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Syndicate content The Official Smarthome Blog - All Things Home Automation
Home Automation Products for the Smart Home -- including: lighting control, security, home theater, surveillance, HVAC, sensors and more
Updated: 7 min 19 sec ago

Turn iPhone Into Universal Remote Control

Wed, 07/28/2010 - 6:30pm

The NewKinetix NK100 Re Universal IR Remote Control can turn your iPhone or iPod touch into a universal remote control that works in any room of your home. Away from home, the Re and your iPhone or iPod give you the power to mute the loud TV nobody is watching, or change channels in the break room when the office remote is lost. There are no limits to the number of locations that you can use your Re. There is no need for WiFi, so plug your Re into your iPhone or iPod touch and download the Re Universal Remote Control App (free) to personalize control of your AV entertainment everywhere.

  • Features typically found only on High-End Dedicated Universal Remotes
  • Easy to Setup and Fun to Use
  • Works Everywhere – Take it from Room to Room and to the Office
  • Remotes for all of your Devices are Instantly Accessible
  • Supports Virtually all Brands & Types of AV Equipment
  • No Batteries, No Extra Boxes, No WiFi Required
  • Replaces Lost or Broken Remotes
  • Price: $69.95
  • Read more


    SmartLinc – INSTEON Central Controller 2412N Review

    Wed, 07/28/2010 - 5:53pm

    DOUG — ORANGE, CA Date: 4/23/2010
    Review: You’ve seen it, right? The iPhone commercial that shows a family waiting for their flight at the airport and then they remember that they forgot to lock the door or turn off a light. Well, that commercial advertises a company and service that requires a monthly fee of 13-15 dollars a month. The SmartLinc can do the same but with no monthly fee. Just get this connected to your home router, set your port for accessing outside of your home and add devices to things you want to control lamps: LampLinc, wall switches: SwitchLinc. It uses a web application so you’re not locked into an Apple app. That means you can log into your home and control it while at a computer or mobile phone. Very simple device setup and well worth the price.

    DEBRA — CENTERVILLE, MA Date: 6/29/2010
    Review: Excellent. Love this item. Very easy to install and use.

    CHRISTOPHER — SAN CARLOS, CA Date: 6/11/2010
    Review: So far this works great, though you have to be careful about resetting it and losing all your settings, also don’t use DHCP!

    SCOTT — SAN JOSE, CA Date: 6/9/2010
    Review: I use the product to control my X10 devices from my IPhone through Safari and it works great. The quickstart guide was straightforward and took no time to get it set up. It did take a little extra research time to configure the controller to communicate with the X10 devices, but once I figured out how to code it in, it works great. I recommend it to anyone who would like a way to control their home automation(X10 devices in my case) via your IPhone.

    Read More Reviews

    OR

    Buy the SSmartLinc – INSTEON Central Controller 2412N at Smarthome.com


    How Many Copies of Your Keys Exist?

    Tue, 07/27/2010 - 7:00pm

    It’s a scary thought, but there could be dozens of copies of your keys out in the world! Have you ever left a key for the gardener, the electrician, the plumber or how about the housekeeper? It takes a hardware store about 5 minutes to create a copy of a key. If you’ve left a key for anyone working on your home, you may have exposed your home’s first line of security. You may have known your plumber for 10 years, but how often does your plumber send his apprentice without you knowing it?

    Ever leave a spare key in a planter box or under a welcome mat? Newsflash – those are the first places a potential burglar will look! Get a grip on your home’s security and install a keyless lock set. With a keypad locket, you can program specific codes for your plumber or housekeeper and change them regularly, so there’s chance they can enter your home when you don’t want them there! As an added bonus, you’ll never get locked out of the house again, and forget about fumbling for the right key for the door. Just punch in your code and unlock the door.

    Read more


    Smarthome™ Named Preferred Retail Partner of Blue Line PowerCost Monitor™ WiFi Gateway

    Tue, 07/27/2010 - 4:45pm

    Irvine, CA – Smarthome announced today that it is one of seven preferred retail partners of the Blue Line PowerCost Monitor WiFi Gateway (BLI 31100). The product is in stock and available through Smarthome.com for $159, or bundled with the PowerCost Monitor and Energy Meter (BLI 28000) for $268.

