thanks for your rational comments, Schuey.

I have contacted all the relevant vendors -- and so far I've spoken with the ones whose programming environments are more open than others.

I have a Friday interview with Crestron and setting one up with AMX.

I would never blame them for the practices of their dealers. They cannot be the ones mediating disputes.

However, I'm sure they have recommended practices for their dealers and I aim to find out what they are. Ultimately, they suffer the most damage when a dealer strands a good customer.