HomeToys Articles, Stories and Products

Building an M80 Floorstanding Speaker: A Look at What’s Inside

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:33:49 -0700

Most people only ever see the outside of their loudspeakers, and that’s probably a good thing! But if you’ve ever wondered what goes into building a loudspeaker, then this video will walk you through the inner workings of an M80 Floorstanding Speaker. Axiom Engineer Andrew Welker explains the parts inside and Axiom’s innovations in the loudspeaker building process.

Allure Energy Files Patent Infringement Lawsuit against Nest Labs

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:20:00 -0700

Allure Energy, Inc. has filed suit against Nest Labs, Inc. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas on the grounds of patent infringement through the design, manufacture and sale of smart thermostats under the name "Nest Learning Thermostat." The complaint contends the Nest Learning Thermostat infringes on U.S. Patent No. 8,442,695 for the invention of an "Auto-Adaptable Energy Management Apparatus."

Kevin Imes, president and CEO of Allure Energy, first began developing a smart thermostat in 2009, filing its patent application in 2010, to manage home temperature and energy usage. Allure Energy also developed and patented "Proximity Control Technology" that instantly adapts to a user's daily schedule to provide automatic comfort and energy savings at home based on the distance a user may be from a residence.

"Allure Energy invented an elegant energy management solution through our EverSenseTM product line, which uses patented Proximity Control Technology we began developing back in 2009," said Imes. "With our own capital, we created a smart and original thermostat control that also syncs music, reports local weather and offers energy tips, and filed all the required patent documentation well before Nest Labs launched its products."

NAB Wrap: It’s 4K All The Way, Drawing Line in The Sand, Storing Stuff

Thu, 16 May 2013 05:56:02 -0700

Thunder – Like a bunch of buff guys, Blackmagic Design hit NAB this year and had people talkin’ and gawkin’. The Aussie Thunder Down Under crew showed they were seriously into the mainstream of content shooting/production.

WiSA - Wireless Speaker and Audio Certification

Thu, 16 May 2013 05:49:47 -0700

WiSA-certified speakers operate in a frequency spectrum that is much different than that of Bluetooth or WiFi. These products operate between 5.2Ghz and 5.7Ghz in a zone known as Dynamic Frequency Selection or DFS.

NAB Revisited: Struggling for Ways to Monitize, Find New Opportunities

Thu, 16 May 2013 05:49:21 -0700

Heyday it Ain’t – Families no longer huddle around the TV set to watch their content. There are too many options available and it’s a challenge to networks, service providers and people wanting to sell/rent their content. Hundreds of channels are being replaced by the Channel of You.

Your IT Network - Would You Buy a Ferrari With a 4-Cylinder Engine?

Thu, 16 May 2013 05:48:48 -0700

It wasn't too long ago that a network was only used for computers. Then home automation manufacturers started using WiFi as the wireless connection of choice. "No problem", we thought, just get a network router/switch/wireless access point at the local Best Buy and you're good to go...Not!

The Open Home Control Project

Thu, 16 May 2013 05:48:03 -0700

Open Home Control is an Open Source project that concentrates on the building of home automation devices. The idea is to have an Open Source alternative to proprietary commercial systems.

Home Automation Finally Simple with New Cloud Services

Wed, 15 May 2013 06:33:14 -0700

Now, several companies are trying to make home automation easy by creating technologies that allow software and services that connect the disparate gadgets and get them to perform several tasks together — such as opening the front door, turning on the lights and firing up the stereo when you pull into the driveway.

One of those companies is a startup called Revolv. The company makes a single small box, called a hardware hub, which is designed to control all the devices in a home, whether they use common wireless technologies, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, or relatively obscure ones, such as ZigBee or Z-Wave.

"Our hardware hub has seven different radios,” said Revolv co-founder Mike Soucie. "It can talk to all these devices, depending on what language they speak." This could include thermostats, locks, security cameras, garage-door openers and even those automated drapes.

One neat feature on the hardware hub is its ability to use a single smartphone app in place of the individual apps for each connected device, such as a wireless lock or a Sonos streaming music player.

But Revolv takes its hardware hub one step further by incorporating Geosense technology. Through the home Wi-Fi network, the hardware hub connects to the company's cloud service to automate tasks based on your location.

HouseLogix Launches Patented Wireless Speech Control Module for Home Automation

Mon, 13 May 2013 06:03:04 -0700

HouseLogix, a Pennsylvania-based provider of advanced hardware and software products for home control, today announces the release of VoicePod®, its patented wireless speech control device for home automation systems. VoicePod adds both voice recognition and speech synthesis capabilities to popular home control systems such as Control4. Users simply say "Hello VoicePod" from anywhere in a room to activate VoicePod and then issue voice commands such as "turn on the lights", "secure the house", "good morning" and "listen to music". Utilizing embedded speaker-independent voice recognition technology that requires no web access, VoicePod instantly interprets speech commands for voice control of TV, music, thermostats, lighting, shading, door locks, cameras and more.

VoicePod provides many handy voice control features that add speed, convenience and safety to everyday living. For example, users can select TV channels simply by speaking a channel name.

Hands-free control of thermostats is also supported. Users can even ask VoicePod questions such as "what is the house status?" or "what is the weather forecast?" and VoicePod verbally delivers the requested information. VoicePod can also speak in response to any event, alerting users to security concerns such as open garage doors or unusual temperatures or weather conditions.

CEA Announces New Standard Group for Connected Home and Smart Energy

Thu, 09 May 2013 15:56:43 -0700

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® announced today that it is forming the R7.8 Working Group 2 to develop a new standard to enable home electronics to communicate energy use data to smart energy management systems and apps. The new standard will be called CE-Energy Usage Information (CE-EUI) and will conform to the North American Energy Standards Board Energy Usage Information (NAESB -EUI) model, which forms the basis for the national Green Button initiative.

“Product manufacturers already understand how much energy a device will use during operation, based on its design,” said Brian Markwalter, senior vice president of research and standards at CEA. “By programming that information into the device and enabling the device to calculate how much energy it uses over time, manufacturers can help homeowners accurately capture the data for their energy management systems and applications.”

The standard will be compatible with the new Green Button “Download My Data” and “Connect My Data” initiatives. Green Button defines how consumers and authorized third-party services can access a history of their home’s total energy usage and cost based on smart meter readings. By enabling each device to report its own energy usage, consumers will be able to see the energy each CE-EUI-compliant device consumes and make better informed decisions. The standard will be network agnostic, operating over networks, such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, ZigBee and Z-Wave, that are an existing part of the home ecosystem.

InfoComm China 2013 Sees 20-percent Attendee Increase at Beijing Show

Wed, 08 May 2013 06:32:14 -0700

In its 8th year, InfoComm China 2013 continues to grow, drawing 19,431 attendees, a 20-percent increase compared with the 2012 show, to the China National Convention Center in Beijing.

The three-day annual pro audiovisual show, held in early April, has grown so much since its inception that next year it will fill the entire CNCC, according to show organizers.

"We are really thrilled by this year's success, as it once again proved companies in China are recognizing the importance of pro AV in providing a competitive edge to their businesses,” said Richard Tan, the show’s general manager.

He added, “The potential for sustainable growth in the Chinese AV market is enormous! Through InfoComm China, our exhibitors will share their expertise of the application of pro AV technology and innovations to help more companies achieve breakthroughs in their businesses."

The show, organized by InfoCommAsia Pte Ltd. And InfoComm International, expanded from four halls to six this year, with a gross exhibition area of nearly 35,000 square meters hosting more than 300 exhibiting companies.

According to exhibitors, the show’s success was twofold; the huge growth of China’s pro AV market, as well an increase in targeted marketing and public relations for the show.

ACTP Launches TiO Home Automation Brand

Mon, 06 May 2013 14:28:34 -0700

TiO is a new approach to home automation, one driven by an “outside in” philosophy that focuses on the customer experience, according to the company. TiO home automation solutions will provide professional integrators with an easy-to-install, elegant home automation solution that offers powerful features, maximum flexibility and a new pricing model that will allow home automation to reach a broad base of consumers.

