New Certification for Home Technology Integrators Now Available from CompTIA and Consumer Electronics Association.

CEA-CompTIA DHTI+ covers all aspects of connected home

OAKBROOK TERRACE, Ill. -- The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), the world's leading provider of vendor-neutral certifications for technology professionals, announced today that a new professional credential for technicians in the growing field of home technology integration is now available.

The CEA-CompTIA Digital Home Technology Integrator+ certification (CEA-CompTIA DHTI+), developed in collaboration with the Consumer Electronics Association, covers all aspects of the connected home focusing on the personal computer as the controlling hub. It is targeted at home technology system installers and integrators who install, maintain and service digital home products.

"The connected home is no longer just for the rich and famous," said John Venator, president and chief executive officer, CompTIA. "We're seeing mass market acceptance and demand for advanced technologies in the home. But the explosion of digital entertainment options and home network tools brings with it a new level of complexity. The installation, use and maintenance of disparate components and systems can be a challenge for consumers. There is a demand - and an opportunity - for qualified individuals to provide product installation and integration, and on-going service and support."

In fact, home technology integrators anticipate seeing nearly 15 percent growth in their business in 2007, according to a January survey by CE Pro magazine. That follows a year (2006) in which integrators said they experienced revenue growth of 35 percent.

But home technology integration firms face a challenge in finding individuals with the right skills.

"The worlds of consumer electronics and information technology (IT) are converging in the connected home of the 21st century, "said Todd Thibodeaux, CEA's senior vice president, industry relations. "Technicians must have skills in both worlds to provide the product installation, integration, service and support that consumers need to fully enjoy a connected home lifestyle."

CEA-CompTIA DHTI+ certification maps to specific job roles and skills in home technology integration, such as:

* System infrastructure and integration, including user interfaces and control processors; network setup and support; and internet access and protocol.

* Digital home entertainment and distribution, including digital rights management and IP; media center PCs and entertainment PCs.

* Digital home control of telecommunications, lighting, energy management, and security.

For more information on CEA-CompTIA DHTI+, visit http://certification.comptia.org/dhti/default.aspx.

About CompTIA

In 2007, CompTIA is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Just as the information technology (IT) industry it serves has grown, CompTIA has also enjoyed remarkable growth over the past 25 years. The organization was founded by representatives of five micro-computer dealerships working together to find better ways to do business. Today, CompTIA has more than 22,000 member companies in over 100 countries around the world; and serves as the voice of the world's $1 trillion-plus IT industry. CompTIA is committed to advancing the long-term success and growth of the IT industry by helping organizations maximize the benefits they receive from their investments in technology; and by helping individuals to obtain the skills and credentials they need for productive careers in IT. For more information, please visit: www.comptia.org.

About CEA 

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the consumer technology industry through technology policy, events, research, promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA represents more than 2,100 corporate members involved in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and integration of audio, video, mobile electronics, wireless and landline communications, information technology, home networking, multimedia and accessory products, as well as related services that are sold through consumer channels. Combined, CEA's members account for more than $125 billion in annual sales. CEA's resources are available online at www.CE.org, the definitive source for information about the consumer electronics industry. CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES - Defining Tomorrow's Technology. All profits from CES are reinvested into industry services, including technical training and education, industry promotion, engineering standards development, market research and legislative advocacy.