Smart Home Blog

ThinkFlood recently launches RedEye universal remote control system for iPhone and iPod Touch. The system is split by two parts – hardware and software. Hardware component includes a IR transmitter which is also a dock-station for iPhone or iPod Touch and WiFi access point. Software part is an application which can be downloaded from iTunes. Device communicates with IR transmitter via WiFi. It’s possible to use several transmitters in the different rooms to control IR equipment in whole house.

The RedEye allows to create your own layout for remote control. It also utilizes accelerometer to switch channels or control volume (see demo video below). The RedEye offers also a huge database of IR codes. You just select your device and the application will download its codes. For unknown devices the RedEye provides learning mode as all universal remotes.

The RedEye system for iPhone and iPod Touch is available at $188.00. It isn’t so cheap but considering offered functionality it looks reasonable.

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Yamaha offers possibility to control its Network multi-zone A/V Receivers for iPhone/iPod Touch owners directly from their devices. Using free Yamaha App consumers do following for specified zone: control power, volume or select desire input. Communication between iPhone and receiver is done via WiFi. So, be sure that you have access point in your house.

The following is a list of compatible Yamaha Home Theater Network A/V Receivers that will work with this App:

• RX-V2065 – 7.2 ch Home theater receiver
• RX-V3900 – High Performance Home theater receiver
• RX-Z7 – Flagship Home theater receiver.

Yamaha App can be downloaded from App Store free of charge. But by some reason it’s available for US and Canada only. Sounds very strange for me.

New version of iRdium Mobile was released. Following major feature were implemented in that version:

• supporting of controllers powered by ModBus TCP and AXICO protocols! It opens the opportunity for installers of building home automation systems based on low-priced and fail-safe ModBus TCP controllers such as Beckhoff, Siemens, Wago, Schneider Electric and many others. These reliable controllers have been seldom used in home automation due to the absence of comfortable display facilities. With the release of iRidium 1.2 and our GUI editor iRidium GUI (scheduled for release in late october) the controllers powered by ModBus turn into complete alternative to the systems like AMX, EIB, and C-bus.
• possibility to see a streaming video from web and IP cams! Now iRidium can get a view from any camera all over the world, and 3G network makes possible to achieve pretty good quality at the speed of 7-15 FPS!
• choice between outer and inner connection on iPhone! This feature was added upon request of our partners for their customers’ comfort. If inner or outer IP connection isn’t set on default, the application suggests these two possible ways of connection.

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The user interface for upcoming HomeLogic controller and touchscreen platforms will mimic poplar Apple smarthome iPhone. It should be interesting not only iPhone owners and fans but for all who like comfort and intuitive GUI. See it on the demo video below.

[via CEPro]

iPhone App provided by DishPointer might be useful for satellite TV professional and enthusiasts. It helps to find available satellites with iPhone 3G(S) very easy. See the video below demonstrated the App in action.