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Syndicate content The Official Smarthome Blog - All Things Home Automation
Home Automation Products for the Smart Home -- including: lighting control, security, home theater, surveillance, HVAC, sensors and more
Updated: 29 min 8 sec ago

Keep a USB Cable With You Wherever You Go!

Tue, 08/17/2010 - 6:45pm

Attach the Scosche Industries USBMM flipSYNC™ to your keychain and you’ll always have a USB charger at your fingertips. Connect either the micro or mini outputs into your MP3 player, smart phone, cell phone, digital camera, or gaming device and the other end into a USB port and you’ll always be able to charge and sync your devices, whether you are at home or on the road.

  • Attaches to your keychain
  • USB 2.0 for fastest data transfer possible
  • Always have your cable with you
  • Price: $17.99
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    Wear the Magnifier Around Your Neck and Take It Anywhere You Go

    Tue, 08/17/2010 - 4:15pm

    The Carson Optical LK-30 LED Lighted MagniLook™ is the magnifier that’s always ready! This magnifier boasts a 2.5x power crystal-clear acrylic lens with a 6x power spot lens, and a built-in ultra bright twin LED Lights. The MagniLook Magnifier can be used as both a pendant magnifier and as a hand-held magnifier. Simply unclasp the MagniLook Magnifier from the neck strap and it can be used hand held. You can also wear the MagniLook Magnifier around your neck and know where to find it when you need it! The Lighted MagniLook Magnifier is ideal for crafts, hobbies and everyday use.

  • LED Lighted Magnifier
  • 2.5x Power Crystal-Clear Acrylic Lens
  • 6x Power Spot Lens
  • Built-In Ultra Bright Twin LED Lights
  • Adjustable Neck Strap
  • Price: $8.94
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    Add Wireless Control to Socket Light Fixtures

    Tue, 08/17/2010 - 2:14pm

    The SL-6010 Socket gives you the ability to control any lamp – without the need for any wiring. Once you screw the SL-6010 into your lamp, you’ll be able to control it with various Heath/Zenith transmitter units.

    Installation only takes a few minutes – just adjust the group and code settings on SL-6010 and the controller. Then, you can turn the lamp on and off without getting up from the couch.

  • No wiring – screws into standard medium base sockets
  • For indoor and outdoor use
  • For use with up to 150 W incandescent lighting
  • Add ON, OFF and Dimming control to lights
  • Up to 100 ft transmission range
  • Selectable coding allows the use of multiple units in the same location
  • Price: $21.11
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    Wirelessly Detects Motion to Keep Your Property Secure

    Tue, 08/17/2010 - 1:00pm

    Keep you home or business secure, day or night. The SL-6030-WH Wireless Motion Sensor can be mounted anywhere you’d like to detect movement. The unit is battery-operated so you won’t have to worry about adding extra wiring, making the sensor more discrete and less obvious to potential intruders. Once movement is sensed, the unit will automatically send commands to any connected lights.

  • Controls lights within 100 ft of sensor
  • Detects motion 180° arc up to 70 ft away
  • Selectable light timer of 1 or 5 minutes
  • Weather sealed battery compartment uses 2 AA batteries (not included)
  • Adjustable mounting bracket for eave or wall
  • Detects motion day/night or at night only
  • Selectable coding allows the use of multiple units in the same location
  • Price: $20.35
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    Control A/V Components Behind Doors or Walls with this IR Receiver Resitant to Plasma, LED, and LCD TVs, and CFL Lighting

    Tue, 08/17/2010 - 12:11pm

    The interference from a wall mount TV can wreak havoc with your IR control system. Xantech designed this Universal Dinky Link IR Receiver to resist the interference from plasma, LCD and LED TVs, as well as fluorescent and compact fluorescent lighting (CFL), and sunlight – so you can mount this receiver in any room with confidence. The included Dinky Link compact, IR receiver was designed for mounting in very small spaces and has been engineered specifically to receive extended signals from up to 120 feet away. Additionally, it will resist IR interference caused by Plasma, LCD ad LED TVs, CFL lighting and sunlight. It includes a white, silver and black trim kit that snaps into place so it will match your AV equipment.

