Official Smarthome Blog

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: 1 min 50 sec ago

Safety Device Allows you to Stay Visible to Others at Night or in the Dark

Fri, 09/03/2010 - 5:23pm

NekLights can be used almost anywhere to do almost anything. Since it’s wearable, the light goes where you go. It allows you to see in the dark and also keeps you safe by making you visible to others. Weighing only 2 1/2 ounces, Neklights are so lightweight, you barely know you’re wearing one, yet it’s bright enough to light up a room.

The rugged, water-resistant construction features three ultra-bright, long-lasting lights that angle up and down so you can direct the light where you need it. NekLight comes with an adjustable cord which has a breakaway safety release and also a strap so you can use it as a headlamp. The device is so versatile; wear it as a necklace, as a headlamp, on your belt or arm, hang it on the wall, or even stand it up on the table.

  • Contains 3 ultra-bright LEDs to light your way in the dark
  • Lightweight and water-resistant
  • Versatile stand allows device to sit on a table
  • Great for reading in bed, walking the dog, jogging, camping, or any other situations where you need a little light
  • Price: $19.99
  • Read more


    Energy Efficient Double Pole Water Heater Thermostat

    Fri, 09/03/2010 - 4:26pm

    The Camco 07863 Apcom Style Upper Double Pole Universal Thermostat with HLC features a double pole with a built-in safety switch that prevents overheating. The temperature range is adjustable from 110 Fahrenheit to 160 Fahrenheit, though it is recommended that the upper thermostat remain set at 120 degrees. The Upper Double Pole Thermostat works with a Lower Single Pole Thermostat. UL listed with energy efficient range setting, this water heater thermostat and meets original specification lengths for American, AO Smith, Bradford White, GE, GSW, Kenmore, Maytag, Reliance, Rheem, Richmond, Rudd, Sears, and State.

  • Water Heater Thermostat with HLC
  • UL Listed
  • Apcom Style
  • Energy Efficient Range Setting
  • Built-In Safety Switch
  • Adjustable & Easy to Install
  • Price: $12.78
  • Read more


    Save Energy and Money with a Greenlite CFL Lamp

    Fri, 09/03/2010 - 4:20pm

    The Greenlite Lighting 9W/TT/2P 9 Watt Twin Tube Plug-In 2-Pin 2700K CFL Lamp is a 9 Watt Compact Fluorescent Lamp that replaces a 40 Watt incandescent lamp, it uses 75% less energy and costs less to operate. A Greenlite bulb equals 10 standard incandescent bulbs, and lasts up to 12,000 life hours. The 9 Watt Twin Tube CFL features an instant start, flicker-free bulb and is ideal for wall scones, bathroom fixtures, under cabinets, ceiling and agriculture.

  • 9 Watt Twin Tube Plug-In 2-Pin CFL Lamp
  • Uses 75% less energy
  • 1 Greenlite bulb equals 10 standard incandescent bulbs
  • Instant start, flicker free
  • 27K color temperature is closest to the incandescent light color
  • Price: $1.98
  • Read more


    Timer that Can Handle the Power Load of Heavy Duty Outdoor Appliances

    Fri, 09/03/2010 - 1:38pm

    The Woods 59383 Outdoor 7-Day Mechanical Heavy Duty Timer is a 1 horsepower timer specially designed to handle the power load of pool pumps, car heating accessories, outdoor lighting and other heavy duty outdoor appliances. This timer gives you more control of units in your yard with the daily settings that repeat weekly for great convenience in managing outdoor lights and pool pumps. The Heavy Duty Timer features 6 cycles per day (42 per week) with a weatherproof 8 inch, 14 gauge cord. It has a durable protective cover to help last longer, and a manual override On/Off Switch for more control. It also features never-lose pins in the timer, the pins are secured to prevent from falling out and becoming lost.

  • Outdoor 7-Day Mechanical Heavy Duty Timer
  • Designed to handle the power load of heavy duty outdoor appliances
  • Helps with energy savings by only turning lights on when they’re needed
  • 6 cycles per day/42 cycles per week
  • Built with manual override switch
  • Price: $17.59
  • Read more


    Labor Day Weekend Beat the Clock Sale!

