Article Library

This archive is a compilation of articles published in our eMagazine since inception. The articles are organized by "Subject". Many thanks to those who have contributed to this archive and continue to help it grow by submitting their thoughts and expertise to the magazine.

Search For Articles




General Industry - Technology Discussions

Click on the Article Title to view the article. To find more articles by the same author or company, click the author or company name.

Article Title Author Company eMag Issue Article Synopsis
Extending USB 3.0 Over Fiber For Machine Vision Applications Contributed by Icron Technologies Corporation

Apr 2013

 ExtremeUSB technology based extenders for USB 3.0 are fiber based and certified with USB3 Vision cameras, thus offering systems integrators a reliable solution when vision applications need to be extended beyond 3 meters.
Devices To Keep You Healthy And Fit Len Calderone for HomeToys

Apr 2013

 “Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” – Jim Rohan
AVnu Alliance & UNH-IOL Launch Audio Video Bridge Certification Program Ellen Juhlin and Bob Noseworthy AVnu Alliance and UNH-IOL

Feb 2013

 AVB provides a huge step forward for transporting audio/visual content, and provides a means for replacing the diverse varieties of point-to-point connectors with a single, extensible network.
Applications for Transparent Displays Contributed by NPD DisplaySearch

Feb 2013

 Transparent displays are not new; many panel makers have demonstrated prototypes for years. But when they first see a transparent display, people are often impressed and amazed.
The Benefits of HDBaseT A/V Distribution Solutions Derek Hulbert Wyrestorm

Feb 2013

 HDBaseT (HDBT) technology provides a single cable solution to distribute full HD digital audio and video content, Ethernet and power and control signals, all via one, single Cat5e/6 cable.
The Real World of Spatial Operating Environment Len Calderone

Dec 2012

 From clicking to touching, and now pointing and grabbing, the future of computer interaction is going through a major overhaul. A gesture-based operating environment or Spatial Operating Environment (SOE) is now realized and will transform the way we work and design, making the most of our hands. Now we can use spatial interface to control applications and data across many displays. Anyone on a network can share content and applications with any coworker anywhere in the world on an interactive basis.
Device Design - The Art of Compromise Roy Schofield Phaedrus Ltd

Dec 2012

 It is important to know the requirements of your target customer base. For a general purpose product this can be quite difficult. Some users will only be interested in monitoring inputs, be they digital or analogue. Others may be interested only in controlling outputs. Others again may have requirements for both input monitoring and output control.
Plug Level Energy Monitoring Tanya Flores Electronic Systems Protection, Inc

Oct 2012

 The eCommandCenter is the first all-in-one energy management solution of its kind that empowers businesses to monitor and manage actual energy consumption, protect equipment, and implement sustainability programs, down to the plug level. Engineered with wireless energy monitoring technology, industrial grade power protection, diagnostic software, and reporting analytics, the eCommandCenter features a sophisticated package of hardware and software that enables businesses to manage energy costs proactively.
The Future of Wireless Energy Transfer Len Calderone HomeToys.com

Aug 2012

 Nearly all of our communications are now wireless, but people and devices are still tethered to the wall by power cords. In the not too distant future, we'll be able to enjoy wireless power too.
Beyond Blu-ray Mark Anderson HomeToys.com

Apr 2012

 It seems like only yesterday that I breathed a sigh of relief at the end of the HD format wars. Blu-ray had won and I could safely start building my HD media library. With players under $100, it’s safe to say Blu-ray is now mainstream, but current TV’s and projectors can display content that is not supported by Blu-ray. Good examples include wide-gamut TV’s and 4K displays projectors and AV receivers. It’s time to look to the future.
NFC coming to a smart phone near you Len Calderone

Feb 2012

 NFC stands for Near Field Communication. So, what does this mean? If you attend a trade show and meet someone, whom you would like to exchange business cards, you both can touch your NFC smart phones to the other’s show badge and the information is exchanged. You no longer have to carry a pocket full of business cards, or have to sort cards after the show.
HTML 5 and Digital Signage Mark Anderson HomeToys.com

Feb 2012

 One of the most significant aspects of HTML 5 for digital signage is dynamic content. HTML 5 makes it very easy to display real time information such as stock prices, weather, news headlines, sports scores, etc. Much of this can be accomplished with technologies such as JQuery, and there are companies such as GeckoBoard who specialize in delivering business intelligence via the web. Mark Anderson is a long-time home theater enthusiast and lives on the bleeding edge of Home Automation. He will be covering everything related to Home Automation and AV. He is also a regular contributor to avystemsmag.com, where he covers commercial AV and automation.Please welcome Mark to the HomeToys team.
Divergence of Content and Display Technology Mark Anderson HomeToys.com

Feb 2012

 Current and emerging TV technologies have the capability to display a color gamut far beyond that available in consumer content. Movie studios are not delivering better content that takes advantage of these new technologies and the world seems to be rushing headlong towards lower quality streaming as the preferred deliver method. Surely there’s something wrong with this picture?
A Year Without Cable TV Mark Anderson hometoys.com

