MAVROMATIC for the DIYers, Makers and Electronics People

Global Cache’ Network Adapter

Home Automation
March 29, 2004 No Comments

Why not internet enable your IR based devices? With a Global Cache' GC-100 that's possible... use your IP based network to control a DVD player that's located in your equipment room. I'm using two of these in my home automation setup and think it's the best thing since sliced bread. The GC-100 is currently supported in many home automation packages, and if it's not, ask the developer to write a driver for it.

ZON Audio Controller/Amplifier

Home Automation
March 29, 2004 2 Comments

Looking for a cool looking home audio controller system? ZON Audio might be what you're looking for. This controller is the next generation of amplified remote volume controllers for whole house audio. The ZAC-60 is a 60-Watt all-digital stereo amplifier that connects to the ZON Router via cat5e cabling. It has a integrated jog wheel and high resolution dot matrix display that creates a stylish and intuitive user interface. The on-board Digital Signal Processor (DSP) provides EQ selection, tone and balance controls, and a loudness contour control to enhance the listening experience in each zone. It also has a built-in infrared receiver that can be used to control any of the nine input devices or just about anything else. It has a built-in microphone that can be used for system-wide paging or to monitor a baby’s room.

Snapstream Beyond TV3

Home Theater
March 29, 2004 No Comments

Snapstream Media has released 'beyond tv3', it's their answer to the perfect PVR. This release has added a bunch of new useful features. The SmartSkip™, actually shows scene changes (likely commercials) and highlights them in the progress bar. With one button press you can skip the commercial. The home video server, allows you to share your favorite show from a central location and then stream them to any device. Forgot to schedule your favorite show? No problem, you can even schedule recordings from a WAP enabled cellphone or any other IP based device. I really like the ShowSqueeze™ feature, this feature allows you to convert your MPEG-2 recording and compress it to Windows Media format so you can play it back on your future Pocket Media Player. I like where Snapstream is heading with this version, except... I'd prefer it more if it worked with a HD tuner card. Maybe v4? [Thanks Scott J.]

Lightolier Smart Switches

Home Automation
March 27, 2004 No Comments

I've been testing the Lightolier Compose PLC system for a few months and have decided this is the best route to take when it comes to reliable, inexpensive, home automation lighting controls. The keypads can be custom laser engraved and when used with a Compose Firewall, relability is near 99.999%. This control system works perfectly with the OmniPro II home automation controller and is a cinch to setup. Be sure to check out Lightolier lighting controls if you plan on designing a home automation system.

Monster Cable… A Monster?

Home Theater
March 26, 2004 No Comments

It's amazing how big Monster Cable has become over the years. Ask anyone what they think of Monster Cable and they will probably tell you that is it's a highend cable manufacturer or very good quality cables. It's always recommended anytime you purchase something from any A/V store. Why!? Why do people live the Monster Cable lie? I always find it humorous that a sales person can recommend a $50 cable to someone that just bought a $100 DVD player. If you want to see how the 'inventor' of Monster Cable lives, you need to check out this article over at Connected. If you're looking for real broadcast quality interconnects, check out Bluejean Cables... they use Belden or Canare cables and they are true 75ohm, unlike Monster cables that are up to 4x the price. I guess that's what great marketing can get you in life.

Executive Dashboard

Electronics
March 26, 2004 No Comments

From the company that brought the ORB and the BEACON. Ambient Devices has created the DASHBOARD... I think it's a great idea! You can now represent digital information with analog needles. The device isn't available yet, but based on information I've read, you can use their free broadcast network, which seems to be using the same technology as the MSFT Spotwatch or pagers, to update the DASHBOARD every 15 minutes. It has easy-to-swap faces that allow you to track all kinds of information... like a countdown to new years, the number of emails in your inbox, or how the market is doing. It will retail for about $130.

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