    The PowerCost Monitor and Energy Meter is a device that, when attached to a home’s electric meter, can read real-time power consumption. When coupled with the new PowerCost Monitor WiFi Gateway, that information can then be relayed to the Microsoft® Hohm™ online portal where it can be compiled and analyzed. The unit is do-it-yourself friendly and is safe to install without an electrician.

    Hohm is an online application launched by Microsoft® which enables consumers to analyze their energy usage while providing energy saving recommendations. It gives users the ability to benchmark their personal results with other communities and group members.

    “This is certainly an exciting product for us to offer our customers,” said Mike Scharnagl, Director of Marketing at Smarthome. “The WiFi Gateway is the perfect addition for those who already own a PowerCost Monitor. For those who want to start keeping an eye on their energy consumption, it can be purchased as a kit with the PowerCost Monitor. Our core consumers are home automation enthusiasts, and the WiFi Gateway allows them to monitor their energy consumption remotely using Hohm™.”

    Smarthome offers a variety of home automation systems that lets users enjoy convenient, energy efficient lighting and appliance control – including its award-winning INSTEON® technology. Using INSTEON®, products can be controlled via switches, keypads and dimmers; handheld remote controls; triggers and motion sensors; touchscreens; and via the Internet or web-enabled devices such as cell phones.

    About Smarthome™
    Founded in 1992, Smarthome was created based on the realization of a need for automated products that make lives easier, safer and more enjoyable. Today, Smarthome sells more than 6,000 hard-to-find products, including home automation solutions featuring award-winning INSTEON technology. Smarthome sells online through their award-winning website at Smarthome.com, through their direct mail catalog and via their brick and mortar retail store located in Irvine, CA.

    About INSTEON®
    INSTEON is the best selling Home Area Networking (HAN) technology on the market. It is the only mesh network capable of utilizing two independent means of communication, RF and powerline, thus also making it the most reliable technology. With over 200 products and kits on the market, INSTEON makes it is easy to link together home systems such as lighting, security, HVAC (comfort control), A/V, appliances, and sensors, allowing them to be controlled or monitored from anywhere in the world. INSTEON products can also be used in Smart Grid applications including load shedding, demand response and real-time power reporting.

    For more information:
    www.smarthome.com
    www.bluelineinnovations.com
    www.microsoft-hohm.com
    www.insteon.net
    Contact:
    Smarthome
    Mike Scharnagl, 949-252-6962
    pr@smartlabsinc.com


    Be Alerted When Your Shower is Warm and Conserving Hot Water

    Tue, 07/27/2010 - 2:40pm

    Do you multi-task while waiting for your shower to warm up? If you’re brushing your teeth in the sink, you can easily tell when the shower is ready. But if you leave the room to make the bed or put on a pot of coffee, you won’t know until you return to the bathroom. And by that time, the hot water could have been running for minutes, wasting water and adding unnecessary dollars to your utility bills.

    With the evolve SS-1002PB-US Ladybug Showerhead Adapter you’ll know exactly when your shower is ready, and conserve water until you are able to enter your shower. The Ladybug Showerhead Adapter attaches to virtually any shower arm with industry standard 1/2“ fittings. Equipped with ShowerStart™ technology, the showerhead adapter is designed to lower the water stream to a trickle once the ideal bathing temperature is attained. Once you hear the “drip drip”, you’ll know your shower is ready. Then, resume the normal flow by flipping the switch.

    Adding this adapter to your existing showerhead can save up to $75 in utility bills and 2,700 gallons per year (based on family of three, showering daily and saving one minute of hot water per shower).