  • IR receiver can be mounted almost anywhere
  • IR receiver specifically designed to resist interference from Plasma, LCD and LED TVs, CFL lightijng and sunlight
  • 3.5mm plug makes connection simple
  • Talkback red LED blinks confirmation
  • Exteneded IR receiver range accepts IR commands from up to 120 feet away
  • Wire channel for clean installation
  • Price: $179.44
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    Control Lights From a Distance with Wireless Remote Switch Set

    Mon, 08/16/2010 - 7:30pm

    The Heath/Zenith WC-6025-WH Wireless Remote Lamp Socket Kit gives you convenient control of a light from across a distance. The remote control works with the socket up to 100 feet away so you will not have to get up to turn off a forgotten light. The remote control allows you to turn on, off and dim up to five different light levels. Each remote comes with an optional visor clip so you can control lights from your car and a 12 volt, A23 battery. The socket receiver is for use with up to 150 watts of incandescent lighting.

  • Remote activates lamp socket to turn ON, OFF and Dim lights
  • Add ON, OFF and 5 level dimming control to lights
  • Selectable coding allows the use of multiple units in the same location
  • Price: $33.24
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    Transmit Stereo Bluetooth with Any MP3 Player!

    Mon, 08/16/2010 - 6:42pm

    The Scosche Industries tuneSTREAM enables you to stream music from your music player to your speakers. Once you plug in your MP3 player, you’ll be able to wirelessly transmit your audio up to 30 feet. Cell phone and stereo adapters are included, so you can use tuneSTREAM with any audio device with a headphone jack.

  • Supports A2DP streaming audio
  • 30 ft wireless range
  • 2.0 Bluetooth compliant
  • 8-hour battery life
  • Includes USB charging cable and cell phone and home stereo adapters
  • Price: $69.99
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    Hear What Real Customers Have to Say in This Review of the ToggleLinc Dimmer – INSTEON Remote Control Dimmer Switch, White 2466DW!

    Mon, 08/16/2010 - 6:39pm

    JOSH — TOMBALL, TX Date: 6/25/2010
    Review: Great piece of equipment!!

    PETE — LOUISVILLE, KY Date: 5/13/2010
    Review: Praiseworthy without reservation.

    WALTER — MONROE, NC Date: 3/29/2010
    Review: Works great with both x10 controller and 8 Button Insteon Keypad.

    ERIC — TALLAHASSEE, FL Date: 12/19/2009
    Review: Combined with the motion sensor, I am able to fully utilize the floodlights around my house. Being able to dim the floodlights is a nice feature.

    Read More Reviews

    OR

    Buy the ToggleLinc Dimmer – INSTEON Remote Control Dimmer Switch, White 2466DW at Smarthome.com


    Add Light Switch Control to Any Wired Lights Without New Wiring

    Mon, 08/16/2010 - 4:45pm

    The BL-6133-LA Wireless Add-On Switch gives you to ability to add an extra switch to any wired light or outlet, without adding new wiring. Connect the receiving unit to the light or outlet’s existing wiring. Then, mount the transmitter in the desired location.

    The transmitter sends commands through radio frequency (RF), so you won’t have to worry about unsightly and complicated wiring. A great addition to any room with multiple entrances, the Wireless Add On Switch prevents you from needing to walk across the room to the wired switch.

  • Controls On and Off of lights
  • Up to 100 ft transmission range
  • Controls 500 W incandescent lighting only
  • Wireless wall switch is battery operated
  • Wired switch fits standard wiring boxes
  • Price: $18.98
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    Add Light Switch Control to Any Socket Fixture Without New Wiring

    Mon, 08/16/2010 - 2:30pm

    The BL-6138-LA Switch and Socket gives you to ability to add wall switch control to any lamp, without adding new wiring. Simply screw the socket into the desired lamp. Then, mount the transmitter in the desired location. The transmitter sends commands through radio frequency (RF), so you won’t have to worry about unsightly and complicated wiring. And you’ll easily be able to control the light when you walk in and out of the room, rather than stumbling through to get to the lamp.

