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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.

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Controllers and Remotes - General

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Article Title Author Company eMag Issue Article Synopsis
The Quest for a Better Remote Mark Anderson Mark Anderson

Dec 2012

 I’ve used Logitech Harmony remotes on my Home Theater and in the Master Bedroom for a few years and for the most part, they worked OK. The “Help” button painlessly solved many hiccups. With a move to a new house, all AV gear was hidden away (most of it in the basement). A second Blu-ray player and Apple TV complicated things, so it was time to look for a new solution that would dispense with the hiccups. My quest has ended (for now) with URC.
When the iPhone Makes a Perfect TV Remote? Mark Anderson Hometoys.com

Jun 2012

 I’m not easily impressed, but on a recent trip to New Orleans, I was pleasantly surprised to discover a case where the iPhone was way better than the TV remote.
Natural Interaction and Gesture Technology Tal Dagan PrimeSense

Jun 2012

 PrimeSense is leading the charge with Natural Interaction and gesture technology as the new paradigm
5 Reasons Why I Love my iPad but Hate it as a TV Remote Control Eric Thies DSI Entertainment Systems

Jun 2012

 There are many apps for iOS devices that allow it to perform as control pad, but is an iOS device the best option?
Using the Kindle Fire as a Home Automation Touchscreen Mark Anderson

Dec 2011

 Ever since I saw the first homes with wall-mounted touchscreens, I’ve yearned for an affordable alternative. Was the Kindle Fire, the answer to my dreams. I ordered one in an attempt to find out.

Like a kid waiting for Santa, I looked out the window every 15 minutes on Saturday morning for the UPS driver. After what seemed like an eternity (it was after 10:30 am after all), it arrived. I excitedly unboxed it and got to work. Within 10 minutes, I had the tablet up and running and controlling devices and events (albeit with a sample skin). A few hours later, I had my custom iPad screens adapted to the size of the Fire and deployed on the device. I now had my $199 Home Automation touchscreen. One in every important room was within my grasp and my budget.
The iPad® as a Dedicated Controller: Morgan Strauss Guifx

Jun 2011

 The iPad’s true potential as a controller lies in accessing home systems when away from the house. With a WiFi connection and an app from the control system manufacturer, users can check in on their security systems, turn the lights off if they left them on, or adjust the temperature before they get home from work, all from pretty much anywhere in the world. This provides an amazing added value and convenience to any control system, while providing the “wow” factor that consumers are looking for.
Review - Square Connect SQ Blaster with SQ Remote App Jim Bask Remote Shoppe

Jun 2011

 The SQ Blaster with SQ Remote App is an excellent solution for turning your Apple iOS device into a universal remote control that is better than most Logitech Harmony remotes and rivals the capabilities of a Philips Pronto. Now that other z-wave options like the Logitech Harmony 890, the Monster Central remotes and the UEI Nevo have all been discontinued the SQ Remote is an excellent way to protect the investment you’ve made into home automation - or get started at an affordable price.

Don’t forget that this review covers the home automation capabilities of the Square Connect SQ Blaster with SQ Remote App but if you want to learn more about the A/V control capability and the SQ Remote itself please click here to read Remote Shoppe’s first review.
Did I Turn off the Lights? Len Calderone

Jun 2011

Save energy by controlling your home’s temperature while traveling.  Check the video feed from your security cameras.  Turn off the security system for a neighbor to enter and feed the cat without giving out a security code.  Turn the lights on and off in different rooms to make potential burglars think that someone is home, or activate the TV at night like you would if you were home.
Take Control - Make Your Audio/Video System Easy To Use Damon Della Greca Premier Audio Video Designs

Apr 2011

 Each of your components probably came with its own remote, so they can add up pretty quickly.  However, a well-programmed universal remote provides some very useful advantages.  One of the more common requests I get is to eliminate the clutter and confusion caused by having multiple remotes.  My clients want to be able to pick up the remote and not think about how the system works or which input they must switch their TV to, in order to watch cable or a blu-ray movie.  They want it fairly self-explanatory when they pick it up.
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?

Review - Square Connect SQ Blaster with SQ Remote App Jim Bask Remote Shoppe.com

Feb 2011

This is a WiFi remote control solution available for the Apple iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch. The SQ Blaster is unique from other solutions because it will also interact with Z-wave home control systems.