“TiO is driven by our vision to provide homeowners with an experience that seamlessly captures their mood and provides them with comfort and peace of mind,” said Mike Anderson, president and CEO of ACTP. “TiO is unlike any other home automation system because it truly allows the customer to control how the system interacts with their daily life. We’ve designed the TiO system to be simple and intuitive enough for the consumer to perfectly match their moods and create satisfying and powerful experiences in their home. We want to deliver a solution that adapts to the customer instead of asking the customer to adapt to the system.”

TiO systems will run on Android-enabled devices, allowing users to better utilize the world’s most popular mobile platform. Each system will be easily configured by a professional integrator via the convenience of an Android tablet.

Eyes-on with Ninja Blocks 'home automation for hackers'

Fri, 03 May 2013 06:30:48 -0700

Ninja Blocks look a fair bit different than they used to, however -- the 3D-printed case has been traded up for something that looks a lot more like a final, saleable product. In fact, it looks a little like a router or an external hard drive, albeit one with color-changing ninja eyes. The company was also talking up the home automation possibilities of its platform a bit more than the straightforward sensor pitch. In a buzz phrase, the company is calling this "home automation for hackers."

Using the Ninja Rules app, you can turn lights and appliances on and off, get alerts for things like your wash and monitor your home, without writing code -- of course, knowing how helps. The whole platform is extremely open to users, and inside the case, you'll find a Beagle Bone and Arduino board, both accessible by pulling at the handy "Hack Me" tag that hangs on its side. The base system will run you $199. More information can be found in a video after the break.

Commercial Building Automation Market to Top $43 billion by 2018

Wed, 01 May 2013 15:44:09 -0700

After years of steady but low growth the commercial building automation systems (BAS) market is experiencing a rapid period of change and investment. Traditionally, growth and adoption has been closely tied to new building completion but new entrants and new connectivity are driving greater investment. Over the next five years the building automation services market will grow to $43 billion, up from $35 billion this year.

Two key factors are driving a new round of growth. Greater environmental and financial demands have raised the appeal of reducing energy consumption in commercial buildings and the benefits for optimizing building automation systems. In addition, a new level of connectivity that stretches the reach of BAS's from new sensors and actuators through to cloud application management and data analysis.

"This is a market long dominated by a handful of major players who deploy and manage commercial building management systems," says Jonathan Collins, principal analyst at ABI Research. "Now these players are developing new ways to integrate and compete with a host of new service offerings."

Just stick this portable outlet to your window to start using solar power

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:46:31 -0700

It’s a portable socket that gets its power from the sun rather than the grid. You plug into a window instead of into the wall. It’s easy.

That was the whole point, according to the designers, Kyohu Song and Boa Oh: “We tried to design a portable socket, so that users can use it intuitively without special training,” they write.

It is really simple. The portable socket attaches to a window like a leech to human skin. On its underside, it has solar panels:

The solar panels suck energy from the sun. The charger converts that energy into electricity. You plug in to the charger.

Even better, the charger stores that energy. After five to eight hours of charging, the socket provides 10 hours of use. You can pop it off the window, stick it in your bag, and use it to charge up your phone with solar energy, even if you’re sitting in a dark room.

Sony Unveils 2013 Home Audio Product Line

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 06:31:35 -0700

At a special listening and audition event today, Sony Electronics introduced its 2013 Home Audio product lineup, highlighting the STR-DN1040 Audio/Video Receiver and the HT-CT660 Soundbar. Available in June, both products boast of Sony's legendary commitment to quality sound, and are packed with connectivity and accessibility features. Both the STR-DN1040 receiver, priced at $599, and the HT-CT660 soundbar, priced at $399, will be available at Sony Stores and http://store.sony.com, as well as retailers nationwide.

"Our rich audio legacy leads consumers to expect continued innovation and performance from Sony audio products," said Neal Manowitz , director of Sony Electronics' Home Audio group. "The newest AV receiver in our line has the simplest, most user-friendly interface, which when combined with a world first and only AVR feature set of built-in Wi-Fi, AirPlay and Bluetooth connectivity, raises the bar with respect to usability, and does so with knockout sound performance. Likewise, the new soundbar extends the Sony line and brings theater-like, high-definition sound to any room in the house, with Bluetooth ease and convenience."

AT&T Enters the World of Home Automation

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 05:40:00 -0700

The company is entering the home automation space — launching its Digital Life initiative in 15 markets beginning Friday. Kevin Peterson, senior vice president of AT&T Digital Life says the IP-based system will make customers' lives easier by simplifying home management — allowing for customizable features accessible from any PC or mobile device.

The idea, which has been under development for over a year now, is for AT&T to offer pre-packaged bundles and monitoring of your home automation. The company wants to create that system for you by letting you shop for what you want — either online or in a retail location — and offering certified specialists to install the sensors and equipment.

There are different packages to choose from, depending on your needs. A camera package, for instance, will let you view video from inside or outside your home. The energy package controls your thermostat and lights while a water-detection package can check for water in your basement and alert you or turn it off.

It’s coming!– InfoComm 2013

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:50:20 -0700

The success of InfoComm is the result of the audio visual industry’s focus on quality education and product exhibits. This is definitely the show to exhibit at if you are a manufacturer or attend if your job is in the industry. Nowhere else will such vast amounts of information be available.

The End of an Era, The End of New Devices

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:50:04 -0700

With devices getting smaller, more powerful, more personal, it is obvious that the next giant leap forward will be for someone to introduce a Star Trek Borg implant that lets us access all of the data in the Cloud without having to constantly waste time searching for our mobile device.

Open Home Control: New home automation hardware project

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 06:27:09 -0700

Many open source home automation projects have relied on driving proprietary devices, but the newly created Open Home Control project aims to change that by creating a framework for hardware devices that can be integrated with open sourced home automation platforms such as the respected openHAB software.

The home automation system will provide a framework for creating a large network of different devices that offer AES-256 data encryption and can resend data packets when transmission is disrupted. Devices in the network will use Atmel microcontrollers such as the ATMega168 in combination with HopeRF wireless transceivers on 868MHz. Firmware for the system is developed in C and compiled with the GCC compiler. WinAVR is the chosen development environment, although compiling under Linux also appears to be possible. Design guidelines on the site give further information about the hardware and firmware.

The project is still young, but a handful devices are already available: a base station to act as a master control for the OHC network, a temperature and humidity sensor, a remotely switchable power socket, and a dimmer designed to work with specialised Osram fluorescent tube power supplies. The number of available devices is set to increase along with the growing community of contributors the project hopes to attract.

The project's software is available from its GitHub repository and is licensed under the GPLv3. Hardware and schematics are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 (CC BY-SA 3.0) licence.

Life Gets Easier With Zonoffâ€™s Cutting-Edge Home Automation Technology

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 06:10:32 -0700

With only 18 employees, Zonoff, a Malvern-based startup (Pennsylvania) managed to raise $3.8 million to continue the development of their comprehensive software that helps you, the consumer, control your home electronic systems, with a single app installed on your iPhone or iPad. Basically, Zonoff provides a simple solution in terms of home connectivity, suggesting that their service – a platform which includes a home, cloud and an app software is enough to control electronic devices wirelessly and make them communicate one with another.

The home software: This is the core of Zonoff’s advanced technology, being able to turn any “always-on” device into a home controller. That means that a simple electronic item, like your Blu-ray player for instance, becomes a smart one…and therefore, understands your commands.

The cloud software: We’re already used to cloud solutions, so this is not a new approach, but definitely an indispensable one. The cloud software “enables remote access and device management”. The idea was to give the costumers the possibility to interact with their homes, away from home.

The app software: It runs on smartphones and other mobile devices. With an user-friendly interface, the app allows you to set the clock alarm, turn on the lights and so on, changing once and forever the way we interact with our homes.

The cutting-edge home automation technology was first introduced to the public in January, during CES 2013.

