Voip Small Business Solutions

  • Deciding on business name
  • Filing business license and LLC
  • obtaining an IRS EIN number


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Setting Up Your Business

Step 1 – 6 from the book Hip Hop Business Advisor
By: Jai Hutcherson

Before you can cash a check from a distributor, collect your money from a major tour organizer, or earn an occupancy license to move into your new commercial building where your Record Notice offices will be you have to properly set up your business. By this I mean file the correct paperwork with local, state, and federal government. The following 5 steps detail what is nesasary to set up your business from deciding a name to expend through filing for your EIN number with the IRS. Step 1 – Business Name

Naming your independent hip hop record label is the first step to realizing your dream of being a label CEO. But – be warned – everything is in a name. You don’t want a name that is so long it does not fit onto business cards, flyers, and other marketing material. You don’t want a name that sounds similar to others or is hard to hear when announced at live events. And you surely do not want a name that already has industry popularity. You want to find a unique name for your label — A name that is easily veteran to create logos, put onto marketing material, and will be easy for folks to understand and recognize.

Withhold in mind that you want a name that is available as a web address. While thinking about your label’s new name it is friendly practice to go to www.godaddy.com and use the domain tool (available on the front page) to do a web search to see if your chosen name is available as a dot com. All browsers today allow folks to enter domain names without using dot com or dot net. If your domain is a dot net, dot info, or
dot anything other than com your website will not come up, the website that is dot com will. This is a highly used trick by competition to profit from your marketing mistake.

I can’t stress the importance of finding a name folks can spell enough. You want your fans, business associates, and anyone doing a search online or in a phone book, to be able to bag you. As we have all learned from first grade: K.I.S.S. (Keep it Short & Simple). You may want to create a name that ensures you come up first in the retail, distributor, online, and phone book listings. This is a marketing practice that has stood the test of time and we gaze it in all types, styles, and sizes of business. For example: AAA Plumbing. This company will likely come up first in the
phone book under the plumbing section.

Tip: Naming your business with a name that comes up first alphabetically might relieve when it comes to retail reorders, distribution pay-outs, and/or online listings. Most accounting software, retail rack lists, etc. use the alphabetical system of tracking.Step 2 – Regain a P.O. Box

Before you file an LLC, gain a bank account, or start doing any type of marketing, you will need to have a P.O. Box. Do not use your physical address. You will get folks coming to your door looking for a record deal. Or worse… you’ll have a lot of fans showing up hoping to see one of your artists while you are trying to get work done. It’s good to grasp precautions to protect your anonymity and a P.O. Box can do just that. A P.O. Box is simply a box at an address where you receive mail. Be aware, not all P.O. boxes are equal. If you go to the regular Post Office and get a box you will not be able to receive packages or deliveries from delivery companies other than the US Postal service. While running an independent represent label you will need the ability to receive packages and deliveries from all delivery sources; i.e. US Postal service, Federal Express, (Fed Ex), UPS, DHL, etc. Check the
neighborhood around your business position. You might find a small mom and pop company that offers full address P.O. Boxes. This will give you a physical address not a P.O. Box address. If you cannot find a mom and pop, UPS offers P.O. Boxes at their retail stores in most cities around the world.

Interrogate to pay a higher premium than at the post office for your P.O. Box. In most cases I have been able to get one for about $10 a month or $35 per quarter. Check your local availability and as always, shop before you buy. You would be surprised at the price range I discovered.

Resources:
http://www.ups.com – United Parcel Service – Nationwide
http://www.mbe.com – Mailbox Etc. – Nationwide
http://pobox.com – POBox – Internet Mail/Package forwarding
*Remember: The United States Mail PO Box does not acquire packages. You must find a PO Box that
offers package delivery options.
Step 3 – Business Structure

Business structure is just a fancy way of saying, ‘how will the law and IRS look at your business? ‘ Will you be a sole proprietor, partnership, C-Corporation, S-Corporation, or LLC? Below is a brief description of each of the business structures. Please remember… this book is not meant to replace a good attorney. You should always discuss business matters with a qualified attorney and get advice for your specific business needs. For more information on the different types of business structures, I suggest visiting www.nolo.com or www.irs.gov/businesses/small/index.html . Both sites are a great source of information for you and your new business. Several Industry books I have read over the years, in reference to starting and running your portray label, have mentioned www.nolo.com. Personally, I have used the site and have found it to be helpful in the daily operations of several of my businesses.IRS business structure definitions:

Sole Proprietorship
A sole proprietorship exists when a single individual operates a business and owns all assets. A sole proprietor is personally liable for all debts, and business ownership is nontransferable. Under a sole proprietorship, the life of the business is dinky to the life of the individual proprietor. The sole proprietorship makes no legal distinction between personal and business debts, and it does not require a separate income tax return. A sole proprietorship is often operated under the name of the owner. Whenever operating a business under a name other than the sole proprietor, an Assumed Name Certificate must be filed with the county clerk.

General Partnership
A general partnership exists when two or more individuals or businesses join to operate a business. Under a general partnership, a separate business entity exists, but creditors can still peek to the partners’ personal assets for satisfaction of debts. General partners share equally in assets and liabilities. A general partnership requires an annual partnership income tax return (separate from the partners’ personal returns). A general partnership may be operated under the names of the owners, or a different name. In either case, an Assumed Name Certificate must be filed with the county clerk. As with a sole proprietorship, you will need to file, at minimum, a DBA with your county clerks office. Be sure to check your State and Local government for additional requirements in your specific plot.

Corporation
A corporation (Subchapter C or S) is created when two or more individuals, partnerships, or other entities join together to form a separate entity for the purpose of operating a business in the site. A corporation has its hold legal identity, separate from its owners. The corporation offers protection to the business owners’ personal assets from debts and liabilities relating to the operation of the corporation. Taxation of the corporation varies depending on the type of corporation formed. A corporation must be registered with the Secretary of State.
Note: A Subchapter C Corporation is taxed at a higher rate than an individual. The owners are not taxed personally for profits; however, the owners do pay personal taxes on any salaries and/or dividends, and the corporation is also taxed on the profits. Owners of Subchapter S Corporations may deduct business losses on personal income tax returns, similar to a partnership. The Subchapter S Corporation also offers alternative methods for distributing the business income to the owners.

Limited Liability Company
A limited liability company is an unincorporated business entity which shares some of the aspects of Subchapter S Corporations and limited partnerships, and yet has more flexibility than more traditional business entities. The itsy-bitsy liability company is designed to provide its owners with itsy-bitsy liability and pass-through tax advantages without the restrictions imposed on Subchapter S Corporations and exiguous partnerships. A limited liability company must be registered with the Secretary of State.
Note: You cannot offer stock in your LLC. LLC’s do not issue stock. You can however accept outside investors. It is a bit tricky, but there are pages and pages of information available on “securities.” Basically, a security is an investment made into a LLC from an outside investor who will not be a managing partner. In other words – a silent investor that does nothing more than gives you money and sits back and waits for his/her portion of the profits to be delivered to a mailbox.

Most start-up record labels do themselves as an LLC. It protects its partners from liability, the process is simpler than a C-Corp., it doesn’t require annual meeting and minutes, and the taxes are passed through to its partners. You can easily file an LLC online with several companies like
www.bizfilings.com for under $500. If you file as an LLC and find that sometime down the road you need to change your business structure to a C-Corp or S-Corp your attorney can easily handle the details. I suggest and will assume you will be setting up your unique label as an LLC. All references from this point will be geared toward the LLC business structure. If you and your attorney decide on a C or S Corp there really is no dissimilarity in reference to running your label in this book.