Feb 2012

 A little over a year ago, I went cold turkey with Cable. I had literally everything that one of the big providers could offer (as my sister-in-law worked there, and we owned a two-flat with her). In this article, I’ll share my experiences and the current state of play with TV in my house. Mark Anderson is a long-time home theater enthusiast and lives on the bleeding edge of Home Automation. He will be covering everything related to Home Automation and AV. He is also a regular contributor to avystemsmag.com, where he covers commercial AV and automation.Please welcome Mark to the HomeToys team.
Nature Could Make SSD the Storage Solution Everyone Will Enjoy Soon Grant Dahlke Other World Computing

Dec 2011

Higher performance, higher reliability, light weight per capacity and lower power consumption are just a few of the many advantages that are making SSDs the drives of choice for power users, gamers and anyone who  wants high-speed and low latency-- including  businesses.
Interview - What is WiGig (Wireless Gigabit Alliance)? Mark Grodzinsky Wilocity

Dec 2011

 Founded in March 2007, by a core team of executives and engineers from Intel's Wi-Fi Centrino® group, Wilocity is developing next-generation 60 GHz multi-gigabit wireless chipsets for both the mobile computing platform and peripheral markets that will enable mobile device manufacturers to deliver the thin and light platforms that consumers want without sacrificing the performance and functionality that consumers need. Based on the Wireless Gigabit Alliance (WiGig) specification, Wilocity's wPCIe TM technology will enable truly multi-gigabit wireless for a wide range of applications from I/O to networking to video.
Why are Cable Companies Adopting ZigBee RF4CE for consumer electronics – remote controls, TVs and Cees Links GreenPeak

Oct 2011

The new generation of remote controls provides more than some additional convenience for the consumer: it bolsters the position of cable operators into our home and provides them with an avenue for new services. If cable companies want to survive – they have to innovate. ZigBee RF4CE is an important path to their prosperity and growth!
Control Protocol Design
A Guide for Controllable Hardware Manufacturers		 Dean Roddey Charmed Quark Systems, Ltd.

Oct 2011

 This document is for developers of hardware devices which are intended for external control by automation systems, specialized control applications, or hardware controllers, via some sort of wired or wireless connection. Any such device must expose a ‘control protocol’ which defines the form and meaning of commands and information passing between the two involved parties. This document describes how to create a high quality control protocol, and the considerations thereof. The information in this document is intended to improve the quality of automation at the most fundamental level, because automation systems are no better than the extent to which they can reliably and conveniently provide control over the customer’s devices, and long experience has shown that far too many devices have substandard control protocols. This document starts out fairly simply and generically, so if you already have some experience in this area, you may wish to skip forward a bit to the more detailed technical sections.
Control Protocol Design Dean Roddey Charmed Quark Systems, Ltd.

Oct 2011

This document is for developers of hardware devices which are intended for external control by automation systems, specialized control applications, or hardware controllers, via some sort of wired or wireless connection. Any such device must expose a ‘control protocol’ which defines the form and meaning of commands and information passing between the two involved parties. This document describes how to create a high quality control protocol, and the considerations thereof.

The information in this document is intended to improve the quality of automation at the most fundamental level, because automation systems are no better than the extent to which they can reliably and conveniently provide control over the customer’s devices, and long experience has shown that far too many devices have substandard control protocols.

This document starts out fairly simply and generically, so if you already have some experience in this area, you may wish to skip forward a bit to the more detailed technical sections.
Superior Digital Video Images through Multi‐Dimensional Color Tables Entertainment Experience/Tammy Smith eeColor™ Technology

Apr 2011

 The recent color improvements in televisions and video projectors, the desire to enjoy entertainment media on smaller, lower quality devices and the static digital color standards have created a unique need for new video color processing technology.
Interview - What is ZigBee RF4CE? Cees Links GreenPeak

Apr 2011

Removing the clutter of multiple remote controls scattered around the coffee table is a silent desire of many consumers. But the real driving factor for acceptance of RF4CE is cable TV companies and service providers who want to expand their service into the home. Specifically, the remote control has become the key point of contact with the consumer, so what more can be done with it?

Digital to Analog Audio Conversion Paul McGowan PS Audio

Apr 2011

 Computers use a binary counting method that allows them to work with very large numbers – and the size of this number depends on how many bits they have.  In the case of most recordings, 16 bits are used to count.  In the case of the PS DAC, 32 bits are possible.  So all that happens is the analog music signal goes into a digital counting device and the musical energy is converted to numbers – bigger numbers for higher levels and smaller numbers for lower levels of music.
The Sweet Spot Nelson Pass Pass Labs

Feb 2011

 As an audiophile you want the best performance, and you probably aren't above spending money and trying tweaks of various sorts to help you get it. But there are real improvements that can be had without extra accessories or emptying your wallet.

