Government Affairs Brochure

The Voice Of The Residential TECHNOLOGY Systems Industry

© 2021 CEDIA

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CONTENTS Introducing CEDIA CEDIA: Where Home Technology Lives 5 Leaders in the Connected Home Experience

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About the Residential TECHNOLOGY Systems Industry The Benefits of Home Automation 9 The Home Network: The Backbone of the Home

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Technology Systems in the Home 13 How Residential Integrators Are Different From Electricians

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The Work of Residential Integrators 19 The Importance of the National Electrical Code® for the Residential Technology Systems Industry

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CEDIA Resources CEDIA Academy 25 CEDIA Certified 26 CEDIA Workforce Development 29 CEDIA Expo 31

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CEDIA: Where Home Technology Lives The Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association (CEDIA) is the global industry association and central touch point for residential technology, representing more than 3,900 member companies worldwide who deliver technology solutions for the connected home.

CEDIA members are established businesses with qualifications and experience in this specialized field. Our members include residential integrators, manufacturers, distributors, and industry-related professionals. CEDIA members are experts in the broad field of home technology, which includes automation, networking, audio/ video, and more.

Learn more about CEDIA and our members’ work at cedia.net.

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Weather Access Controls Robot Cleaner

Water Control

Leaders in the Connected Home Experience

Lights Activity Sensor Wifi

For more than 30 years, CEDIA members have been the leaders in the residential technology industry. Although

Solar Panels

home automation systems were in their infancy at CEDIA’s inception, our members blazed the trails for what is now Shades

a booming channel.

Multimedia

Home automation systems, which power the connected home experience, have become big business. As a result, Flood Sensor

Thermometer

other industries are eager to enter the market.

While CEDIA members welcome newcomers, many groups – including electricians, telecommunication

Door Locks

Video

companies, and security companies – have sought to redefine home automation system design, installation, and integration as work subject to the licenses their respective industries hold. In the process – intentionally or

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Garage Door

unintentionally – CEDIA members, who have done this work safely and skillfully for years, are being pushed out of the very industry they pioneered.

CEDIA supports licensing for residential integrators when the license properly represents the work they do.

Learn more about CEDIA’s Government Affairs Program at CEDIA Government Affairs.

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The Benefits of Home Automation When CEDIA members talk about home automation, they are referring to the ability to integrate audio/video, lighting control, multi-room audio, HVAC, security, smart appliances, and other systems through a centrally-controlled network. These systems are tailored to allow homeowners the convenience of managing their technology through a central control interface – even remotely.

The home is now one complex technological system with many interrelated subsystems. The key to making smart home technology work is effective integration. Through just a single device, systems such as voice, high-speed data, video, security, and automation are integrated to seamlessly work in conjunction with one another.

The number of homeowners embracing the connected home has grown exponentially. As new and more affordable technologies are developed, consumer awareness spreads. More homeowners understand the value of these systems in providing comfort, security, and convenience to their families.

CEDIA is concerned that a push to define 100% of residential integration work as the work of a security business would lead to substantially-greater operating costs, particularly in insurance. This would significantly drive up the cost of business for residential integrators.

Installation by Graytek, Coquitlam, BC, Canada

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The Home Network: The Backbone of the Home Virtually every technology in the home is becoming part of the home network. The importance of a well-designed and robust home network cannot be understated. With a home network, multiple devices can access the internet from a single source. This means computers, tablets, smartphones, and video game consoles can all connect independently to the internet at the same time. Home networks make it possible to stream movies, music, and more content across multiple devices.

Home networking has grown as consumers demand more entertainment content. Home networking allows technology devices in the user’s environment to seamlessly communicate with one another and the outside world.

Home networking has evolved rapidly due to several trends, including the broader availability of internet content, digital services, and interactive multimedia services, and the development of technology standards.

CEDIA members are on the cutting edge of connected technology systems of all kinds: audio/video, low-voltage lighting, and energy management. More consumers are demanding the benefits of connectivity – for convenience, safety, and lifestyle enhancement.