Resources:
http://www.nolo.com
http://www.IRS.com
http://www.sba.com
*Remember: Your local Chamber of Commerce is a great resource for all business matters including
local resources to attorneys, organizations, and companies that can help you with making the right
choice for your business structure.
Step 4 – File A DBA

DBA is an abbreviation of “doing business as.” In some cities and states it is also called a “Fictitious Business Name,” “Trade Name,” or “Assumed Name.” All of these mean the same thing. You will have to check your city or state to find how it is called. A DBA is necessary if you are a sole proprietor going by a name other than your own name or a partnership using a business name other than your partner’s names. An example of this would be: Your real name is “John Doe” while your record label name might be “Plump Boi Records.” In addition, Banks will require a DBA to set up a business account in the name of your business. In most states with an LLC it is not valuable to file a DBA, but it is good practice and good marketing. As an LLC, filing a DBA in your home city will abet if you need to go before the city counsel for a permit to shoot a video at your approved car wash, or need a permit to hold a charity event supporting the homeless. By filing a DBA with your city or county you are letting them know you are a solid business with the design of running an ethical business within the city or county limits. And trust me, as an independent hip hop record label you want the city or county on your side. You want them to glimpse you, hear from you, and learn to trust you as a business. Do not be vexed of your city or county counsel. FIGHT THE POWER!!! But fight it quietly, legally, and by showing them that an independent hip hop record label can conduct business as well, if not better, than guys in a three piece suit selling widgets.

It’s pretty simple to file a DBA. Go to your county or city clerk’s office. They will provide you with a form. The produce will ask your name, address (You must use your physical address here, not your P.O. Box), what name you want to use (they will do a county/city check to ensure no one else has filed that name already), and what business structure you will be using in your business. The cost is low, usually around $10-$25 depending on the city/state. If on the other hand, you are independently wealthy and want to avoid filing this paperwork, you can use one of the hundreds of online services available to file your DBA. The cost is usually around $80.00, takes about a week, and you get your certificates in the mail. Just do a search in Google for “File a DBA.”

TIP: In filing your DBA, setting up your business structure, or impartial about anything else you might run across setting up the business side of your label, I have found that the Dinky Business Administration (www.sba.gov ), is an invaluable resource. Use this resource. It’s free and they have years and years worth of business information available 24/7 online.

Resource:
http://www.SBA.com
Step 5 – Filing Business License & LLC

In most cities, counties, and states you will need a business license. You will need to check with city hall or your state clerk’s office for filing procedures. I personally filed all my business licensing needs online with www.bizfillings.com because it is the easiest way of setting up a business. They will file all forms with your state, city, and the federal government. By doing it this way you are 100% sure you are in compliance with all laws governing your business in your State. The fees range from $350 – $700.00 for them to do this service for you. These fees include filing your LLC as well.

Another option is to use your attorney to file your business license and LLC. This is something you will want your attorney to do if you do not use a company that specializes in LLC formations unless you are an MBA student or graduate and really understand the complexities of doing so. The SBA, IRS, and your state website will be a great starting point to learn what is required.

Folks, this is an important step. Many independent hip hop represent labels feel they can do this step at a later date when they have earned money from their label. I highly advise you not do this. You are setting yourself up for many liable situations, starting a business without the proper documentation, and you are basically short cutting a step that will build upon other steps in this book. If you have to wait an extra week to open doing the “fun” things with running your label like A&R, Marketing, etc. to collect your business structure and filings in order, go ahead and wait. You need to start this business off on the right foot.

Resource:
http://bizfillings.com
http://www.legalzoom.com
http://www.mycorporation.com
http://www.incorporatefast.com
http://www.llc.com
http://www.smallbiz.com
http://www.incfile.com
*Remember: Your state website is a great resource for filing information, requirements, and organizations that can help.
Step 6 – Pick Up Federal EIN Number

This is from the IRS website:
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, and is mature to identify a business entity.

You need an EIN if you:
* Started a new business
* Hired or will hire employees, including household employees
* Opened a bank account that requires an EIN for banking purposes
* Changed the just character or ownership of your organization
* Purchased a going business
* Created a trust
* Created a pension plan as a plan administrator
* Are a foreign person and need an EIN to comply with IRS withholding regulations
* Are a withholding agent for taxes on non-wage income paid to an alien
* Are a state or local agency
* Are a federal government unit or agency
* Formed a corporation
* Formed a partnership
* Administer an estate formed as a result of a person’s death
* Represent an estate that operates a business after the owner’s death.

Now, what does all this mean? It means you have to file your business with the IRS to fully comply with the federal tax code. This is how you are taxed, identified within the US Government, and how you must conduct your business structure under the laws of the IRS. There is an online form located at:

https://sa2.www4.irs.gov/modiein/individual/index.jsp
This form is the easiest way of filing for an EIN. It is free, lol; I guess the IRS thinks they are getting enough from you already.

Ok folks, that is all for setting up your business as a legal entity. I highly suggest you follow these steps and launch your business off the right plot. Once you get this accomplished it’s time for the fun stuff: Marketing, Managing, and Profiting Your Independent Hip Hop Report Label!

Peace,
Jai
“Love the Music in Yourself,
Not Yourself in the Music.”

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Filed under Voip Small Business Solutions by on . Comment#

University of the East

College of Computer Studies and System

Typical Network Topology Proposal For Computer Shop

As a partial requirement in the subject of

SPECIAL ICT COURSE

BSCS – 1T

Submitted by

Deerlittle

————————–

Submitted to

Prof. Vonzel

August 17, 2009

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like to express our sincerest gratitude and appreciate to those who extend their helping hands in the completion of

this project, and also to those who, in one way or another, gave their luminous and moral support.

It is our broad pride and honour to present to our beloved department the College of Computer Studies and System our Project;

we would like to thank, first and foremost, the LORD GOD for providing us his divine assistance all throughout the design

and knowledge of this project. Our very supportive families that have driven us to depart finishing this work and to our

very supportive Professor, Mr. Vonzel, who have devotedly giving his time and subordinates skill and constantly reminding us

of our duties and responsibilities.

We, the people late this project would like to express our sincerest and deepest gratefulness to the company, JHONAMAE

Computer Shop for being our source and basis in making this project and to that imperceptible value that has acted as our

funnel and strength to continue this work in spite of the hardships that we had in making this project.

CHAPTER I

Company Background

Computer Shop located at 929 Nicanor Reyes St. Brgy. 395 Sampaloc, Metro Manila It was established on the 23

of February 2006

The JHONAMAE is owned by Mr. Joselito Bercasio Uy. It was started with the amount of Php 200,000 loan guarantee with only 20

computers using star Topology in a 40 sq. m. On the first year of their business was really a tough one because few users of

computer are renting

because computers are not really part of our lives that time.

Then, after 1 year, 6 new computers and 1 inkjet printer was added to the shop. After another two years, 1 computer was

added and all PCs have been upgraded to Windows XP plus a fresh 256 memory to each of the computer was installed..

Now they have a total of 27 computers all having Windows XP, 512 RAM, 80 gig hard disk; 2 printers, one for murky fast

printing and one for coloured detailed printing; 1 Zyxel P-600 series modem; 1 CNET power switch with 24-port 10/100 Mbps and

1 DLinkEthernet Cable/DSL router with 4-port switch. Joselito Bercasio Uy turned RCMAX Computer Shop into a

revolutionary internet cafe whose innovations helped shape the technology industry in Morayta, especially the FEU students.

It has grown into one of Morayta’s best-known internet cafe with hundreds of satisfied customers.

Scope of the Study

• To view the network topology of the Computer Shop only.

• To developed an efficient design of network topology for Computer Shop .

• To developed a fresh layout of network topology for the possible expansion of Computer Shop .

• To educate the owner regarding to the networking of the Computer Shop.

• To eliminate the errors encountered in network sharing.