The device itself is available in either a Cherry wood or Bamboo finish which look very nice with the decor of traditional wood furniture and is a refreshing change from the piano black and gloss-white finishes that have become obligatory for iPod accessories. After all, the SQ Blaster is an accessory for your home, not just your iPod.
RedEye: Control for the Whole Family ThinkFlood ThinkFlood

Feb 2011

Anyone in your house with an iPhone, iPad, iPad touch or computer can control your home theater. RedEye connects simultaneously to multiple iPhone, iPad or iPad touch devices – separately or all at once. If you have multiple RedEye units in your home, configure one or more iOS devices or PCs with those RedEye units and control them all at the same time.
Amulet - Voice recognition and control applications within the Connected Home Tom Abell Home System Integration LLC

Feb 2011

Description: D:Website WorkspaceWebsite GraphicsHSIMisc LogosAmulet Devices.jpgThe Amulet Voice Remote is another example of the increasing trend of interacting with your TV, Home Theater, and even Home, not just by giving commands…but by receiving answers in return as well.  Amulet is creating the sense of absolute control…by using our voices.
Review: i-Got-Control IRB1 Jim Bask Remote Shoppe.com

Jun 2010

i-Got-Control IRB1 is an accessory that turns your iPhone, iPod touch or iPad into a universal learning remote control. i-Got-Control quickly and easily replaces the multiple remote controls that clutter your home. And, when you're on the go, i-Got-Control lets you operate A/V equipment in your hotel or conference room, as well as many other places that utilize IR equipment, in just three simple steps.
HomeToys Interview - RF Remote Control - Bob Dolatowski of NextGen Bob Dolatowski NextGen

Jun 2010

 NextGen is an innovative provider of unique a/v product solutions for the residential and light commercial markets. The company is best known for its award-winning Remote Extender which gives an ordinary remote control powerful RF capability. Founded in 2002 and based in Port Richey, Florida, NextGen designs and builds many of its award-winning products and then markets them throughout the world.
Crestron Mobile Pro G iPad App Jeff Singer Crestron

Jun 2010

With the iPhone®, iPod touch® and iPad™, Apple® has flung open the door to interacting with touchscreens and having fun doing it. This has created a whole new market for programmers and integrators, with Crestron leading the way. Crestron released the industry’s first fully functioning iPad app before the iPad was even available.

New Kinetix Re Remote Control Accessory for the Apple iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch Jim Bask Remote Shoppe

Apr 2010

 The Re package includes the IR transmitter accessory and a nice green neoprene storage case. The Re programming software is a FREE download direct from the iTunes App Store. The combination of your iPod Touch/iPhone/iPad, the Re, and the FREE App creates a powerful and professional universal remote control on par with many dedicated remotes.
Touchscreen Button Dimensions and Spacing Morgan Strauss GUIFX

Aug 2009

 When it comes to touchscreen buttons, size plays an important part in usability.
Will RF4CE be the Killer App for ZigBee? Cees Links

May 2009

 Recently the RF4CE Alliance got itself adopted by the ZigBee Alliance, a clear example of a win-win situation. For the RF4CE Alliance it means an immediate broad adoption in the consumer electronics industry, while avoiding the cost of setting up a “marketing machine” to achieve this. For the ZigBee Alliance this is a brilliant move into a direction that will make it flourish. For the consumer electronics market, and in particular for the end-customers, this adoption is a clear stake in the ground that opens up opportunities for a wide range of new and interesting applications.
Programmable Logic Controller - Features Eugene Kowch

May 2009

 Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are forever upgrading and changing to stay current with today’s technologies. Everyday we hear of new and improved cell phones, handheld computers, GPS systems, etc. The same holds true for PLCs. Every year new models of PLCs are introduced into the marketplace. This article is going to touch on some of the new features available on PLCs.
Honeywell Prestige Comfort System Thermostat Rob Williams