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Installation by Admit One Home Systems, Edina, MN

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Technology Systems in the Home Home Automation Home automation refers to the ability to integrate audio/video, lighting control, multi-room audio, HVAC, security, smart appliances, and other systems through a centrally-controlled network. These systems are tailored to allow homeowners the convenience of managing their technology through a central control interface – even remotely.

The home is now one complex technological system with many interrelated subsystems. The key to making smart home technology work is effective integration. Through just a single device, systems such as voice, high-speed data, video, security, and automation are integrated so they work in conjunction with one another easily.

The number of homeowners embracing the connected home has grown exponentially. As new and more affordable technologies are developed, consumer awareness spreads. More homeowners understand the value of these systems in providing comfort, security, and convenience to their families.

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Installation by La Scala, Vancouver, BC, Canada

© 2021 CEDIA

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Benefits of Power over Ethernet Power over Ethernet (PoE) provides enhanced control and flexibility in residential projects and supports numerous technologies such as VoIP phones, audio amplifiers, and lighting controls. Residential integrators have the skill and Low-Voltage Lighting

knowledge to safely install and integrate these technologies for their clients.

There are numerous reasons low-voltage lighting and lighting control are beneficial in the home: energy efficiency,

The use of PoE equipment is becoming more common on residential projects as the cost of the installation and

environmental friendliness, cost savings, longer life span, increased safety, versatility, and easier installation.

equipment continues to decrease. PoE deals with non-lethal voltage and power levels in an IEEE-defined protocol

The work of residential integrators is covered by the National Electrical Code® and this includes Power over

over a standard telecommunications infrastructure.

Ethernet (PoE) and LED lighting systems. PoE and LED lighting are safe and within the scope of work for residential

The telephone, audio, and lighting devices named previously as PoE technology, as well as wireless access point

integrators and are covered by Article 411 of the National Electrical Code®. This article addresses lighting systems

devices, are sold as “off-the-shelf” consumer products that must be connected to other devices in the home with

and their associated components operating at no more than 30 volts ac or 60 volts dc. PoE and LED lighting

Category 5/6 cables. The cables transmit both data and power. Residential electronic systems that include PoE

include automation and are within the skill set of residential integrators.

devices do not pose a shock or fire hazard as defined in the National Electrical Code®. Both the power and data are part of a networked installation of various IT hardware. In PoE applications, the work of residential integrators is more akin to that of an information technology professional than an electrical contractor.

The National Electrical Code® ensures that communication cables are used and installed in a manner that protects people and property from hazards. PoE-enabled systems also do not pose a shock or fire hazard as defined in the National Electrical Code®. The National Electrical Code®, published by the National Fire Protection Association, protects the public by establishing requirements for electrical wiring and equipment in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Additionally, PoE includes built-in safety features to stop power.

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Considerations for Legislative Language CEDIA members are on the cutting edge of connected technology systems of all kinds – audio/video, home automation, the home network, low-voltage lighting, and Power over Ethernet. It is vital to use forward-looking legislative language to support current and future technological innovation and adoption of these important systems and advances.

Legislative language can limit the technology residential integrators can provide their clients on projects and limit consumer options on what can be installed in their homes.

The work of residential integrators is a separate trade from electrical contractors and should not need an electrical license and requirements.

The proper way to differentiate the work of a residential integrators and an electrical contractors is to use Class 2 and Class 3 circuits as defined by the National Electrical Code®, making a proper distinction between the work of residential integrators and electrical contractors. The Class 2 and Class 3 circuits exemption supports technological innovation and does so in a safe, well-defined manner based on the National Electrical Code®. Several states use Class 2 and Class 3 circuits as an exemption to differentiate between the work.

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How residential INTEGRATORS ARE Different from ELECTRICIANs

The Work of Residential Integrators Residential integrators have an immense impact on the productivity and lifestyles that consumers enjoy in their homes.

Some state legislation does not make a proper distinction between the work of residential integrators on limited-

They are the architects of the connected home experience for their clients. These experts design, install, integrate,

energy technology systems and the work of electrical contractors on high-voltage electrical systems. The work of

program, and automate a variety of technology systems so that everything works together easily and intuitively.

residential integrators is separate from the electrical trade and should not be bundled under an electrical license.

