Wiring a house is getting more complicated as more homeowners build networks that connect entertainment centers and security systems to appliances and personal computers.
But who’s doing the work?
The Computing Technology Industry Association in Oakbrook Terrace has teamed with the Internet Home Alliance based in Monterey, Calif., to help consumers answer that question.
The two groups announced this week development of the first vendor-neutral professional certification for technicians who install and network home technology.
Called the Home Technology Integrator Certification, or HTI+, the new stamp of approval is meant to assure homeowners that their electricians know how to network an array of systems manufactured by several companies. Certified technicians also should be able to design and maintain home networks.
“The demand for these technologies is increasing, and it is a significant investment for anyone to make,” CompTIA spokeswoman Deborah Song said. “Consumers must have a way to determine who’s qualified to do the work.”
Home automation is growing: Industry experts estimate the market will increase to $7 billion annually in four years from $800 million a year currently.
Several companies, including Best Buy Co., Cisco Systems Inc., Sears Roebuck and Co. and Whirlpool Corp. helped develop the HTI+ standards and are considering running their own employees and contractors through the program.
The companies are members of the alliance, which encourages corporate collaboration to advance the development and interoperability of home networks.
The new certification expands CompTIA’s horizons. The not-for-profit organization is devoted to creating vendor-neutral standards for the technology industry and has awarded more than 500,000 professional certifications to people in more than 50 countries.
More online: In the market for a computerized toilet seat? For the latest on home technology trends, visit chicagotribune.com/hometech.
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