• The study will make the shop function easily.

• The study will make the shop more attractive to the customers.

• The study will make the shop look more spacious.

• The study will give the owner enough space to manoeuvre easily.

• The study will not include any computation of all the cost.

CHAPTER II

Theoretical Background

Network – is basically all of the components (hardware and software) involved in connecting computers and applications across

small and large distances. Networks are used to provide easy access to information, thus increasing productivity for users.

Network Characteristics

The following characteristics should be considered in network design and ongoing maintenance:

• Cost Includes the cost of the network components, their installation, and their ongoing maintenance.

• Security Includes the protection of the network components and the data they contain and/or the data

transmitted between them.

• Hurry Includes how fast data is transmitted between network end points (the data rate).

• Topology Describes the physical cabling layout and the logical blueprint data moves between components.

• Scalability Defines how well the network can adapt to new growth, including new users, applications, and network

components.

• Reliability Defines the reliability of the network components and the connectivity between them. Mean time

between failures (MTBF) is a measurement commonly musty to indicate the likelihood of a component failing.

• Availability Measures the likelihood of the network being available to the users, where downtime occurs when the

network is not available because of an outage or scheduled maintenance. Availability is typically measured in a percentage

based on the number of minutes that exist in a year. Therefore, uptime would be the number of minutes the network is

available divided by the number of minutes in a year.

Local area networks (LANs) – are used to connect networking devices that are in a very close geographic station, such as a floor

of a building, a building itself, or within a campus environment. In a LAN, you’ll find PCs, file servers, hubs, bridges,

switches, routers, multilayer switches, voice gateways, firewalls, and other devices.

Wide area networks (WANs) – are used to connect LANs together. Typically, WANs are used when the LANs that must be connected

are separated by a large distance.

Network Topologies

• A point-to-point topology uses a single connection between two devices and is typically used in WAN environments. In

a star topology, a central device makes many point-to-point connections to other devices. A 10BaseT hub is an example of a

central device in a star topology. A bus topology uses a single connection between all devices; Ethernet 10Base5 is an

example of this topology. A ring topology connects one procedure to the next, where the last device is connected to the first.

FDDI is an example of a ring topology.

• A physical topology defines how the computing devices are physically cabled together. A logical topology describes

the method by which devices communicate across a physical topology. The two topologies can vary with the network

technology/standard used.

• Meshing generically describes how devices are connected. In a partially meshed network, not every device has a

connection to every other device. In a fully meshed network, each device is connected to all other devices.

McGraw.Hill.Cisco.Certified.Network.Associate.Study.Guide.Exam.640802.Apr.2008.eBook-DDU

Bus Topology – Bus networks (not to be confused with the system bus of a computer) use a common backbone to connect all

devices. A single cable, the backbone functions as a shared communication medium that devices attach or tap into with an

interface connector. A device wanting to communicate with another method on the network sends a broadcast message onto the

wire that all other devices eye, but only the intended recipient actually accepts and processes the message.

Bus Network Topology

Ring Topology – In a ring network, every device has exactly two neighbours for communication purposes. All messages travel

through a ring in the same direction (either “clockwise” or “counter clockwise”). A failure in any cable or blueprint breaks the

loop and can take down the entire network.

Ring Network Topology

Star Topology – Many home networks use the star topology. A star network features a central connection point called a “hub”

that may be a hub, switch or router. Devices typically connect to the hub with Unshielded Zigzag Pair (UTP) Ethernet.

Compared to the bus topology, a star network generally requires more cable, but a failure in any star network cable will only

take down one computer’s network access and not the entire LAN. (If the hub fails, however, the entire network also fails.)

Star Network Topology

Tree topologies – integrate multiple star topologies together onto a bus. In its simplest form, only hub devices connect

directly to the tree bus, and each hub functions as the “root” of a tree of devices. This bus/star hybrid approach supports

future expandability of the network worthy better than a bus (limited in the number of devices due to the broadcast traffic it

generates) or a star (itsy-bitsy by the number of hub connection points) alone.

Tree Network Topology

Mesh topologies – involve the belief of routes. Unlike each of the previous topologies, messages sent on a mesh network can

lift any of several possible paths from source to destination. (Recall that even in a ring, although two cable paths exist,

messages can only travel in one direction.) Some WANs, most notably the Internet, expend mesh routing. A mesh network in

which every device connects to every other is called a chunky mesh. As shown in the illustration below, partial mesh networks

also exist in which some devices connect only indirectly to others.

Mesh Network Topology

http://compnetworking.about.com/od/networkdesign/a/topologies.htm/02-23-09

Well-liked Types of Computer Networks

Written by: Frank J Klein – CIO

Computer network get can range from simple to very complex. Networking can be as simple as connecting two computers, or a

computer and a printer, while more complex networks can involve the connection of millions of computers and devices. Below is

a brief outline of different computer network types.

Personal Area Network (PAN)

The smallest type of network, a PAN simply involves connecting one person’s computer to a number of devices or peripherals.

Usually, all devices, such as printers, PDAs, and telephones, are within a few feet of the computer. A PAN can also refer to

a connection to the internet.

Local Area Network (LAN)

If you have a home network with two or more computers or you are connected to other computers at your workplace, then you are

on a LAN. LANs are ideal for networking in a small geographical area and can either work with cables and hubs, or wirelessly.

They allow for the expeditiously transfer of data — up to 10Gbit/s. Most LANs are based on Ethernet technology. Wireless Local Area

Networks are known as WLANs.

Campus Area Network (CAN)

CANs are so called because they are ideal for universities, but are also found in industrial facilities where networks in a

number of buildings need to be connected. This is usually accomplished through bridging and routing. Again, most CANs are

based on Ethernet technology.

Metropolitan Region Network (MAN)

A MAN usually consists of a number of interconnected LANs and WANs, but will not extend beyond the boundaries of a town,

city, or metropolitan space. These are often operated at public utilities and are venerable by many businesses and individuals.

MAN technology has developed significantly in recent years with smaller networks within a MAN often interconnected wirelessly

using radio, microwave or infra-red laser links.

Wide Area Network (WAN)

The WAN is the next step up from the MAN because it can nefarious metropolitan or even national boundaries. The best known WAN is

the internet and, like all WANs, it uses routers and public communication links to carry data. While the internet is open to

all, many WANs are run by private companies and are restricted.

These are five types of networks that most users will come across daily — maybe not even realizing it! However, there are

more network type, ranging from the Desktop Area Network (DAN) to the much, much bigger Global Situation Network (GAN).

http://www.relativitycorp.com/networkdesign/article3.html

How to Derive Your Wireless Network

Written by: Frank J Klein – CIO

Wireless technology has revolutionized home networking in the past few years. However, because of increasing signal strength,

wireless signals will often extend farther than the boundaries of your home and may be picked up by other computers —

sometimes as much as two or three blocks away! Because of this, it’s notable that you secure your wireless network

properly. The following are tips on how to do this.

The first and easiest task is turn firewalls on. This includes computers on the wireless network as well as on your router.

Almost all computers with wireless capabilities will have the option to turn on and off a firewall. Make sure that each

computer has its own recent user name and password.

All wireless routers, via a standard IP address, allow you access and set up the equipment. Here, you enter your network

address and other valuable information. Be sure to change the default username and password that allows you to access this

page.

Every computer accessing a wireless router will have a MAC address. One technique to secure your network is to only allow

computers with certain MAC addresses to access the network. If you only have a few computers, this shouldn’t be a time

consuming process.

Every router broadcasts data that includes an ID known as an SSID. This network name will appear when someone is in range of

a wireless network. While this might be helpful for a public internet connection, it’s not needed on your personal network.

If a router doesn’t broadcast it’s SSID, your network is essentially invisible.