Amplifying circuitry can be made better without more complexity and without more feedback. The best part of this for do-it-yourselfers is that these are things that can be done on your own bench, costing mostly just the time it takes to tweak the circuit and evaluate the results. Moreover, this approach is not seen on the factory floor – for most manufacturers it's simply too time consuming to do, and the rest probably never heard of it.
Secrets of Amplifier and Speaker Power Requirements Revealed Alan Lofft Axiom

Oct 2010

As audio/video hobbyists, most of us grew up thinking that if we have an amplifier with 50 watts of rated output power into 8-ohm speakers, and that combination produces reasonably clean and loud music, then by doubling the amplifier power to 100 watts per channel, the system would then play twice as loud. Many readers likely still believe that. Not so.
WirelessHD John LeMoncheck SiBEAM

Apr 2010

 WirelessHD products have been available since last year but I believe we’re about to see it go even more mainstream with the onset of products coming on the market at under $2000 for a high-end LCD TV.
Touchscreen Button Dimensions and Spacing Morgan Strauss GUIFX

Aug 2009

 When it comes to touchscreen buttons, size plays an important part in usability.
60GHz and WirelessHD® - Now In Your Living Room John Marshall WirelessHD

Aug 2009

 There are many options on the horizon for consumers looking to update their home entertainment systems with high-powered wireless technology.
1Gbps Entertainment-grade Home Networking David Sorensen Gigle

Aug 2009

 Gigle has developed a new architecture for home networking over existing wires (powerline, coaxial cable, and phoneline) that delivers the sustained high bandwidth, quality of service, ease of use, flexibility of installation, and management capabilities required by the most demanding home multimedia networks – such as distribution of multiple HD video streams throughout the home.
The Rebirth of 3-D - Part I: 3-D Is Born James Russo

Mar 2009

 There has probably been no cinematic special effect that has the longevity that the process of three-dimensional filmmaking has. From the B-movies of the 1950’s right up to the state of the art big-budget blockbusters being presented in 3-D on cinema screens today, the effect of 3-D has held a tremendous grip on moviegoers since its very inception and the allure of this tantalizing effect has on the eyes and the mind have kept moviegoers enraptured and hungry for more. In order to fully understand how movies in three-dimension became popular in the first place we must go back to America circa the 1950's. With the advent of television after the Second World War, many moviegoers opted to stay home and watch their television sets instead of going out to the cinema. Filmmakers needed a gimmick… something that would make the movie going experience unique and the gimmick would have to be something that could not be replicated on television sets. Thus, the concept of three-dimensional entertainment was born. When the 3-D format was first introduced on the American cinematic scene, the format could only be replicated in movie theaters and in order to view the film in the three-dimensional format, a movie goer would need a special pair of glasses and keep the glasses on while the movie was shown.
Adoption of Wireless and Powerline Controls Bill Ablondi Parks Associates

Jan 2009

 One must consider all of these factors in determining whether electronic controls will replace electromechanical toggle switches. Wireless and powerline controls effectively address two factors in a positive way: absolute price and infrastructure. First, the cost of products based on these technologies is significantly less than traditional control systems installed by home systems integrators. Second, the infrastructure is already in place, so no new wires are needed.
A "Cedia" Low-Voltage Initiative Proposal Grayson Evans www.trainingdept.com

Jan 2009

 Somewhere in the mid 1980’s, the NAHB Research Center in Washington was run by a guy I knew (whose name I can’t seem to dig up) who had a wacky vision. His idea was to reinvent the way electrical power was distributed throughout the home. They called it Smart Home (not to be confused with the Disney movie of the same name or other stuff that uses that name now). I think it was the first use of the name.
Content Insider #112 – The Entertainment Choice TV Viewing Without The TV Set THE Insider

Nov 2008

 Our son has it tougher than we did growing up. Oh sure he’s got his content wherever, whenever he wants. But we had power. We had juice!
Choice of Storage Media for Portable Multimedia Players Harry Wang Parks Associates

Nov 2008

 Unlike in the digital audio player market, the fight between NAND flash and hard-disk drive (HDD) on the PMP platform is far from over.
No Way to Regulate - Mobile TV in Europe a Parks Associates white paper John Barrett Parks Associates

Sep 2008

 Standards can be a good thing; the GSM standard proved to be a great thing. Yet standards must be useful and not established simply for the sake of having a “standard.” A European mobile TV standard will not enable lucrative roaming services, nor will it solve the economies-of-scale problem facing the market. It will, however, deny European operators the freedom to choose which technologies they need and also deny them the use of established network infrastructure.
Virtualization for Smart Home Technologies Thinagaran Perumal

Aug 2008

 There are a number of potential applications for virtualization in smart home settings. These hidden virtual machines could serve a number of functions, such as replacing physical devices for home entertainment and media servers, supporting remote healthcare services and defining the home automation control modules.
Open Systems Provide Added Flexibility Rochelle Grubbs Magic Home Entertainment LLC