    Fri, 09/03/2010 - 11:13am


    Digital Wireless DVR Security System with Receiver, SD Card Recording and 2 Long Range Night Vision Cameras

    Thu, 09/02/2010 - 5:34pm

    The SVAT GX301-012 Digital Wireless DVR Security System can be used to monitor and record video and audio in any indoor or outdoor space at any time of the day. This wireless plug and play system allows for easy set up in a matter of minutes and the included 2GB SD card can record up to 350 minutes of continuous audio and video footage. Two wireless, weather resistant cameras are included with this system to allow you to see up to 40ft away in the dark. This system includes a compact receiver that easily connects to any television in your home or business using the included A/V cable. Ideal for monitoring entrances, backyards, valuables and employees, this GIGAXTREME 301 system can be used in any situation you need.

  • Includes 2 long-range, night vision cameras
  • Setup in seconds with digital wireless technology for clear video and audio
  • Record up to 350 minutes of video and audio on the included 2GB SD card
  • Long range night vision camera allows you to see up to 40ft in the dark
  • Connects easily to any television using the included AV cable
  • Price: $349.99
  • Read more


    Stops Faucet Leaks Forever

    Thu, 09/02/2010 - 5:34pm

    The DripStop® Valve replaces old-fashioned rubber washers and stops faucet leaks forever! Guaranteed for life, the DripStop Valve uses your faucet’s own internal water pressure to gently create a watertight seal. That’s why it works so much better – and lasts so much longer – than an old-fashioned rubber washer.

    The DripStop Valve can never be over-tightened and makes your faucet easy to turn on and off. DripStop is great for seniors, arthritis sufferers, and people with limited motion!

    The DripStop Valve works in most major brands of compression faucets and will even work if your faucet’s seat is chipped or worn. No ordinary washer can do that!

    The DSV-C DripStop Valve fits B & K, Burlington Brass, Crane, Central Brass Tub & Shower & Model #K-3-CT, Gerber, Milwaukee, and Universal / Rundle faucets.

  • Permanently replaces rubber faucet washers
  • Guaranteed for life
  • Works in most major brands of compression faucets
  • Price: $3.31
  • Read more


    Control Your Plug-In Devices with the World’s First INSTEON-Compatible Decora-Style Outlet

    Thu, 09/02/2010 - 4:32pm

    Do you have lamps and appliances you want to automate that are plugged into exposed outlets? If so, OutletLinc is a perfect fit; it gives you fast, reliable INSTEON control with the sleek look of a modern, decora-style outlet. Available in white, almond, black, brown, gray and ivory.

  • Clean in-wall design blends in anywhere in your home
  • Manual ON/OFF button for added convenience
  • Built-in relay allows you to connect devices of any type
  • Top outlet is INSTEON controlled, bottom outlet is always on
  • Available in white, ivory, almond black, gray and brown
  • Price: $49.99
  • Read more


    Control Plug-In Devices with Wireless Receptacle Receiver

    Thu, 09/02/2010 - 4:00pm

    The Heath/Zenith WC-6015-WH Wireless RF Receptacle Receiver allows you to add control to plug-in devices. All you have to do is simply replace your existing receptacle with the Wireless Receptacle Receiver. The receptacle fits standard wiring boxes and uses your existing wiring. Top outlet controls up to 1800 watts and 15 amps, and bottom outlet static for standard use. Choose any Heath/Zenith wireless transmitter to operate the receptacle such as a remote control (Wireless Lighting Remote Control or Wireless Master Remote Control) or a motion sensor within 100 feet, each sold separately. The receptacle controls up to 1800 watts or 15 amps.

  • RF receptacle receiver
  • Adds wireless ON/OFF operation with remote or motion sensor
  • Receptacle has one controlled outlet and one static outlet for use with household appliances
  • Selectable coding allows the use of multiple units in the same location
  • Price: $19.88
  • Read more


    Automatically Set up to Control your Xbox 360

    Wed, 09/01/2010 - 5:30pm

    Many universal remote controls don’t offer all of the features of the stand alone remote controls that come with your equipment. People often keep 3 or 4 remote controls on their coffee table because of some obscure functions that they just couldn’t live without.

    The X-Link Universal Remote Control is a six device universal remote with built-in support for both Xbox Bluetooth and infrared for other home audio/visual equipment. By default, the “XBX” button is set to control your Xbox console. All buttons, including the XBX button, are pre-programmed to support numerous models of TVs, VCRs, DVDs, DVRs, surround sound systems, cable, satellite and set top boxes.

