Smart Home Blog

HomeSeer produced an European version of its Z-Wave motion detector HSM100 – HSM100-EU. Additionally to the motion detection it provides an information about illumination and temperature. The HSM100-EU has a range of 10 meters and requires 3 AAA batteries to operate. The motion sensor should work in any Z-Wave certified system. But the temperature and illumination sensors are supported by the HomeSeer software only. That really not good if you use some other home automation system.

The HSM100-EU is available on the HomeSeer site and tagged at $80.95.

[via eHomeUpgrade]

I already wrote about smart WiFi router Asus WL500G Premium which allows to extend its functionality using custom firmware. You can install there, for example, torrent client or SlimServer for Squeezebox media player. Recently I found Vera – Z-Wave controller which uses that model as a base. Vera support Z-Wave software version 5.02 and works fine with all Z-Wave devices. Using web interface consumer can add and manage devices such dimmers, switches, sensors etc as well, as create scenarios, events and timers. Additionally Vera tracks how much energy you are using and displays simple, visual charts according to different criteria.

Home automation is non-unique Vera’s function. Using completely plug-n-play IP cameras you can create a surveillance system quick and easy. Additionally Vera can control A/V equipment via infrared or RS232 (I suspect that something like GC100 is needed in that case). Vera cannot store energy usage statistic and video recording from security cameras. To store those you should subscribe to Vera’s service. But the good thing that the system can work without any subscription.

Vera is based on a messaging system like LinuxMCE. That allows to developers implement desire functionality in separate module using published API. Soon there will also be a Lua-based scripting language with a web based code generator to make it easier for non-programmers.

Z-Wave controller and WiFi router in one Vera is available on Smarthome site at $299.99.

With Schlage LiNK Z-Wave powered door lock kit you will able to

• assign personalized codes (up to 19) for each member of your household;
• easily program Schlage LiNK to send automatic text or email updates so you know who enters your home;
• confirm status of your Keypad Deadbolt from anywhere with your web enabled cell phone or computer;
• remotely lock or unlock the door;
• creates a Z-wave network within your home that securely connects the Schlage LiNK lockset or deadbolt to the internet and controls other Z-wave devices;
• receive battery level status and alerts.

If you like it then additionally to $300 you should pay a small fees every month. The good advantage of Schlage LiNK is possibility to connect other Z-Wave devices in the house or flat and control them online as well. Additionally, all owners of iPhone can try to control the lock directly from their smartphones.

[via AutomatedHome]

Recently I wrote about new Nokia’s product – Home Control Center. It’s based on wireless technology Z-Wave and uses mobile phone as a main control device. The system seems very interesting. Especially after Engadget posted demo video from the Nokia World show where it’s showed in action. Watch it after the break!

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Good news for the Nokia and home automation fans. The famous mobile devices producer has announced its Home Control Center which is gonna be released next year. Basically it will be a home gateway with built-in DSL-modem, wired router and WiFi access point. There will be possibility to attach Z-Wave controller and manage all Z-Wave devices via Nokia’s mobile phones, Internet Tables or using web interface. Additionally the home gateway will be equiped with GSM/GPRS module. The Nokia’s Home Control Center will cover security and surveillance, lighting and climate control.

It’s good that Nokia chose Z-Wave. It’s grows very fast and now there is a lot of devices with reasonable price for European frequency. Moreover Z-Wave devices have a good interoperability. So, it’s possible to use dimmers, switches, sensors, PC adaptors from different producers. In any case, we will see the advantages, shortcoming and cost of the Nokia Home Control Center whet it will be released next year in Europe.

[via Engadget]