Understand how the Latest Technology Upgrades will Affect You

The analog sunset is causing some big issues for homeowners in the Honolulu, Hawaii area. If you’re unaware of what the analog sunset is or how it might affect you, then you’re going to want to read the information below. We break down what this technical issue is and how you can make sure your audio video system is prepared.

What is the Analog Sunset?

Before we can explain what the analog sunset is, it’s important to have a solid understanding of what analog technology is. Generally speaking, audio video system technologies fall into one of two main categories: analog and digital.

A good example of the differences between them is a household clock. With an analog clock, there are physical hands that spin around to indicate the time, while a digital clock shows the time on a display screen.

The trend with consumer electronics is to evolve from analog to digital technologies, and that is where the analog sunset comes in. Soon, analog devices within your audio video system simply won’t be compatible with anything else. It’s time for analog to go away for good.

A Brief History of the Analog Sunset

The origins of the analog sunset start way back in 2005 when the Advanced Access Content System (AACS) released a licensing agreement intended to prevent people from illegally copying media. Analog video outputs on devices such as Blu-Ray players made it too easy to get past copyright protections, so the solution was to create AV equipment that didn’t offer analog outputs. On top of that, many movies now include code that prevents them from being played on systems with analog capabilities.

We’re now reaching the very end of the analog sunset. While the standard for media devices is now for them to be completely analog-free, you’ll still run into analog components every so often.

SEE ALSO: What Cables Should You Use for Your Home Audio Distribution?

What Does This Mean for You?

The analog sunset obviously had a big impact on the audio/video industry, but what about Hawaii homeowners? Well, if you still have an audio video system with analog components, you’ve probably noticed some issues with your system:

• Media that simply refuses to play
• New devices that won’t work with your system

If you want to take advantage of the latest and greatest media technologies, like 4K Ultra HD video, you need to consider how those technologies will fit into your system as a whole. One of our AV experts can offer guidance on the best approaches with a consultation.

Another concern for homeowners seeking a media upgrade is the type of components they choose moving forward. You wouldn’t want to accidentally buy a new TV with analog inputs right at the end of the analog sunset! Again, your best bet is to consult with an expert on which brand and model are right for you.

 
If you need assistance with this transition with your home media, we’re one phone call away. Contact us today to learn more.

 

 

   

Offering Tech Support 24/7/365 via text, phone or email

Have you been down and out with your electronics not working, Cable box keeps locking up, Internet seems slow or your network seems to have slowed down some, well give us an email or a call at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., 808-824-3495, 24/7/365 availability, 30-minute response time.


As systems get more and more complicated and businesses come and go you can count on our 26yrs in the industry to get your systems back up and running 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Yup anytime you have an issue just reach out to us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 808-824-3495 and we will be glad to help. If the line is busy just send us an email as well we will get right back to you one way or the other.

We are dedicated to the ongoing service and support of equipment and training of our clients.

Service is our full-time job.  We provide:

• 24/7/365 availability, 30-minute response time
• Email or phone (text support coming soon)
• 70+% of support requests are resolved over the phone or email.

Our technical assistance center is comprised of PAC employees that are among the most capable and certified experts in the industry. These experts will guide you through preliminary trouble shooting, remote diagnosis, testing and resolution.
Our directResponse Support program ensures end to end support across the full life-cycle of collaborative technology ensuring maximum system up time, efficient end user operation and expert network assistance.
Don’t let your electronics frustration get the best of you or your system. Contact us today at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., 808-824-3495 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We will answer your calling.

Hi-Fi Audio is the Key to Outdoor Entertainment

Does your Kauai area home have a high-quality outdoor sound system? If the answer is no, you’re missing out on many opportunities. One of the biggest advantages of living in Hawaii is the gorgeous views that await you whenever you look out the window. And while you may enjoy lounging at the beach or hiking the Nounou Trails, there’s definitely something to be said for relaxing or entertaining at home.

If you want your verandah or patio to be a place where you can watch your favorite movie, host an exciting party, or listen to a relaxing playlist, you need to outfit the space with the right entertainment equipment. Keep reading to learn how best to install and leverage outdoor audio.

How to Do It Right

• Choose the Best Equipment

Not all audio equipment is suited for Hawaii’s hot, humid climate. If you want an outdoor sound system that will work reliably for years, you need quality components. We work with high-end audio manufacturers of all styles, and we can provide guidance on which brands and speakers are the ideal fit for your property.