Mar 2009

 I recently received the Honeywell Prestige™ Comfort Systems thermostat, with the Portable Comfort Control and Outdoor Sensor from Honeywell for review. Prestige™ is the world’s first high definition, full-color, touch screen, programmable thermostat. The Portable Comfort Control is a hand-held device that not only senses and allows homeowners to adjust for the room temperature they are in, but the Outdoor Sensor provides information on outdoor conditions to help you make informed decisions that could positively impact overall energy use. Honeywell indicates that proper use leading to more efficient home heating and cooling could lead to a significant energy savings—up to 33 percent or $200 a year depending on your geographic location.
Next Generation Remote Controls Cees Links GreenPeak

Jan 2009

 With a single, universal RF remote device, consumers will be able to control every aspect of their connected home. RF is engineered to control more than a TV and DVD, it can also control lighting, heating and air conditioning, blinds and shutters. Two-way communication can also be used to help you locate your lost remote control hidden in the couch pillows or under the table. This new generation of RF communication is opening up a market for low cost, reliable high speed RF remote controls and is expected to have a huge impact on the user experience, as IEEE 802.15.4 remote controls will allow a completely new way to use a remote control. In short, the development of radio frequency remote controls will replace IR remote controls and deliver richer communications, increase reliability and improve flexibility
iAM – Serving Your Senses John Poremba Serene Automation

Nov 2008

 Introducing iAM© - bringing sophisticated, yet affordable, touchpanel control to your iTunes© library. iAM© enables you to enjoy your media for a whole-house experience, without the need of expensive media servers, iPods© and associated docks, or lugging your PC around with you.
MX-810 from Universal Remote Control BMB Electronics BV BMB Electronics BV

Dec 2007

 Stylish new RF and IR Remote with Colour Screen icons and Fast Customization is sure to be a popular choice. The MX-810 is now available at BMB Electronics BV.
PLC - Lighting Design Eugene Kowch P.I.D. Consultants Inc.

Aug 2007

 A good lighting design at the beginning of a project will guarantee a reliable electrical system and a user friendly control system for the customer.
Human Interface and Panel Design/Layout Stephe Blansette Intelligent Systems, LLC

Jun 2007

 A process for interviewing and communicating with clients is paramount. The panel designer can guess what people like, but that is not a good way to create a good user experience.
Harmony 1000 Touchscreen Remote RemoteShoppe.com RemoteShoppe.com

Apr 2007

 If you’ve always wanted one of those cool touch screen controllers but were intimidated by the price tag, the programming, or the graphic design skills required than the Logitech Harmony 1000 is the controller for you. At under $500 there is simply no other choice.
Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control Bob Hetherington HomeToys

Mar 2006

 The remote itself is very nice to use ... the buttons are slick and the LCD screen is clear. Having a recharging station is terrific too. I never lose the remote any more, it's always ready to go and I never have to worry about changing batteries. The IR signals are stronger than any other unit I've tried so it never fails to do it's job. Just picking up or tilting the unit brings on the LCD screen ... no buttons to push for that ... nice!
Harmony 688 Universal Remote Tucker Hatfield PDAToday

Oct 2005

 All in all, the Harmony 688 is a fantastic remote. It’s simple enough my family uses it, yet it’s powerful enough that I can set it up exactly how I want it. It has big features like a wonderfully easy programming interface as well as little features like tactile feedback on the buttons and a light so you can use it in a darkened room.
Rules of Thumb for selling Remote Controls Pete Baker Remote Technologies Incorporated (RTI)

Feb 2005

 While categorized as an “accessory,” there’s not a consumer out there who doesn’t consider remote control a necessity. If they have trouble using it, you could end up losing future business. Make sure you’re familiar with the variety of product choices in the marketplace and their capabilities. Recommend what makes sense.
Multitask in the Living Room Anne Price

Feb 2005

 Thanks to the expansion of broadband, wireless networking, a new generation of PDAs and software, you now have the ability to multitask at home as you do at work. And, you can clear your couch of the electronic clutter and easily navigate and control your recreational tasks.
Home Automation Portal Appliance Robert D. Findlay, Bill Lynch, Graham McCormack

Feb 2005

 The Home Automation Portal Appliance will soon become an essential addition to most home automation projects of any complexity. In this paper we discuss how the small, lightweight and low power box produced by IO Anywhere can act as a Home Automation Portal Appliance.
Home Automation for the rest of us Barbara Holbrook

