales@futurelifestyle.es