CEAâ€™s 11th Annual â€˜State of the Builderâ€™ Study Finds Strong, Stable Market for Installed Home Technologies

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 14:35:50 -0700

The overall growth of the home technology market remained consistent from 2011 to 2012, demonstrating home technology has a strong, stable foothold, according to new findings in the 11th Annual State of the Builder Technology Market Study released today by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)^®.

Technology installations in new homes reached or exceeded 2008 levels, providing more evidence that the market for built-in home technologies is well on the road to recovery. Structured wiring remains the most common installed technology (70 percent), followed by monitored security (44 percent) and home theater pre-wire systems (27 percent).

“These installed technology trends signify that some home technologies have made the transition from luxuries to standard options,” said Chris Ely, senior manager of industry analysis, CEA.

Home technologies have become valuable marketing tools for new homes. Builders say they continue to find that marketing these technologies is important; close to half of builders surveyed (49 percent) said they find it much more or somewhat more important to market these technologies today.

Logitech unveils Harmony Ultimate and Smart Control universal remote

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 15:34:07 -0700

Coming soon are two fresh bundles bearing the Harmony name: the Ultimate and Smart Control. At the heart of both is the Smart Hub, a palm-sized box somewhat similar to the Harmony Link. It receives commands from remotes via RF, or from smartphone apps via WiFi, and in turn, broadcasts its own orders to your A/V setup using IR and Bluetooth. It's especially useful for those wanting to hide their kit away in cabinets, as it translates inputs into IR signals that'll bounce around those secluded spaces. Optional extender nodes will also pipe IR into other nearby recesses.

To do that though, the Hub needs instructions, which is where remotes and apps come in. The new Ultimate remote (aka the Touch Plus) is last year's Touch remote with a few refinements, including the addition of a trigger-like nub on the underside to improve grip. It uses IR, Bluetooth or RF (to the Hub) to control up to 15 devices, and is programmed using Logitech's software for PCs that pulls settings from a database of 225,000 home entertainment products. The Ultimate's 2.4-inch touchscreen serves as a number pad, a favorite channel list for easy hopping, and is the home of one-touch "activities," which are basically macros for issuing multiple commands. Set up an activity for "Play Xbox," for example, and in one touch it'll turn on your console, switch your TV to the correct source, select the right channel on your amp, and so on. It'll even tell Philips' connected Hue lightbulbs to set a mood. Jump on past the break for more.

Alarm.com opens home automation platform to outside companies

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 06:25:22 -0700

Vienna-based Alarm.com, the purveyor of home automation technology, is trying to position itself as a kind of operating system for the home. It has begun allowing other companies to plug their technology into its system in the same way software developers create applications for Microsoft or Apple computers, tablets and phones.

Alarm.com announced its initial partnerships last week at the International Security Conference in Las Vegas. Homeowners that use LiftMaster electric garage door openers and Lutron lights and window shades will be able to control them using the Alarm.com Web site and app.

Jay Kenny, vice president of marketing, said Alarm.com’s Platform Connect allows the company to quickly expand the number of products a homeowner can automate and control using the company’s system.

“The more applications that they can draw to that platform the greater the value, in the same way the Apple app store draws applications from all sorts of developers and that brings greater value to that platform,” said Jonathan Collins, principal analyst at ABI Research.

Noventri SF-200 Digital Signage Player

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 09:52:40 -0700

Last year, I reviewed the Noventri Digital Signage Suite and Player, which included the SF-100e player. I was pretty impressed and have since deployed this in several scenarios. I recently got my hands a pre-release version of their latest player: the SF-200 and took it for a spin.

Pure Theatre Projector Lift

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 09:52:12 -0700

The joists are 200mm or 8" x 2" in old money, no other lifts would fit into the void without building a massive bulkhead which sort of defeated the purpose of what I wanted to achieve.

Our Content is Overwhelming Us, Needs to Be Controlled

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 09:51:48 -0700

f we can’t get one simple point of entry to the content to find what we want quickly/easily (either ad-supported or paid), we’re going to agree with Lieutenant Dave, “I think you should send us the biggest transport plane you have, and take this thing to the Arctic or somewhere and drop it where it will never thaw.”

Speakerfy: A Free App for Whole-Home Audio

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 12:22:58 -0700

Playing music in multiple rooms around the house can be an expensive endeavor, with products like Sonos costing upwards of $300 per speaker. If you’ve already got a handful of phones, tablets and laptops connected to existing speakers around the house, why not sync them together so they’re all playing the same songs at the same time?

Speakerfy, an app that officially launches on iPhone and iPad this week, and on Windows and Android next week, is a quick and dirty way to make it happen. It allows you to synchronize audio playback on multiple phones, tablets and laptops, so you can listen to the same music while wandering from room to room.

(Whole-home audio isn’t Speakerfy’s primary intended function. It’s actually billed as a “social sound” app, allowing people to listen to music together across devices. Yes, it’s an app for silent discos. No, I’m not hip enough to partake in said discos. Whole-home audio it is.)

Speakerfy streams audio over your local Wi-Fi network, or over a shared mobile hotspot, to any device that’s also running the app. Just send an invite to the devices you want to connect, then choose a song, album or playlist from your music collection. The other devices will start playing music in time with the host device.

Linear Expands Home Automation Offerings with Z-Wave Lighting Products

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 07:15:40 -0700

Linear LLC has added Z-Wave lighting products to its line of wireless residential and commercial offerings. The new products represent a benchmark for Linear as the company seeks to unify wireless lighting control products with existing security and access control systems, and other Z-Wave products.

This powerful smart chip and compact protocol enable two-way RF communications among Z-Wave enabled devices. Linear is now manufacturing, selling and distributing Z-Wave lighting control products that include: wall dimmers, wall switches, wall outlets, lamp modules, appliance modules, 3-way switches/dimmers, fixture modules, as well as international versions of the same products. Linear will also utilize its extensive OEM resources to manufacture Z-Wave products for partner companies seeking their own intelligent lighting solutions.

The products also fit in nicely with Linear's recent acquisition of 2GIG Technologies since 2GIG's GO! Control platform is Z-Wave certified and provides an elegant and user-friendly control panel for the management of lighting, security, access control and more. Z-Wave enabled products represent the world's largest ecosystem of interoperable smart products giving Linear dealers more options and opportunities in a variety of segments.

"The addition of Z-Wave lighting products gives Linear customers access to a widely adopted wireless control protocol that is easy-to-install, modular, affordable and intelligent," said Duane Paulson, senior vice president of product and market development. "The extensive product offerings and adoption of the Z-Wave protocol across many industries will create opportunities for Linear dealers in new and existing markets."

How to save the AV receiver

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 06:18:55 -0700

There are a lot of reasons why sound bars are taking over home audio, but one of them is increasingly obvious: AV receivers are terrible.

While receivers are fine for enthusiasts who know what they're doing, they're a frustrating experience for everyone else. Most technology gets better over time, but AV receivers seem frozen in amber, with giant chassis, thick inscrutable manuals, and onscreen interfaces that could only generously be called "standard-definition." They're embarrassingly backward compared with the rest of your home theater gear, yet they remain a begrudging necessity for those who want something better than a sound bar.

AV receivers don't have to be this bad, but they need to completely reinvent themselves to stay relevant. Here's where they should start. Click for Full article by Matthew Moskovciak of CNET.

Linear Closes on Acquisition of 2GIG

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 11:44:30 -0700

Linear, LLC a subsidiary of Nortek, Inc. (Nasdaq: NTK), has closed on its acquisition of 2GIG Technologies, which will become part of the security and control group within Linear. The acquisition of 2GIG was announced by Nortek in February 2013.

With the acquisition, Linear's dealers and OEM partners gain access to 2GIG's Go!Control platform, the first widely adopted integrated security and automation system that includes a system CPU, touchscreen interface, Z-Wave radio for automation, cellular radio for communications with a central station, and narrow-band RF for communicating with security sensors. 2GIG also provides a wide range of wireless peripherals including thermostats, panic buttons, keyfobs, glass break detectors and wireless carbon monoxide detectors, all of which can be integrated into a home automation system that can be remotely monitored, managed and controlled via the Internet.