A residential integrator’s work is more akin to that of an information technology professional than that of an electrician.

Licensing language must make a proper distinction between the work of low-voltage residential integrators and highvoltage electricians. The work of residential integrators is a separate trade from that of electricians and should not be bundled into an electrical license.

The scope of work for residential integrators is separate from electrical work. The training and skills required to work

A brief comparison

on residential technology systems is not the same as electrical work. Requiring residential integrators to meet the training and experience requirements of electricians is problematic by imposing unnecessary licensing requirements for

Residential Integrators:

Electricians:

residential integrators who install and integrate various technology systems throughout the home.

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Work with Class 2 and Class 3 power-limited circuits and with voltages of 100 volts or less

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Work with multiple circuits and with voltages greater than 100 volts

The need for residential integrators will increase as consumer demand for connected devices on a secure network at

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Deliver signals and data

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Deliver power

high level of expertise from a skilled workforce to install, maintain, connect, and deploy the technology.

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Install and configure home automation controls, touchscreens, keypads, and computers

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Install and configure switches, dimmers, and breakers

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Work with analog and digital circuits

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Work with analog circuits

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Use cabling for multiple applications throughout the life of the cable

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Use cabling for a single application throughout its life

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Require constant education and training

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Require some continuing education

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Do not have a licensing requirement in most states

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Have a licensing requirement in most states

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home and work rises significantly with emerging technologies. These dual-functioning devices and systems require a

The wire and cable infrastructure in modern residential technology systems delivers information and intelligence in the form of voice, data, wireless, and audio/video systems such as home theater, multi-room audio, phone systems, VOIP, and security systems. These complex systems require well-trained and technologically-astute residential integrators, who understand not only the intricacies of installing these various systems, but also how to integrate these systems so they work in conjunction with each other through the ease of a single control device often on a network. Residential integrators are the professionals who install, configure, and maintain this technology ecosystem.

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The residential integrator’s skill set is separate and more diverse than an electrician, with specialized skills to work with technology throughout the home. Technology has evolved to the point where the work of residential integrators needs to be distinct from the role of electrical contractors. Today, residential integrators work with numerous connected devices that are powered using Power over Ethernet (PoE), which is becoming more common on residential and commercial projects as the cost of installation and equipment continues to decrease for consumers. PoE has been one of the main catalysts of the information technology revolution over the last decade. PoE possesses the ability to transmit data (information) and power (wattage) simultaneously over a structured cabling system to one or more devices on a network, as previously mentioned. Current and future emerging technologies such as wireless mobility, smart buildings, Internet of Things (IoT), and alternative energy systems like low-voltage lighting, all rely on the successful deployment of PoE. The number of chipsets residential integrators use continues to increase on residential projects as does the value residential integrators add to projects throughout the home.

Licensing of Residential Integrators It is vital to use forward-looking licensing language to support current and future technological innovation and adoption.

CEDIA supports licensing of residential integrators when the license properly represents the specific skills for the work they complete in the home. The work of residential integrators is a separate trade from electrical contractors and should not require an electrical license and requirements. The proper way to differentiate the work of a residential integrator and an electrical contractor is to use Class 2 and Class 3 circuits as defined by the National Electrical Code©, making a proper distinction between the work of residential integrators and electrical contractors.

Several states use Class 2 and Class 3 circuits as an exemption to differentiate between the work of residential integrators and electrical contractors.

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Installation by Company Name, City, ST

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The Importance of the National Electrical Code®® for the Residential Technology Systems Industry The National Electrical Code®, or NFPA 70, published by the National Fire Protection Association, is a standard for the safe installation of electrical wiring and equipment in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings in the United States.

The National Electrical Code® is revised every three years based on new technology and industry needs.

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Below are some section descriptions from the NEC 2020 that apply to the work of residential integrators: Article 250: Grounding and Bonding Article 250 covers general requirements for grounding and bonding of electrical installations.

Article 300: General Requirements for Wiring Methods and Materials Article 300 covers general requirements for wiring methods and materials for all wiring installations unless modified by other articles in Chapter 3.