• Keep Landscaping in Mind

Outdoor audio should be heard, not seen. Clunky, large equipment can detract from your home’s beauty and the natural landscape, so it’s important that all of the components are strategically placed to flow with the design of your outdoor space. We can provide speakers that are designed to look like rocks or other landscaping elements as well as bury some audio equipment so that it’s completely out of sight.

SEE ALSO: Interior Designers’ New Best Friend: Home Lighting Control

• Design Audio Zones

Every home is different, and many outdoor elements such as pools or topiaries can affect the way that sound is dispersed. That’s why we start any outdoor audio project by assessing your home and designing a plan that has the perfect speaker placement and sound levels. This plan ensures that the sound is heard evenly throughout your property, with no dead zones or overly loud areas.

• Set Up Central Control

Your outdoor sound system should be just as easy to use as any indoor stereo. Using a central control system, every aspect of your outdoor audio can be managed right from your smartphone, tablet, or even your voice. If you want to change the music playlist or turn up the sound levels, it’s an incredibly simple process.

Don’t let your outdoor areas go to waste. To learn more about the different options for adding high-end audio throughout your property, give us a call at 808-245-6255 or fill out this quick contact request.

How Smart Home Automation Helps Sell Homes

Honolulu has a very hot real estate market. Whether you’re selling new homes or previously owned properties, it’s always a good idea to explore new ways to appeal to home buyers. And the trend that is hitting it big in Hawaii is definitely smart home automation. Historically, smart home technology has been limited to custom installations by individual homeowners, but real estate companies are starting to realize the advantages of upgrading homes with automation in order to sell properties fast for top dollar.

3 Reasons to Invest in Smart Home Automation

1.    It’s Growing More Popular (and It’s Here to Stay)

According to a recent study by Houzz, almost half of homeowners prioritize adding smart technology when renovating homes. It’s clear that smart devices are part of everyday life, so why not make it easy for buyers by giving them the technology right from the start?

2.    It Gives You an Edge on the Competition

Imagine how different the experience is for buyers when they walk into a fully automated home. The windows shades rise, the lights brighten, and the audio system starts playing music at the touch of a button or single spoken command.

When given the choice between that and a home without smart technology, it’s not difficult to guess which option is going to win.

3.    It’s Easy to Get Started

You don’t have to integrate all of this technology yourself. By partnering with Pacific Audio & Communications, you can gain all the benefits of having technology-infused homes without any of the time or effort. You do the real estate work, and leave the rest to us.

Possible Technologies to Add to Homes (and Their Top Selling Points)

Once you decide to embrace the smart home automation movement, it’s time to explore the possibilities! There are a lot of smart technologies out there, but not all of them are an ideal fit for new home buyers.

Here are the options we recommend that real estate companies consider:

1.    Lighting Control

We can connect all of the lights throughout the home to one central management system. With this technology, you can adjust a single light, a certain area, or the entire home with one tap on your smartphone or tablet. It’s convenient, it can help keep energy bills low, and it’s great for enhancing a home’s décor.

SEE ALSO: Interior Designers’ New Best Friend: Home Lighting Control

2.    Motorized Shades

Motorized shades give a “wow factor” to each room. With zero manual effort, the shades can raise or lower upon command. The biggest selling point for motorized shades is their energy-efficiency—we can add smart sensors to the windows that automatically adjust the shades to avoid solar heat gain, which keeps energy bills low.

3.    Climate Control

There’s a reason why Nest Learning Thermostats are so popular. Homeowners love how easy it is to set the temperature from their smartphone. We can go beyond just a smart thermostat though. Ask us about our full climate and energy management solutions.

4.    Smart Security

Security is usually top of mind for home buyers. Make it easy for them with an already integrated security solution that includes surveillance cameras, smart door locks, window sensors, and more.

5.    Professional Networking

The last thing you want is to be showing a home and have the potential home buyers discover that they have no cell service or Wi-Fi access in certain areas. Ensure reliable coverage in every room with a professional networking installation. Cellular boosters and wireless access points are strategically placed throughout the home for top-notch performance.

Whether you’re in Honolulu, Kauai, or another area of Hawaii, Pacific Audio & Communications is your smart home automation expert. We work with builders, interior designers, real estate agents, homeowners, and more to develop high-quality, easy-to-use technology.

Contact us today for more information.