Be Smart

Did Dad get the 62 " flat panel he wanted for Father's Day? A new home theater system? You'd better get him Zip Express as well then (and get one of the other siblings to kick in).

Basically, Zip Express partners with retail outlets (in-store and online) to provide next-day and five-day installation options for consumers, regardless of where they bought the goods. Or, you can just purchase the service when you buy Dad's new gizmo. Depending on the item, the prices range from $199 for a standard Home Theatre system to $399 for an on the wall TV installation package.

Unlike most service/installation calls, Zip Express guarantees you will be given a ONE hour window of time for the CE-certified installer to arrive. It's easy to schedule on the Web, and the installers take all the e-waste trash away with them, but you know what's the best part? They show Dad how to program and use the new remote! ($149 for Universal Remote programming which includes reviewing the existing TV and A/V components to make sure that they are compatible with the remote control; programming primary commands for up to 8 devices; and finally, training Dad.)