  • ShowerStart™ technology – save time, water & money without lowering water flow
  • Compatible with virtually all showerheads
  • 1/2’’ fittings
  • Quick and easy installation
  • Solid brass construction
  • Anti-lime protection
  • Integrated debris screen filter
  • Price: $27.18
  • Read more

    Also available in

    Polished brass Brushed nickel Oil rubbed bronze


    Screwless Wallplate Offers a Professional Finish to your Switch Installation

    Mon, 07/26/2010 - 6:26pm

    The Lutron Claro 2-Gang Wallplate is the perfect choice for providing a clean, color matched finish to your Lutron Maestro, Maestro Wireless, Diva or Skylark dimmer or switch installation. The wallplate is simple, elegant and easy to install, with no visible screws or hardware. The superior snap-on design allows the front plate to fasten securely and tightly to the adapter plate regardless of your wall condition. The oversized build of the wallplate hides gaps around the installation box and mounts flush to the wall ensuring a clean appearance. Each wallplate is ASTM tested and made from durable polycarbonate with a gloss finish, so they are easy to clean and built to maintain their beauty for many years to come. The Lutron Claro 1-Gang Wallplate adds a sleek, solid feel to your walls and home décor while removing the eyesore associated with standard wallplates.

  • 2-Gang, Decora-style design accommodates two dimmers, switches or accessories
  • Two-part screwless design
  • Color matched and fitted to work perfectly with Lutron Maestro and Maestro Wireless switches
  • Also works Lutron Diva and Skylark series switches, and other manufacturers’ Decora-style and designer series switches
  • Smooth, gloss finish makes it easy to clean
  • Price: $7.54
  • Read more


    50W/12VDC Power Supply

    Mon, 07/26/2010 - 4:23pm

    The Cyron PS50-SP12D 50W/12VDC Power Supply with Switch is ideal for larger size lighting systems and various other 12VDC applications. Switching mode power supply accepts 100-240VAC 50-60Hz input, 12VDC 30W 2.5A output. USA AC plug, 5mm DC jack center positive. UL class II.

  • 50W/12VDC Power Supply
  • On/Off Switch
  • Ideal For Larger Size Lighting Systems and Various Other 12VDC Applications
  • Input: 100-240VAC 50-60Hz
  • Output: 12VDC 50W 4.17A
  • 5″ AC Cord and 5″ DC Cord
  • Price: $39.95
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    Lighting Expansion

    Mon, 07/26/2010 - 1:19pm

    Expand your Media Highlighter PRO system by adding more lights. One pair of 24″ Professional lightbars with 15foot cords to reach farther areas. 45 ultra bright LEDs per lightbar. Compatible with HT1502 system and all Cyron RGB controllers (IR Controller or RF Controller). *Not to be used with “HT” lightbars in the same system.*

    This product is also available with 9″ 18 Super Bright LEDs Lightbars, 15″ 18 Super Bright LEDs Lightbars, and 15″ 30 Ultra Bright LEDs Lightbars.

  • Pair of 24″ expansion lightbars
  • 45 ultra bright LEDs per lightbar
  • Price: $76.13
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    ICON Relay – INSTEON Appliance Module, 3-Pin 2856S3B Review

    Sun, 07/25/2010 - 6:46pm

    ROLAND — MANCHESTER, TN Date: 1/4/2010
    Review: Works! What more to say.

    ROBERT — HARPERS FERRY, WV Date: 3/5/2010
    Review: I have this hooked up to a movie poster lightbox (LED) and controlled through an IRLinc and HouseLinc. Works flawlessly, as do all of the other ICON units I have in my system.

    LARIS — PARK CITY, KS Date: 1/9/2010
    Review: The insteon Appliance module is rapid responding, I am very happy with the three units. I plan on buying modules that will dim lights as soon as I resolve the SmartLinc Central Controller issue.

    Review

    Read More Reviews

    OR

    Buy the ICON Relay – INSTEON Appliance Module, 3-Pin 2856S3B at Smarthome.com


    Thermostat Adapter – INSTEON and Totaline / Venstar Compatible 2441V Review

    Sat, 07/24/2010 - 6:38pm

    MICHAEL — WALNUT CREEK, CA Date: 1/11/2010
    Review: Works great! This with an ISY99 is one of the nicest ways to program a thermostat.

    JOHN — PITTSBURGH, PA Date: 1/9/2010
    Review: This new version gave me all the features I needed when accessing my thermostat with the 2412N Rev2 Smartlinc controller over the internet.

    JOSEPH — LEBANON, OH Date: 1/4/2010
    Review: The upgraded thermostat adapter has greatly increased its functionality when used with the Universal Devices ISY. Thank you SmartHome for your attention to your customer’s needs.