Aug 2008

 When all of the components of the system use open standards - you can use one control device to work with all of the systems. You can also add storage to increase the capacity of the music server - without having to go back to the original vendor if you don’t want to.
Making HDMI Work over Cat-6/5 Scott Horman AudioControl

Jun 2008

 Sending HDMI, particularly with HDCP, involves a lot of different things happening at very high speed. Transmission or wiring errors often will result in no picture at all.
It’s NOT all about the chips! Chuck Hinton McIntosh

Jun 2008

 Before you make a buying decision based on a touted technology, design class, a must have connector or a phantom surround mode, remember that none of that stuff is worth is worth a dime with out proper implementation.
Interoperability in Smart Homes Thinagaran Perumal

Jun 2008

 Interoperability will allow devices and application in smart homes to collaborate and provide consumers with greater flexibility in selecting their desired services.
The XTB - Amplify and Repeat X-10 Bobby Green

Apr 2008

 Repeaters, like the XTB-IIR, perform their magic by “hearing” the first command of the pair and transmitting at much higher power at the exact time the second pair of the command is being transmitted.
Success Story - ProSyst and XANBOO Prosyst Prosyst

Apr 2008

 For its new release, Xanboo was looking for a software platform which is scalable, extendable and based on open standards. Xanboo decided to choose OSGi technology.
Moving IPTV Around the House Gerard O'Driscoll

Apr 2008

 A major challenge for service providers in delivering IPTV has been in distributing signals from the customer’s residential gateway to other IPTV Consumer Devices (IPTVCDs) located in different locations around the house.
Middleware Technology for Digital Home Services Thinagaran Perumal

Apr 2008

 Home application developers depend on middleware to develop solutions that can be implemented across multiple systems, amortizing the implementation cost of different systems integration.
What’s Under Your Desk? Solving the Power Cord Pretzel Problem Seth Socolow Green Plug

Feb 2008

 Green Plug believes the time has come for a reusable, multi-port power supply that can provide a universal power interface for all electronic products. The company is also taking a stand for setting a worldwide DC power standard. At CES 2008, they debuted a new electronics component chip – called the Green PlugTM Universal Power Protocol (UPP). The chip enables real-time collaboration between electronic devices and their power sources for the first time, using a secure, digital protocol.
Web Services for the Digital Home Thinagaran Perumal

Feb 2008

 The role of Web Services in the digital home is guaranteeing interoperability among devices, services and systems involved. Web Services generally provide communication and coordination infrastructure to digital home systems which may have minimal computational ability for interoperation. Interoperability in the digital home is achieved between components and services offered when they are capable of transparently collaborating on a particular service that they provide to the home user. Interoperability is the central cohesive source of support in digital home systems.
Professionally Designing and Planning Wireless Networks Dr. Klaus Romanek Psiber Data Systems

Feb 2008

 New Tools for WLAN Simulation and Installations Not only mature components and new standards, but also modern planning and diagnostic tools make WLANs suitable for industrial use. This in turn permits more efficient mobile working in administration, production and logistics through continuous network availability with sufficient data rates throughout the company. A poorly planned network will suffer from gaps in coverage, areas with poor signal quality, slow response times, poor voice fidelity and disconnected calls in telephony over WLAN, and inadequate throughput capacity overall.
Working Within HDMI Protocol Boundries & Words On 1.3 Dave Long Evolution Audio Video Inc.

Dec 2007

 In keeping with our reports and rants on the ‘interesting’ world of HDMI, here are more observations I’ve made along with facts via e-mail and phone calls with Bob Rappaport at PureLink, HDMI tech support and the DTS Pro Audio division. This may help you with any dropped signals you’ve had thus far.
Interview - Wireless HDTV Paul Powers Radiospire Networks

Dec 2007

 Products using Airhook technology are designed to deliver superior picture quality in a convenient, plug and play package, so consumers will be able to easily and inexpensively connect the transmitter dongle to their set-top box and the receiver dongle to their HDTV and enjoy high-quality HD wirelessly.
Interview - HDMI Steve Venuti HDMI Licensing, LLC

Dec 2007

 The most tangible and immediate way that HDMI changes the way we interface with our components is in the set-up. One cable replaces up to 11 analog cables, highly simplifying the setting up of a home theater as well as supporting the aesthetics of new component design with cable simplification.
In-home Wiring Jim Farmer Wave7 Optics

Dec 2007

 This paper presents recommendations for wiring homes for video, voice, and data connections from fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) Optical Network Terminals ONTs. The material generally follows the terminology and recommendations of the National Electric Code, the Telephone Industries Association (TIA), and BICSI. References to all three are presented at the end of this document.
CableCARD - Who Needs It? Derek R. Flickinger Interactive Homes, Inc.

