Jordan O'BrienAME Electrical is a security, audio visual and electrical installation company based between Belfast and Londonderry/Derry in Northern Ireland,
The company specialises in private and commercial installations, including home cinema systems, home automation and electrical contracting.
This week sees AME Electrical’s Aidan McErlean take the installer focus Q&A.
What are you up to today?
I am currently working on an Elan G project in Derry; the install includes six zones and two AVR zones with a home cinema. The install includes linear IP cams with Wyrestorm matrix 4×4.
How and why did you pursue a career in the AV/Install industry?
As an electrician I used to hire in AV installers to do work. I started doing small audio systems and enjoyed the work.
What project are you most proud of in your career and why?
The Ponderosa Bar And Restaurant, due to fact that it is famous throughout Ireland.
What is the worst thing (outside of your control) that has ever gone wrong on a project?
Cable getting damaged after the first fix stage.
What advice would you give new installers breaking into the industry?
Be prepared for a lot of head scratching!
When it comes to an installation, what would you say is the biggest hurdle?
Clients changing their mind.
With the IoT (Internet of Things) increasing day by day, where would you like to see the industry in five years?
In five years I think it would be good if all homes had structured cables installed, not just bespoke one-off builds, but all residential properties should be future-proofed for any potential changes.
You have a magic wand; what are the things you would change about technology?
4G connectivity to be available everywhere, as well as 4K Ultra HD being more affordable for users.
What is your favourite piece of AV kit on the market right now?
The Elan G kits are pretty hard to beat. The possibilities are endless.
Best reaction from a client?
A client rang me to thank me for the install after their first party.
What’s the best thing about life as an installer?
Getting to demo products in your own home.
You can invite three people living or dead out for a pint or over for dinner (not including family and friends!) Who are they and why?
Billy Connelly because everyone needs a good laugh, Will Smith and Wayne Rooney, simply because he never gives up on the football field
You can only listen to one album and watch one film for the rest of your life, what are they?
I Am Legend and U2 number ones.
What’s a common pet peeve during a project?
Forgetting to label cables!
Recent Q&As…
See exactly why the Ponderosa Bar And Restaurant was Aidan’s proudest career moment
Luke Newland talks best and worst projects, what installers are tired of hearing and Peep Show…