    Marcie — Rockford, Illinois Date: 1/15/2008
    Review: I love being able to control my thermostat remotely. With the touch of a button, I can turn our heat down at bedtime to 65 degrees once I”m tucked into bed all warm and toasty.

    Read More Reviews

    OR

    Buy the Thermostat Adapter – INSTEON and Totaline / Venstar Compatible 2441V at Smarthome.com


    Flexibility In Lighting!

    Sat, 07/24/2010 - 3:03pm

    The Cyron SCR3-W-RL Indoor Ribbon Lights makes it possible to add lighting in spaces never before possible. Cyron ribbon lights offer great ease of installation for long linear runs. The indoor grades have 3M tape transfer on the back for easy peel and stick. 12VDC power supply is sold seperately in a 30W and 50W. Cyron Ribbon Lights are the answer for: long linear runs, curved surfaces, small spaces with limited or no ventilation, shelving units, edge lighting glass/acrylic, signage, soft lighting/crown moldings, and where multicolor LEDs are directly visible.

  • Indoor Ribbon Lights
  • Day White LEDs
  • 16.5 Feet Reel
  • 3M Tape Transfer For Easy Peel and Stick
  • Price: $199.95
  • Read more


    Screwless Wallplate Offers a Professional Finish to your Switch Installation

    Sat, 07/24/2010 - 3:01pm

    The Lutron Claro 3-Gang Wallplate is the perfect choice for providing a clean, color matched finish to your Lutron Maestro, Maestro Wireless, Diva or Skylark dimmer or switch installation. The wallplate is simple, elegant and easy to install, with no visible screws or hardware. The superior snap-on design allows the front plate to fasten securely and tightly to the adapter plate regardless of your wall condition. The oversized build of the wallplate hides gaps around the installation box and mounts flush to the wall ensuring a clean appearance. Each wallplate is ASTM tested and made from durable polycarbonate with a gloss finish, so they are easy to clean and built to maintain their beauty for many years to come. The Lutron Claro 1-Gang Wallplate adds a sleek, solid feel to your walls and home décor while removing the eyesore associated with standard wallplates.

  • 3-Gang, Decora-style design accommodates three dimmers, switches or accessories
  • Two-part screwless design
  • Color matched and fitted to work perfectly with Lutron Maestro and Maestro Wireless switches
  • Also works Lutron Diva and Skylark series switches, and other manufacturers’ Decora-style and designer series switches
  • Smooth, gloss finish makes it easy to clean
  • Price: $11.54
  • Read more


    ToggleLinc Relay – INSTEON Remote Control On/Off Switch (Non-Dimming), Ivory 2466SI Review

    Fri, 07/23/2010 - 6:35pm

    PAUL — WETHERSFIELD, CT Date: 6/18/2010
    Review: A design I’ve had in mind for years, glad to see it finally come to market, no training needed for the family whatsoever.

    STEPHEN — DAVENPORT, IA Date: 4/1/2010
    Review: It works. Easy to install. Great personal help from SMARTHOME. Fast delivery.

    JOYCE — YPSILANTI, MI Date: 4/1/2010
    Review: Works great and easy to install. I would change one thing in the design of future relays. There is a led light on the switch that lights up when the switch is off and the led goes off when the switch is on. I would reverse this action on future designs.

    KEVIN — PINE BUSH, NY Date: 1/8/2010
    Review: Great product – Happy to see Toggle switches staying around!

    Read More Reviews

    OR

    Buy the ToggleLinc Relay – INSTEON Remote Control On/Off Switch (Non-Dimming), Ivory 2466SI at Smarthome.com


    Enjoy the Convenience of Controlling a Light or Fan from Multiple Locations or Via Remote Control

    Fri, 07/23/2010 - 5:59pm

    The Lutron Maestro Wireless RF 6 Amp Multi-location Switch functions much like a standard switch with the added ability to be controlled by other devices as part of Maestro Wireless lighting system. It can be controlled by a Radio Powr Savr Ceiling Wireless Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor to automatically turn on and off when someone enters or leaves a room, or via a portable remote using the Maestro Wireless RF Pico Controller, each sold separately. The switch is designed for On/Off control of lighting (up to 6 Amps) or fans (up to 3 Amps). It is compatible with single pole/multi-location incandescent, halogen, MLV, ELV, non-dim fluorescent ballasts and general purpose fans. This switch and other devices on the Maestro Wireless systems are incredibly easy to install and operate, allowing you to control lighting levels with any combination of up to 10 dimmers, switches, companion dimmer, companion switches, sensors and wireless controls. Local lighting controls such as this are useful in locations where single circuits of lighting or a fan need to be switched. It also easily installs as part of a Two-location and Three or More-location application. Since there is no need for pulling new wire it is perfect for retrofits. Features a clean, flush, stylish appearance. Coordinate using Lutron Claro Wallplates, sold separately.