All wireless routers allow data sent over the network to be encrypted. Encryption standards are getting much better. But,

they can quiet be broken by a determined hacker.

If possible, position your router somewhere in your home where the signal will not travel too far beyond the boundaries of

your home. Try to avoid setting the router near a window that looks over a street or public place. Turn your router off

completely if you are going to be out of town for more than two days.

Too many people overlook the importance of securing their wireless networks. The steps outlined above should not long to

implement and will go a long way towards thwarting hackers and giving you piece of mind.

http://www.relativitycorp.com/networkdesign/article6.html

Top Tips on Network Router Configuration

Written by: Frank J Klein – CIO

If you want to set up your own network, and you have multiple computers, you will need to situation up a router. Cable (wired)

routers, while still legitimate, are quickly becoming obsolete so this article focuses on wireless routers.

Most retail wireless routers will cover a large area in your home or office. However, to cut down on cable usage, you may

want to place the router as halt to your modem as possible. Your modem will have a phone line connection so it will be less

mobile. Ideally, you would want your modem and router to be one device. Many ISPs will give you a modem/router but you’ll

have to request it.

Wireless routers have built-in installation software that you connect with and employ via an internet browser. You don’t need an

internet connection to configure your wireless router. In fact, you can setup a network without an internet connection at

all.

To get to your router administration page, begin a web browser and type the IP address 192.168.1.1. or scrutinize in your manuals if

this does not work. Some routers use differing “administration” addresses. Once you reach your administration page (which

controls the router) you will most likely have to login. The default user name and password for many routers is “admin” and

“admin”.

A few settings you should change include:

1. The login information for the admin page itself (don’t leave the default user id or password)

2. Wireless security (remember to write it down)

3. MAC address security (better security but more time consuming to setup)

4. You network’s ID (SSID)

5. Whether you want to hide your network’s SSID broadcast

Once all this information has been input correctly, and saved, your router will re-start before the changes take effect.

Here’s where it can get a little tricky. If you’ve turned off your network’s SSID broadcast signal, your wireless devices

won’t bewitch up your network’s signal. That’s a good thing because nobody else will pick up your signal either. You will have

to manually type in your SSID in each device’s network settings. Once you’ve setup a connection with your network’s SSID, you

will be able to connect.

When you first connect, you will have to enter your security key — the one you setup initially in the router’s configuration.

Your router will accept the key and issue you an IP address. An icon in the lower accurate hand corner will blink if you have a

good connection — if you have a PC.

http://www.relativitycorp.com/networkdesign/article10.html

Designing a Small Business Network

Written by: Frank J Klein – CIO

Any small business that has more than one computer should have a network. A network allows all computers to connect and share

data between each other, share an internet connection and share peripherals such as printers and fax machines.

The average small business network will require devices to connect to each other and access the internet. While many

businesses unruffled use wired local area networks (LANs), wireless networks are becoming increasingly common. However, many

modern businesses combine the two. Based on this model, the primary features of the network should be as follows:

Wired Local Area Network (LAN) – This will connect all desktops, peripherals and servers. It’s possible to execute the

connection via a hub. However, the best option is to utilize switches where information is only sent to the intended recipient on

the network. Switches use MAC—hardware—addresses to identify where information should be sent. Because devices are connected

by Ethernet cable, transfer speeds are generally very quick.

Secure wireless connectivity – Most fresh businesses make use of wireless enabled devices such as laptops and PDAs so a

wireless access point can be a valuable addition to any small business network. However, network administrators need to be

aware of the security issues associated with wireless access points. In addition, transfer speeds over wireless will not

match the high speeds of an Ethernet LAN.

Secure internet connection – All desktops in a small business should have access to the internet. This will allow access to

the websites and email as well as allowing employees to access the network remotely. However, a secure network is essential

for any slight business so hackers cannot access sensitive information. This can easily be taken care of by using a hardware

firewall.

The basic structure of the network should include internet access via a cable/DSL modem. This should be routed through a

dedicated firewall plan that protects the network before connecting to the main switch.

The main switch is essentially the central point of the network. Not only does it provide a connection to the internet, it

provides a point for all workstations, peripherals and the wireless access point to connect to. All servers should also be

connected directly to the switch and should be backed up by a standalone storage device to ensure that no information is lost

in the event of an outage or other mishap.

This above is a general overview of a typical small business network. As wireless technology develops many small business are

moving to wireless only networks. However, wireless networks will not match the speeds of a network using Ethernet cables.

http://www.relativitycorp.com/networkdesign/article13.html

Choosing the Right Network Hardware

Written by: Frank J Klein – CIO

In the jargon filled world of networking, getting your head around the different types of hardware required can be a

challenge. Bridges, routers, switches and repeaters — what does it all mean? This article takes you through the basics of

networking hardware.

Hubs

A hub is a basic building block of any multi-device network. A hub is like a distribution point that interconnects a number

of computers or devices. When a hub receives information from one computer, it can automatically relay it to other computers

or devices on the network.

Bridges

A bridge is used to connect different segments of a network. It is similar to a hub in many ways but slightly more advanced.

While a hub will send information to any computers it’s connected to, a bridge is more selective and will only send

information to specific, assigned ports.

Repeaters

Repeaters are a valuable part of hardware in larger networks where information has to go longer distances. This network

device receives information and re-transmits it at a higher power to reach destinations further away.

Routers

There are many different types of routers. A router is a device that handles the forwarding of information and data in the

most efficient way possible. It is also a tool that is used to connect networks such as a Wide Area Network to a Local Area

Network.

For most of us, the most common type of router we discover everyday is the router in our home that connects our home network to

the internet. These routers can either be cable or wireless and can be used to filter traffic coming in and going out.

Setting up your router at home will most likely be one of the first networking jobs you take on, and can be a little daunting

the first time around. However, today’s networking hardware is much simpler to install, maintain, and troubleshoot.

http://www.relativitycorp.com/networkdesign/article1.html

Putting it all Together—Part I: VoIP Network Design

August 30, 2005

By Tag A. Miller

So you’re finally convinced—perhaps for many reasons—that a VoIP network architecture makes sense for your enterprise. But

how do you glue all of these disparate piece parts together into one cohesive, converged network? If you have been following

this tutorial series, you now have an understanding of the International Telecommunications Union’s (ITU-T) H.323 protocol

(Understanding H.323, Part 1, 2, 3, 4), the Internet Engineering Task Force’s (IETF) Session Initiation Protocol

(Understanding SIP, Portion 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 6), plus issues that effect the Quality of Service (QoS) of the VoIP connection (QoS

Issues, Part 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 6, 7, 8, 9). Now it’s time to put it all together, and peek at the earn and implementation of

the VoIP network. This, and the next three tutorials will address those issues, beginning with the subject of VoIP network

design.

Let’s describe the importance of the network earn phase anecdotally. Suppose that you are responsible for your

organization’s data network. This network has evolved over the years, and is now a distributed system, with sub networks in

several cities that are connected by wide area network (WAN) links. Your upper management goes on a cost-cutting binge, and

clamps down on corporate business travel, with the intention of replacing business trips with audio/video conferences. You

are now charged with the responsibility of implementing an IP-based voice-and-video conferencing network across your existing

WAN. But does the existing network infrastructure have the capacity to support this type of application?

The first place to begin would be to ogle at the topology of the network, and identify the number and theoretical capacity of

all inter-node circuits. Next, you need to get a handle on the original utilization of these circuits, which may require the

consume of network analyzers and/or conversations with your carriers to determine the average and peak usage of each link. Make

any measurements and/or analysis at different times of the day, week, and month, instead of just one reading, as different

circumstances (such as month-end accounting) achieve different loads on the network. When you have finished with that analysis,

retract a glance in the rear-view mirror, to see what type of growth has occurred. Many network managers are surprised to learn

that the slow, steady growth of network traffic of a few percent per month can lead to a vast increase when considered

on an annualized basis. In other words, that T-3 circuit (operating at 45 Mbps) that you do in just last year may be getting

close to its capacity during peak traffic periods. When you add direct and/or video into the mix, your capacity may well hit

the red line.