Article 314: Outlet, Device, Pull, and Junction Boxes; Conduit Bodies; Fittings; and Handhole Enclosures Article 314 covers the installation and use of all boxes and conduit bodies used as outlet, device, junction, or pull boxes, depending on their use, and handhole enclosures. Any box used in the floor for low-voltage must be listed as an approved floor box.

Article 406: Receptacles, Cord Connectors, and Attachment Plugs (Caps) Article 406 covers the rating, type, and installation of receptacles, cord connectors, and attachment plugs (cord caps).

Article 411: Low-Voltage Lighting Article 411 covers lighting systems and their associated components operating at no more than 30 volts ac or 60 volts dc.

Article 640: Audio Signal Processing, Amplification, and Reproduction Equipment Article 640 covers equipment and wiring for audio signal generation, recording, processing, amplification, and reproduction; distribution of sound, public address; speech input systems; temporary audio system installations; and electronic organs or other electronic musical instruments.

Article 706: Energy Storage Systems Article 706 applies to all permanently-installed energy storage systems (ESS) operating at over 50 volts ac or 60 volts dc that may be standalone or interactive with other electric power production sources.

Article: 712: Direct Current Microgrids Article 712 applied to direct current microgrids.

This article regulates PoE (Power over Ethernet) lighting and dc power supplies.

Article 720: Circuits and Equipment Operating at Less Than 50 Volts Article 720 covers installations operating at less than 50 volts dc or ac.

Article 770: Optical Fiber Cables Article 770 covers the installation of optical fiber cables. This article does not cover the construction of optical fiber cables.

Article 800: General Requirements for Communications Systems Article 800 covers communications circuits and equipment, including cable and off-air television systems and network-powered broadband systems. Some of these systems may be installed by technology integrators.

Article 805: Communications Circuits Article 805 covers communications circuits and equipment.

Article 725: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 Remote-Control, Signaling, and PowerLimited Circuits Article 725 covers remote control, signaling, and power-limited circuits that are not an integral part of a device or of utilization equipment.

Article 810: Radio and Television Equipment Article 810 covers antenna systems for radio and television receiving equipment, amateur and citizen band radio transmitting and receiving equipment, and certain features of transmitter safety.

Class 1 circuits can involve voltage as high as 600 volts. This involves mostly industrial control and is not part of the work performed by technology integrators.

Article 820: Community Antenna Television and Radio Distribution Systems Article 820 covers coaxial cable distribution of radio frequency signals typically employed in community antenna television (CATV) systems.

Class 2 circuits are supplied by a Class 2-rated power supply. These circuits can include doorbells, audio signals, speaker lines, thermostats, video cables, security systems wiring and automation control systems.

Class 3 circuits involve the same types of systems but have slightly different current and insulation ratings.

Article 750: Energy Management Systems Article 750 applies to the installation and operation of energy management systems.

Article 830: Network-Powered Broadband Communications Systems Article 830 covers network-powered broadband communications systems that provide any combination of voice, audio, video, data, and interactive services through a network interface unit.

Article 840: Premises-Powered Broadband Communications Systems Article 840 covers premises-powered broadband communications systems.

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Connect with Industry Education CEDIA Academy connects the industry with education needed to power a career in the residential technology industry. CEDIA Academy offers interactive, expert-driven classes in a user-friendly online platform. Participants gain the skills and knowledge of the industry to further one’s career.

CEDIA Academy offers a wide variety of education pathways designed to prepare learners for industry certification exams.

CEDIA provides the industry’s most comprehensive education through the following opportunities: Online Training: Members get the training they need at anytime, anywhere. Online training includes modules, online courses, and pathways designed to prepare learners for industry certification exams.

Face-to-Face Learning: Gain essential skills and knowledge through hands-on training, presented by industry experts and world-renowned instructors.

Resources: CEDIA has an extensive library of industry-specific resources, which cover both business and technical topics. Resources include white papers, research reports, and publications.

Learn about the CEDIA Academy.

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CEDIA Certified: Demonstrate Mastery with CEDIA Certification CEDIA Certified Integrators carry a proven knowledge base for the home technology industry.

