Like its predecessor, the newest version of the TechHome Ratings System will likely take a while to disseminate to the wide range of builders who might find it useful. But what seems to set this one apart is the fact that it will be dynamic rather than static.

Mitch Arthur says the initiative will be more aggressive than in the past. By the end of the Q2 2009, an online portal should be ready that lets consumers, builders, and integrators take a survey that will help determine the amount and type of technology desired in a house, which in turn would determine the appropriate cabling level. Ultimately, Arthur predicts, some type of certification will be created to enable product and systems manufacturers to use the TechHome logo to indicate that their wares are compatible with a specific level of home wiring.

"There'll be further enhancements to this process" Arthur says. "Like a possible green component, as well."

Note: In part 1 of this two-part series, we explain how the new rating system came into being.

Dan Daley is a frequent contributor to Hanley Wood's DIGITAL HOME. He's based in Nashville, Tenn., and New York.