To complete the growth assessment, you will need to get a handle on the amount of sing traffic that will likely be added to

the converged network. Unlike data traffic, which is measured in bits per second, most telephone traffic is characterized

using statistical models called the Erlang tables, which were named after A.K. Erlang, a Danish scientist who was an early

pioneer in the survey of telephone network design. These models are used for traffic engineering studies, and can be applied

to a variety of voice-based applications, including PBXs, voicemail, and interactive yelp response systems. Typical

applications of Erlang analysis would be to calculate the number of lines required for a particular grade of service, the

number of call agents that are needed for a given call volume, and so on.

Fortunately, there are number of both vendor- and third-party-developed tools to abet the network manager with these

questions. One that has received high marks for several years is a set of tools called the Westbay Traffic Calculators from

Westbay Engineers, Ltd. (Crawley, U.K.), with information available at www.erlang.com. Westbay has a varied customer base

ranging from operators of local enterprise networks to the largest telecommunications carries in the world. Their flagship

product is called Westplan. It allows analysis of existing networks and optimizes networks to suggest the most appropriate

network facilities that should be deployed between networked locations. Other products include a suite of on-line traffic

calculators, including the Lines to VoIP Bandwidth Calculator. This tool is used to estimate required bandwidth for a given

number of voice paths through an IP network. Other calculators in the suite befriend Erlang models, call center agents and

trunks, and much more. Many VoIP vendors also have network design guides specific to their architectures. Visit their

websites and see what you can show.

http://www.voipplanet.com/backgrounders/article.php/3530146

Creating a Home Network

Get a LAN Layout, Install Routers and Connect Ethernet Cables

Create a simple Ethernet local station network (LAN) in your home.

A home network allows you to share an Internet connection, printer and programs between several computers. Connecting your

computers via a local space network or LAN is a great option if you have more than one computer that needs to be online at one

time. You can even use your home LAN to play online or LAN based games.

Map the Layout

The most popular network is an Ethernet wired network but, you can also choose to set up a wireless network. To spot up an

Ethernet network you will need to establish a physical layout of all devices that will be on your network. First, determine

if all of your computers, printers and other devices will be in the same room. If so, you will need to choose a central

location for your Internet modem and network router. Measure the distance between each computer and the router location to

determine the length of Ethernet cables to buy. If your computers are in different areas of your house, then plan to drill

holes for the cables to pass through in order to reach from the computer to the router. As you measure the distances between

your computers and the router make sure that you follow along the walls instead of a direct path across the floor. You want

to make sure that the cable will not run across the floor creating a trip hazard.

Buying the Router

As you shop for network routers make sure that you look at options that support the number of computers and network devices

that you have in your home. Many routers will support only four computers or devices. So, if you will have more than that

make sure the router will support the additional items. If you cannot find a router to meet your needs then you will need to

purchase a network hub as well.

Network Connections

Make sure that you buy RJ-45 Ethernet cables in the correct lengths for your network. You will need one cable for each

computer to connect to the router and one cable to connect your router to the external modem.

After all devices have been connected, you can run a Network Setup Wizard on each computer using Windows. The wizard can be

found in the Windows Control Panel under the Network section. The wizard will allow you to create a workgroup (all of your

computers must belong to the same workgroup) so that you can share printer, applications and files across your home network.

http://pcs.suite101.com/article.cfm/creating_a_home_network

Network router – is a small electronic device that allows you build a home network simply. The home router serves as the

core or “centrepiece” of the network to which computers, printers and other devices can be connected. Networking with a

router helps you to (for example):

• share files between computers

• share an Internet connection between computers

• share a printer

• connect your game console or other home entertainment equipment to the Internet

http://compnetworking.about.com/od/homenetworking/a/routernetworks.htm/02-22-09

Routers – are physical devices that join multiple wired or wireless networks together. Technically, a wired or wireless

router is a Layer 3 gateway, meaning that the wired/wireless router connects networks (as gateways do), and that the router

operates at the network layer of the OSI model.

http://compnetworking.about.com/cs/routers/g/bldef_router.htm/02-23-09

Ethernet – is a physical and data link layer technology for local area networks (LANs). Ethernet was invented by engineer

Robert Metcalfe. When first widely deployed in the 1980s, Ethernet supported a maximum theoretical data rate of 10 megabits

per second (Mbps). Later, Fast Ethernet standards increased this maximum data rate to 100 Mbps. Today, Gigabit Ethernet

technology further extends peak performance up to 1000 Mbps.

http://compnetworking.about.com/cs/ethernet1/g/bldef_ethernet.htm/02-22-09

Internet today refers to the global network of public computers running Internet Protocol. The Internet supports the public

WWW and many special-purpose client/server software systems. Internet technology also supports many private corporate

intranets and private home LANs.

http://compnetworking.about.com/od/internetaccessbestuses/l/bldef_internet.htm/02-23-09

Intranet is the generic term for a collection of private computer networks within an organization. An intranet uses network

technologies as a tool to facilitate communication between people or workgroups to improve the data sharing capability and

overall knowledge base of an organization’s employees.

http://compnetworking.about.com/cs/intranets/g/bldef_intranet.htm/02-23-09

Client-Server – The term client-server refers to a popular model for computer networking that utilizes client and server

devices each designed for specific purposes. The client-server model can be used on the Internet as well as local area

networks (LANs). Examples of client-server systems on the Internet include Web browsers and Web servers, FTP clients and

servers, and DNS.

http://compnetworking.about.com/od/basicnetworkingfaqs/a/client-server.htm/02-23-09

Peer to peer – is an approach to computer networking where all computers share equivalent responsibility for processing data.

Peer-to-peer networking (also known simply as peer networking) differs from client-server networking, where certain devices

have responsibility for providing or “serving” data and other devices consume or otherwise act as “clients” of those servers.

http://compnetworking.about.com/od/basicnetworkingfaqs/a/peer-to-peer.htm/02-23-09

Network protocol – defines rules and conventions for communication between network devices. Protocols for computer networking

all generally use packet switching techniques to send and receive messages in the form of packets.

http://compnetworking.about.com/od/networkprotocols/g/protocols.htm/02-23-09

Wireless networks utilize radio waves and/or microwaves to maintain communication channels between computers. Wireless

networking is a more modern alternative to wired networking that relies on copper and/or fiber optic cabling between network

devices.

http://compnetworking.about.com/cs/wireless/f/whatiswireless.htm/02-23-09

CHAPTER III

Networking Layout

Using almost Php.500,000 for the capital, Computer Shop and Printing Services plans to have a new branch having 16 PCs for

user and 1 PC for server, all having Windows XP, in a 50 sq. m. lot. The place will be near the school so there will be a lot

of customer. The network structure design will still be a Bus Topology. The wirings will be placed underground so it won’t be

affected by physical interferences. The rent for PC per hour will be Php15.

Breakdown of Expenses

1. PC per unit with LAN Card 300,000

2. Software/Windows XP/Server 15,000

3. Cabling Materials

• Straight through 1Mbps 1,500

4. Network Devices

• Switch LynkSys-16port 10,000

• Router LynkSys-4potrts 5,000

5. DSL Connection(PLDT MyDSL 2Mbps) 3,000

6. Rental 20,000

7. Electricity 20,000

8. Maintenance 50,000

9. Other Expenses 76,000

• Air Conditioners

• Ceiling Fans

• Furniture’s

• Other Bills

TOTAL 500,000

CHAPTER IV

Bibliography

BOOKS

McGraw. H., (2008). Network.Associate, Study.Guide Exam. eBook-DDU

INTERNET

Client-Server. Retrieve March 16, 2009, from http://compnetworking.about.com/ od/basicnetworkingfaqs/a/client-server.htm.