    X-Link can also “learn” infrared commands from other remote controls, so you’ll be able to perform any function from X-Link that you would from the device’s original remote.

  • Infrared (IR) wireless technology controls Microsoft Xbox 360 console
  • Replaces up to six different remote controls
  • Pre-programmed to support numerous models of TVs, VCRs, DVDs, DVRs, surround sound systems, cable, satellite and set top boxes
  • Learns codes from other remote controls
  • Settings are stored in non-volatile memory so they aren’t lost when batteries are changed
  • Price: $27.69
  • Read more


    Digital Wireless DVR Security System with Receiver, SD Card Recording and 2 Long Range Night Vision Cameras

    Wed, 09/01/2010 - 4:25pm

    The SVAT GX301-012 Digital Wireless DVR Security System can be used to monitor and record video and audio in any indoor or outdoor space at any time of the day. This wireless plug and play system allows for easy set up in a matter of minutes and the included 2GB SD card can record up to 350 minutes of continuous audio and video footage. Two wireless, weather resistant cameras are included with this system to allow you to see up to 40ft away in the dark. This system includes a compact receiver that easily connects to any television in your home or business using the included A/V cable. Ideal for monitoring entrances, backyards, valuables and employees, this GIGAXTREME 301 system can be used in any situation you need.

  • Includes 2 long-range, night vision cameras
  • Setup in seconds with digital wireless technology for clear video and audio
  • Record up to 350 minutes of video and audio on the included 2GB SD card
  • Long range night vision camera allows you to see up to 40ft in the dark
  • Connects easily to any television using the included AV cable
  • Price: $349.99
  • Read more


    Easy Setup of Home Automation Interactions Using Graphics Instead of Text

    Wed, 09/01/2010 - 3:34pm

    Home Control Assistant (HCA) is a Windows based home automation program that works with a variety of automation interfaces to control lights, appliances, irrigation, HVAC and more. With HCA’s Scheduling and Green Mode features you can easily save money, reduce electrical usage, conserve water and improve safety by automating your home.

    The Home Control Assistant runs on any computer that uses the Windows XP, Vista or Win7 operating system. It works with automation interfaces to control lights and appliances in your home using X10, INSTEON, UPB, Wireless and Global Cache IR technology.

    HCA can be installed in a home with existing automation hardware. HCA can “spider” through all your installed INSTEON network and find all the devices and add them to your home design file. If you are using UPB, HCA can import the network from the UPB setup program. A new automation solution is easy to create using the built-in Wizards for creating a new file, adding devices, creating new schedules, and new programs. Once you have defined all the hardware, adding schedules and programs is simple using the Visual Tools provided. Setting up remote access will be very quick as the HCA Web Server is included when you install HCA Plus.

    The Home Control Assistant can be operated in stand-alone mode, where a single computer runs HCA and has the attached automation interfaces, or in Client-Server mode. In Client-Server mode one computer runs the HCA server and has the attached automation interfaces. One or more clients run on other networked computers and can simultaneously access the server. These clients see the standard HCA User Interface and can control the automation design as well as make changes to it. A Touch-Screen Interface is also available to create a user-friendly simple method of controlling a selected set of devices, programs, and groups in your design. In addition to all this, a native Android application is available to act as a client to the HCA Server.

  • Integrates INSTEON, UPB, and X10 power line technologies
  • Supports IP addressed IR interfaces from GlobalCache and BitWise
  • Supports whole-house wireless
  • Can be used in a client-server mode with multiple simultaneous read-write clients for complete local and remote access to design
  • Includes a web component for access remotely via mobile and desktop browsers
  • Client for Android phones for remote or in-house access
  • Multiple Schedules created by a visual scheduling tool
  • Unlimited number of programs to respond to events. Constructed in a graphical manner from over 60 different actions
  • Supports text based scripts in any scripting language that can utilize the extensive HCA object model
  • Touch screen interface creates a simplified control oriented user interface
  • Integrate into the HCA user Interface views of other applications: security, power management, and cameras using HTML views
  • Send email and SMS messages as part of a program action
  • Create and view INSTEON scenes in a graphical manner and remotely program those scenes into INSTEON devices
  • Bridge power line technologies by using multiple power line interfaces simultaneously. Create bridge maps to automatically translate between different technology commands
  • Integrates weather data from web based or weather station sources
  • Powerful “whole house modes” for quick power saving programming
  • Background design checker quickly locate design problems
  • Configurable Alert Mechanism for handling exceptional conditions
  • Many tools for creating, viewing, modifying, and documenting the design
  • HCA is well documented in an over 600 page User Guide
  • Price: $160.00
  • Read more