Feb 2005

 With it's “Jetsons-era functionality, this software is great for people that want to control their home or apartment with minimum amount of fuss.
Realizing the Promise of the Connected Home Raoul Wijgergangs Zensys

Dec 2004

 Z-Wave is delivering on the promise of the connected home, providing reliability, interoperability, convenience and relatively low-cost all in a chip the size of a dime.
Display Werks Touches Residential Systems Market Martin Hamilton Hamilton Communications

Dec 2004

 The touch panels have one RJ45 connection for accepting analog RGB, serial, stereo audio, mouse and keyboard signals from a PC located up to 500 feet away over a single CAT5 cable.
NOT ONLY X10 Iriave

Oct 2004

 When coupled with a programmable digital device, such as a microprocessor or a microcontroller, the patented device allows the realization of “intelligent” and “communicative” equipment that can interact with similar objects over a domestic network, without the need of installing a dedicating wiring.
Dave Rye of X10 Dave Rye X10 (USA) Inc.

Oct 2004

 Dave Rye is Vice President and Technical Manager of X10 (USA) Inc., and has been with X10 an incredible 30 years. Dave is responsible for technical liaison between Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and X10’s engineering staffs in Scotland, Hong Kong, and the USA. He procures industry approvals (FCC and UL) for all X10 products, as well as those developed and manufactured by X10 for its OEMs.
Single-Chip ZigBee Transceiver Svein Anders Tunheim Chipcon

Aug 2004

 The CC2420 is the industry’s first single-chip 2.4 GHz RF transceiver compliant with the IEEE 802.15.4 standard and ready to be used in ZigBee products.
Are PLC Gremlins Causing Problems? SmartHome SmartHome

Aug 2004
Ideal Remote Controls Mark Stiving Destiny Networks, Inc.

Jun 2004

 Combining a remote with a controller can bring back the joy of having a simple remote control. Done right, there is no need to “understand” how the entertainment equipment is wired, nor a need to learn how to control it. It just works. In fact, it passes the babysitter test.
Internet based Monitoring using low cost solutions. Gary Drake www.BroadbandSentry.com

Jun 2004

 Adding some simple monitoring tools, and Internet ready devices, your existing network connection brings your real world to your wired world.
Philips iPronto Bob Hetherington

Oct 2003

 All in all ... this is a fascinating device and only the future will tell whether or not the world will embrace it. It combines 3 devices into one ... a remote control, a program guide and a web browser. A future implementation called NetX will have it play a key control role in Philips vision of controlling devices in the home via the wireless home network.
ECS (Event Control System) 2.2.51 Rob Williams

Aug 2003

 I had reviewed the legacy version of ECS in August of 2000 and was asked to have a look at the redesigned Object-Oriented version (now at 2.2.51). Omnipotence has just recently introduced this version to the residential market, having been focused exclusively on the commercial/industrial markets for the last 2 years. ECS Automation Logo
X10 Debugging Tips Craig Chadwick Custom Solutions Inc.

Feb 2003

 If you use X10, you will inevitably experience some of the problems described here. Hopefully this information will help you resolve the problem as quickly and painlessly as possible. This is the price we all pay for enjoying the many benefits of X10 technology!
UCommand UC-515 Touchscreen Remote Control Rob Williams

Dec 2002

 If you want a full featured unit that you know will work with your devices, and gives you the ability to change the screen to suit your needs, spend a bit more and get this cool looking unit with the retail price of $129.00. Then you can get rid of all those remotes cluttering up your living room.
A Low Cost Home Automation Controller David Steele Magicmation, Inc.

