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What is a Smart Home?
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turn your home into a smart home
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For some it may be something as simple as
remote or automatic control of a few lights. For others, security may be the
central application. Still others may choose to install advanced controllers or
use voice recognition. As a very basic definition, we tend to refer to home
automation as anything that gives you remote or automatic control of things
around the home. Adding home automation to an existing home is surprisingly
affordable and simple.
What you can control (at home via a computer, or on the road via a Handheld
computer or Web Browser)
Lighting
on/off, timers, hardwire, wireless, dim features, remote control, etc
Security Systems & Access Control
Have your home call you and/or loved ones if there is an alert status. You
can save money on security monitoring services or even monitor for
non-traditional security events like water in the laundry room or basement.
Additionally, products include devices which will allow you to unlock the front
door to let friends in or close the garage door from your office via the web.
Home Theater & Entertainment
Just imagine replacing that pile of remotes with just one controller. Now,
imagine not having to know all 10 steps to starting up your home theater - just
press one icon and your home automation products/system will do the rest.
Phone Systems
Phone systems which are usually used for small business applications are
surprisingly convenient in the home. With caller ID and a home automation
controller you can even screen your calls for only those you wish to cause your
phone to ring. Voice control software turns every phone in your home into a
remote controller.
Thermostats
Remote control thermostats allow you to adjust the temperature from bed at
night or even from a cell phone while on your way home (or to your 2nd home).
They can even trigger a notice to you if the temperature gets too low (freezing
pipes) or too high (pets, plants, etc.).
Irrigation
Have your sprinklers turn on only when it's dry. Some of our customers even turn
the sprinklers on when there's motion in the yard at unwanted times - imagine
someone trying to explain the wet clothes to the police!
Networking
Home automation can be accomplished using various types of connectivity.
What's great is that many of today's home automation products need no new wires
- so they are perfect to retrofit into an existing home. If you are building
new, or doing a major remodel, please consider adding networking, audio, video
and control wiring while it is easy and relatively inexpensive, later on you'll
be happy you did.
What are the Benefits of Home Automation?
Convenience
We've all gotten used to controlling our TV from the couch, just wait until
you are able to dim the lights as well. Imagine adjusting the temperature from
your bed or controlling the volume of your whole house audio system from any
room. Or, can you imagine the wall/ceiling heater in your bathroom coming on
automatically 5 minutes before your alarm clock goes off (only when it's chilly)
so that it is warm when you enter. Many products also save energy.
Safety
We're all used to opening the garage door from the car, but you'll be
surprised how much safer you'll feel coming home to a lit home and even turning
on more lights from your keyfob remote upon your arrival. With a couple of basic
products you can have your whole house light up like Fort Knox when there is
motion detected at any corner of your house. Imagine your house sending you an
email if there is motion where there shouldn't be any motion. Or, you can have
your security system call you if there is an alarm, which might include your
typical security alarm or even a low or high temperature or water in the laundry
room or basement.
Fun
High tech products for the home are fun to use and share with others.
Whether viewing visitors at your front door on your TV or tuning your stereo by
using voice recognition, you'll find it surprisingly enjoyable. And, when it
comes to impressing the friends, you'll be happy to show off your newfound
applications.