  • Replace existing switches to control an 6 Amp light or a 3 Amp fan
  • Create a system of up to 10 devices
  • Clear Connect Radio Frequency (RF) Technology provides reliable communication
  • True multi-location on/off control setup available when used with other compatible products
  • LED: Glows brightly when the Electronic Switch is On or glows softly as a night light when Electronic Switch is Off
  • Uses standard single-pole and 3-way wiring for easy installation in any home
  • Price: $64.71
  • Read more


    Enjoy the Convenience of Dimming a Light from Multiple Locations or Via Remote Control

    Fri, 07/23/2010 - 4:56pm

    The Lutron Maestro Wireless RF 600 Watt Multi-location Dimmer functions much like a standard dimmer with the added ability to be controlled by other devices as part of Maestro Wireless lighting system. It can be controlled by a Radio Powr Savr Ceiling Wireless Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor to automatically turn on and off when someone enters or leaves a room, or via a portable remote using the Maestro Wireless RF Pico Controller, each sold separately. The dimmer incorporates advanced features such as fade on / fade off, long fade off, and rapid full on. This dimmer and other devices on the Maestro Wireless systems are incredibly easy to install and operate, allowing you to control lighting levels with any combination of up to 10 dimmers, companion dimmers, switches, companion switches, sensors and wireless controls. Local lighting controls such as this are useful in locations where single circuits of lighting need to be dimmed or switched. It also easily installs as part of a Two-location and Three or More-location application with the use of one or more Maestro companion switches. Since there is no need for pulling new wire it is perfect for retrofits. Features a clean, flush, stylish appearance. Coordinate using Lutron Claro Wallplates, sold separately.

  • Replace existing switches to dim and control incandescent/halogen bulbs up to 600W
  • Create a system of up to 10 wireless devices
  • Clear Connect Radio Frequency (RF) Technology provides reliable communication
  • True multi-location dimming setup available when used with other compatible products
  • LEDs show preset light level and glow softly to act as night light
  • Uses standard single-pole and 3-way wiring for easy installation in any home
  • Maintains stable light levels, despite power line frequency and voltage variations
  • Price: $64.71
  • Read more


    Ultra Small Light Virtually Vanishes From Sight!

    Fri, 07/23/2010 - 1:53pm

    The Cyron CL1202W 2×12 Cabinet LED Lighting System is perfect for under kitchen cabinets, lighting display cases, and shelving units. Ultra small size virtually vanishes from sight! Less than 1/4″ thin, Less than 1/2″ wide. Two 12″ light bars hermetically sealed for extreme water resistance, safe to clean with common household cleaners. Linkable for future system expansions. This 12VDC low voltage system makes installation a simple task. The lightbars are in silver and black for a perfect match to any application.

  • Perfect For Cabinets, Light Display Cases, and Shelving Units
  • 36 Ultra Bright SMT LEDs Per Lightbar
  • 140 Lumens, Daylight White 6500K
  • 120 Degrees Light Dispersion
  • System Operation: 12VDC3W
  • Price: $66.90
  • Read more


    Turn Your Car’s Vents Into Extra Storage Space

    Thu, 07/22/2010 - 6:51pm

    The Vent Pack XL hangs from your vehicle’s air vent for easy-access storage and features a bonus front pocket sized to fit a cell phone. Constructed of sturdy material, this organizer is made to last.