Oct 2002

 Many features are controlled from one MM-443 Magicmodule Programmable Controller. There is room in the programmable memory to do other tasks that may be unique to your application. At Halloween I use a Magicmodule and MV-480 Voice Annunciator to really give the neighborhood kids a scare as they walk up to my front porch.
Invoca Voice Activated Universal Remote Rob Williams

Jun 2002

 It's amazing how they can get voice recognition into such a small package. For the ultimate couch potato ... this is the greatest tool around. You don't even have to lift your head from the pillow to surf the channels :-)
Touch Panel Design: Warming Up Technology David Teel Avenida Network

Apr 2002

 Whether you design your touch panel pages internally or outsource to a professional design team, the key to touch panel design success is planning and communication with your customers. Knowing in the beginning what functionality can be achieved will make designing pages an easier task. Dedicating the right amount of time will enable you to produce eye-pleasing page designs and help you introduce a little “technology warmth” in the home.
The OCELOT Brian K Mcclung

Apr 2002

 The OCELOT appears a well thought out answer to Home Automation. Capable of interfacing essentially 4 different types of Protocol's (RS232, RS485, X-10, and IR), and with expansion capabilities, it seems capable of the manufacturers claims. In addition to being easy to hook-up and program, most user definable parameters (such as programs and learned IR commands) can be stored for backup purposes.
New Era in the User Interface Prasanna M. Shah Pragmatic Communications Systems

Apr 2002

 This article describes advancement in the ergonomics and aesthetics of a home automation controller that is attractive, intuitive and affordable. A brief overview of the traditional interfaces is presented and the problems with its user interface and limitations are identified. The ergonomics and aesthetics of a novel home automation controller that provides higher performance and greater flexibility are described in detail.
Grabbing Control William A. Wimsatt CorAccess

Apr 2002

 Remember that the control system interface occupies valuable and prominent real estate in a home. They are placed in important positions: by the front door, on the coffee table, in the main hallway, etc. There is limited wall space and the device should be an invited part of the home and not a distraction. If careful attention is paid to the physical and digital interfaces, the system will be used more often, and hopefully shown to visitors who will want the same system installed in their home.
Controllers Need to Look Nice Robyn Gabel Jandy Electronics

Apr 2002

 For a satisfying automation experience, incorporate aesthetically pleasing, intuitively simple control interfaces into your home. Throughout your search, just keep in mind that if you don't really want to live with it, you won't really use it.
DOLLx8 Web Control Interface Attila Sandor Fiko AKIRA Company Group

Feb 2002

 The combinations of DOLLx8 Web Enabled Interface and the DOLLx8 Mini Web Server using TCP/IP together with D8ML will give an endless list of web controlled applications where only the fantasy gives the limitation. The DOLLx8 is not designed for high speed music and video transfer, but the interface is able to control such lines to channel the signals to its destination by using music and/or video chips controlled by DOLLx8.
Remote Anywhere

Oct 2001

 Remote Anywhere allows consumers to control their satellite receiver, A/V components, TiVo™, DVD player, tuner, etc., from other rooms up to 150 feet (46 meters) away. This capability is especially useful to owners of satellite systems looking to view programs from a single receiver or recorder on different televisions throughout the home, without purchasing another unit or incurring additional monthly programming charges.
HomeVision Home Controller Bob Hetherington

Oct 2001

 I'm not going to redo the in depth review of HomeVision here. My original review is still relevant so click here if you want to get into the nitty gritty of this controller. Suffice it to say that when I got my new HomeVision it only took a few minutes to change over all of my schedules and devices from the Enerlogic system that I have used for the past 10 years. I did not lose one day of control and in fact added scenes and modes that I had been thinking about for some time. Not having to write and debug control code has made this experience a pleasure.
Marrick Lynx-X10PLC Bob Hetherington

Aug 2001

 The unit ships with a copy of Home Control Assistant (HCA) software (see HomeToys review) and set-up took only a few minutes. Just plug it into the wall and serial port ... install the software ... and test the operation. HCA has a menu option that lets you test and configure the PLC. A very nice feature allows you to adjust the transmission power and receiver sensitivity.
IR543AH IR Device Mark McCall AutomatedHome.co.uk

Dec 2000

 For most people with a comprehensive X10 setup this device is an absolute god-send! The ability to operate any of the 256 unique X10 codes from your armchair is superb. The unit will also mean those people who already have an IR distribution system in their home will only need this single unit to control X10 devices from any room in their property.
UnorthodoX-10 Ido Bar-Tana

Apr 2000

 If you limit yourself to purchasing 220v X-10 modules, you can easily expect to spend three to four times as much on your system components alone. Worst, the most popular receivers are priced close to 5 times as much. With such a huge difference, you may be thinking that the 220v modules are superior in technology and features. Flatly, they are absolutely not. The only difference between the two types of modules is the value of a very few components inside the modules.
UK - Wireless X10 Transceiver Module (TM12) Mark McCall AutomatedHome.co.uk

