ControlThink
ControlThink offers an entry-level system that communicates commands to devices wirelessly. It can be installed and configured via the PC by a do-it-yourselfer. www.controlthink.com
Destiny Networks
Destiny’s claim to fame is a system that allows you to control devices by simply stating your wishes verbally. It also offers a system that lets you control your A/V gear first and then expand to control other devices. www.destinynetworks.com
Digital Media Research
The Personal Digital Hub streams music, movies and digital photos to receiver units located throughout your house. It lets you control the lights, security system and other electronic devices as well. www.dmrworld.com
Elk Products
The M1 is a security system on steroids. It does all the functions you’d expect from a top-notch security system. With additional hardware, it can also manage the lights and heating and cooling system. www.elkproducts.com
Embedded Automation
The company’s mControl software is designed to run on a Windows XP Media Center PC and allows you to monitor and control a variety of devices through an interface displayed on the screen of your TV. www.embeddedautomation.com
GE Security
You can start with a basic security system and then add on components that let you operate a variety of electronic devices. A cool talking keypad informs you of happenings around your house. www.gesecurity.com
Home Automation Inc.
HAI has been creating simple, intuitive home control systems since 1985 and has one of the most successful track records in the home control industry. Its system can command just about anything electronic as well as distribute music throughout the house. www.homeauto.com
Homeseer Technologies
Homeseer’s PC-based software program allows you to control many devices from dozens of different manufacturers. Consequently, you can pick and choose the devices you like rather than having to buy a prepackaged system. www.homeseer.com
Honeywell
Honeywell has it all: heating and cooling systems, security systems and now wiring systems that can network Honeywell products and systems together so that you can manage and control them from one keypad or remote. www.honeywell.com
JDS Technologies
Another automation developer that’s been around for years, JDS Technologies churns out innovative products that invite homeowners to set up their own systems. One of its latest software products, the Pocket WebX, lets you control your home from a Wi-Fi-enabled Pocket PC. www.jdstechnologies.com
Monster Cable
Monster’s OnQ Inside System is modular, meaning you can pick and choose a package that fits your needs: whole-house music, intercoms, home theater or home control. Monster also offers a system that combines the control of lighting and home theater equipment under a single handheld remote. www.monstercable.com
NetStreams
This company started by offering a networked entertainment system, but it recently added a system that can also control certain brands of lighting, heating and cooling, and telephone systems. www.netstreams.com
Remote Technologies Inc. (RTI)
From remote controls to full-blown home control systems, RTI has all the bases covered. Its latest product, the T4, is a handheld touchscreen that’s ideally suited for operating a home theater and a whole-house entertainment system. www.rticorp.com
Residential Control Systems
You can buy intelligent thermostats and zone controllers for your heating and cooling system from RCS as well as a complete home control system that includes keypads and touchpanels. www.resconsys.com
Superna
The ControlBox system transmits commands over a home’s Wi-Fi network to lights, thermostats and other devices. Because no new wiring needs to be added, it’s easy and affordable to have the system installed. www.supernasystems.com
Universal Electronics Inc.
Nevo is a suite of technology that enables complete home and digital media control with the use of a handheld universal remote. www.mynevo.com
Universal Remote Control
A wide range of handheld remotes are available from Universal Remote, the most sophisticated of which come preprogrammed with codes to operate lights as well as a host of A/V equipment throughout the house. www.universal-remote.com
By Lisa Montgomery, senior editor for Electronic House magazine. To see more articles from the editors of Electronic House magazine about the connected home visit www.electronichouse.com.
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