A motion detector is a device used in home automation systems for security and lighting applications. Motion sensors are commonly used to detect intruders and to turn on lighting when movement in an area is detected.
Home Networking
Connecting Computers, printers, or any other device/appliance that supports network communications. Common uses for home networking in an automated home include sharing of resources such as internet access, printers, documents, music and other resources through the home
Surround Sound
Surround Sound is audio playback utilizing 2 or 3 dimensions – as opposed to one dimensional audio (mono or Left-Right Channel).
*5.1 Surround Sound – standardized audio layout utilizing 6 independent audio channels including: front channels (Left, right and center Channels) , Surround Speakers (Left), and a sub woofer for low frequency signals.
*6.1 Surround Sound – Standardized audio layout that included all the audio channels of 5.1 Surround sound but with the addition of a rear surround speaker.
*7.1 Surround Sound – Standardized audio layout similar 6.1 Surround Sound with the difference of having 2 rear surround speakers. Currently there is very little audio/video encoding support for the 7.1 layout
X-10
Home Automation Software that can run on a 200 MHz PC or faster to interface to X-10, Infrared, Security Panels, Weather Stations and More to Control your home by voice command.
X-10 Controllers are remote devices or transmitters which allow you to control the variety of receivers installed on your household wiring. There are a wide range of devices available. Some devices simply plug in to electrical outlets. Others are hard wired. Most have push-buttons to generate the X-10 signal, but some function only as timers. Push a button for the corresponding lights turn on or off. Other examples are motion detectors, hand held wireless remotes, Telephone Line Interfaces, etc.
X-10 Coupler/Repeater is a device that combines the features of an X-10 Coupler with the ability to amplify X-10 signals and repeat them across both phases of larger homes. Recommended in homes over 2500 square feet.
X-10 Receivers are devices are used to receive X-10 signals which are transmitted over your existing power lines. Examples are Wall receptacles, Light Switches, Lamp Modules, Appliance Modules, Relay Modules, Chime Modules, and Siren Modules.
Voice Recognition Software
Home Automation Software that can run on a 200 MHz PC or faster to interface to X-10, Infrared, Security Panels, Weather Stations and More to Control your home by voice command.
Macro
A Group of Commands executed sequentially, such as One Touch control to turn All Lights off.
Infrared
Light that is below the spectrum of Human Vision, therefore “invisible”. Most modern televisions and Audio Video Appliances (A/V) utilize infrared remote controls to transmit infrared light to a receiver hidden behind the face of the appliance to control, Audio, channel selection, etc.
HVAC
An integral part of any Home Automation System. Simply stated “Heating, Ventilation, & Air Conditioning”. These devices include Thermostats with X-10, RS-485, or RS-232 interfaces that allow remote control using X-10 transmitters, Receivers, or Computer Control. A great way to save energy, these thermostats can be controlled from within your home or on the road. Also included are motorized dampers to control air flow, and remote temperature sensors to monitor remote (outdoor) temperature. Combined with X-10 Computer Control, these devices can be “set back” for energy savings any time you leave your home for any length of time.