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Simply and Easily add the Convenience of a Light Switch to Any Outlet In Your Home

Official Smarthome Blog - Sun, 02/05/2012 - 7:00pm


Perfect for hard-to-reach lamps and small appliances G.E.’s 52149 Handy Switch allows you to plug in a device to be switched right at the outlet. You will enjoy the benefits of lower energy consumption and the convenience of not having to plug in, and unplug your favorite lamps or appliances. Featured on the Handy Switch is an outlet which is ready for both grounded and polarized plugs, as well as a toggle switch for controlling the attached load. There is no programming needed for this switchable load controller and the installation couldn’t be easier. Simply plug the device you wish to control into the Handy Switch. After, you will plug the Handy Switch into a convenient, standard, 120VAC outlet. Then, installation is complete and you are ready to test the Handy Switch.

The Handy Switch allows the user to switch devices that usually remain plugged in, but have no switch of there own. Even devices that do have switches (i.e. televisions and other home theater equipment) will consume less energy when switched by the Handy Switch. This is due to low level energy consumption that is occurring while you think the television is off, because it is still plugged in. When a device like a television is switched off by the Handy Switch, no voltage is allowed to flow through the televisions circuitry, preventing that low level energy consumption. Another great use for this device is seasonal lighting, as in switching Christmas lights or lighting decor. This device does not require programming, new wires, or batteries. Read more


Six outlet pods, which can be adjusted so that large power bricks don’t hog space

Official Smarthome Blog - Sun, 02/05/2012 - 5:00pm

The Quirky Pivot Power Flexible Power Stip lets you reclaim your outlets with an adjustable power strip that holds large adapters in every outlet. The power strip can be flexed into a circle, semi-circle or zig zag pattern to accomodate larger plugs as well as fitting around furniture. The Power Stip also features surge protection of up to 672 Joules. Includes a 6 foot power cord with flat head plug.

  • Flexible form that bends into circular, semi-circular, and zig-zag shapes
  • Six outlet pods, which can be adjusted so that large power bricks don’t hog space
  • Adjusts so you can utilize all six outlet pods
  • 672 Joules of rock-solid surge protection

Learn more


Protect Against Volatile Organic Compounds and Airborne Contaminants for Cleaner Air to Breathe

Official Smarthome Blog - Sun, 02/05/2012 - 2:00pm

The AllerAir 6000 AH Vocarb BLK Air Handler offers you a whole home unit ideal for general air purification with an emphasis on removing volatile organic compounds and other airborne toxins. It features a special VOC blend of activated carbon to adsorb chemicals and odors, and a medical grade HEPA filter to remove 99.97% of all airborne particles down to 0.3 microns. Compatible with all HVAC units.

AllerAir is dedicated to offering you the safest most effective air cleaning technology available today. What makes AllerAir filtration technology so unique and effective is the combination of their true HEPA filter with a MAC-B (mass activated carbon bed) filter, which features many pounds of activated carbon. Together these filters trap 99.97% of all airborne particles and adsorb chemicals, gases and odors. Most mass-market air cleaners can only trap particles and have no more than a few token ounces or grams of carbon. AllerAir’s MAC-B filters contain pounds of carbon to safely and effectively remove these dangerous substances from the air. AllerAir equipment is efficient, flexible, practical and cost effective; the safest and best air cleaning technology available. Read more


Connect 3D HDMI Components and Share Internet Connections With a Single Cable

Official Smarthome Blog - Sun, 02/05/2012 - 1:00pm

Atlona HDMI 1.4 certified cables are designed to provide the highest quality in High Definition Video and Digital Audio transfer. Simply the best cables you can get. The Atlona HDMI 1.4 certified cables are unlike any cable you will find on the market. Our unique design allows us to spread the oxygen free copper conductors farther apart, which helps us reduce cross-talk even at bit transfer rates up to 387Mhz. In the world of HD cables, no one can compete with Atlona quality.

Features:

  • HDMI 1.4 Certified High Speed Cable with Ethernet
  • Atlona HDMI Cables are able to support extremely high resolutions much beyond standard 1080p or 1440p. Future proof for resolutions up to 4K or 4096×2160
  • Supports Video Bandwidth above latest HDMI Standards 387MHz (far beyond 10.2 Gbps)
  • Ethernet Data Channel allows devices with HDMI 1.4 to share a high speed network connection and internet connectivity without a separate ethernet cable
  • Designed to support TV’s with high refresh rates (up to 800MHz)
  • Due to high bandwidth video support, this cable is fully able to transfer 3D content. Experience true 3D movies from newer 3D enabled BluRay players
  • Audio Return Channel will allow the user to eliminate excess cables which are connecting the TV and audio receiver to single a HDMI cable
  • Supports all digital audio formats including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio
  • 24k Gold plated connectors ensures no signal loss
  • High-Purity Oxygen Free Copper conductors
  • High-Density triple shielding for maximum rejection of EMI and RFI
  • Ultra Flexible
  • RoHS Rated
  • HDCP Pass-throughApplications:
    Primarily used to connect BluRay & DVD players, HD satellite & cable boxes, LCDs, projectors, Plasma displays, HDTV’s and much more. Perfect for connecting devices in a high interference environment. Atlona HDMI cables are paintable and therefore can match the color of the wall and be almost invisible.