Creating a Home Network Design a LAN Layout, Install Routers and Connect Ethernet Cables. (2007). Bennett K., Retrieve

March 16, 2009, from .

Ethernet. Retrieve March 16, 2009, from http://compnetworking.about.com/ cs/ethernet1/g/bldef_ethernet.htm.

Internet. Retrieve March 16, 2009, from http://compnetworking.about.com/

od/internetaccessbestuses/l/bldef_internet.htm.

Intranet. Retrieve March 16, 2009, from http://compnetworking.about.com/ cs/intranets/g/bldef_intranet.htm.

Network protocol. Retrieve March 16, 2009, from http://compnetworking.about.com/ od/networkprotocols/g/protocols.htm.

Network router. Retrieve March 16, 2009, from http://compnetworking.about.com/

od/homenetworking/a/routernetworks.htm.

Peer to peer. Retrieve March 16, 2009, from http://compnetworking.about.com/

od/basicnetworkingfaqs/a/peer-to-peer.htm.

Routers. Retrieve March 16, 2009, from http://compnetworking.about.com/ cs/routers/g/bldef_router.htm.

Wireless networks. Retrieve March 16, 2009, from http://compnetworking.about.com /cs/wireless/f/whatiswireless.htm.

CHAPTER V

Appendices

Gathered Documents

Network Topology of Computer Shop and Printing Services

• Pictures Taken From The Computer Shop and Printing Services

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Filed under Voip Small Business Solutions by on . Comment#

  • T-Mobile has one three prestigous awards for its customer care and service.
  • The deposit for someone wanting a contract with a low credit score is definitely better than many other companies.
  • Many of the new plans will offer a free phone, so check around for unusual offers.


=”article_text”>

After moving to a different piece of the country, I realized that my old cellular plan wasn’t going to work. It wasn’t that I’d had a major problem with it, it was just that my fresh city had no stores and I wasn’t getting a signal when I really needed it. So the quest for a new carrier began and I ended up finding T-Mobile and an affordable plan that I have thus far been delighted with.

My original view had been to go with a pre-paid notion from a cellular carrier. As someone who can’t boast good credit for various reasons, other contract plans I’d checked into required a large deposit draw out of my note range. However, T-Mobile’s requirements were fairly easy for my credit score. To sign up for a two year contract, a non-refundable deposit of $75.00 was needed. The $250 phone I got for free seemed like a good bargain so I signed up.

T-Mobile USA, a company out of Bellevue, WA has received several awards from J.D. Power and Associates, including recognition for call quality, customer care, and overall customer satisfaction. They boast reaching 268 million customers with their wireless service and data features. They have business, family, and individual plans and include Sidekick and Bluetooth add-ons and accessories.

For anyone looking to keep their family connected, Family Plans start at $59.99 for 700 shared minutes with 2 lines and go as high as $129.99 for 3000 shared minutes. Extra lines are only about $10 per month and each thought comes with unlimited nights and weekends. Individual Plans range from the Basic Plus Plan, which is a bargain at $29.99 if you don’t use a lot of talk time, all the way up to the Get More Ultra Plan. This highest level plan is only $59.99 a month and offers 1500 anytime minutes and unlimited nights and weekends. There are also national business and small business plans for anyone needing a cell phone for work purposes and prepaid plans for those who don’t want the hassle of a contract.

Beyond the regular plans, T-Mobile offers the MyFaves plan. This plan allows the individual free calls to the five people they call the most on top of their Whenever minutes and free nights and weekends. These packages start out at $39.99 per month for 300 Whenever Minutes and go up to $139.99 per month for 5000 Whenever Minutes. The MyFaves plan is perfect for anyone, especially for those who don’t talk to a lot of people, but enjoy their time talking to the few they do sustain in touch with.

T-Mobile offers several add-ons, including media bundles for texting and sending pictures and videos. Depending on the phone you determine with your plan, you can access Bluetooth capabilities from your cell. Standard email and internet is available for an extra monthly fee, as well as wallpaper, games, and ringtones you can download from the T-Mobile website.

The website itself has proved to be one of my favorite features. Once you set up your online account, you can search the site for anything that T-Mobile has to offer, including purchasing accessories or changing your plan. You can mange your record, check your balance, even opt out of paper bills and go for emailed invoices instead. On the site, you can find out your minutes in usage and the calls you’ve made and make payments as you go to keep your monthly bill down to its minimum. Upgrading is easy and if you need customer service, you can access it from your phone by using the 611 feature to connect.

I live in a Metro area and do a bit of traveling and I have not had a problem with my modern T-Mobile cellular plan. I recently upgraded from the Basic to the next level, a cost of $10 more dollars but with more Whenever minutes and unlimited nights and weekends. Extra minutes costs about 40 cents so if you sign up, make sure you have a good grasp of how much you talk in the course of a month. Upgrading was easy and done completely online. The service I get in the area is great. I’ve had no dropped calls and even recently, during an out of town meander, found that with the exception of one or two places enclosed in valleys, I had service and good reception.

I’ve been happy with T-Mobile and while the plans might not be for everyone, I encourage anyone shopping around for a new wireless plan to check it out.

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Filed under Voip Small Business Solutions by on . Comment#

  • Security, lighting and heating/ventilation/air conditioning control are the first decisions to make.
  • Surveillance cameras cost about $300 each and can monitor indoor and outdoor activity
  • A hard-wired lighting system starts at about $5,000 and must be installed before walls are closed.


=”article_text”>

You’ve probably been mulling over the idea of adding electronics to your home plan for some time. Maybe you don’t know where to begin. Maybe you don’ know exactly what you’d like to do, how to do it, or who should do the job. Well, this month is going to be different. You’re going to do more than dream about your smarter house; you’re going to put together a plan. At the waste of 30 days, you’ll be armed with research, budgets, blueprints and contacts and ready to take action.

Day 1
Calling a Family Meeting

It’s time to get everyone involved. Everyone who lives in your house, spends a lot of time there or would like to know how to turn the lights on and off: Involve your kids, your parents, your employees. Serve snacks and brainstorm, and write down all your ideas. What do you want your recent electronic house to do?

At first, you might balk at the idea of including friends and staff in your planning process. But we’re not recommending you ask the nanny for her opinion on what carpet to buy for the foyer (unless she’s got really superb taste). She should, however, know about any electronics that the kids will have to operate or security measures you plan to install. And your gardener or landscaper might have some good suggestions about outdoor lighting, such as places that could be visually appealing and safe if they were more brightly illuminated.

Day 2
Beginning the right work
Security, lighting and heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) control are usually the first decisions to make. These three systems work best when they work together. For instance, a “good night” button on your security keypad might be programmed to turn off all the house lights, arm the security system and turn down the thermostats.

This week, you’re going to research these subjects and determine your home’s needs. Some places to find this information are the book Vivid Homes for Dummies and the Home Automation and Networking Association’s Web site, www.homeautomation.org.

Day 3
Securing your home

When it comes to making your home salubrious and secure, you should originate by thinking about what your home security needs are and then discussing them with your family. To produce your home smarter, you’re going to want a system that can talk to the other systems in your house. Connected security systems generally consist of a central processor-the system’s brain-that’s housed in a metal box hidden in a closet. Connected back to this processor are wall-mounted keypads for arming and disarming the system, and a number of sensors that can alert the system of a security breach or a fire.