"Acquiring 2GIG positions Linear as one of the world's top-tier hardware developers and manufacturers in the rapidly growing residential security and home automation markets," said Michael O'Neal, president of Linear. "We're especially excited about the synergy between the brands since 2GIG offers products that can be leveraged by Linear and its dealers to grow their businesses. At the same time, Linear offers products that can expand and enhance the 2GIG home automation platform, potentially opening doors to new market opportunities."

iRule - A cloud-based control solution for iOS and Android

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 05:35:11 -0700

Join the revolution with iRule 3 and deliver powerful control to your customers at a significantly lower price point compared to other solutions. Offer your clients a custom remote that runs on their iOS or Android phone or tablet, and controls everything from a modest single-room entertainment setup to a whole-home automation system. Even more exciting, you can deploy iRule in a customer’s installation in minutes and manage it all remotely. Really! iRule simply gives you the flexibility to add powerful control to any room – faster and easier than the competition. iRule... Program less. Make more.

Devices To Keep You Healthy And Fit

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 09:49:06 -0700

“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” – Jim Rohan

It’s “Touch and Go” With Digital Signage as Interactivity Goes Mainstream

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 09:48:55 -0700

The increased demand for touch-screen capability has led to a demand for something else: a way to bring interactivity to large digital canvases.

Conference Room Solutions

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 09:48:42 -0700

Arthur Holme Drop Monitors Installed by Serbian Technology Specialist Studio Berar Projekt at the Company NIS - Gazprom Neft

Extending USB 3.0 Over Fiber For Machine Vision Applications

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 09:47:22 -0700

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.

HD Video Distribution over LAN

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 09:47:08 -0700

Certainly education will continue to be major user of Audio Video to enhance the learning process and getting messages out to students in an efficient manner. So I think the potential in education as well as health care AV has huge potential.

Video Conferencing Backgrounds

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 09:46:50 -0700

The easiest way to focus your video conferencing and deliver a strong, clear message is to remove background distractions.

Home entertainment consumers taking to UltraViolet

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 07:24:07 -0700

Consumers are taking studios' commitment to UltraViolet seriously. UltraViolet accounts have surged from 9 million to 11 million since the Consumer Electronics Show in January.

Approximately 9,000 titles are available to UltraViolet consumers. The service allows customers to buy a product once and store it in the cloud to play on any device. However, the service has not been without its hiccups.

“[Consumer tech support] problems have gone down very pronouncedly in the last six to nine months as we’ve rolled out improvements,” said Mark Teitell, per Home Media Magazine. Teitell is the GM and executive director for the Digital Entertainment Content Ecosystem (DECE), the cross-industry consortium of companies behind UltraViolet.

“We’d love it to be zero, but it’s a pretty low and manageable pace right now,” he said.

UltraViolet can now easily merge accounts and consolidate usernames and passwords. According to a survey done by Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, more than 55 percent of home entertainment consumers are aware of UltraViolet and 50 percent said that an UltraViolet enabled title would make them more likely to purchase. Since consumers are currently at the crossroads of disc and digital, having the title provided to them in both formats at purchase has become important.

New tech aims to transform homes, shopping in Spain

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 07:14:40 -0700

With a flick of the wrist, residents of a futuristic home developed in Spain can browse Internet pages displayed on the living room walls, switch off a giant projected alarm clock in the bedroom or transform the entire interior into a busy streetscape or tranquil beach.

It may seem light years ahead of current "smart home" technology, but this prototype apartment in Fuenterrabia, a city in Spain's northern Basque country, is far from the realms of fantasy.

In fact, the technology used to create the interactive interior is the same as that already being used in video games.

The team behind the prototype have linked projectors which beam interactive applications on to walls to Kinect motion sensors, developed by Microsoft for its X-box 360 console, thus allowing residents to control their environment simply by waving their hands.

It seems to work like magic. In the morning, a wave at the wall will switch off the alarm and display your diary at the same time. If you fancy a change of scenery, just one small gesture will splash video on every wall, turning half of the apartment into a busy urban street or picturesque seascape, complete with sound effects. "The project is a working prototype of a smart home," said its creator, Ion Cuervas-Mons, at a visual presentation of the project to AFP in Madrid. Full Article:

Why Home Automation Systems are at the Forefront of Energy Savings

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 15:24:26 -0700

Intelligent building efficiency is not just relegated to offices. As energy prices rise and incomes are squeezed, home automation systems will become a more enticing investment as their efficiency improves and costs decline due to innovation and scale. And, consumers will start paying attention: currently the average household pays over $100 a month for electricity according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Half of those costs are to keep the motor and compressors in operation in air conditioners and heaters. So if smarter systems are going to save consumers money, the work must start with the machines that cool us during summer and keep us warm during the frigid winter months.

And if consumers had the ability to control their home’s climate control systems remotely from a smartphone or a web application from a remote location, they could save money without sacrificing convenience and comfort. In my interview earlier this month with Emerson’s VP of Marketing at Emerson Climate Services, he shared with me some of the challenges, future benefits and upcoming trends in the home automation technologies market.

“We’re data hungry–we want it at our fingertips. At the same time, when it comes to our comfort and convenience, we want it easily and quickly with no distractions.” — Geoff Godwin describing the role of data in the development of cutting-edge home automation systems.

Currently less than two percent of homes in the United States have some form of home automation or smart grid system, but Godwin sees huge growth in the next four to five years. Communications protocols such as Zigbee have improved in their sophistication to match the growing complexity of HVAC and water heating systems that consume less energy than ones manufactured just a few years ago.

44% of U.S. broadband households interested in troubleshooting features for connected appliances

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 06:19:23 -0700

Parks Associates research shows consumers value connectivity in appliances as a means to protect their investment, with 44% of U.S. broadband households highly interested in smart troubleshooting features. The international research firm, host of the 17th-annual CONNECTIONS™ Conference, announced today Honeywell, Qualcomm, AlertMe, and Arrayent will discuss connected-home strategies in a special session that examines consumer and market trends driving creation of the "Internet of Things."

The session "Integrating Connected Home Platforms with Connected Devices," Tuesday, May 21, 11 a.m., moderated by Parks Associates, addresses new features and functionality created as companies add connectivity to controls, energy, security, and home management solutions.

"Internet-enabled devices are common in the home, so companies are developing connected-home strategies, creating scalable platforms that ultimately will enable the Internet of Things, where objects in the real world have an accompanying virtual object in the cloud," said Tom Kerber, director, research, home controls and energy, Parks Associates. "Understanding what offerings consumers want and will pay for is a fundamental issue to help grow this market. This session focuses on new products and services, consumer demand, and the key value propositions that prompt adoption."

Sigma Designs updates Z-Wave SoC Portfolio for Affordable Home Automation

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 06:10:34 -0700

Sigma Designs is known for its video decoder chipsets, but they have been trying to transform into a one-stop shop for 'powering the new digital home' by making some strategic acquisitions. One of these was the 2008 purchase of the Danish company, Zensys, responsible for creating the Z-Wave home control technology.

Sigma Designs is announcing the fifth generation of Z-Wave SoCs today. The cost of the SoCs has gone down compared to the previous generation. Sigma claims improved RF performance and lower power consumption compared to previous generation products. Platform developers now also have more memory in the SoCs to work with. With this generation, the company is taking extra steps to ensure better returns for their customers. by providing customizable reference designs and enabling faster time-to-market for end products. A feature-heavy middleware stack is also being supplied.

Android invades the home: Can we get some Android home automation?

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 13:13:02 -0700

Smartphones really are the ultimate convergence devices. People no longer question whether they’ll replace cameras, digital audio players, portable TVs, handheld gaming consoles, or Sat Navs. The question now is – how many more things can they replace? Once you reach the stage where you’ve outlaid big cash for a seriously powerful pocket computer, it just makes sense to keep adding more potential uses. That has been the foundation of the app explosion. It is what has made smartphones the fastest selling tech in human history.