    The Atlona High Speed HDMI Cable with Ethernet is also available in 20 Foot and 40 Foot lengths, (each sold separately)

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Durable Shrink Tubing to Protect Wiring, Hoses, and More

Official Smarthome Blog - Sun, 02/05/2012 - 10:00am

Techflex’s Fabric Heatshrink Tubing is an excellent way to keep rubber hoses, plastic pipes, and harness wiring bundles safe from abrasion. In addition to its protective properties, this fabric heatshrink tubing can also help with noise and rattle suppression. It shrinks from 20mm to 10mm (.79 inches to .40 inches) when exposed to 176° temperatures – half of its original diameter!

This fabric heatshrink tubing, a unique mixture of Polyolefin and Polyester yarns, forms a unique and effective tubing that is extremely flexible and resistant to trapping water, heat and humidity. It provides outstanding abrasion, chafing and cutting protection, even at high temperatures.

  • Cuts cleanly with scissors
  • Shrink temperature 176° F
  • Highly flexible
  • Resists common automotive chemicals
  • Easily installs over connectors and splices
  • Halogen free

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Automatically Shuts Off Up to 3 Devices When the Master Outlet is Off to Save Energy

Official Smarthome Blog - Sun, 02/05/2012 - 7:00am

  • 2160 Joules of protection
  • 6 outlets: 2 always on, 1 “master” connected to 3 energy saver outlets
  • EMI/RFI filteringer 150kHz – 100mHz with attenuation up to 48dB
  • 6-foot long power cord

Not only will you be protecting your devices from power surges and spikes, you’ll be saving energy when you install this surge protector into your home theater or office. This power strip features six outlets – two are always on while one master controls the three remaining energy saver outlets. Once the device plugged into the master outlet is powered off, it will automatically shut off power to the energy saver outlets to lower your energy bills and save up to $50 a year. It also features EMI/RFI filtering to keep your devices running efficiently. Read more


Get More Benefits from Your Watts Up Meter

Official Smarthome Blog - Sat, 02/04/2012 - 7:00pm


The Watts Up meters are great analytical tools using the free software that comes with them, but you can get much more information and enhanced features with this Real Time Logging Software package. This logging software creates log files and strip charts, sends email notifications, updates in real time, and automatically calculates statistics.

What Does It Do?

The Real Time Software gives you continuous logging of data in real time and can generate strip charts of various parameters, showing x number of minutes or samples. Email notifications are sent to you automatically based on criteria you select – peak usage, voltage sag, total usage, etc. Log files are created automatically for your desired intervals – daily, every 10k records, etc. and can be exported to Excel or Word. The refresh rate can be as fast as 1 second. Read more


Terminates 99.9% of Germs Over Large Surface Areas in Less Than 10 Seconds

Official Smarthome Blog - Sat, 02/04/2012 - 5:00pm

Utilizing the technology that has been used in hospitals for years, this scanner uses UV light to quickly and thoroughly clean and disinfect surfaces. With UVA, UVB, and UVC rays, this scanner kills germs on contact, terminating 99.9% for healthier and safer living conditions. All germs are killed within 10 seconds of contact. The scanner folds out to cover 13 inches of surface area so you can sanitation larger areas faster. Use the scanner in the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and more. Or take it with you to sanitize your office or hotel room. Put through rigorous testing, this wand is proven to be extremely effective if used correctly and as directed. A child resistant lock eliminates accidents and damages by preventing unintentional activation. The scanner is powered by a built-in rechargeable lithium battery. When the battery starts to run low, a green LED will illuminate to notify you. Use the included AC adapter to fully recharge the unit in less than an hour. Read more


Address Energy Wastage by Your Home Theater Equipment

Official Smarthome Blog - Sat, 02/04/2012 - 2:00pm

When your audio/video equipment is turned off, the devices might still be using power. And when your equipment is hibernating or in standby mode, it wastes significant amounts of power, even if not being actively used. All this wasted power could end up costing you hundreds of dollars a year! The EmberCeptor™ offers the perfect solution. Affordable and effective, the EmberCeptor determines whether or not your components currently require power and automatically switches them on or off as needed. If the device is not in use, all power will be removed until the device is actively being used again.