Where do you want to install sensors? A sensor in the greenhouse can detect and respond to freezing temperatures. One near the swimming pool can ride a sensor and alert you to an unexpected splash that might mean trouble.

How do you want to receive security alerts? On your pager? On your cell phone? At work? You can even receive alerts when your kids win home from school, and they enter their security code on the keypad.

Do you want to control your system remotely? Dial-in capabilities add about $150 to the cost of a security system, but they allow you to check on your house from the road. Surveillance cameras cost about $300 each and can monitor indoor and outdoor activity-whether it’s the baby’s room or the front door, for instance. You can pre-wire for security cameras and add them later if they’re not currently in your budget.

Day 4
Researching your lighting options

Lighting control in the home serves several purposes. First, walk through your house today and make notes, thinking about the rooms in which you would like to have lighting control. What kinds of scenes would you like to have programmed into your keypads?

A lighting system works very closely with security by flashing lighting in the even of a break-in or turning lights on and off randomly while you’re away, to give your house a “lived in” watch. Such features are built into many home security systems, adding between $150 and $200 to the total cost. A more sophisticated lighting system can location a mood, enhance a movie-watching experience, highlight artwork or architectural detail and create ambiance. If you’ve got room in your budget, hire a lighting designer who can help you thought the perfect lighting levels for every room. The International Association of Lighting Designers (www.iald.org) can help you locate a professional in your area.

A hard-wired lighting system, which requires its own network of dedicated low-voltage cabling, starts at approximately $5,000 and must be installed before the walls are closed on new construction.

Day 5
Running hot and cold

Certain areas are lived in more than others. You probably haven’t gone down to the basement in a week. Your son’s bedroom most likely hasn’t been aged since he left for college. And no one’s in the living room after bedtime. A zoned heating and cooling system divides your home into different sections, allowing you to target your energy dollars only where they’re needed.

Tradition single-zone systems consist of one HVAC unit and one centrally located thermostat that serves the entire house. A multi-zone system still uses a single HVAC unit, but it also includes a communicating thermostat for each zone and a network of motorized dampers that direct the optimal amount of warm or cool air to the appropriate zone when necessary.

Zoning a 2,500-square-foot house into two areas adds about $1,000 to the cost of an HVAC system. But because partitioning allows the system to service only the occupied areas of a home, zoning can save from 15 to 30 percent on your energy bills.

When deciding what kind of an HVAC system to install, ask yourself these questions: How many zones do you need? How narrowly do your want to target your energy consumption? What are the most highly trafficked areas of your home?

Day 6
Paying for it
The final cost of your system will depend on the size of your house, the extent of automation, the ease of installation and the cost of labor. However, there are some ballpark guidelines so you can get an idea of what you can expect to pay for the basic systems.

Security: $1,000 to $1,500 for a 2,000-square-foot home; $2,500 for a 4,000 square foot home. Each interior security camera adds roughly $300, whereas weatherproof cameras for outdoor applications can each cost between $500 and $700.

Lighting: Each light usually costs from $13 to $15 when tied to a power-line carrier (X-10) security system. And the price of an architectural dimming system is at least $5,000.

HVAC: A communicating thermostat costs about $300; a two-zone heating/cooling system goes for $1,500.

Electronic systems that are built into the structure of a house and are not easily removed can often be rolled into the mortgage of a current home. Systems that are retrofit into existing home rarely qualify for independent financing, but some companies have third-party financing programs.

Day 7
Wiring your home

Wire is the backbone of any electronic system. Certain services like digital satellite, high-speed Internet and digital TV also require high-performance cables to allow full access throughout the home. Structured wiring systems, which include RG-6 coaxial cable for TV and video, and Category 5 communications cable for telephone and data, can prepare a home for any technology you may want to add later on. The security, lighting and HVAC systems you install, however, will generally require special cabling. For data and entertainment-heavy areas, such as a home theater and home office, judge fiber-optic cabling. Research home wiring further at the Wiring America’s Homes Web site, www.homeautomation.org/wah.html.

Day 8
Finding an installer
If you are technically savvy, then you can certainly tackle some jobs yourself. As you research various home systems, you’ll get a better idea of which projects you’ll feel comfortable handling: Perhaps you’d like to convert your basement into a home theater or connect all the PCs in your house via a wireless network.

However, integrating all your home systems so that they work together seamlessly is a job that most people would rather rive to a professional. Such a person might be called a custom installer, systems integrator, or dealer. Whatever your installer likes to be called, that person needs to be proficient at dealing with different systems and making them work together-rather than being an expert in one area.

Organizations such as CEDIA (www.cedia.org, 800-669-5329) and the Home Automation and Networking Association (www.homeautomation.org) can help you locate kindly installers in your residence. Other resources include a local “parade of homes” or “home and garden” shows. Gather a list of prospects today, so that you can inaugurate locating your smart home partner.

Day 9, & 10
Making phone calls

Spend the next two days calling installers. By now, you should be able to paint a mental relate for them of what you want to have done. Briefly describe your major priorities, as well as the size of your house, and any specific functions you want to include.

Ask installers (call at least three) how long they’ve been in business and the average cost of the job they work on. What associations, such as CEDIA or HANA, are they affiliated with? Do they have a showroom or can they at least show you work that’s been done in a client’s home? Seeing the technology in action can give you a real feel for an installer’s capabilities. Finally, obtain references before hiring an installer.

Day 11
Planning for a home theater
A home theater can be as modest as a big-screen TV and a surround-sound system in your family room – or as elaborate as your local multiplex. If watching movies is a favorite pastime, you might want to assume dedicating a room for this purpose. A basement, a spare bedroom, or even a garage can be converted into a full-fledged home theater. Pull out your home plans and see where a home theater might fit.

Do you want your movies projected onto a screen from a video projector in the floor or ceiling-or displayed on a big-screen TV? Generally, a two-piece projection system (a projector and a screen) is more expensive, but it more closely replicated the experience of going to the movies than a television can.

Is home theater a possibility for your radiant home plan now? Or is this an upgrade you’d like to save for later? As long as you wire for speakers – and provided you have the space – a home theater is one system that can be added to your house practically painlessly at any point.

Day 12 & 13
Regrouping and replanning

You’ve been researching and planning for your smarter home for two weeks now. Have any of your original plans changed? Have you discovered current systems or functions that you’d like to add to your plan? Share your new knowledge with the members of your household. Then review your notes from your original family meeting, and discuss any changes you would like to make.

Day 14
Planning for audio

Home entertainment doesn’t end with a home theater. A distributed audio system spreads music from a single stereo system to speakers installed in several rooms of the house. On the extreme end, you can simply add more speakers and run more speaker wire from your existing stereo system. However, if you’re building a new home, you can have a professionally installed whole-house audio distribution system that runs on its own cabling. The beauty of this type of system is that a wall-mounted keypad gives each room access to a different music source. Typically, the more sources and rooms you specify, the more expensive the system will be.

Day 15
Selecting and placing speakers

If you’ve decided to install a distributed audio system, you’re going to need speakers in every zone/room. Speakers come in all shapes and sizes. The type that’s best for your home depends on the listening environment. For instance, in-wall and in-ceiling speakers are designed to disappear and not to interfere with the décor; however, these speakers are rarely used as the main speakers in a home theater, where box-style speakers create best. Meanwhile, waterproof speakers are the choice for damp areas like the master bath or the pool patio.

Scheme out the places where you would like to place speakers in your new, smarter home. Are there areas that will require special kinds of speakers? Contemplate this step through carefully.

Day 16
Home office planning

More and more people are working from home. Some telecommute to outside office; some maintain an office for weekend or after-hours work. While others even bustle small businesses out of their homes. What do you view to do in your home office? How many multimedia outlets will you require?

