Security cameras have come a long way from the grainy, motion-only systems of the past. Today’s AI-powered cameras  use advanced technology to think, learn, and react — giving you smarter security without the false alerts and constant notifications. At Advanced AV & Automation , we install AI cameras that do more than record — they actually understand what they’re seeing. What Makes a Camera “AI”? AI cameras use built-in processors and machine learning to recognize patterns a

When people think of home security, they often focus on alarms, cameras, or smart locks. But what about the first line of defense  — your driveway or property gate? Gate access control  has become a must-have feature for homeowners who want both security and convenience . At Advanced AV & Automation , we help families in College Station and Greater Houston design smart access systems that blend seamlessly with the rest of their home automation. What Is Gate Access Control? Ga

Buying a new TV should be exciting, but for many homeowners it feels overwhelming. With so many different technologies on the market—each promising “the best picture”—how do you know which one is right for your home? At Advanced AV & Automation , we help families in College Station and Greater Houston cut through the jargon and pick the right display for their space, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a breakdown of today’s most popular TV technologies. LED (Light-Emitting Diode)

Wi-Fi is the invisible backbone of every modern home. From streaming movies and gaming to smart locks, cameras, and voice assistants, everything depends on a strong wireless connection. But with new Wi-Fi standards coming out every few years, it can be hard to know which one you actually need. At Advanced AV & Automation , we help homeowners and builders design networks that are reliable today and ready for tomorrow. Here’s a breakdown of Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6, and Wi-Fi 7 , and w

For years, televisions were considered an eyesore in beautifully designed spaces. Big black rectangles dominated living rooms and bedrooms, clashing with décor when they weren’t in use. That all changed with the introduction of Frame TVs . At Advanced AV & Automation , we’ve seen Frame TVs quickly become one of the most requested upgrades in custom homes. They combine high-performance video with elegant design, allowing technology to disappear into the background when not in

The homebuilding market is more competitive than ever. Buyers are shopping with checklists, and the homes that stand out are the ones that feel modern, secure, and connected . That’s why integrating technology into your builds isn’t just a perk—it’s a sales strategy. The Tech Advantage for Builders Immediate Wow Factor Imagine showing a buyer a model home where one button dims the lights, lowers the shades, and starts music. That first impression is unforgettable. Meeting Buy

When building or renovating a custom home, luxury upgrades aren’t just about style—they’re about creating a home that’s functional, future-ready, and more valuable at resale. At Advanced AV & Automation , we help clients in College Station and Greater Houston choose smart technology upgrades that deliver both lifestyle benefits and long-term ROI. Why Luxury Upgrades Matter Buyers today want more than granite countertops or crown molding. They’re looking for comfort, convenien

Homebuyers today expect more than just four walls and a roof. They want homes that are smarter, safer, and more connected . For builders, offering smart home automation isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a competitive advantage. At Advanced AV & Automation , we partner with builders in College Station and Greater Houston to integrate technology that sells homes faster and adds long-term value. What Is Home Automation? Home automation ties together lighting, audio, video, climate, and

Buffering. Lag. Spinning wheels. Few things are more frustrating than trying to watch a movie or play a game only to have your connection fail. In today’s homes, seamless streaming and gaming  aren’t luxuries—they’re expectations. At Advanced AV & Automation , we help families create rock-solid networks that keep up with modern demands. Here’s how to achieve truly reliable performance. Why Streaming and Gaming Struggle Weak Wi-Fi Coverage A single router in one corner of the

When it comes to home networking, one of the most common questions is: “Should I stick with a regular router, or invest in a mesh system?” The answer depends on the size of your home, how many devices you use, and the quality of connection you expect. At Advanced AV & Automation , we design networks that fit your lifestyle. Traditional Routers: The Basics A traditional router broadcasts Wi-Fi from one central location. Pros: Simple setup. Affordable for small homes or apartme

