European Custom Installer

System Integration for the Connected Home

Home Automation

Gesture Detection via Wifi

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University of Washington researchers propose a novel gesture detection technology-- WiSee, a system using regular wifi signals instead of cameras or sensors to detect control gestures, without need for line-of-sight.

WiseeThe technology measures the so-called "Doppler frequency shift" caused in wireless signal frequency by body movements. Such frequency changes are very small (several hertz compared to 5GHz wifi signals), yet UW says the technology identifies up to 9 different whole-body gestures through a clever algorithm measuring these slight shifts.

“This is repurposing wireless signals that already exist in new ways,” UW lead researcher Shyam Gollakota says. “You can actually use wireless for gesture recognition without needing to deploy more sensors.”

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Android-Powered Home Automation

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Automated Control Technology Partners (ACTP) prepares to launch Turn it On (TiO) at InfoComm 2013-- an Android-based home automation brand promising an "outside in" philosophy focused on the consumer experience.

TIO AutomationThe company claims it will offer installers not only an easy-to-install automation solution, but also powerful features, scalability and a pricing model flexible enough to reach a broad consumer base.

“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,” ACTP CEO Mike Anderson (ex-JVC, Niles Audio and Russound) says. “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 want to deliver a solution that adapts to the customer instead of asking the customer to adapt to the system.”

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Savant Intros HDBaseT Modules

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Savant launches the SmartLink digital modules-- output and receiving modules transmitting A/V signals over up to 100m of CAT 5e/6 cable via HDBaseT technology.

Savant moduleOutput modules are available in 2- and 4-port versions, while the receiving modules comes in a wall plate form factor with ethernet, HDMI and control outputs accessible from the device front panel.

SmartLink Modules break out the HDBaseT power, ethernet and control components, directing them to a separate cable. Savant infrastructure allows remote diagnostic tool access, including HDBaseT connection status, real-time video connection and resolution monitoring, EDID monitoring and network status information.

HDBaseT modules will start shipping as Savant SmartMediaPro controller service cards from Q2 2013.

Go Savant Introduces SmartLink Digital Modules

Price Disruption: $1500 Price For 50“ Ultra HD

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Seiki

In USA, Seiki sets a new low with a 50” Ultra HD edge-lit LED LCD TV at $1500 suggested retail.

That may trigger a mass market for 4K Ultra High-Definition TV but Seiki Digital but it also adds pressure on TV makers trying to come-back from a few years of terrible losses.

Seiki’s 50-inch is one of the smallest offering native 4K by 2K (3840 by 2160) resolution.

Westinghouse Digital also has announced plans for a 55”Ultra HD model at $3000 and a 65-inch version at $3995.

Compare that to Sony in USA who just announced on April 7th their “low cost” bid: a 55” 4K Ultra at a $5000 suggested retail, a 65” at $7000, and a $25,000 Ultra HD 84”.

This is the first such set to be introduced in the USA by Seiki. In an ironic twist, the Seiki push on low cost TVs is fueled by patent acquisition from…Vizio, the American market leader in low cost LCD TV. Without the Vizio success, other low cost TV sellers might not have a role model (and therefore investors!) to face up against incumbent international YV brands.

Go Seiki Buys Into Vizio Patents

Elan g! Gets 6.2 Update

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Elan updates the g! home automation system to version 6.2-- adding global weather-based event triggers, a native Apple OSX app, GUI enhancements, improved security features and simplified integrator customisation procedures.

Elan g! 6.2Perhaps most of interest to customers are the weather triggers. The result of a partnership with Weather Underground, the update provides global customers with up to date weather updates and enables installers to program specific automation trigger events based on local forecasts. Thus the system activates devices such as motorised window shutters, irrigation system, thermostats and email alerts depending on temperature, humidity and wind conditions.

The update also simplifies customisation by adding Power Variables, Boolean logic and structure work to the Configurator.

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vNet is Dead, Long Live ACTP

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3vNet (formerly known as Colorado vNet) owner Mike Anderson forms a new company-- Automated Control Technology Partners (ACTP), one set to serve as parent company for a number of brands, including 3vNet.

ACTPOn May 2013 ACTP will launch a new home automation brand before it discontinues the 3vNet brand and sales on 31 December 2013. ACTP hopes the date gives dealers enough time to wrap up existing projects and ease transition into a new product line.

The company will still service the needs of existing 3vNet customers and honour current warranties.

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HAI by Leviton Adds Yale Connectivity

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HAI by Leviton adds Yale Real Living as connectivity partner-- providing 2-way integration with Yale ZigBee and Z-Wave wireless door locks.

HAI by leviton locksThe integration allows remote lock status monitoring, as well as remote door locking and unlocking. Customers also also lock and unlock up to 16 doors via Hai by Leviton ethernet touchscreens, key fobs and remotely via Apple and Android mobile devices.

Users can trigger for other scenes or events in the home (such as automatic setting lighting, music and temperature) according to the un/locked door status, and check who accesses doors by code.

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