Consider how many phone lines you need; do you need a separate fax line? Modem line? Do you need voice mail or an intercom to communicate between rooms? If so, you might want to consider an integrated digital phone system.

If you have several PCs in your home, consider installing a PC network so each PC can share the same printer and modem and exchange files. A wireless network will allow you to sit by the pool with your laptop, surf the Web, and print out your latest expense report -all without wires.

Day 17
Choosing high-speed Internet access

High-speed, “always on” Internet access readies a home for a host of new, interactive services. You can download movies or even have your refrigerator repaired via the Internet. To tap into broadband services, you’ll need a cable modem, a DSL modem or satellite Internet service.

A cable modem is generally provided by your local cable company; satellite service can be purchased through your satellite-TV provider, and DSL is most often provided and installed by your local phone company. Shop for the best DSL price and speed at www.dsllife.com. Research cable-modem availability and technology at www.catv.org/index.html. For more information on satellite Internet access, check out the DirectPC Web set at www.directpc.com.

Day 18
Making appointments

Set up a meeting with at least two installers this week. Try to visit a few hi-tech homes that have system in which you are most fervent. For instance, if your primary focus is energy management, you don’t want to spend a lot of time looking at well-installed in-wall speakers.

The installation of electronic systems is extremely detailed and will require extensive documentation. Ask to see the job files and blueprints of an installation in progress. If the installer refuses, or hands over a disorganized mess of papers, move on to someone else.

Day 19
Taking inventory

Make a list of any components you own that you would like to incorporate into your home system. Perhaps you have a turntable that you want to tie into an audio distribution system or a couple of PCs that you would like to integrate with your security system. Are there any components-such as televisions or computers-that you could purchase yourself at a lower price? Often it’s less expensive to acquire your own TVs, CD players, DVD players, and the like, rather than acquiring them through an installer, However, installers will guarantee the reliability of the equipment they lift and install. If you do your beget purchasing and installation and the equipment fails, getting service could be difficult.

Day 20 & 21
Checking references

You’ve spoken to quite a few installers by now. During those meetings and phone calls, you’ve gathered several references-names and numbers of clients for whom they’ve worked. Call every one of those customers!

Don’t be afraid to ask them very specific questions: Did they like working with their installer? Did the installer carry out the job on time? On budget? How long have they lived in the house since the completion of the project? How has the system performed since it was installed? When they encountered problems (and every home has some problems), has the installer responded quickly?

Day 22 & 23
Consider your home’s future

What events will be taking place in the approach future? Will the kids be moving off to college soon? Are plans in the works to have an aging parent move in? Are there functions or systems you should include with these events in mind?

Many systems or components can be added later if you prewire for them now. Will you be adding surveillance cameras? Extra speakers in the kids’ rooms? Might you turn the nursery into a home office? If so, run wire to these locations now.

Day 24 & 25
Assembling your team

It’s time to talk to your builder, architect, electrician, cabinet-maker and interior decorator about your shiny home plans. They must be involved in the planning process from the beginning. Wait On them to communicate and coordinate with your home systems installer, once you’ve hired that person. Your interior designer might be able to suggest a painter who could camouflage speakers, keypads and sensors. Your electrician’s schedule will need to be coordinated with that of your installer. And the architect simply must know where electronics will be installed in order to view for the space. Getting your team to work together can invent the disagreement between a dream house and a house of horrors.

Day 26
Holding a family meeting!

It’s time to resolve an installer. You’ve met the candidates, or at least spoken to them on the phone. Who do you feel you can trust? You’re going to be seeing a lot of this person, so you need to make sure both of you are compatible with each other. Do you feel comfortable discussing your budget and priorities, or do you feel as if your installer is always trying to sell you more stuff? What about neatness and courtesy? How about availability in an emergency? If you leave a message, how promptly do you get a response?

And is your installer excited about your dream home? A well-integrated electronic system will require long hours of hard work. If the excitement isn’t there now, you’re not going to see a sudden burst of energy six months into the job.

Go through the candidates as a family and analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each until you’ve settled on the legal person for the job.

Day 27
Preparing your materials

It’s time to gather your resources for your first meeting with your newly hired installer:
*You have a plan that includes systems you would like to install now and upgrades you would like to develop over time.
*You have a list of all the key members of your team (electrician, builder, architect, interior designer, cabinet maker) and their phone numbers.
*You have a ballpark budget.
*You have blueprints of your house, as well as specific details about where you would like to have music, Internet access, TVs, lighting control and security cameras.
*You have a list of existing components you would like to integrate into your home system and a list of components you concept to catch yourself.

Day 28 & 29
Calling your new installer
It’s time to have your first official business meeting with your unusual installer. If you can, bring your builder along. The more the builder understands the process, the better off you are.

Now you’ll begin discussing the business specifics, such as payment schedules, warranties and documentation. Determine exactly what you’re paying for and what the labor fees are, and never be terrified to ask, “Is there anything else I could be charged for? ” Make sure the installer carries at least a $1million liability policy.

Find out whether the installer has a privacy clause, about the documentation for your system and when you can expect to see a written quote, detailing your system.

Day 30
Congratulations!

You should be proud of yourself! Armed with knowledge, an experienced team, and a well-thought-out plan, you’re on the road to a smarter, connected home of your dreams.

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  • Create a personal account that is suitable for business correspondence
  • Create a business epic that reflects well on you and your company


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Whether you are an individual or a business, it’s important to have an e-mail address that can be used for more “formal’ business communication.

Individual or Personal e-mail Accounts

Personalizing your e-mail is a beneficial thing, but there are some e-mail names that don’t tend to reveal you in your best light, when it comes to business communications. Let’s say you originally set up an e-mail account via a web-mail provider like Hotmail or Yahoo. You may have come up with a clever or fun e-mail name like “PokerFan9000@xxx’. Very clever if you’re hanging out in online poker chats, or just e-mailing your family and friends. But, consider what a prospective employer might think if they saw your clever e-mail address at the top of your resume. Not so clever now. It’s a good thought to create a secondary e-mail epic for all things business, whether that be resume submissions, or even contacting a government official. For these types of correspondence, it’s best to use something relatively simple and related to your name (for example: john.smith@yahoo.xxx).

Self-Employed or Small Business Owners

Many of us are self-employed and work from home, but that shouldn’t stop us from gaining respect in the business world. It’s possible that when you were setting up your home office internet service with your local cable or phone company, you opted for an e-mail address like “johnsmith@sbcglobal.xxx”. It’s not that there is anything snide with this example, it’s just that it isn’t the best for marketing in a virtual world. Consumers and other businesses may assume you are “small” and less experienced than your competitors. Your e-mail address is as much a “calling card” as are the printed business cards you hand out to clients, vendors, and other businesses.

If you don’t already have a website or web hosting, I strongly recommend getting one. Most web hosting companies offer relatively inexpensive web hosting packages that include e-mail accounts available for your domain name (from 5-1000 unique email accounts). It’s a good notion to take advantage of that option, and create a few different basic e-mail accounts for your business such as “info@yourcompany.com” or “sales@yourcompany.com”. Creating e-mail addresses based on general business categories or functionality, allows you some level of anonymity; allows expansion or change in personnel without changing an account name; and provides less assumption from consumers or the general public as to your company size or net worth. You can still add more personalized chronicle names like “john@yourcompany.com”, and can even forward the general “info” and “sales” e-mails to a designated person.

At the very least, if you choose not to have a website (or don’t have the budget for it), reflect creating an email account with a web-based mail provider such as Yahoo or Gmail. Create an email address that reflects on your job or experience. For instance, if you are a home-based Realtor, instead of using the example above (johnsmith@sbcglobal.xxx), create an email address like “realtor4you@Yahoo or @Gmail.

As a rule of thumb, before you set up an e-mail address – ask yourself “What does this say about me? “

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