Networks

Currently (and since our beginning), Amp AV installs and supports Ubiquiti network products.  More specifically, we utilize the UniFi line of products.  On occasion, Eero is our preferred retrofit mesh network product when running additional wires in old construction is not possible.

Our networks are always designed for optimal coverage of the area, and for maximum reliability.

Simply put, they work.

In our experience, fewer Ubiquiti products fail due to material defects than other brands that are more commonly used by our competitors.

Ubiquiti also has self-optimization technology built into the WiFi platform that eliminates more human error during the system setup.

Another important reason for using Ubiquiti is that it is incredibly cost effective.  For an equivalent product as far as performance, you'll likely pay 2-3 times as much elsewhere.  At Amp AV, we would rather that the customer focus their budget more toward the home entertainment and automation technologies.  This way, they get more overall enjoyment for the money.

Finally, Ubiquiti is a product of choice because of its incredible scalability, including multi-structure interconnection and outdoor WiFi products.  Although enterprise in caliber, it works just as well in a home setting.

Yes, but this also depends on how you define a mesh network.

In consumer electronics, the word "mesh" is commonly associated with having a primary WiFi router, and multiple WiFi repeaters that receive signal wirelessly from the router.  This is a good system when hardwiring the repeaters is not an option.  However, by the time the original WiFi signal from the router reaches the repeater, it is already diminished, and the repeater cannot makeup the loss in bandwidth and speed.  The repeating devices can only extend the overall signal range, with further signal loss over more distance.

Ubiquiti WiFi meshes together to create a seamless coverage around the property and allow smooth transitioning between different WiFi access points, but these are also usually hardwired for optimal speeds.  Wirelessly-connected access point capability is available, but Amp AV stipulates doing everything within reason to hardwire each access point.  This is for better overall system reliability and serviceability.

Hardwired access points have just as strong of a WiFi signal and speed as a WiFi router, with full bandwidth capability.

In new construction, Amp AV pre-wires for multiple ceiling-mounted access points proportional to the square footage of the space.

In retrofit scenarios, we still wire each access point provided that there is adequate attic or plenum space.

Both.

The UniFi Dream Router is the current WiFi 6 all-in-one option, and works great for small to medium projects.

For large projects, we default to using the UniFi Dream Machine Pro, which is a rack-mounted router.  The primary benefit of this unit is having 10 Gbps SFP ports that we can use to stack it with additional network switches, providing a 10G trunk.

This is one of the main reasons why Ubiquiti is such a great option.  There are multiple outdoor-rated WiFi access point products available that work seamlessly with WiFi inside, so roaming from inside to outside is as smooth a transition.

The ceiling-mounted AP Pro access points are humidity rated and work well for covered patios, or where they are not exposed directly to rain (some mist is generally okay).  Wherever possible, we try installing this type of access point with line-of-sight to the key coverage areas in the outdoor space, such as a pool or ramada.

For very large outdoor coverage areas, we will use a pole-mounted access point called the Mesh Pro (still hardwired to the network for great speed and reliability).   Sometimes we locate this on the primary structure, and other times we run in-ground network cable to hardscape or wall location more central to the area of greatest WiFi demand.

Pretty much, yes.

There is an argument to be made about how WiFi can actually have better security than wired connections (mainly applicable to corporate networks), but when it comes to speed, hardwired wins every time.

A streaming device such as a Roku or Apple TV will be noticeably more responsive and have much shorter buffer times when using wired ethernet.

Eero is not nearly as scalable for large projects, and as of yet, does not have a hardwired outdoor-rated WiFi access point product available. 

Also, there are some advanced network settings that are not able to be adjusted within an Eero system the way a larger home technology system would require.

Furthermore, Ubiquiti has a range of network switch options, each with critical system information and control over connected devices. 

*Updated Q4 2022

Amp AV does offer network wiring, such as data drops in homes and businesses.

Each project is either quoted following an on-site survey, or billed as T&M (time and materials) if work is scheduled without a survey performed.

Network wiring is a service that is supplemental to our other primary focuses, which are audio video and automation system installation services.

In a home, Amp AV offers full-service home network installation once a provider has connected internet to the home.

For businesses, we handle the physical network infrastructure, i.e. the cabling, wall jacks, racks, patch panels, routers, switches, and WiFi access points.  We do not configure or provide ongoing service of these systems.  Amp AV will work in tandem with other IT service providers to complete these physical installations, and from there, the IT provider handles all setup and service.

Amp AV does not sell or install computers or computer software.

Yes, including home offices!

From huddle rooms, to executive boardrooms and training rooms, Amp AV can provide simple-to-use, powerful audio and video conferencing systems.  This could be as simple as a monitor and camera on the wall, all the way up to combinable multi-purpose rooms with large projection systems and ceiling microphones.

Please note that Amp AV does not sell computers or software.

Yes!

We can cable manage your existing network wiring and hardware.  This will strain-relieve the connections, provide greater serviceability, and overall longevity to the home systems.  It will also allow you to finally shut the panel door!

These cleanup projects are typically billed as T&M (time and materials).