A Primer on Networked Systems within the Home Is Now Available For Consumers, Builders, and Contractors Free of Charge on the Internet.

OAKBROOK TERRACE, Ill. -- A primer on networked systems within the home, including computing, telecommunications, video, security, and home automation is now available free of charge on the web, compliments of the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA).

"Technology within the home is advancing so quickly, it is hard to keep up or even to know what questions to ask," said Carl Bowman, Home Technology Integrator (HTI+) certification program manager, CompTIA. "We asked a national expert to develop a document that would give anyone reading it a clear picture of the basics. The primer will be helpful to anyone buying electronics, purchasing a new home, or remodeling an existing dwelling. Builders and contractors will find the information equally as helpful as it provides a much needed context for these new developments."

CompTIA commissioned Michael A. Tangora, HTI+, president, Tangora Technologies, Delmar, N.Y., to author the primer: The Fourth Utility: Integrated Homes -- Wireless, Wired, or Both? Tangora Technologies was the winner of the 2003 Consumer Electronics Association Mark of Excellence Classic Home System of the Year Award and the 2002 Mark of Excellence Award. Consumer Electronics (CE) Pro Magazine named Tangora Technologies as one of the Top 100 Installers in 2003.

The primer is available for download at http://www.comptia.org/certification/TheFourthUtility.pdf.

About CompTIA

CompTIA is a global trade association representing the business interests of the information technology industry. For more than 22 years CompTIA has provided research, networking and partnering opportunities to its 20,000 members in 102 countries. The association is involved in developing standards and best practices, and influencing the political, economic and educational arenas that impact IT worldwide. More information is at www.comptia.org.