    Control Wired Lighting Fixtures with Wireless Switch Receiver

    Wed, 09/01/2010 - 1:07pm

    The Heath/Zenith WC-6017-WH Wireless RF Wall Switch Receiver allows you to add control to wired lighting fixtures. All you have to do is simply replace your existing switch with the wireless switch receiver. The wall switch fits standard wiring boxes and uses your existing wiring. Choose any Heath/Zenith wireless transmitter to operate the receptacle such as a remote control (Wireless Lighting Remote Control or Wireless Master Remote Control) or a motion sensor within 100 feet, each sold separately. The switch controls up to 300 watts incandescent lighting and can turn lights on, off and dim 5 different light levels.

  • RF wall switch receiver
  • Controls up to 300 W of incandescent lighting
  • Switch turns ON, OFF or DIMS up to 5 light levels
  • Selectable coding allows the use of multiple units in the same location
  • Price: $23.08
  • Read more


    Control Wired Lighting Fixtures with Wireless Switch Receiver

    Wed, 09/01/2010 - 1:07pm

    The Heath/Zenith WC-6017-WH Wireless RF Wall Switch Receiver allows you to add control to wired lighting fixtures. All you have to do is simply replace your existing switch with the wireless switch receiver. The wall switch fits standard wiring boxes and uses your existing wiring. Choose any Heath/Zenith wireless transmitter to operate the receptacle such as a remote control (Wireless Lighting Remote Control or Wireless Master Remote Control) or a motion sensor within 100 feet, each sold separately. The switch controls up to 300 watts incandescent lighting and can turn lights on, off and dim 5 different light levels.

  • RF wall switch receiver
  • Controls up to 300 W of incandescent lighting
  • Switch turns ON, OFF or DIMS up to 5 light levels
  • Selectable coding allows the use of multiple units in the same location
  • Price: $23.08
  • Read more


    Save Energy Costs by Turning Appliances On Only When Needed

    Mon, 08/30/2010 - 6:21pm

    The Woods 59203 Indoor 24-Hour Digital Timer is easy to set up and a great way to realize some energy savings. Plug lamps, gaming consoles, small TV’s or fans in and set the timer to turn the device off at the same time each day for you so it won’t remain on when unused. Have a lamp in a hard-to-reach location? Put it on the timer and set to turn on and off at specific times. The Digital Timer is also great for indoor holiday tree lights, radios and more. Features include self-charging battery back-up in case of power failure, multiple settings (up to 8 different settings per day) and simple push-button setting.

  • Indoor 24-Hour Digital Timer
  • Use for lamps, gaming consoles, small TV’s or fans
  • Set timer to turn the device off at the same time each day
  • Multiple settings up to 8 different setting per day/56 per week
  • Includes self-charging battery back up in case of power failure
  • Price: $9.83
  • Read more


    Mount Handheld Devices to Car Vents for Easy Access and Viewing

    Mon, 08/30/2010 - 5:37pm

    The Scosche Industries Vent Mount Kit is designed to provide a stable, secure and easily accessible mounting solution for GPS and other hand-held devices. The kit includes a universal holder that works with most personal electronics and spring-loaded vent mount brackets. The clamping arms can rotate up to 180 degrees to put your device in the best viewing and operating position possible.

  • Portable electronics universal holder
  • Works with GPS navigation, iPods/MP3, satellite radio, mobile phones, and more
  • Provides a stable, secure, and easily accessible mounting solution
  • Allows clamping arms to open up to 4.5″ wide, rotates 180 degrees
  • Price: $14.99
  • Read more


    Compact Speaker Unit to Wirelessly Expand your Bose Lifestyle Speaker System

    Mon, 08/30/2010 - 5:24pm

    The Bose® Lifestyle® RoomMate® powered speaker system will help to expand your Lifestyle system with minimal impact on your décor. This slim, compact one-piece unit fits almost anywhere. Don’t let the size fool you as the sound quality is pure Bose, thanks to proprietary technologies that enable a fullness and clarity surprising for a system this small. The RoomMate speaker system is also compatible with the Bose link AL8 homewide wireless audio link, eliminating the wire that connects to your Lifestyle media center in the home theater room. Want Bose sound somewhere in your home besides the living room? Add to your Lifestyle system the easy way, with the RoomMate speaker system.

