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Smart HomeTrends & Industry IssuesColumnsHome Automation / Entertainment

Smart Insights

Size Is Everything for Viewing Media

By Helen M. Heneveld
Smart Insights 2019
January 6, 2020

2020 looks like a great year in the smart home industry. Electronics are flying off the shelves, delivery trucks are full and professional installation is at an all-time high. But there continues to be a real shortage of knowledgeable technicians. Working to help alleviate the lack of educated installers, I am excited to share that one of three books I am authoring on smart home and connected office technologies is now available. Titled Audio, Video, and Streaming Technologies, this volume is designed to prepare the reader to deliver systems and devices for intelligent and connected living at work and home. 

Presented in easy-to-understand English with colorful graphics, the principles of audio and video are explained to help the reader enhance their skill set and deliver these sought-after systems. This technical manual builds a foundation on A/V wiring, components and installation. It is a must for every installation company’s library, and technicians committed to the trade.

‘When planning for the optimal viewing experience, consider if a direct-view or projection system would be best and evaluate the operating conditions.’

Viewing media happens everywhere, and getting the right size for the room can deliver an awesome experience; but the wrong size or location can make for an uncomfortable and frustrating situation, not to mention a sore neck. This issue is one of many covered in the book, and I thought I would share some good information here: “When planning for the optimal viewing experience, consider if a direct-view or projection system would be best and evaluate the operating conditions. Estimate the expected viewing distance, assess the desired image size, and consider sight lines. Also study the options for mounting a display or a projector and screen.” 

Viewing distance and image size also must be aligned with each other. “Viewing from a centered position, at eye level, and at the right distance gives a more immersive, theater-like viewing experience.” 

Optimal viewing distance depends on image size and resolution. For a 1080p HDTV image, viewing distance should be 1½ to 2½ times the image size, where image size is the diagonal measurement of the display or screen. When the content being viewed is 4K, this allows the viewer to be closer to the image, and the optimal viewing distance is between 1 and 1 ½ times the diagonal measurement.

Check out the simple chart above to quickly determine the best image size based on the room and media being watched. Drop me an email if you would like to receive a PDF of this helpful chart. It’s just one of many presented in the 270+ page book. 

Visit www.bedrocklearning.com to learn more of what’s in the book and order your signed copy today. 


Smart Chart

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KEYWORDS: home entertainment media streaming streaming media viewing

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Helen heneveld sdm

Helen M. Heneveld, president of Bedrock Learning, a training solutions company in Holland, Mich., has wide-ranging experience in smart home technologies, business strategies and training — from startups to Fortune 500 firms. Her unique ability to simplify, see through the hype, identify impactful new technologies and pinpoint potential opportunities shows in her passion to help others. Visit www.bedrocklearning.com.

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