Apr 2000

 This unit allows the retro-fit convenience that you know and love from X10 to be extended to places that don't have mains wiring. For example, place an eternal PIR at your gate and have a chime module sound inside when someone is entering your property. The TM12 opens up a whole new world of possibilities!
UK - Stick-On Wall Switch (SS13E) Mark McCall AutomatedHome.co.uk

Apr 2000

 At present there are no 2 or 3 gang replacement X10 wall switches on the market so the only way to convert a room that has one of these it to use this switch and go the wireless route. However this still leaves the often difficult problem of converting the circuits in the room to DIN Rail modules. Also, it would be nice to have singles and double switch versions available. All in all though another great new product from X10.
UK - Keychain Remote (KR19A) Mark McCall AutomatedHome.co.uk

Apr 2000

 The unit operates on the newer 433Mhz frequency. This seems to be the frequency that will be used in wireless modules for the foreseeable future. If you only have a few 418Mhz modules now might be the time to leave them and move on to the new supported frequency. On the other hand if you have a fair investment in 418Mhz then you might want to buy up some more items before stocks run out.
Ocelot Ladder Logic Guy Lavoie

Apr 2000

 Ladder logic takes some getting used-to when you start working with it, but once you know the rules and possible pitfalls to avoid, you will find that you can accomplish almost anything using a rather minimalist instruction set.
X-10 Controllers Ido Bar-Tana

Feb 2000

 X-10 is by its nature modular and incremental. However, changing a controller is usually more involved than simply adding more modules to the system. Often, the software must be replaced, and the controlling commands rewritten or revised for the new features. There’s usually a different interface with new idiosyncrasies and learning curve. Therefore, for ‘general-purpose’ home automation, my suggestion is to avoid the under-achievers. Looking at what seems basic today for home-automation, a controller must be able to do two-way X-10.
Keyspan Digital Media Remote Keyspan

Feb 2000

 Installation was a snap. Run the install software ... plug in the device when asked ... test and see that it worked ... which in my case it did. The remote itself is very small (fits into a shirt pocket) and it's buttons are pretty straight forward.
Digital I/O Primer Fred Hansen

Feb 2000

 Digital I/O is useful in implementing many external sensors. Such things as magnetic door switches, water level switch, motion sensors, panic buttons, and macro select switches, all make good digital inputs. A digital output can control a roof vent fan, illuminate LED indicators, control the furnace (HVAC), disconnect the telephone ringer, or any other on/off type of application you can think of.
Marantz RC5000 Remote Marantz America

Dec 1999

 Marantz's RC5000 has a very different look than other remotes ... it's gold for one thing and looks more like a palm pad than a remote. It's not designed for 1 hand operation but fits nicely in the palm of one hand while the other navigates and pushes the buttons. The touchscreen is very responsive and clear (with easy contrast adjustment and backlighting).
A2D - Temp Sensors Fred Hansen

Dec 1999

 Adding temperature sensors to your home automation system is fun and the first step toward automating and taking control of your HVAC system. The techniques presented here can also be used with good effect for virtually any analog input. It is very unusual for a sensor to produce an optimal output without any conditioning at all.
Dave Rye @ X10 X10 (USA) Inc.

Oct 1999

 X10 has changed a lot over the years and I've grown with it. I was 23 years old when I joined Pico and that was 25 years ago. I've spent more than ½ my life with X10! It's been a fun 25 years and I'm looking forward to what the future brings.
TouchLinc

Aug 1999

 TouchLinc from SmartLinc is one of the more affordable pads on the market for controlling a home automation system and I found it quite easy to set up. If your X-10 controller is capable of IR and Hardwired control etc. then the TouchLinc should be able to control A/V systems as well as most of the other equipment in your home.
SwitchLinc 2 Way

