I’ve been learning Objective-C and have been working on a few iPhone apps… one of which will be the official Myro:Home iPhone application which will allow you to control your HAI panel and view IP cameras. This application will only be available to users of the Myro Control 8″ In-Wall Panel (MYRO:8W). The application is in early BETA and should be ready for release beginning of November.
I’m currently investigating what I need to get Water & Gas (Natural) monitoring added to my home. I already have Power via Energy Inc’s TED 1001 & Myro:Home. However, it would be nice to add Water & Gas to the mix so I can monitor and control its usage. Currently, I’m checking out different flow meters from Flow Monitors Inc. Anyone have any other brands that have an output that I could rig/modify/extend? The nice thing about the CoolPoint line is that they offer outputs that I can use to interface with my automation controller.
Universal Flow Monitors – CoolPoint CP Series Water Flow Meters
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:
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)
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!
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