  • A simple, complete homewide solution – one simple connection to your Lifestyle system and you’re ready to go
  • System includes advanced controller with built-in LCD screen lets you control and view the status
  • Designed to work with Bose link AL8 homewide wireless audio link, eliminating the hard wire between the Lifestyle media center
  • Touch-panel mute sensor on the front of the system lets you mute audio
  • Price: $349.00
  • Read more


    LED Lights Illuminate Any Area Where Light is Needed

    Mon, 08/30/2010 - 4:16pm

    The Carson Optical TL-20 Illuminators Circular LED Push Light is an ultra-bright cordless LED Light that can be installed almost anywhere. Simply push the top of the light to turn on/off. The Illuminators LED Push Light can attach to most surfaces using the adhesive backing or use screws (not included) to permanently mount your light. The TL-20 Push-Light twists freely when mounted allowing you to angle the light perfectly. Two super-bright LED lights illuminate any area where light is needed.

  • Ultra-Bright Cordless LED Push Light
  • Can be Installed Almost Anywhere
  • Attach to Most Surfaces Using the Adhesive Backing or Screws
  • Twists Freely When Mounted Allowing You to Angle the Light Perfectly
  • Price: $8.79
  • Read more


    Use 30 Minute Countdown Timer to Cut Down on Wasted Energy

    Sun, 08/29/2010 - 5:13pm

    The Woods 59007 In-Wall Digital 30 Minute Countdown Timer is an easy-to-set timer that sets a running time for bathroom exhaust fans or lighting. Choose from 5, 10, 15, or 30 minute time periods. This timer is simple to install – it replaces a standard light switch plate and fits a standard decorator switch plate. The timer provides a simple, yet effective way to leave the bathroom exhaust fan on without having to remember to turn it off later; in addition, using this timer cuts down on wasted energy use since lights and fans can be timed to only be “on” when needed. It is compatible with compact fluorescent bulbs.

  • 30 Minute Digital Countdown Timer
  • 5 time settings: 5, 10, 15, 30 minutes and auto shut-off
  • Set a running time for bathroom exhaust fans or lighting
  • Easy to install in place of existing wall switch
  • Fits decorator switch plate (single or multi-gang)
  • Compatible with compact fluorescent bulbs
  • Price: $11.92
  • Read more


    Network DVR with 4 Channels and Built-in 250GB Hard Drive

    Sun, 08/29/2010 - 4:08pm

    View your surveillance system in high resolution with the Weldex WDR-4264 4 Channel H.264 Digital Video Recorder. The inclusion of the H.264 video codec allows for crisp, clear pictures, with a 40% smaller file size than MPEG-4. Record images at real-time speed, and then search the important recorded data using various search options with multi channel playback at the same time. The WDR-4264 provides various recording resolution options and individual recording schedules. Different recording speeds can be set for each channel depending on various circumstances.

    An embedded Linux system provides the most reliable and stable DVR applications that just can’t be found in PC systems. Unlimited storage capacity is also supported for the most effective recording. WDR-4264 has its own distinctive image DB
    structure which enhances and optimizes the recording data stability. It provides a fully recoverable protection system for recording data against unexpected system shut downs.

    Each channel has audio recording capabilities as well as two-way audio communication between the DVR and remote site. You can also monitor, search and set up your WDR-4264 from anywhere in the world from a computer with internet access.

  • True H.264 standard video compression
  • Up to two SATA HDD
  • Two USB ports for mouse operation, Multi USB hub and backup
  • Text-in & relay output support
  • Archiving function which allows the dual recording on multi HDDs
  • Embedded Linux system for the ultimate reliability
  • CMS (Central Monitoring System)
  • Web monitoring searching and setup
  • 4 audio inputs
  • two-way audio
  • Dedicated DB structure for stability
  • Price: $599.00
  • Read more