Dec 2007

 We have Windows Media Center under Windows Vista receiving high definition premium cable content without CableCARD. It is so simple, it makes us wonder why no one else thought of it.
802.11 Debugging Made Easy Grayson Evans The Training Department

Dec 2007

 This article covers 802.11 installation and troubleshooting tips for the professional custom electronics installer, but is applicable to any wireless network installation done professionally.
Too Close for Comfort? Blake Brubaker Da-Lite Screen

Aug 2007

 We have all heard the recent news of projector manufacturers boasting about their new 1080p capable projectors. With this newly created resolution is there an impact on some of the rules we have been using for screen selection? Perhaps we should reexamine such decisions as are we……
Things to Know About the New SDHC Flash Cards Carol Warren Antarra Communications

Aug 2007

 The RIDATA SDHC flash memory card also features CPRM copyright protection for optimal security and reliability, ECC auto-correction to correct data errors, and a firmware-update function that provides the latest firmware and flawless compatibility with future advanced equipment.
Integrating MCE with Video Displays Scott Varner Niveus Media

Aug 2007

 The big difference between the data signal produced by a computer graphics card and the video signal that most TVs are configured to accept has to do with overscan.
Digital Technology Agent Chris Simon HomeXperience Inc.

Aug 2007

 A DTA is a layer of software that can be readily installed on existing computing devices and, with the addition of some network based components, can be added to existing CE devices. Supported by a digital home data model the agent can then provide true convergent services to the digital home.
WiMax Developments Jeff Thompson Towerstream

Jun 2007

 As WiMAX becomes more portable, businesses and consumers will use the technology for more applications, like VoIP and video, as they are with Wi-Fi today. You can think of WiMAX as Wi-Fi that covers several miles instead of hundreds of feet.
Defeating Noise for Medium Voltage Powerline Communications Brian Donnelly Corinex

Jun 2007

 The two major application areas for BPL Access networks are for Broadband Access networks and for core Utility Applications like Automatic Meter Reading, Outage Management and Grid Optimization.
Back to wires? How did that happen? Mark E. Hazen Intellon

Apr 2007

 With the truly robust 200-Mbps HomePlug AV standard-based PLC technology, home networks are established instantly with plug-and-play simplicity. It is the reason why service providers worldwide are having this proven technology embedded into their gateways, PVRs and set-top boxes.
What is a Watchdog and why should my Product have one? Damon Bruccoleri

Feb 2007

 Watchdogs, or watchdog timers are frequently used in critical equipment to help monitor the correct operation of the microcomputer chip.
When Size Matters Joanne De Peralta BiTMICRO Networks

Dec 2006

 The huge capacity that was once only offered by magnetic hard drives is now possible for solid-state disks at a price point that can fight head-on in the market.
VoIP FAQ Motorola (Cordless Phones) Motorola (Cordless Phones)

Dec 2006

 The following answers to commonly asked questions can help you get started understanding what VoIP is and why it can save you money and add flexibility to your life.
Halfway Through - Hybrid Drives Leilani Junghan BiTMICRO Networks

Dec 2006

 Thanks to hybrid drives, SSDs now have one leg in the storage mainstream market. These duplex drives may very well dominate the scene once Microsoft piles them on the racks.
The Next BIG Thing! - Part 2 Mark E. Hazen Intellon® Corporation

Dec 2006

 HomePlug AV is making the home network truly ubiquitous and fully capable of delivering both service providers’ and home owners’ digital content throughout the home to every AC outlet – digital media over power – entertainment at every AC outlet.
Understanding Double Layer DVD Recording Andy Marken Marken Communications

Oct 2006

 Double Layer recordable discs contain two organic dye recording layers (termed L0 and L1, respectively) between dual polycarbonate bases and semi-reflective metal layers separated by a transparent spacing layer.
The Digital Home: Here, Now, and Ready for Integration Kurt Scherf and Stuart Sikes Parks Associates

Oct 2006

 If the solution is simple, reliable, and fairly priced, the consumer wins, and the integrated digital home – nay, the digital lifestyle – vision becomes a reality – rapidly.
The Next BIG Thing! - Part 1 Mark E. Hazen Intellon

Oct 2006

 HomePlug AV provides the robust backbone that frees the service providers’ customers to fully enjoy the services they provide without the expense of truck rolling and the negative affects of customer technophobia. Just plug-it-in technology is what customers and service providers want.
Smart Home Security Maxim Kostyukov Tiegra Ltd

Aug 2006

 Smart home system owners are advised to request a level of service in which security issues are all adequately addressed.
Micro Thermoelectric Generator Targets ZigBee Marc Poulshock Thermo Life® Energy Corp.