  • Rugged material stands up to everyday use
  • Large enough for PDA, cell phone or MP3 player
  • Durable netting allows you to see inside the organizer
  • Adjustable clip fits almost any vent
  • Price: $5.98
  • Read more


    Plug a Lamp Into This Lutron Maestro Wireless Plug-in Dimmer for Reliable Remote Control

    Thu, 07/22/2010 - 4:47pm

    The Lutron Maestro Wireless 300 Watt Plug-In Lamp Dimmer functions much like standard dimmers and have an integral microprocessor, allowing them to be incorporated into Maestro Wireless solutions. The dimmer incorporates advanced features such as fade on / fade off, long fade off, and rapid full on. This dimmer and other devices on the Maestro Wireless systems are incredibly easy to install and operate, allowing you to control lighting levels with any combination of up to 10 dimmers, companion dimmers, switches, companion switches, sensors and wireless controls. Maestro Wireless Plug-in Lamp Dimmers are useful in locations where single plug-in lamps need to be dimmed remotely. It can be controlled by a Radio Powr Savr Ceiling Wireless Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor to automatically turn on and off when someone enters or leaves a room, or via a portable remote with the Maestro Wireless RF Pico Controller, each sold separately. Features a clean, flush, stylish appearance. Coordinate using Lutron Claro Wallplates, sold separately.

    Using Lutron’s reliable Clear Connect RF Technology, you’ll have reliable wireless communication every time. Wireless lighting control allows you to build custom solutions for any room or space in a home, all with the touch of a button. The Maestro Wireless family of products offers you more value, convenience, flexibility and energy-savings for your money.

  • Controls incandescent/halogen table or floor lamps up to 300W
  • Create a system of up to 10 wireless devices
  • Clear Connect Radio Frequency (RF) Technology provides reliable communication
  • True multi-location dimming setup available when used with other compatible products
  • LEDs show preset light level and glow softly to act as night light
  • Adjustable maximum light level provides energy savings and extended bulb life
  • Can be configured as a switch for non-dimmable loads
  • Six-foot (1.8 m) cord length
  • Requires No Wiring or Tools
  • Maintains stable light levels, despite power line frequency and voltage variations
  • Price: $95.59
  • Read more


    I/O Linc – INSTEON Low Voltage / Contact Closure Interface (1 In / 1 Out) 2450 Review!

    Thu, 07/22/2010 - 2:30pm

    MICHAEL — SPRINGFIELD, MO Date: 1/5/2010
    Review: Easy to set up, works flawlessly.

    GREGORY — VAUGHAN, ON Date: 1/4/2010
    Review: Works great with the 7455 contact and the 2475 In-LineLinc Relay to control and outside light. It’s important to read the directions when linking the I/O Linc to the In-LineLinc Relay, otherwise the light will be on when it should be off.

    TODD — CARROLLTON, TX Date: 6/27/2009
    Review: Very cool product. Very well thought out with lots of possible applications due to large programming option set available through the ISY.

    ROBERT — WAVERLY, VA Date: 6/19/2009
    Review: Works great, I had no problems at all getting these up and running.

    Read More Reviews

    OR

    Buy the I/O Linc – INSTEON Low Voltage / Contact Closure Interface ( 1 In / 1 Out ) 2450 at Smarthome.com


    Save Energy by Automating Lights to be On Only when an Area is Occupied

    Thu, 07/22/2010 - 1:45pm

    The Lutron Radio Powr Savr Wireless RF Ceiling Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor are battery-powered passive infrared (PIR) sensors that can automatically control lights or fans on a Lutron Maestro Wireless system. The Radio Powr Savr Wireless RF Ceiling Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor detects the heat from people moving within an area to determine when the space is occupied. The sensors then wirelessly transmits the appropriate commands to an associated Maestro Wireless devices (or devices) on or off automatically. Up to 3 sensors can be added with each RF dimming or switching device for extended coverage. Each sensor may be added to up to 10 compatible RF dimming and switching devices for spaces with multiple zones of lighting. They combine both convenience and exceptional energy savings along with ease of installation.

  • Automate Maestro Wireless devices to turn on when you’re in the room and off when you aren’t
  • Passive infrared motion detection offers precise motion detection
  • Three settings: Auto-On/Auto-Off, Auto-On Low-Light/Auto-Off, and Manual-On/Auto-Off
  • Multiple ceiling-mount methods available for different ceiling materials
  • Battery powered – no wiring required
  • Price: $95.99
  • Read more