The EmberCeptor is so easy to use. Simply plug your main component, such as a cable box, into the dedicated “Always On” plug. Connect your additional components, such as plasma and LCD televisions, speakers, game consoles, and more, into the “Power Saving” plug. Then, connect the EmberCeptor into a standard AC outlet. When the EmberCeptor detects that a certain device has not been used for over an hour, it will automatically cut off power to the unused device. To resume using the device, simply turn it back on as normal. A convenient hook on the end of the EmberCeptor provides a clean and convenient way to store the unit within your AV cabinet. Read more


Extend the Life of 12 Volt Batteries

Official Smarthome Blog - Sat, 02/04/2012 - 1:00pm
  • Provides 6 Watts of power for every hour of sunlight
  • No charge controller required
  • High quality amorphous solar panel works in all light conditions, even when it is overcast
  • Simple to install and easy to use
  • Heavy-duty aluminum frames for strong weather resistance
  • Includes all mounting hardware for permanent surface installation or tilting poles for temporary charging

Take advantage of a natural energy source – the sun – to maintain and prevent dead 12 Volt batteries. The high-quality amorphous solar panel delivers a small current to rechargeable 12 Volt batteries to compensate for small key off draw, such as that consumed by displays, stereos, and alarm systems. This trickle charger helps your battery maintain enough power to ensure quick-starts or keeps the batteries topped off during storage months. The solar panel is designed to work in all light conditions and is strong enough to absorb sunlight during cloudy days. A built-in blocking diode prevents the reverse flow of electricity for the most efficient charge.

No AC power is needed, making this trickle charger perfect for taking on the road. Mounting hardware is included for a permanent surface mount. Tilting poles are also included for a temporary charge solution. Eleven feet of cable offers flexibility, allowing you to place the panel in the best possible position to absorb maximum sunlight. The solar panel can be connected directly to the battery with battery clamps or plugged into a 12 Volt car plug. Easy to use and environmentally friendly, this solar panel is perfect for use with cars, boats, tractors, RVs, motorized sports vehicles, deer feeders, water pumps, and any other device powered by a 12 Volt battery.

Read more


Innovative Electronic Notepad is the Green Alternative to Using Paper

Official Smarthome Blog - Sat, 02/04/2012 - 10:00am

Join the Green movement by lowering dependence on paper with the Boogie Board 8.5 LCD Writing Tablet for Binders from Improv Electronics. Using just one of these tablets can save as much as 50,000 pieces of paper because it cuts out the need for sticky notes, memo pads, scrap paper, etc. Think about all the scratch paper that gets thrown in the trash after being used for doodling and jotting down notes or reminders. With this LCD Binder Tablet write out notes from a class or meeting and simply erase it from the board with the push of a button when no longer needed so that it can be used for another paper-saving task. It weighs in at a very light 5.5 ounces and a thickness of an 1/8 inch making the Tablet nearly unnoticeable upon adding to a binder. Bring it with you to school or the office for note taking as an alternative to using scratch paper throughout the day. An included pen-like stylus makes writing or drawing as easy as it would be on a piece of paper. Can’t find the stylus or don’t feel like using one? No problem. The Boogie Board Writing Tablet can be even be drawn or written on with a finger.

The Boogie Board Binder Tablet is constructed of durable, non-toxic, shatter-proof plastic and is safe for use at home, the office or school. The Tablet is powered by a 3V battery which will provide the unit with over 50,000 erase cycles. Read more


Install a Video Door Entry Monitor So That You Always Know Who’s Knocking at Your Door

Official Smarthome Blog - Sat, 02/04/2012 - 7:00am

The Samsung EZON SHT-3006XM video intercom monitor allows you to answer your door from a distance, adding both convenience and security to your home or business. A touchpad controlled monitor connects to a Door Camera (sold separately), giving an image of your visitor and a direct line to speak with them. With optional expansion cameras and handset units wired into the system (available separately) you have the ability to create a door camera and video intercom system to cover your entire home or business.

In addition to the convenience of being able to see visitors, the SHT-3005XA allows you to capture images from the door camera. It also includes the option of controlling an electronic door strike (available separately) so you can admit visitors without going to the door. A wired connection ensures both voice and video are transmitted clearly.