Aug 2006

 The main purpose for developing the Thermo Life is to provide energy harvesting for low-power applications where other technologies would prove inadequate or not possible.
From Old Cars to High-speed Home Networks Mark E. Hazen Intellon Corporation

Aug 2006

 AC powerline and coax cable both networking together is what Intellon Corporation calls a hybrid network, sort of a parallel to the hybrid cars of today – both have two means of conveyance adding to the overall power.
Beyond the Battlefield Joanne De Peralta BiTMICRO Networks, Inc

Aug 2006

 Judging by the way things are going, there is no doubt that flash SSD deployment in consumer electronics is inevitable. Market data by Gartner Dataquest Inc. shows the NAND flash market can hit $16.2 billion in terms of revenues for 2006, up 42 percent over 2005.
Traps to Avoid when Managing a M2M Project eDevice Technology eDevice Technology

Aug 2006

 The M2M abbreviation, that stands for Machine To Machine, encompasses all equipment (hardware), software, and processes that enable machine management related communication between different machines and between machines and people.
Hong Kong Harbour ' Symphony Of Lights ' Ken Sinclair www.automatedbuildings.com

Jun 2006

 Control of 18 buildings on the Hong Kong water front in an integration of architectural lighting, laser effects, pyrotechnics and accompanied by a sound simulcast provides a very graphic demonstration of what city wide control integration might look like. Be sure to view the video.
Web Content Coming to Devices Oregan Networks Ltd Oregan Networks Ltd

Apr 2006

 The original definition of the World Wide Web was formulated in terms of connectivity between multiple PCs. Now it is referencing a network of interoperable devices capable of sending and receiving documents formatted in HTML (Hypertext Mark-up Language), transferred via HTTP (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol).
Another One Bites the Dust Jun Alejo BiTMICRO Networks

Apr 2006

 Dual- and multi-core processors thrive on multithreading applications, and despite significant advancements made in increasing data storage access times, an entire network will slow down to a crawl if the performance gap issue is not resolved.
Can Media Centers do HDTV? Gregg Cannon Cannon PC

Feb 2006

 The ideal situation is to be able to decode HDTV signal directly into the media center without having to go through a cable or satellite box. Microsoft has promised they will support this capability in the upcoming release of Windows Vista (Fall 2006) and ATI demoed the OCCUR at the 2006 CES in Las Vegas. This new TV tuner card will allow you to receive HD signal directly into your Media Center plus it has built in cable card support (CableCard 1.0).
Interoperability in the Home Network Henry Wiechmano Texas Instruments

Dec 2005

 The networked home concept is still in its infancy. If it’s going to catch on, it has to be feature rich, secure, and simple to operate. The combination of industry standards and cost effective, programmable platforms can help fulfill the vision of any content, any format, any where, any time.
What is Bluetooth? MilesTek MilesTek TekTalk

Oct 2005

 Bluetooth was designed for consumers and small office/home office users as an easy-to-use, inexpensive way to transmit data without wires.
Axeze Distributed Network Axeze Axeze

Oct 2005

 As there is not an open protocol standard used to integrate all aspects of home and building automation at this stage, developing products that can seamlessly integrate with others whilst maintaining security on the access control network, provides many benefits for users today and tomorrow.
LCOS Technology Rainer L. Kuhn Brillian Corporation

Aug 2005

 When compared to Gen II LCoS™, the two main alternative projection display technologies come up short. DLP is plagued by digital video artifacts including color break up, blotchy grayscale and crushed blacks, and LCD projection TVs have large visible pixels that can create an annoying screen door effect and slow video response times that can create blurred images.
In-Building Internet Distribution - PLC Asaf Avidan Yitran Communications Ltd.

Jun 2005

 Yitran’s PITEL mini-Access System is a low-cost robust networking solution designed for deployment in challenging environments. The system is ideal where traditional connectivity using hard-wired or wireless technology doesn’t exist or is not economically or technically feasible.
New Projection Screen Breakthrough Len Calderone Accuon

Apr 2005

 A projection screen should reflect light in its natural state and should not be affected by color in the screen’s substrate. The Accuon screen either reflects or diffuses light without using any color pigment.
What is the LCN Installation Bus? Thanh Nguyen LCN

Feb 2005

 There are 3 significant universal installation buses worldwide: the EIB, LON and LCN. In this article we describe the LCN installation bus that distinguishes itself through performance and cost effectiveness compared to the rest.
Total Home Technology William T. Schafer Crestron

Dec 2004

 Total Home Technology is everything a dealer could want for his customers: award-winning audio and video products, the amazing lighting, HVAC and shade control of LightSource, e-Control 2 for remote access and the widest variety of user interfaces in the world- all in one package.
Big Broadband: Public Infrastructure or Private Monopolies Wayne Caswell CAZITech Consulting

Dec 2004

 I recently returned from an Economic Summit in Loudoun, VA, where I was invited because of a paper I wrote earlier this year, “Reviving the FORGOTTEN Information Superhighway.” The summit expanded my thinking about the role of government in telecommunications policy and led to an invitation to speak at Austin InnoTech, a regional conference and exhibition with focus on the mutual relationship between technologies and innovation. This newer paper summarizes and expands on that presentation, which was called “Fiber, Wireless and Bandwidth for TeleWork.”
Computer That Can Run Your Home Robert Bruder Pelham Sloane Ltd.