There’s one exciting frontier that Android has yet to really penetrate and that’s home automation. If you cast your mind back to Google I/O in 2011 you might remember Android@home and some talk about the mesh network. Sadly, an affordable Android home automation system did not immediately hit the market. In fact, we heard nothing more about it. Before you get too despondent, it looks like references to Google messing with a mesh network and Android@home have been spotted in version 4.2.2 of Android. Fingers crossed we might get some kind of exciting announcement at Google I/O in May. Full Article.

Bryston Unveils Complete Loudspeaker Lineup

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 06:12:33 -0700

Bryston, LTD (www.bryston.com) has announced the introduction of a complete line of high performance loudspeakers engineered for both music and home theater applications. The line will consist of eight models including the floorstanding Model T, Middle T and mini t along with a powered subwoofer called the T sub, two center channel offerings, an in-wall and an on-wall loudspeaker. Bryston's James Tanner has led the design initiative for the loudspeaker project, developing proprietary drivers, crossovers and enclosures while spearheading a rigorous testing regimen.

The Bryston loudspeakers were born from the challenge to construct a reference quality loudspeaker that could reproduce real world dynamics while minimizing distortion and compression. The engineering team at Bryston has devoted countless hours to innovative driver design, enclosure vibration analysis, crossover refinement, anechoic chamber measurements, and blind listening tests. The first model to reach completion, the Bryston Model T, was subjected to over 200 separate anechoic measurements during the design phase to ensure the highest level of accuracy and refinement. Bryston loudspeakers have also been engineered to reproduce the most difficult dynamic transients-to play very loud passages of music or movie soundtrack information without the distortion common to competitive products. "I think we met with a degree of skepticism when we first announced the loudspeaker project-and rightfully so. There are a lot of speaker companies already in the marketplace," reported Bryston's James Tanner. "But we set out to create an affordable reference quality loudspeaker and went to great lengths to achieve an end result that separates us from the competition-we are confident that these products will be quite well received," Tanner concluded.

Cloud Based Energy Management

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 07:53:17 -0700

EcoFactor builds cloud-based analytics software that powers multiple residential energy saving services. We process massive amounts of data, including physical household characteristics and consumer behavioral interactions.

The Benefits of HDBaseT A/V Distribution Solutions

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 07:52:55 -0700

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.

Digital Signage – They Tell, Sell, See, Will Do More

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 07:52:37 -0700

The screen is the thing you see and they’re coming in an amazing array of sizes and applications such as small ones for badges, in gas station pumps, kiosks, stand-alone digital signs, retail windows/showcases, bar/restaurant/bathroom networks and more.

Laser Phosphor Displays

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 07:52:21 -0700

With disco balls, light is reflected off mirrors. Similarly, laser lights are projected off mirrors and excite phosphors sitting on a special panel, which produces a quality of image on screen unknown to any other display technology on the market.

Impact of Smart Grid on Connected Homes

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 07:51:49 -0700

The study investigated the current and future direction of the market and the opportunities smart grid represents for participants in the value chain.

Why graphene speakers could become the audio industryâ€™s new gold standard

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 06:23:35 -0700

We’ve heard a lot about graphene being a “wonder material” that could be used for smartphone casings and antennas, but now it seems that some engineers have found a way to incorporate it into audio speakers and headphones as well. Technology Review reports that University of California Berkeley researchers Qin Zhou and Alex Zettl have found that graphene is the perfect material for constructing speaker diaphragms, which typically work best when made from a thin material that reduces the need to conduct expensive and energy-consuming “damping engineering.”

But given that most thin materials are also fragile, crafting a perfectly balanced speaker diaphragm can become challenging. This is where graphene comes in: It’s a two-dimensional material that measures just one atom thick and has been described by Nokia (NOK) as the “strongest material ever tested, having a breaking strength 300 times greater than steel.” In other words, it’s dream come true for audio engineers who are trying to construct the world’s best speakers and headsets.

CASATUNES LAUNCHES LINE OF MULTI-ROOM MUSIC SERVERS

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:26:38 -0700

CasaTunes®, the leader in streaming multi-room music solutions, today announced a line of CasaTunes Multi-Room Music Servers with seamless integration of popular multi-zone AV Receivers. The CasaTunes Music Servers start at 3 wired rooms and 5 wireless rooms and support up to 24 wired rooms with 10 wireless rooms.

"Our new CasaTunes Music Systems scale, both in terms of performance and cost, matching the needs of smaller homes as well as larger homes," said David Krinker, CEO of CasaTunes. "Our CasaTunes systems provide installers great flexibility, allowing them to install a wired-only solution, a wireless-only solution, or a hybrid wired and wireless solution. The Multi-Zone AV Receiver integration adds even more flexibility, allowing homeowners to leverage their current technology to power CasaTunes music servers throughout the house."

CasaTunes Music Systems distribute streaming music to a combination of wireless and wired speakers through Airplay speakers and devices, multi-channel amplifiers and multi-zone AV Receivers. Homeowners can listen to a different playlist in each room and all speakers are continuously synchronized without any echoes. To control music and audio programming by room, homeowners use the CasaTunes Smartphone (iPhone or Android) and tablet (iPad or Android) Apps, a web browser or keypads. Full Press Release.

The Ube WiFi Smart Dimmer Will Control Your Lights And Your Sprinkler System As Well

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 06:12:08 -0700

For most of us, entering the house and turning on the lights involves a flick of a switch. Turning on another light is another switch, the fan, the air-con and so on. However with home automation starting to catch on, we wouldn’t be surprised if one day the majority of us lived in homes where our gestures could control more than one gadget from a single switch, and that’s what the Ube WiFi Smart Dimmer is hoping to accomplish. Making an appearance at SXSW, its creators have announced an upgraded version of its Smart Dimmer that will be able to control other smart devices at home.

As it stands, the Smart Dimmer does exactly as its name implies, which is adjust the lighting in your home by swiping on the touchpad. A single swipe turns your lights on/off, while using two fingers will adjust multiple lights. Now no longer content with merely adjusting the lighting in homes, the updated version of the Smart Dimmer will be able to control other smart devices, such as a smart water sprinkler simply by swiping the letter “W”, or enabling/disabling your home alarm by tracing the letter “A” on its surface. No word on when this updated version will be released, but for those interested in its current iteration can head on over to its Kickstarter page for the details.

Home Automation - Top cable technologies in 2013

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 14:03:45 -0800

Several major pay TV distributors are stepping up efforts to market home security and automation services to subscribers this year, offering subscribers the ability to monitor their homes with security cameras, and control lighting and thermostats.

Comcast charges subscribers $39.95 monthly for its Xfinity Home service, while Time Warner Cable's Intelligent Home service costs $33.95 monthly. Verizon has undercut its cable rivals with its Home Monitoring and Control service, which costs $9.99 monthly. AT&T hasn't yet detailed the pricing for its AT&T Digital Life product--a wireless service that it plans to launch in March.

For MSOs such as Comcast, supplying subscribers with gadgets such as outdoor night vision cameras, flood sensors and carbon monoxide detectors can help drive increased broadband revenue. Look for cable operators and other telecom providers to eventually add remote healthcare products to their home automation services. Amdocs, which supplies a billing system to Comcast and other telecom providers, has been pitching service providers a cloud-based eHealth Solutions product that could allow operators to supply subscribers with glucose monitors, blood pressure readers, pill dispensers and scales.

3DTV is Not Dead, It's Just Facing Reality Beyond the Hype

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 15:49:35 -0800

Contrary to what many at the press have been preaching since 3DTV was introduced in 2010, 3D is still alive and active in the industry, and many consumers still want to experience 3D at home.

What it should be dead is the approach of inflated advertising and improper reporting of 3DTV as a whole new television set or system that replaces what you have, although it appears that the market and the industry have finally adapted to the idea of considering 3D as what it should have been considered since day one: just a “feature”, one more feature of a good HDTV, to seldom enjoy a 3D movie or sport, then, when the 3D program is over, continue with everyday’s HD viewing. For this reason it is a must to have 3D transmissions backward compatible with HDTV transmissions.