  • Superior 6″ color TFT LCD screen
  • Enhanced security access control
  • In-house call among VDPs and sub phone

Read more


Transfer Large Amounts of Information Between Digital Devices Quickly and Efficiently

Official Smarthome Blog - Fri, 02/03/2012 - 7:00pm

  • Backwards compatible with FireWire 400 products with speeds up to 400Mbps
  • High-speed communications with isochronous real-time data transfer
  • Hot pluggable – connect and disconnect devices even when the power is on

FireWire cables allow you to send data between your high-bandwidth digital devices. This 1394b cable is backwards compatible with prior FireWire versions and will enable you to move large volumes of data quickly, efficiently, and reliably, whether your devices are equipped with FireWire 400 or FireWire 800 technology. Use FireWire cables in a broad range of devices, such as high-end digital audio/video applications, consumer audio/video device control and signal routing, home networking, nonlinear DV editing, digital audio mixing, DV cameras, hard drives, digital still cameras, professional audio, printers, scanners, and home entertainment equipment. FireWire cables also allow for peer-to-peer connections, so you can connect your digital devices directly to one another – no need for a computer for the devices to communicate. Also known as i.Link or IEEE 1394, this cable can transfer information between devices at a maximum distance of 100 meters. Read more


Increase Safety with Walkway Lighting Powered by the Sun

Official Smarthome Blog - Fri, 02/03/2012 - 5:00pm

Nature Power Solar Powered Pathway Lights are an indiscreet way of lighting up a frequently used path, flower bed to keep from getting trampled or dock for safety. These lights come in a pack of 2 and they are made of stainless steel for weather resistance to wear and corrosion. Each path light features a 0.2 watt amorphous solar panel which collects sunlight throughout the day to power the light at night. With a full battery charge each Solar Pathway Light will illuminate for up to 8 hours making it important to put in an area that can receive ample sun during the day time. At nightfall a photocell sensor will cause each light to automatically turn on and then turn off at dawn. With the Solar Powered Pathway Lights there is no need for wiring and no subsequent operating costs because they are powered by the sun rather than an electrical grid.

Learn more


Friday Squid Blogging: Clothing that Keeps an Exercise Journal

Schneier on Security - Fri, 02/03/2012 - 4:18pm
It's called Squid. As usual, you can also use this squid post to talk about the security stories in the news that I haven't covered....

The Problems of Too Much Information Sharing

Schneier on Security - Fri, 02/03/2012 - 2:49pm
Funny. Fake, but funny. Edited to add (2/3): The rest of the story....

The Innovative, High-Quality Storage Solutions for the Garage and Home

Official Smarthome Blog - Fri, 02/03/2012 - 2:00pm

The RacorPro+ ABL-1R Bike and Ladder Lift is a fabulous compliment to your garage storage needs, and it is made from indestructible aluminum for a lifetime of use. With its unique rail design and single point attachment, the ABL-1R is easy to install with provided hardware. It can be mounted directly to the joist or perpendicular to the joist without having to be mounted to a board first. Its unique cam lock secures the rope with every pull.

RacorPro+ products can help you organize the clutter and eliminate stress. Get the finest functionality for storage and access — with durability, ease of use and installation, superior engineering and unsurpassed quality. So if you’re the person who has everything, and getting more, put it away where it’s safe, handy and takes up less room. You’ll be proud of how your valuable gear is stored and displayed. Built with extra-heavy gauge materials and finished with a tough powder coating, products in the Racor line have been designed for lifetime use. Use Racor racks in your garage, laundry room, workout area, workshop, home office, and just about everywhere!

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Stay Safe and Secure by Wirelessly Illuminating Your Vehicle’s Surroundings

Official Smarthome Blog - Fri, 02/03/2012 - 1:00pm


There is no better way to keep yourself and loved ones safe, than to be able to see who is around your vehicle at night. The GoGear® remote controled LED car light is not only quick and convenient but it also has a range of up to 150 feet. The lighting unit installs easily and hangs from the rear-view mirror. Now you will be able to know exactly who is around your vehicle and where it is, by illuminating the interior from a distance.

Beyond safety, this light is great for routine vehicle care or roadside emergencies. The next time you are changing the tire or tinkering under the hood, you will be glad to have the extra light!

  • Remotely illuminates in and around the vehicle
  • Perfect for personal security, roadside emergency, and convenience
  • Use the included keychain remote to light 11 LED’s
  • Extremely portable for use in both auto and home

Read more


VeriSign Hacked, Successfully and Repeatedly, in 2010

Schneier on Security - Fri, 02/03/2012 - 10:49am
Reuters discovered the information: The VeriSign attacks were revealed in a quarterly U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filing in October that followed new guidelines on reporting security breaches to investors. It was the most striking disclosure to emerge in a review by Reuters of more than 2,000 documents mentioning breach risks since the SEC guidance was published. The company, unsurprisingly,...

Create a Stable and Worry-Free Workspace With Your Tripod

Official Smarthome Blog - Fri, 02/03/2012 - 10:00am

The TriPad® is a portable workspace for creative professionals that protects your valuable equipment and promotes efficiency. It conveniently slips over your existing tripod and presents you with a flat workspace for holding additional electronics. There are also two additional slide-out surfaces – add additional space and hold a beverage. It can easily hold your laptop, tablet, and any other necessary items while you work.

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