Two smartphone-enabled home automation and security product developers team up-- motion-sensing dock maker Lumawake and security system developer Lockitron combine the forces of their respective products.

According to the two companies the newly announced combination provides an intelligent door able to automatically lock up once users are fast asleep.

Designed as a sleep recognition system, the Lumawake dock already offers integration with home automation systems such as SmartThings and WeMo.

Meanwhile Lockitron sells an internet connected (via wifi) door lock complete with keyless entry via app, NFC, Bluetooth or SMS commands. The lock is compatible with most through-hole or cylindrical deadbolts and is also usable with interconnected deadbolts once the interconnecting plate is removed.

The two devices are currently available for preorder, and Lockitron is also looking for international channel partners.

Go Lumawake

Go Lockitron

Swann launches the TruBlue 4000 series of D1 DVRs for security applications-- with "DVD-quality" video recording, HDMI connectivity and remote viewing over iOS, Android and BlackBerry devices.

The D1 DVR is available in either 4- (DVR4-4000) or 8-channel (DVR8-4000) configurations, allowing users to simultaneously view and record from up to x8 6000TVL indoor/outdoor cameras.

The 6000TVL cameras feature night vision up to 20m.

Monitoring comes through either split screen (for multiple camera views) or full screen high resolution (704 x 480) footage from a single camera, with HDMI or VGA connections.

In-built storage comes in 500GB or 1TB sizes, recording around 30 days of continuous footage (more if using motion detection settings). Users can also back up recordings via USB, eSATA or network.

Meanwhile the free SwannView app allows remote viewing on iOS, Android and BlackBerry devices.

Go Swann D1 DVR

Home protection manufacturer Vision Security launches a Z-Wave network-enabled door lock for smart homes and businesses-- the ZM1702, with functionality such as remote activation via alarm panels, PCs and mobile devices.

A keypad control panel allows the programming of specific access code, while setting options allow the creation of temporary access codes for specific times of day, days of the week or even limited periods of time.

The lock handles up to 15 different access codes covering different requirements. PC software also registers every attempt to unlock the door, whether successful or not.

The system is compatible with European standards and lock installation does not require special modification to doors, since it fits into conventional doors with thickness of 38mm or more.

It is available with either an external lever or door and has a cylinder lock (locks from the outside with keys) and rotary knob.

Go Vision Security

iRoom's iDock Touchcode could be the world's most secure iPad in-wall mount.

iRoom’s iDock Touchcode is a solution forwhenever your iPad needs to be securely stored. For digital signage use in public areas like showrooms or shops, as control panel for boardrooms or as the intelligent concierge in hotels, the possible applications are endless.

Thanks to the integrated keypad, the iPad can be locked in the docking station and can only be released by entering a 4-digit number code.

The LED lit keypad is activated by a proximity sensor and will turn on¬ after entering the security code.

Your iPad is continuously charged while in the docking station. With iRoom’s iDock Touchcode, iPad is always safely stored as well as fully charged.

A recent IBM patent points what might the next big thing in home automation and security-- systems turning floors into "smart" multitouch surfaces.

Titled "securing premises using surface-based computing technology," patent no. 8138882 describes a system able to determine who is in the house and what they are doing via database of registered identities (recording weight, shape and number of feet).

Should an unauthorised person stand on the floor, the system sounds off alarms or call the authorities-- just like traditional security systems. It can also let the home owner know where family members are, issuing alerts in case children or pets go in off-limit areas or switching on lights when registered residents are home.

The IBM system also has great potential for home health applications-- sensing accidents (such as falls) and sending out appropriate alerts.

An other use the patent suggests is keeping tabs on what teens are doing when parents are away, by sensing "unregistered objects" like banned boyfriends...

One question, however, remains-- is IBM planning to do anything with the patent? According to MSNBC, the company says "The newly-patented invention is not part of a product or solution and we can't speculate about if or how it will be implemented."

Go Multitouch Floor May Someday Detect Your Heart Attack (MSNBC)

HAI announces the MicroControl, a stand-alone remote control for ZigBee wireless door locks-- providing homeowners or building managers a status for each lock and the ability to remotely lock or unlock specific doors.

The company says ZigBee integration is specifically verified with Black & Decker Kwikset SmartCode locks, but the remote should work with other locks supporting the standard ZigBee Home Automation profile lock cluster.

The ZigBee door lock integrations are compatible with all Ethernet-enabled Omni and Lumina controllers, including Omni Pro II, Omni IIe, Lumina Pro, and Lumina, using firmware version 3.10 or later. The integrations require use of the HAI MicroControl (HAI part number 81A00-2WHZB) or the HAI Zigbee Interface Module (part number 81A00-3ZB) running firmware 14.08 or later.

Go HAI Releases Stand-Alone Remote Functionality with Kwikset ZigBee Door Locks