CEDIA Certified Integrated Systems Technician (IST): The IST Certification is for individuals who have solidified their core technical skills through time on the job and developed an essential knowledge base either from on-the-job training or focused education programs. This credential represents the technical foundation necessary to perform the most common tasks of every installation project. IST certified technicians can work independently, using best practices to properly mount and install a wide range of home technology equipment in racks and throughout a residence. They

CEDIA Certification is a set of credentials that reflects defined areas of knowledge in the home technology industry.

understand the basic concepts of how audio, video, and communication and control devices work, and can perform

Earning and retaining certification demonstrates mastery of a particular skillset and body of knowledge by completing the

the basic configuration of various integrated systems and equipment. This certification indicates to employers that a

required study and gaining key field experience.

person has experience, possesses a broad range of essential technical skills, and is ready to pursue more specialized and advanced training on specific technology systems.

Learn more about CEDIA’s Certification Programs.

CEDIA Electronic Systems Certified Networking Specialist (ESC-N): ESC-N certification is for individuals who have mastered the fundamentals of residential networking, including infrastructure, design, and configuration. Integrators CEDIA Certified Cabling and Infrastructure Technician (CIT) Certification: Designed for early-career technicians, CIT

who are prepared for the ESC-N certification have experience with wireless home networking, including advanced

certification represents a technician whose primary task is to perform basic infrastructure wiring for low-voltage technology

networking techniques such as VLANS, QoS, and remote access.

systems in a residential or commercial setting. Certified technicians are able to use proper tools and techniques, follow instructions per project documentation, and operate in a safe and professional manner on the jobsite. They understand the basic function of the wiring and termination components being installed. CIT certification holders are also aware of common equipment and systems applications, which they may assist in mounting and installing during later phases of a project. While these individuals typically work under supervision, this certification indicates to employers that they are jobsite-ready, can

CEDIA Electronic Systems Certified Designer (ESC-D): An electronic systems designer selects products, creates schematics and drawings, forms budgets, and develops programming. These individuals bridge the gap between the client and the installation professionals, focusing on the overall system design and project completion. Electronic systems designers should be well-versed in design documentation, project design, needs analysis, and design management.

work billable hours performing cabling and installation support, and have foundational knowledge to support additional training on equipment and technology systems.

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CEDIA Workforce Development: Working for the Industry The future of home technology depends not only on the technology, but on the people who are designing and installing it. The goal of CEDIA’s workforce development programs are to create a framework for sustainable development of a skilled workforce by focusing on attracting new talent to the residential technology systems industry.

CEDIA is working to become a viable link between jobseeker pipelines (educational institutions, government agencies, community organizations, etc.) and industry employers. CEDIA’s goal is to create a framework for sustainable development of a skilled workforce through programs that help individuals acquire the knowledge, skills, and credentials they need to obtain gainful employment and advance their careers with businesses that need skilled integrators.

As the leading global authority on education, certification, research, standards, and advocacy for the residential systems integration industry, CEDIA has made a significant commitment to address the workforce development needs of the industry.

CEDIA works daily to meet this critical industry mission by: Laying the Foundation: Providing CEDIA member companies with the resources to help them attract skilled talent.

Developing Partnerships: Partnering with government agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations that have access to jobseekers and students.

Giving Future Integrators the Right Skills: Training, credentialing, and upskilling talent for the growing industry.

Making Connections: Connecting jobseekers to member employers through online and in-person opportunities.

Learn more about Learn more about CEDIA’s Workforce Development Program.

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CEDIA EXPO CEDIA Expo is the home technology industry’s flagship event. Held annually since 1990, it has grown to nearly 20,000 attendees and some 500 exhibitors.

Through CEDIA Expo, industry professionals build connections with peers, suppliers, and industry thoughtleaders to strengthen and grow their businesses. The show features the latest innovations in every segment of the industry, including audio, video, control, networking, and lighting.

CEDIA Expo also represents the single-largest offering of training for the home technology industry. Each year, thousands of professionals attend hundreds of sessions that cover fundamentals, best practices, and emerging trends through classroom, hands-on, virtual, and hybrid learning. Attendees also have the opportunity to demonstrate their proficiency by earning certifications.

More information is available at cediaexpo.com.

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