As expected, CES 2013 showed many demonstrations of Ultra HDTV LED and OLED (even in Ultra HDTV resolution, such as Sony’s and Panasonic’s 56” OLED Ultra HDTV prototypes), and there were also 3D demos of the same Ultra HDTV and OLED panels, not to mention the huge 3D wall at the entrance of LG’s booth. Additionally, Stream TV Networks, Hisense, Toshiba and others demo their 1080p and Ultra HDTV auto-stereoscopic (no-glasses) 3D panels as well. Full Article.

Is Home Automation the Next UX Frontier?

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 06:28:10 -0800

If there is one thing that UX and UI designers should take away from this year’s Consumer Electronics Show, it is that the next big thing is home automation, and we better be ready for it.

From dishwashers with digital interfaces to smartphone apps that can manage an entire home heating and cooling system, this shift in home appliances means that these new digital interfaces will need just as much TLC as a new web app.

These transitions present some incredible opportunities but also plenty of challenges. The team at ÄKTA sat down to discuss the matter. Here are both the opportunities and the challenges that will come with home automation.

Breakdown of Current Silos

We imagine that this shift will create a breakdown of silos. We will no longer see "product design" and "digital UX” as two different pieces of the building process. Rather, we will start to focus on a more holistic user experience that covers everything from the physical product to the digital interface.

Because of this breakdown, cross-system and cross-platform areas of expertise will become invaluable. Take for example a smart washer by LG that we spotted at CES 2013. A repairperson brought in to fix this machine will now need to know how to fix network systems in addition to plumbing systems.

Full Interview:

Best Buy Reports $377 Million Net Loss in Q4, Schulze Makes No Buyout Offer

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 13:31:29 -0800

It is unfortunately safe to say that Best Buy has seen better days. Announcing their plan to let go of 400 employees from their headquarters on Tuesday, the big blue electronics supplier released another bit of bad news on Friday — their earnings for the 2012 fourth quarter.

According to an official release, Best Buy announced a net loss of $377 million on revenues of $16.7 billion in Q4, against an analyst expectation of $16.29 billion. CEO Hubert Joly commented on the profit decrease, stating that domestic sales offset the company’s failures overseas. However, cutting expenses with job cuts helped to narrow the Q4 losses towards the end of the quarter.

Its loss totaled something like $409 million or $1.21 per BBT share for three months before February, compared to a loss o $1.82 billion or $5.17 per share the year prior.

How high can we go – 4K UHD

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 08:40:14 -0800

There may come a time when 4K might become the default standard for our video viewing, but before that happens there will need to be a lot of infrastructure changes. The DCI standard must be used throughout the entire production and delivery chain, and finally the consumer must accept this new resolution.

Digital Signage Expo 2013 Tradeshow Report

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 08:40:01 -0800

Digital Signage Expo is the world’s largest international tradeshow dedicated to interactive display technology, digital signage, and digital out-of-home networks. It’s a great way to discover technology that will draw attention to your business, increase sales, generate buzz, help save on overhead, and improve interactions with your customers.

Home Automation 2.0: What Everybody Should Know!

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 08:39:38 -0800

Do you ever wonder why home automation has been around since the 18 hundreds… and its adoption by the general population has failed dismally?

Content Insider #273 – Game On

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 08:39:12 -0800

In Technology Leadership, the Big Dogs Play for Keeps

Digital Signage Expo 2013 underway this week in Las Vegas

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 15:42:21 -0800

HomeToys has partnered with DSE 2013 again this year and is providing a Specail Newspage devoted to news and announcements from this years event. Click here for the DSE 2013 HomeToys Newspage.

Digital Signage Expo is the world’s largest international tradeshow dedicated to interactive display technology, digital
signage, and digital out-of-home networks. It’s a great way to discover technology that will draw attention to your business, increase sales, generate buzz, help save on overhead, and improve interactions with your customers.

SAVANTÂ® Introduces WiFi Enabled Digital Thermostat

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 07:14:19 -0800

Savant Systems, LLC has announced the availability of the Savant Wireless Thermostat, SST-W100. The SST-W100 is a WiFi enabled digital thermostat designed to control Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems within any residential or commercial setting and integrate seamlessly into a Savant-controlled environment. The SST-W100 is a versatile thermostat for one and two stage control of forced air, radiant, heat pump and HVAC systems.

The Savant SST-W100, requiring only standard thermostat wiring at its mounting location, is ideal for retrofit installations thanks to its wireless communication to Savant's SmartSystem controllers. The SST-W100 provides access to temperature adjustments from anywhere in the home or from a remote location using any Savant interface. Multiple Savant thermostats may be networked over an existing WiFi network, enabling temperature and humidity adjustment from any SST-W100 in the home. Energy conservation is achieved by programming the HVAC system (using the HVAC Scheduler within the Savant TrueControl™ iPad® app) to automatically respond based upon outside temperature, season or time of day.

Android home automation appears in 4.2.2 update

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 05:50:45 -0800

Android's long-rumoured home automation capabilities may have been revealed in the inner workings of the latest 4.2.2 update.

The system configuration files within the update mention both mesh networking and Android@home, both of which in theory relate to home automation and Android.

Android@home was shown by Google more than two years ago and then disappeared almost instantly into the ether. Since then, Google hasn't mentioned it once. So could it be coming back?

Home automation is gradually becoming a bigger deal. CES this year had gadgets such as Belkin's iOS-controlled WeMo range of light switches and connected home gadgetry. Android integrating this kind of home automation directly into the OS makes sense.

The Android Open Accessory API also exists and is able to put hardware and applications together, provided there is an Android smartphone somewhere in between.

TVLiftCabinet.com - Concord TV Lift Cabinet

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 10:19:19 -0800

Ready for prime time. Our Concord TV Lift Cabinet lets you customize a media mix to suit your space. Striking half round and mitered molding frames add depth and shadow, showcasing horizontal & vertical mullion detailing on doors. Wood front two-door and three-drawer TV lift cabinet has four adjustable shelves. Cord management cutouts allow it to be easily wired for all equipment. Solid maple wood construction with a rich espresso finish. Features: • Made in the USA of Solid Maple Wood • Houses most 70” flat panel TV's on the factory preinstalled TV Lift • Espresso stain and scratch resistant topcoat • Built-in infrared system allowing you to operate your equipment without opening the doors • Large horizontal cubby can be used for equipment, surround sound speakers, and or decor • Four adjustable shelves • Three drawers • Cord management cutouts throughout • Ventilated shelving • Adjustable shelving

Pioneer Home A/V Sees Flexibility In New Subsidiary Status

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 08:21:51 -0800

The consolidation of Pioneer’s home A/V business unit in Japan with two other business units will turn the unit into a leaner wholly-owned subsidiary.

Russ Johnston, executive VP of home entertainment and corporate communications at Pioneer Electronics USA, said the move will speed up product planning, time to market, and a return to home A/V profitability.

The home A/V business includes engineering and product planning for global markets. The other two units that will be part of the subsidiary are the company’s wired phone business, which largely sells into the domestic market and the company’s domestic home-A/V sales operation. The restructuring was announced Feb. 12.

The new subsidiary, which will be responsible for its own profit-and-loss statement, will be home to all product development and engineering staff, sales management and back-office functions for the three business units, Johnston said. The consolidation will improve control of SG&A and enable the three groups to make speedier product planning and development decisions, he continued.

Trends, Technologies, & Ecosystems: Evolution of The Digital Home

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 08:08:30 -0800

Parks Associates, with more than 25 years of industry expertise and consumer research, analyzes the top trends influencing the future of the connected home and digital lifestyle.

ABB and andyRobot Develop Standard RoboScreen Packs

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 08:08:17 -0800

Function packages feature five robot and screen size combinations, dedicated software and concert style mixing board for simplified control

Why is ABUS Audio Still Going Strong?

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 08:06:58 -0800

ABUS is an analog line level system on Cat5 with keypads in each room that are true amplifiers with speaker level output using minimal speaker lengths to a pair of speakers per keypad and a hub pushing the line level audio/IR and 24 Volts to each amp/keypad.

"Hands-Free" Corporate Communication

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 08:06:33 -0800

"The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place." - George Bernard Shaw (1856-1950), Irish playwright

When Should You Walk Away From a Sale?