  • Controls On and Off of socket fixtures
  • Up to 100 ft transmission range
  • Controls 150 W incandescent and fluorescent lighting
  • Wireless wall switch is battery operated
  • Price: $18.98
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    Smarthome™ Expands Its Energy Saving Product Offering with Lutron® Light and Fan Controls

    Mon, 08/16/2010 - 1:00pm

    Irvine, CA – August 16, 2010 – Smarthome™ announced today that it has expanded its offering of appliance and lighting controls by launching over 100 products from light control manufacturer Lutron Electronics, Co., Inc.

    The Lutron product offering includes the Maestro® eco-minder™ dimmer and eco-timer™ light and fan control, plus the Maestro Wireless® system with Radio PowrSavr™ wireless occupancy sensor.

    The Maestro line of products includes several innovative light and fan control options that not only offer convenience, but also save energy.

    The Maestro eco-minder dimmer features an LED that changes from red to green when at least 15% energy is being saved. The Maestro eco-timer saves energy by automatically turning the fan or lights off after a set period of time.

    Maestro Wireless offers impressive lighting control functionality and convenience that will fit almost any commercial or residential application. Radio PowrSavr wireless sensors give the system even greater flexibility, plus the added benefit of improved energy savings. The Maestro Wireless system is incredibly easy to install and operate, allowing customers to control light levels with any combination of up to 10 dimmers, switches, sensors and wireless controls – all with the touch of a button.

    “We are certainly excited to partner with Lutron and offer our customers yet another fantastic product base,” said Mike Scharnagl, Director of Marketing at Smarthome. “The addition of Lutron products continues our commitment to our customers as a one-stop source for all their home automation, lighting and appliance control needs.”

    “Lutron is delighted to be entering into a relationship with Smarthome,” said Michael Maholick, marketing director at Lutron Electronics. “Our energy-saving, easy to install dimmers and fan controls are a great complement to their existing product line.”

    Lutron products can be found online at Smarthome.com/lutron


    Magnifier Desk Lamp Provides Large Viewing Area for Any Hobby

    Mon, 08/16/2010 - 11:15am

    The Carson Optical LM-20 DeskBrite™ 200 LED Magnifier Lamp is a 2x LED magnifier desk lamp with a 6x power spot lens. The DeskBrite 200 Magnifier Desk Lamp features two super-bright LED lights, while it’s large 4″ crystal-clear acrylic lens provides a large viewing area for any hobby. The DeskBrite 200 LED Magnifier Desk Lamp also has a flexible neck that allows you to position the Magnifier where you need it. The DeskBrite 200 LED Magnifier Desk Lamp plugs into any standard outlet or can be powered by using 3 AA batteries (not included).

  • LED Magnifier Desk Lamp
  • 6x Power Spot Lens
  • Two Super-Bright LED Lights
  • Large 4″ Crystal-Clear Acrylic Lens
  • Flexible Neck
  • Price: $39.94
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    Install a Dual Rocker Switch to Control a Fan/Light Without Running Any Wire and Avoid Tearing into Walls

    Sun, 08/15/2010 - 7:00pm

    The AD HOC Electronics Fan/Light Combo Wireless Light Switch Kit is the ideal solution for adding independent operation of a ceiling light and fan into the space of one wall mounted dual rocker switch – without running any wires or needing to enter you walls! The Light/Fan Combo Switch Kit includes two RF relay receivers and one dual rocker self-powered wireless light switch. One receiver is wired to the light and the other is wired to the fan, the receivers are then stored in the light box. Because the light switch is a dual rocker, one rocker is programmed to the light receiver and the other is programmed to the fan receiver through a simple learning process. This battery-free wireless light switch saves you time and hassle by eliminating the need for wires and switch boxes. Traditionally the wireless light switch is surface mounted on a wall with screws or industrial tape but can also be used in a standard switch box or as a wireless hand held remote. The switch is powered by EnOcean technology that converts the press of the switch into a small amount of electricity. This electricity is used to transmit a radio frequency (RF) wireless signal that communicates with the relay receiver. Perfect when replacing a single light with a new light/fan combo. Easily control the light and fan separately without the hassle of installing a second switch and running new wires.