Oct 2004

 The Pentium M combined with the right design features in an all-in-computer may be poised to create a quiet revolution in comfort, security and entertainment within our homes.
Intel Enables Sharing of Digital Content on the Home LAN Steven R. Bard Intel

Oct 2004

 Designing and validating a digital home product to Intel® NMPR conformance places developers at the fore front with a compelling digital home product.
Flash SSDs - Inferior Technology or Closet Superstar? Kelly Cash BiTMICRO Networks

Apr 2004

 Flash memory is useful for more than just consumer devices- it's also well-suited for the enterprise. Of course, one type of SSD will likely be better suited to the needs of your applications and IT environment than the other.
The Market For Ultra-Wideband Solutions Kurt Sherf Parks Associates

Oct 2003

 We readily acknowledge the challenges inherent in forecasting a networking solution as broadly-positioned as UWB. However, we simultaneously would caution against the over-hype that has been associated with previous "revolutionary" technologies.
Public Hot Spots: One Truth and Two Myths Yuanzhe (Michael) Cai Parks Associates

Oct 2003

 Most hot-spot service providers agree that the majority of this market's early adopters are and will continue to be so-called road warriors. These people travel nationally or internationally for professional purposes, and while on the road, they need Internet connections to access their corporate networks and e-mail.
Design Challenges for Home Gateway Devices Satish Gupta www.wipro.com/homenet/

Dec 2002

 This paper details the hardware, software technical architecture and specifications of the home gateway devices and lists out the engineering design challenges (along with the possible solutions) faced by a home gateway product designer or a home gateway silicon designer.
xAP Project Gains Momentum Mark Harrison xAP

Oct 2002

 xAP is an open protocol intended to support the integration of telemetry and control devices primarily within the home - it is the glue that supports the interconnectivity of Home Automation devices.
The IndraNet Technology in a Nutshell Chris Scobie IndraNet Technologies

Jun 2002

 At the core of the IndraNet technology are a unique tridimensional fractal mesh network architecture and a set of operations protocols that enable key problems faced by wireless communication networks to be solved and that addresses the global emerging market demands for massive increases in broadband communications. The IndraNet Core technology, and in particular the IndraNet Network Architecture are unique and protected internationally by patents.
Bluetooth: Finally Making An Impact Navin Sabharwal Allied Business Intelligence

Apr 2002

 The outlook for Bluetooth technology is once again positive, albeit cautiously so. Bluetooth at its core is an embedded play. The desire to purchase add-on, aftermarket Bluetooth solutions is limited. For Bluetooth to succeed integration cost and power consumption are key determinants.
Power Line Communication for Home Control Systems Oren Kaufman / Asaf Avidan ITRAN Communications

Feb 2002

 Reliable, robust, low-cost technology for power line based home automation and device control is available today in ITRAN Communications’ DCSK based IT800 modem. The integration of the IT800 with Microsoft Simple Control Protocol enables the development of a wide variety of in-home PLC based applications with significantly superior performance than existing PLC command and control solutions.
European trends in Home Networking Kerstin Kube e/home

Feb 2002

 Special middleware and software tools will permit different network systems to be integrated. Even the Multimedia Home Platform (MHP), which was recently adopted by Cable Television Laboratories Inc (CableLabs®) as a component of the 'OpenCable Application Platform' (OCAP) - through the use of appropriate APIs - will incorporate other network standards along with the internet
Bridging the Automation/IP Gap Derek R. Flickinger http://www.interactivehomesinc.com/

Dec 2001

 The Archronix ArcWay ZigBee to WSDL gateway allows two sets of standardized yet disparate technologies to communicate with each other. You can buy products from a variety of vendors and they will be able to plug and play together.
Streaming Wireless Entertainment Cirrus Wireless Networking Division

Dec 2001

 What Whitecap2 does is give priority to the game, movie, and other multimedia content you're running, allowing it more usable throughput within the 11mbps pipeline. If you imagine 802.11b as a highway, picture it with no traffic signs, no lanes, no lights - just data whizzing around with no traffic cop to maintain order. What Whitecap adds, to extend the metaphor, is a commuter lane for multimedia content.
Wireless Tower of Babel Wayne Caswell

Aug 2001

 If there’s a Wireless Home Networking lesson to learn from the Tower of Babel, it’s that we don’t need (and will never have) one wireless standard for homes, offices, schools, airports, restaurants, grocery stores, bowling alleys, and beauty shops. As intriguing as it may sound, it is not practical or desirable to have one wireless standard for all environments, purposes, and types of devices.
Xemics iCAP XEMICS XEMICS

Feb 2001

 XEMICS XE8000 supports Internet Connected Appliances Protocol (iCAP). XEMICS has demonstrated functionality of Tetraedre(2) and emWare(3) protocols on its ultra-low-power mixed-signal XE8000 MCU. Both protocols are based on a Windows or UNIX PC used as server and then point-to-point connection between the server and appliance.
Jefferson Project Craig McAllister

Feb 2001

 The Jefferson Project is appropriately named for its goal of providing equal access to information and benefit to everyone in the community. The Jefferson Project merges easy-to-use in home Internet connectivity with a wealth of local content in a safe, familiar local website, where the users do not have to learn new technical skills or how to surf.
RG's Save Energy David Gaw Coactive Networks