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 08:05:47 -0800

Just remember that if something sounds or looks too good to be true, check it out – and if it doesn’t feel right, consider walking away.

Crestron Ultimate Home Automation Solution Demonstrated in Las Vegas Show House

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 08:05:31 -0800

The New American Home 2013 achieved LEED Platinum Status from the U.S. Green Building Council and Emerald status under the National Green Build Standard.

David Eun Explains Samsungâ€™s Silicon Valley Invasion

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 15:27:17 -0800

David Eun once led Google and YouTube’s partnerships with media companies, turning their sometimes adversarial relationships into licensing deals. These days, he’s doing something similar, but from the hardware side of the business. As EVP of Samsung’s Open Innovation Center, Eun is charged with developing new digital content and services for a consumer electronics juggernaut that’s gunning for supremacy in everything from TVs and smartphones to refrigerators.

Onstage at D: Dive Into Media, Eun talked for the first time about Samsung’s plan to tap Silicon Valley entrepreneurs to drive its content and media business, and to turn its device portfolio into a massive content-distribution platform.

A cornerstone of that plan: Samsung’s new Open Innovation Center, which the company announced today at D: Dive Into Media. That operation is geared toward drawing on Silicon Valley innovation to fuel the technologies that Samsung sees as the next big thing.

“We’re doubling down on software innovation, particularly software that will enhance our products,” Eun said. “We’re focusing on investing in early-stage companies, and developing partnerships with them that can help us enhance the user experience of our customers.”

The Sonos Playbar expands wireless audio to the TV room

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 07:50:18 -0800

Wireless audio giant Sonos has announced the Playbar, a compact sound bar that incorporates all the usual surround-sound speakers and integrates with the company's other wireless speakers. It could be a great solution for the tech-savvy media lover.

But this is the first time they've attempted to tackle TV audio, which is a more complicated proposal. There are good sound bar systems out there already, and of course many people already have excellent multi-speaker systems installed. Why get this Sonos?

Well, it should have pretty great sound — Sonos has always been good about that — but the big draw would probably be putting the controls all on your phone or tablet. Combine the Sonos with a smart set-top box with its own app, and you've got a whole world of music, TV, and movies controllable from your iPad. And setup should be a breeze — it plugs right into your TV and you can even control it through the TV's remote.

How the IT Industry Views AV

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:19:02 -0800

If you’ve ever subscribed to the line of thinking that says, “If we in the AV industry don’t sharpen our IT skills, those that already have them are going to swoop in and eat our lunches,” then you may be onto something. This line of thinking acknowledges that the whole AV/IT convergence has already happened and that more and more AV systems are really networked AV systems. It appreciates the growing market for digital signage, videoconferencing systems, streaming media and mobile collaboration and wonders, “Are we as AV professionals missing the boat here? Are we losing out to IT professionals?”

Maybe not yet, but if any of this sounds familiar, I submit this: The IT industry is as interested in the market for networked AV systems (and they should be) as the AV industry is wary that IT will win a lion’s share of that business. Ironically, IT appears to know exactly what it needs to succeed in AV: the knowledge that AV specialists already have.

Read full blog post:

SpeakerCraft - CS3 TV Speaker

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 06:37:25 -0800

SpeakerCraft CS3 TV Speaker, an under-TV sound system that makes Flat-Panel TVs sound as good as they look. With powerful loudspeakers, built-in subwoofers and DSP technology housed in one beautifully designed cabinet, the CS3 turns any room with a television into a virtual home theater. The CS3 is built with premium SpeakerCraft components in an optimized bass-reflex enclosure, with custom DSP electronics and bi-amplification. This includes two 5¼” long-throw subwoofers, four 2½” midranges and two 1” soft dome tweeters; with midrange-tweeter-midrange positioning for optimum imaging. The CS3 is not just for movies and TV watching. SpeakerCraft’s engineers also added Bluetooth® as a key feature, easily connecting the customer with their music library from a Smartphone, tablet or computer instead of traditional broadcast music sources. The SpeakerCraft CS3 TV Speaker works with TVs mounted on stands or wall mounted. It can support up to 160 pounds.

Control4 Goes for Wireless Audio

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 15:40:09 -0800

Automation vendor Control4 makes an audio debut at ISE 2013-- the Wireless Music Bridge, a device allowing customers to wirelessly connect and stream music on PCs or mobile devices on Control4 systems.

With Bluetooth, DLNA, Airplay, wifi and ethernet support, the Wireless Music Bridge streams audio from most, if not all, devices. It supports full metadata (including cover art) and allows access to connected content and devices through all Control4 interfaces, including TVs.

In addition, Control4 systems with OS 2.4 get a TuneIn update, allowing access to over 700000 traditional and internet radio stations, as well as on-demand audio and podcasts.

The Control4 Wireless Music Bridge ships from Q2 2013, while the TuneIn update should roll out from April 2013.

How Monoprice Is Eating The Tech World From The Inside Out

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 14:50:26 -0800

Five years ago, Monoprice was associated with two things: HDMI cables and nerds. Being able to tell people about two-buck Monoprice cables, and to explain, with confidence, why Monster cables were a scam, was one of the wonderful small privileges of geekdom; today, it's one of the dwindling few.

In addition to making its boosters look smart, Monoprice had a pretty solid pitch. Its cables were cheap! They worked fine! The company was based in the U.S., processed orders quickly, had a return policy and answered emails. It was like eBay without the risk.

The minimalist web store has long since expanded to include more than just cables; today, it's best described as an accessory shop. But in January, the company announced that it was taking a broad step into a new market: It was going to start selling big-ticket electronics under the Monoprice name.

Click here for full article:

Study - Innovation and Affordability Open up Home Automation to a Larger Audience

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 07:42:12 -0800

In the last three years, numerous home automation related products have been introduced into the market. Existing market players have upgraded their product lines, while new entrants have introduced new offerings. Everyone is increasingly focusing on smart technologies. Manufacturers of individual home automation functions, such as security, climate control, window treatment systems or access control, have launched new smart products.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (http://www.buildingtechnologies.frost.com) European Home Automation Market, finds that the market earned revenues of €223 million in 2012 and estimates this to reach €348.2 million in 2017.

While the home automation market is seeing a shift in technology and increased demand for novel products, the supply chain is also responding to such developments.

"While installation of home automation has been of interest almost exclusively to professional home automation specialists, an increasing number of manufacturers are trying to simplify home automation technology, and spread installation and programming know-how to more participants in the supply chain," noted Frost & Sullivan Environment and Building Technologies Senior Industry Analyst Hammam Ahmed . "They have intensified their focus on training traditional electrical contractors, and are exploring other routes to market in order to reach a wider customer base. This will have a positive impact on the supply chain in the future."

Siri Home Automation Integration from Start to Finish <br>Part 1 - The Basics (using a Linux VM)

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:29:39 -0800

I've been wanting to get Siri up and running with my Home Automation system for quite a while. I tried and failed last year, but recently attacked the problem again; this time with great success. Not only did I get it running on 4 versions of Linux (long story), but also on my Raspberry PI. Further, I now have it integrated with my Home Automation system. (The approach I chose for this should work with virtually any Home Automation system.) The instructions in this article will get you up and running--virtually guaranteed--in under 30 mins. If you don't want to start from scratch, you can download a 250MB VMware appliance with it fully installed. All that's required are a few minor config changes for your own IP address. In Part 1, we'll cover the basics (using a Linux VM). In Part 2, we'll cover Raspberry PI installation. In Part 3, we'll cover Home Automation integration.

Siri Home Automation Integration from Start to Finish <br>Part 2 - Raspberry PI Installation

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:29:24 -0800

This is Part 2 of a three part article. In this part, we'll see how to install SiriProxy on a Raspberry PI. In Part 1, we'll cover the basics (using a Linux VM). In Part 2, we'll cover Raspberry PI installation. In Part 3, we'll cover Home Automation integrations

Siri Home Automation Integration from Start to Finish <br>Part 3 - Home Automation Integration

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:29:12 -0800

This is Part 3 of a three part article. In this part, we'll look specifically at how to integrate Siri with a Home Automation system. In Part 1, we'll cover the basics (using a Linux VM). In Part 2, we'll cover Raspberry PI installation. In Part 3, we'll cover Home Automation integrations

Defining Audio Fidelity

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:26:06 -0800

Only four parameters are needed to define everything that affects audio fidelity: Frequency response, distortion, noise, and time-based errors.