  • Control a ceiling fan and light separately via radio frequency (RF) via a wireless switch
  • Self-powered wireless light switch provides its own power using a built-in microgenerator
  • Dual rocker design of light switch offers independent control of each relay receiver (two included)
  • Each relay receiver can be wired to one light or group of lights (up to 200W) or a ceiling fan
  • Wireless transmission range up to 98 feet
  • Wirelessly communicates with other devices via EnOcean radio frequency (RF) protocol
  • Price: $239.84
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    Green Up Your Calls with this Solar-Powered Bluetooth Speakerphone!

    Sun, 08/15/2010 - 6:16pm

    The Scosche Industries solCHAT™ II features an integrated solar panel that will continuously recharge the lithium ion battery. The unit can be mounted on your windshield or visor, so you’ll never have to use an uncomfortable earpiece again! With DSP echo cancellation, you’ll have crystal clear transmission, even in noisy vehicles. Once set up, you’ll be able to perform most of your phone’s functions, such as answering, toggling between calls, etc. with the solCHAT II multi-function button. A USB charging cable and car adapter are included for directly charging the unit.

  • Solar powered hands-free speakerphone
  • Voice announce caller ID says the name of up to 1000 contacts
  • DSP echo cancellation ensures a crystal clear conversation even in noisy vehicles
  • One-touch voice dialing with most Bluetooth cell phones
  • Includes windshield and visor mounts and cradles
  • Price: $89.99
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    Keep a USB Cable on Your Keychain with the New flipSync!

    Sun, 08/15/2010 - 5:57pm

    Attach the Scosche Industries IPUSBM flipSYNC™ to your keychain and you’ll always have a charger at your fingertips. Connect one end into your iPod or iPhone and the other into a USB port and you’ll always be able to charge your device, whether you are at home or on the road.

  • Attaches to your keychain
  • Conveniently charge and sync your iPod or iPhone
  • USB 2.0 for fastest data transfer possible
  • Price: $17.99
  • Read more


    Safeguard Your Water Supply With the ConservCo DSL-2 Hose Bibb Lock with Padlock !

    Sun, 08/15/2010 - 4:57pm

    The Hose Bibb Lock is designed to prevent both water theft and vandalism to outdoor faucets and hose spigots.

    The Hose Bibb Lock’s fitting assembly screws securely onto the end of any standard garden Hose Bibb, yard hydrant, or vacuum breaker. The cover is placed over the fitting assembly, and locked with the included padlock.

    The Hose Bibb Lock is designed so that the cover and padlock spin freely around the fitting assembly, preventing anyone without the key from using the faucet.

    Water won’t flow – even if the handle is turned to the full open position unless you remove the Hose Bibb Lock.

  • Prevents unauthorized use of water or vandalism
  • Prevents leaks and water waste even if spigot is turned on
  • Attaches to standard sillcock faucets and valves
  • Padlock included
  • Price: $15.77
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    Xantech ML95K Universal Micro Link IR Receiver Kit, Extended Range

    Sun, 08/15/2010 - 4:52pm

    The interference from a wall mount TV can wreak havoc with your IR control system. Xantech designed this Universal Micro Link IR Receiver to resist the interference from plasma, LCD and LED TVs, as well as fluorescent and compact fluorescent lighting (CFL), and sunlight – so you can mount this receiver in any room with confidence. The Universal Micro Link IR Receiver Kit makes it possible to control up to four different audio and video components behind solid doors or walls using your existing IR remote.

    The IR receiver is a small peep-hole style infrared repeater assembly, perfect for a nearly flush in-wall or cabinet installation with minimal footprint for a professional finish. The high sensitivity and extended range of this receiver allows it to receive IR commands up to 120 feet away, it also includes a ‘talkback’ LED so you’ll know the command was received and sent to the emitter. Using the included connecting block, you can connect the IR receiver to the four IR emitter ports. The connecting block supplies power to the IR receiver using the included power supply. The connecting block receives IR signals coming from the IR receiver and distributes the IR signals out to your audio and video components using the included IR emitters. With a Xantech IR Kit, equipment can now be concealed for clean room design. In addition, a centralized IR receiver means there is only one IR target resulting in improved remote control interaction. Featuring color-coded connectors, a Xantech IR Kit is easy to install, and allows a worry-free installation. Includes Black, Brass and White bezels.

