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Home Automation

HAI Updates Benefits of HAI Home Automation Graphic

Home Automation
May 19, 2009 1 Comment

hai wholehouse automation

HAI has updated their “Benefits Of HAI Home Automation”  graphic and I’d love to hear what people think about Home Automation in general.   Since the economy is pretty tight right now and new construction projects  (even remodeling) has slowed down:

  • What are your current views related to Home Automation?
  • Does the thought of having a “Green Home” change your views on building in all this control into your house?  
  • Does it bother you that a new car has more “automation” than your home?
  • What would be the most important function to have automated in your home?
  • Would you pay extra for a house that is “automated”?

Heck, I’d love to hear anything related to this… positive or negative — so sound off in the comments!  Cheers!

HAI:  Benefits of HAI Home Automation Graphic (high-resolution image)

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Russound RNET Touchpoint TCH1 – Control Via iPhone/Touch

Electronics, Home Automation, Home Theater
May 8, 2009 15 Comments

Russound RNET Touchpoint TCH1

If you have a Russound RNET capable (Russound CAA66, CAM6.6, CAV6.6, MCA-C5 or ACA-E5 multiroom controller) whole house audio system and would like to add control via your iPhone or iPod Touch, then you need the new Touchpoint TCH1.  

“Russound’s RNET Touchpoint allows for direct access and remote control of a multiroom audio system from an Apple iPhone™ or iPod touch®. The Touchpoint provides two-way Radio Frequency remote control of any zone in a Russound RNET enabled multiroom audio system with two-way metadata feedback.”

The unit retails for $599 and can be purchased through your authorized Russound installer/dealer.  If you don’t have a dealer,  Mavromedia is an authorized Russound dealer.

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PS Audio PowerPlay 8000 – The Web-Based Control Power Conditioner

Home Automation, Home Theater
May 6, 2009 No Comments

PS Audio - PowerPlay 8000

If you are looking for a Power Conditioner that is web enabled, then check out  PS Audio’s PowerPlay 8000.  This unit has a full web based control that not only allows you to power cycle (reboot) or turn on/off your devices but also monitor the health of the power to them.  PowerPlay will report all of its status including THD, line voltage, current and everything you need to know about the quality of your AC power, tracked daily and available on your own custom web page.  The PowerPlay 8000 also features multiple IR commands, scheduled vacation times, event logging and even email alerts!   The unit retails for $999 and is available now.

For more information and screenshots of the web interface check out:
PS Audio – PowerPlay 8000 

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Using Netbooks for Home Automation Control?

Home Automation
May 5, 2009 24 Comments

Eee PC

DIY’ers and people wanting to control their home inexpensively can use Netbooks as an option.  For less than $400 you can have a small computer that sits in your kitchen or family room ready to surf the web, view security cameras or turn off the lights.  This is one of the reasons why I created Myro:Home as a software only version so users can achieve this type of control for less than purchasing a proper in-wall panel.  However, I still recommend for the ultimate integration and control that an in-wall panel is installed in a home.

If you are in the market for a netbook check out this buying guide and find the best netbook for yourself!

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PREVIEW: Bitwise Control BC4 “Multi-Tool”

Home Automation
May 4, 2009 7 Comments

Bitwise Controls BC4

I just received a Bitwise Control BC4 so I can add support for it to Myro:Home.  I plan on doing a full video review of this unit once I release 1.0.3 (this release is a pretty major one as it includes  significant performance enhancements!)   In the meantime, here’s a little bit about the BC4:

“The BitWise Controls BC4 modular design allows you to select from several plug-in expansion I/O modules. Now you can tailor each install to the job’s specific control and monitoring needs. 

Whether you’re using a web front end, mobile phone application or integrating with a residential or commercial control system, the BitWise Controls BC4 turns commands into actions. Our extensive two-way command set makes it easy to integrate with a variety popular control systems and networked user interfaces for maximum flexibility. “

• Flexible communication options – choose from TCP, UDP, HTTP and RS232 based on the needs of each install

• Simple to learn – One command set covers all I/O modules and devices to be controlled

• Built-in monitoring – On board temperature sensor and two-way command protocol

• Reliable – US designed and built, the BC4 is backed by 20 years of mission-critical experience 

• Field upgradeable firmware – you don’t need to return a product to base to install new features

• Commercial-grade – The BC4 features a rugged and well-shielded 20ga steel enclosure

• Deploys anywhere – The 4.5” x 5” x 1” unit can be wall, shelf or rack-mounted 

 

For more information check out: Bitwise Controls

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Challenges Working With Embedded Devices

DIY, Home Automation
May 3, 2009 4 Comments

Working With Embedded PC's

I’ve been busy working with on the new version of Myro:Home which will run on the 8″  in-wall touchscreen panels.  My original plan was to have the same “downloadable” software being able to run on these types of panels, however,  the truth is that these panels need special care in order to bring the best performance and stability.   I’ve chosen Windows XP Embedded as the OS and can get everything running very quickly.  Now, I’m working on adding in specific hooks to the hardware to take advantage of controlling the “bare metal” like LCD and GPIO.     Since these devices are not full powered desktop PC’s where you can be a bit less strict using CPU cycles, you cannot afford running things that aren’t necessary.   Heat is the biggest problem and when you put panels in walls where ventilation is an issue, you need to use less powerful (less heat producing) architecture. 

In the end, I feel I will have a very powerful home control solution that is cost-effective and very competitive!

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