It’s the same story in homes everywhere: the Wi-Fi works fine in the living room, but in the upstairs bedroom it crawls. Or Netflix buffers in the backyard while Zoom meetings freeze in the office. In today’s connected world, Wi-Fi isn’t a luxury—it’s a utility . At Advanced AV & Automation , we fix weak, unreliable Wi-Fi by designing networks that actually work for modern households. Why Wi-Fi Fails in Most Homes ISP Equipment Limitations The router your internet provider gi

In today’s market, buyers expect more than granite countertops and walk-in closets. They want security and peace of mind  built right into their homes. That’s why builders who include pre-wired security systems  have a competitive edge. At Advanced AV & Automation , we partner with builders in College Station and Greater Houston to make homes “security-ready” from day one. Why Pre-Wired Security? Future-Proof:  Even if the buyer doesn’t add cameras immediately, the wiring is

Traditional security cameras used to be reactive — they recorded footage you could watch later, often after something bad already happened. Today, thanks to artificial intelligence (AI) , modern cameras don’t just see, they think . At Advanced AV & Automation , we’re seeing AI-powered cameras transform the way homeowners protect their properties. What Makes a Camera “AI-Powered”? AI cameras use advanced algorithms to analyze video in real time. Instead of sending constant ale

For many homeowners, the first step into smart security starts at the front door. Two of the most popular upgrades are video doorbells  and smart locks . But which should you choose first? At Advanced AV & Automation , we help homeowners and builders decide which front-entry upgrade delivers the most value for their lifestyle. Video Doorbells: Eyes on Your Doorstep Video doorbells combine a traditional chime with a built-in camera, microphone, and app control. Benefits: See w

Home is where families should feel safest. But in today’s world, traditional locks and basic alarm systems aren’t enough. Fortunately, smart surveillance technology has advanced dramatically, giving homeowners peace of mind and builders a powerful feature to market. At Advanced AV & Automation , we design and install smart surveillance systems that provide reliable protection—whether you’re home, at work, or across the globe. The Evolution of Surveillance Not long ago, securi

When planning a home entertainment space, one of the most common questions we hear is: “Should I build a media room or a dedicated theater?” The answer depends on lifestyle, budget, and available space. At Advanced AV & Automation , we help families decide which option is right for them. What Is a Media Room? A media room is a flexible, multipurpose space . Think living room or game room that doubles as a theater. Typically includes a large TV or projector. Surround sound sys

The world of home entertainment is evolving faster than ever. In 2025, homeowners have more choices than at any time in history when it comes to TVs and projectors. Whether you’re designing a dedicated home theater, upgrading your living room, or building a new home, knowing the latest trends can help you invest wisely. At Advanced AV & Automation , we stay on top of the latest technology so you don’t have to. Here are the key 2025 trends in TVs and projectors . 1. Bigger, Br

The backyard has become the new living room. Families aren’t just grilling outdoors — they’re hosting game nights, movie screenings, and pool parties. And with the right technology, your outdoor space can become an entertainment destination. At Advanced AV & Automation , we design outdoor audio and video systems that turn backyards into true extensions of the home. Why Outdoor AV? Lifestyle Upgrade:  Enjoy the big game while swimming in the pool or host movie nights under the

For many homeowners, high-quality audio is a must — but so is a clean, uncluttered design. The problem? Traditional floor-standing or bookshelf speakers don’t always match a modern aesthetic. The solution is hidden audio . At Advanced AV & Automation , we specialize in designing systems that deliver powerful, theater-quality sound while remaining virtually invisible. Why Hidden Speakers? Seamless Design:  Speakers are flush-mounted into walls or ceilings. Some models are so d

A home theater isn’t just about watching movies—it’s about creating an immersive experience that rivals (or beats) the local cinema. With the right design and equipment, you can bring big-screen magic into your home. At Advanced AV & Automation , we’ve designed theaters for homeowners who want everything from cozy family rooms to Hollywood-style private cinemas. Here’s what goes into creating the perfect theater. Step 1: The Screen & Projector (or TV) Projection Systems : Gre