Applications for Transparent Displays

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:25:51 -0800

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.

AVnu Alliance & UNH-IOL Launch Audio Video Bridge Certification Program

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:25:29 -0800

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.

Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2013 Tradeshow Report

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:24:58 -0800

ISE 2013 was the biggest yet. With 894 exhibitors occupying 33,000 net square meters of floor spaces. Thousands flocked to Amsterdam to catch up on all that is exciting in residential & commercial AV as well as digital signage.

ISE 2013 Special News Report

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:23:30 -0800

Press Releases and Product Announcements from the show floor.

CES 2013 - Special News Report

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:23:15 -0800

Press Releases and Product Announcements from the show floor

DSE 2013 - Special News Report

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:22:55 -0800

Press Releases and Product Announcements from the show floor.

First-Run Movies in Your Home Theater

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:22:25 -0800

Up until now the only way to get the latest Tom Cruise movie in your home on the Friday night it hits theaters was to become a member of the exclusive Bel-Air Circuit.

Content Insider #264 – Three Ring Circus

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:21:57 -0800

Everyone – except people who have a clown or big crowd phobia – loves the circus.

Integrated Systems Europe 2013 News

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 07:18:25 -0800

HomeToys has partnered with ISE 2013 again this year and is providing a Specail Newspage devoted to news and announcements from this years event. Click here for the ISE 2013 HomeToys Newspage.

Integrated Systems Europe is the world’s best attended tradeshow for the professional AV and electronic systems industry. Launched in 2004, ISE has grown year-on-year to become a global forum for technology, education and networking. ISE 2013 is the biggest yet. With 894 exhibitors occupying 33,000 net square meters of floor spaces and more than 40,000 registered attendees to its Amsterdam RAI location.

Logitech to sell Harmony remote division after 'unacceptable' Q3 results

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 15:17:24 -0800

Logitech has posted its financial results for Q3 of its 2013 fiscal year, and they're not too encouraging: the company made an operating loss of $180 million off sales of $615 million. Retail sales were down 14 percent year on year, and CEO Bracken Darrell has announced plans to take "decisive action" on the "unacceptable" results. And he's not kidding — the company has "initiated the process" to divest itself of its Harmony remote control division, along with its security video camera business.

By the end of this year, Logitech also plans to have discontinued "non-strategic products" including video game console peripherals and speaker docks. Darrell says the strategy is for the company to focus on PC-related products and maximize profitability. The news isn't entirely bad, though, with Darrell buoyed by "continued strong demand" for the Ultrathin Keyboard Cover for iPad.

Dish Closing 300 More Blockbuster Stores

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 06:45:54 -0800

Dish Network is closing another 300 Blockbuster video stores in the next few weeks, bringing its total number of locations to about 500, the company announced Monday.

The move comes after Blockbuster closings last year that included the shutdown of 500 locations last February. The company said Monday, as it did last year, that it would close unprofitable stores.

No locations for the closings have been announced. Some of the stores are reaching the end of their building leases, while others will close because of their performance, Dish spokesman John W. Hall told TheWrap.

The closures come as little surprise as more consumers watch streaming videos or buy them on-demand through their cable company rather than trekking to the brick-and-mortar stores that were so packed with customers in the 1990s.

Dish, which purchased the video chain for $320 million in 2011, is increasingly using Blockbuster's remaining physical locations to hawk its Dish services.

Luxul Networking Review

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 08:27:25 -0800

Like most people, in the past I’ve bought consumer grade from CISCO (formerly LinkSys), Netgear, D-Link, etc. I’ve grown increasingly dissatisfied with these as time goes by. I’ve run across Luxul networking products in several pro-installations so when I got the chance to try them for myself, I jumped at the chance.

A Dynamic 'Convertible' Home Theater on a Shoe-String Budget

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 08:27:06 -0800

I found myself at the ripe old age of 61, sitting in a cabin in Wisconsin, wondering how to incorporate a dedicated home theater into an open living-dining-kitchen area. To further complicate the situation, it couldn’t just be any home theater – after all, I had my reputation to consider. It had to be dynamic, unique and most of all – hidden.

Using Audio Visual In The Courtroom

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 08:26:46 -0800

They say that justice is blind, but an attorney must approach a jury with both clear visuals and understandable audio to win his or her case. Therefore, the architect who is responsible for designing a new courtroom or a renovation must give serious consideration to the use of visuals and audio during a trial.

Surviving in the Home Automation Market

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 08:26:07 -0800

The home automation and control systems market can be a frightening place. Housing starts, devastated by the recession, are experiencing a tepid recovery. Control equipments’ already limited profit margins are being further compromised by direct-to-consumer sales. Independent installers and systems integrators are wary of competition with Apple, Google, Microsoft, Verizon and others large players who are moving into home automation.

Report: Remote Control Boosts Willingness to Buy Home Security

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 13:52:35 -0800

More than half of broadband households without professionally monitored interactive security services are willing to pay for them if they’re combined with remote monitoring and control capabilities, according to “Smart Home Systems: Consumer Adoption and Attitudes,” a report currently featured on Strategy Analytics’ Smart Home Strategies (SHS) advisory service.

Strategy Analytics surveyed broadband households in France, Germany, Italy, the U.K. and the U.S. and found that those households were more interested in and willing to pay for a variety of connected home services than expected.

Survey respondents also indicated a significant willingness to pay for remote healthcare and energy management services for the connected home—if they were priced right.

Potential adoption of smart home services is highest in the U.S., U.K. Germany and Italy, and less in France, “with the exception of retail DIY monitoring and control,” said the Boston-based market research and advisory firm. The highest level of potential interest in remote healthcare services was found to be in Italy, if recurring fees were kept under $10 per month.

2013 International CES Wrap Up

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 07:25:40 -0800

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® announced today that the 2013 International CES® is the largest in the show's 45+ year history, with 1.92 million net square feet of exhibit space. The previous record was 1.86 million net square feet of space at the 2012 International CES. More than 3,250 exhibitors unveiled some 20,000 new products at the 2013 CES, drawing more than 150,000 attendees, including more than 35,000 from more than 170 countries outside the United States. Owned and produced by CEA, the 2013 International CES is the world's largest annual innovation event and concluded today.

"Innovation abounded at the 2013 CES and executives from every major industry that touches technology were here this week," said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of the Consumer Electronics Association. "From amazing new products, to CEA's new book Ninja Innovation, to our new publication - It Is Innovation (i3), innovation prevailed across 37 football fields of technology at the 2013 International CES. Our event is the biggest mobile show to kick-off the year and showcase our new mobile future."

Major product launches occurred across all 15 product categories at the 2013 CES. In wireless/smartphones, highlights include the launch of Sony's Xperia Z, the Huawei Ascend Mate and ZTE Grand S. In video displays, LG featured its touchscreen Ultra HD, Sony launched the first Ultra HD OLED display, Samsung featured its bendable OLED and Hisense launched its transparent 3DTV. Digital Health and fitness launches included new products from Fitbit, Withings and BodyMedia. Audi and Lexus featured driverless vehicle technologies. For gamers, the 2013 CES saw the launch of Nvidia's Project Shield, the Oculus Rift, the Sifteo and Razer Edge. Other noteworthy products launched at the 2013 CES included: the Valve SteamBox, Tobii eye recognition technology, the Kickstarter-funded Pebble smart watch, Qualcomm's Vuforia augmented reality, multi-device connectivity from Ultraviolet, NFC technology from LG and Sony, tabletop applications from Lenovo, MakerBot's Replicator 2x and Samsung's Smart TVs with voice recognition.

Click here for the Full Press Release here.

Click here for the HomeToys CES Newspage.

Click here for the HomeToys CES Tradeshow Report.