  • Control audio/video equipment from up to120 feet away
  • Includes Universal Micro Link IR Receiver, Connecting Block, Power supply and four single emitters
  • IR receiver specifically designed to resist interference from Plasma, LCD and LED TVs, CFL lighting and sunlight
  • Peephole-style receiver mounts in 1/2″ diameter hole 2″ deep ideal for cabinet doors or walls
  • Green Talkback LED for System Verification
  • Color-coded connectors for fast, easy installation
  • 3.5mm plug makes connection simple
  • Wire channel for clean installation
  • Price: $200.00
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    Use DeskBrite as a Magnifier or a Desk Lamp

    Sun, 08/15/2010 - 4:30pm

    The Carson Optical LM-50 DeskBrite™ 400 Magnifier is a 1.75x LED magnifier desk lamp with a 4x power spot lens. The DeskBrite features 10 super-bright LED’s to illuminate your viewing subject. The large crystal-clear acrylic lens ensures a bright, sharp and clear image. Open the hinge for use as a magnifier or close the hinge for use as a desk lamp. The DeskBrite magnifier lamp plugs into any standard outlet, no batteries are required. The DeskBrite is a perfect and handsome addition to any desk.

  • Magnifier LED Desk Lamp
  • 4x Power Spot Lens
  • 10 Super-Bright LEDs
  • Large Crystal-Clear Acrylic Lens
  • Open the Hinge for Use as a Magnifier
  • Close the Hinge for Use as a Desk Lamp
  • Price: $74.99
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    Real Customer Reviews of the SwitchLinc 3-Way Dimmer – INSTEON 3-Way Dimmer Kit 2494M3

    Sat, 08/14/2010 - 7:18pm

    Check out what some real customers had to say about the SwitchLinc 3 Way Dimmer:

    PAUL — MORENO VALLEY, CA Date: 2/27/2010
    Review: Nice that they came pre-programmed to work as a pair. Not too difficult to install but bit harder than a normal switch. Pay attention to the instructions as they wire without the traveler wire between them used.

    VERLIN — SOUTH BELOIT, IL Date: 1/4/2010
    Review: I’m converting my house from X-10 to Insteon. The SwitchLinc 3Way Dimmer was one of the last items I had to install. Wiring was easy and linking to my SmartLinc worked fine. Being a 3Way it was a little more complicated, but went well by following your directions. Worked the first time it was turned on.

    STEVEN — MIDDLETOWN, MD Date: 12/19/2009
    Review: Very good product, wiring diagram not as detailed as it should be (the single red wire labeled LOAD goes to the LOAD, and the red wire labeled LOAD running with the HOT wire goes to LINE).

    MARK — MINNETONKA, MN Date: 12/17/2009
    Review: Works just perfectly. I’m no electrician, but I was able to follow the directions and set this up.

    Read More Reviews

    OR

    Buy the SwitchLinc 3-Way Dimmer – INSTEON 3-Way Dimmer Kit 2494M3 at Smarthome.com


    Receivers Provide an Easy way to Add Self-powered Wireless Control to Lighting Control and Security Systems

    Sat, 08/14/2010 - 7:15pm

    The AD HOC Electronics 8-Channel Low Voltage Relay Receiver accepts wireless signals from other AD HOC EnOcean-enabled wireless light switches and sensors. It can be used to connect wireless light switches or door/window sensors to existing security, lighting, media, HVAC and other control systems. The low voltage relay receiver provides 8 channels of relay output which mirror the status of battery-free, EnOcean-compatible wireless transmitters. The relays provide wireless links to magnetic proximity window/door sensors or wireless light switches. The receiver receives information from EnOcean transmitters using a simple “ID learn-sequence” that stores transmitter IDs (addresses) in its EEPROM memory. This allows the receiver to store an association between each switch and each relay output. When used with compatible switches, the relays can be configured to toggle with each button press or provide momentary relay closure while the button is held and released. Also available as an 4-Channel Low Voltage Relay Receiver.

  • Compatible with AD HOC EnOcean enabled RF modules (868 MHz)
  • Easily add window/door sensors or self-powered wireless lighting to existing systems
  • Each unit can support up to 30 associations
  • Wirelessly communicates with other devices via EnOcean radio frequency (RF) protocol
  • 100 foot average range
  • Price: $189.95
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