Dec 2000

 The residential gateway offers a window of intelligence about your home. With tangible and specific feedback on your own energy use, you’re more equipped to make changes that have a bottom line result. For example, if you know exactly how much it costs to run a hot tub in the winter or to keep the air conditioning on full blast when the family is at work, you are likely to make some smart, cost-cutting choices.
A Shared Vision emWare

Dec 2000

 The ETI Alliance members understand that no one company can provide all the elements necessary for every device networking solution. That’s why the ETI Alliance includes leading businesses from numerous industries. Leading microprocessor and microcontroller manufacturers are members of the ETI Alliance, as are the makers of database, network management, ERP and vertical applications.
MMDS Broadband Michael Greeson Parks Associates

Oct 2000

 MMDS is ideally suited for areas where DSL and cable cannot reach. And in areas where these services are available, MMDS can offer ISPs the advantages of rapid deployment, a swift time-to-market, none of the "last-mile" obstructions inherent to DSL and cable service, and a more cost-effective mode of providing Internet service. All of these advantages should prove very enticing to ISPs scrambling to establish a presence in the broadband market.
Energy Gateways David Gaw Coactive Networks

Oct 2000

 Because it has access to all devices and appliances in your home, a smart gateway can apply pre-programmed guidelines to prioritize, cycle, and alter set-points to bring energy output down to pre-established levels. It can also send you warnings or alerts, giving you the option to override the system and make your own choices about what to do.
Neighborhood Automation Leo Shulman Vicinium Systems

Aug 2000

 Neighborhood automation systems can be used to provide communities with news and information directly from local schools, merchants, and businesses. This can be anything from the local Little League schedule to arts events to a PTA meeting. In essence, networked neighborhoods can have their own intranets - electronic hubs where they are able to share information and reinforce their sense of community.
Quality of Service Navin Sabharwal Allied Business Intelligence

Jun 2000

 The importance of QoS is becoming highlighted as service providers look at home networking solutions to extend the broadband pipe they are bringing into homes. These service providers hope to bring not just data into the home, but eventually voice and video as well.
Powerline Home Networks Wayne Caswell

Jun 2000

 With powerline networking, you’ll be able to put your desktop PCs anywhere you like instead of being forced to put them by a phone outlet. It will also be easier to buy and network other devices – printers, scanners, DSL and cable modems, TV set-top boxes, game consoles, screen phones and major appliances.
HA in Real Time Dora Carter CIC, Inc.

Jun 2000

 The future is actually here, now. Some CIC members have product available where you can actually control the blinds, lights, thermostat and security system in your home from a remote location such as a personal computer in your office hooked to the Internet or via your cell phone.
Case Study-Sweden Adam Marsh Coactive Networks

Jun 2000

 Customers can communicate directly with appliances, devices, and systems in their homes by going to a private interactive web page where clicking on service icons allows them to monitor status and change settings. Customers can also use any touch tone telephone to access services, messages or alarms.
Report on recent advances and introductions regarding the X-10® protocol Dave Rye

Aug 1998

 "It is perhaps a little known fact that the X-10 protocol has, since day one, included the capability of being expanded. The "basic" protocol includes 256 codes (16 housecodes x 16 units codes) and includes 16 functions (on, off, bright, dim, etc). However one of these 16 function codes basically means "when you receive this code, there's more code coming." These are X-10ded™ codes and are used to provide features such as preset dim in the LM14A."
Home THX- The Best of the Best Patrick Roberts

Jun 1998

 "THX stands for Tom Holman's eXperiment. If you are a fan of George Lucas, you might recognize ‘THX’; it is part of the name of Lucas’ first feature length film, named THX 1138."
How it all started Dave Rye

Feb 1998

 "The idea of using the existing AC wiring to transmit signals to control lights and appliances was conceived (like so many Pico/X-10 ideas) over several drinks in a bar one night. If we had known then how long it would take us to get to where we are now, we would probably have moved on to project X-11 :-)"
How X-10® fits into the Distribution Automation & Demand Side Management Market Dave Rye

Dec 1997

 "Brazilian electricity supply, in common with most countries, follows a pattern of peak and low consumption periods. CEMIG (Companhia Energetica de Minas Gerais, a State Electric Utility Company in Brazil) have identified that they actually already have the capacity to support a larger customer base, provided they can spread demand more evenly. This can be achieved using dual-rate incentives or load-shedding."
INTRODUCTION TO THE LONTALK® COMMUNICATIONS PROTOCOL Kenneth P. Wacks

Oct 1997

 "LonWorks networks are intended for applications spanning home and building automation, plus factory automation and aircraft.
INTRODUCTION TO THE CEBUS® COMMUNICATIONS PROTOCOL Kenneth P. Wacks

Aug 1997
The Birth of UK Home Automation Web Site Mark A McCall

Dec 1996

Back To Article Topic Index

Search For Articles




More AV and Automation Industry Resources

 

 

More Technical eMagazine from LJB