Jun 1999

 Many who use X-10 for lighting control have been awaiting the "Two Way" switch for some time now. Why? The main reason is because while you may have a sophisticated controller that monitors the powerline for commands and keeps track of lighting status from that data ... there has not been a method of keeping track of light levels or status if someone actually uses the manual switch to change them. In other words ... the switches didn't send the X-10 code when someone pushed the button ... they just dimmed the light or turned it on or off.
Universal SL9000 Remote

Apr 1999

 The SL9000 is a great unit for button freaks. It will control every device including X10 home automation and surround sound home theater systems. It has a backlight so you can see the buttons at night. At a price of $139 this unit may be all you ever need to control your entertainment system and the lighting therein.
Take Control Remote

Apr 1999

 All in all ... this is an awesome remote control unit unlike anything I've played with to date. I found it easy to learn and use. Perhaps the handiest feature is the roller that can switch channels at the speed of light. My eyes ain't what they used to be and being able to just reach over and roll is a pleasure. My biggest dilemma is that I'm going to have to part with this unit when someone wins it in the April Tips and Tricks Contest . Oh well, maybe I'll get one for Father's Day :-) mind you it's a bit expensive ($349) for the kids (unless of course Mom can be convinced to participate).
Voice Trek Version 1.0

Dec 1998

 "Controlling devices in the selected house code is easy but you must know the correct phrases to use. For example "Turn on Coach Lamp" commands the lamp on and "Shut off Coach Lamp" turns it off. "Set Coach Lamp to 75%" ... Brighten Coach Lamp by 10%" etc. Once you learn the key phrases you're all set and with proper training, the voice recognition is quite accurate."
PC Remote

Dec 1998

 I had the unit up an running in a few minutes and it learned commands from my remote in no time. This is the first device I've reviewed from the UK and I'm impressed with the functionality. Frankly, I think much of the equipment coming to market these days is unnecessarily complicated as manufacturers try to do too much with one device.
EZHome Jim Hines

Aug 1998

 "EZHome is the CM11A controller. It runs quietly in the background and monitors for signals coming from the CM11A or from ARexx. When it gets one from the CM11, it checks a list of presets to see if any match the X10 code. If any do, it then executes the corresponding command(s) which can be programs, ARexx scripts, soundfx, or whatever you want it to do."
Build your own $50 PC Remote Jeff Vogel

Aug 1998

 "Building the PC Remote is simple when following these instructions. You can purchase a kit which includes all the components and a pre-fabricated circuitboard, or build it yourself from scratch using the included Layouts."
Infrared Remote Control from your PC Jonathan Somers

Jun 1998

 "URC lets your home PC reach out and control many common appliances in your home – your CD player, TV, VCR, DSS, DVD, stereo preamp, radio tuner, cassette player, or anything else which accepts infrared remote control signals. I’ve given a very simple illustration in this column: pausing and muting everything when the phone rings. There are many other cool applications you can create."
Too Many Remotes Patrick Roberts

Apr 1998

 "When you are entertaining or just watching a movie by yourself on a Saturday night, you don't want to be fiddling around will all of these remotes. If you do not do something about this, your couch will have a wonderful display of large, and usually complex remotes for which you need an engineering degree from MIT to use. Don't worry, there are some solutions. "
Marantz RC2000 MKII

Apr 1998

 http://www.marantzamerica.com/rc-2000.htm "Beyond the obvious multitude of buttons allowing control of every device you own, there are 4 macro buttons situated beside the LCD display. These can be programmed with up to 20 steps each. For example, you can program one button to turn on the TV, turn on the VCR, Change to channel 6, Set the amp to surround sound and take out the dog."
Cardio

Feb 1998

 "I haven't had much luck convincing my better half that home automation systems are easy to use but when I asked her to look at the touchscreen operation of the Cardio, she was enthusiastic and understood immediately what was required to operate the system. That fact alone is enough to convince many that the system is worth the effort."
Wireless Mouse Remote

Dec 1997

 "The most innovative feature of this remote is it's ability to control your PC. Once configured, buttons can be used to launch programs, edit documents, send email, logon and browse the web as well as navigating using the mouse pad."
Plato HouseLinc

Oct 1997

 "HouseLinc is one of a new line of home control products from SmartLinc. Shipped with PlatoTW software, it provides stand alone control of X-10 and IR devices."
ActiveHome by X10 (USA) Inc.

Oct 1996

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