Home Automation DIY

SpeakerCraft, Crestron, Savant among companies with iPhone support.

Remember the iPod invasion? Now that it’s faster and runs applications, welcome to the iPhone invasion.

Apple’s iPhone, originally launched in 2007 with a second-gen model released in July, will increasingly be integrated into your clients’ home control and automation systems, thanks to its feature-set and wireless capabilities.

Many companies offered iPhone interfaces for applications (basically Web sites that the phone could log on to and interact with), but with the launch of the Application Store, the iPhone has turned into a wireless platform host to a number of control options.

While third-party developers are getting in on the act, a number of custom big-wigs have already announced iPhone support.

So when your clients begin asking you for integration with their new iPhones, will you be able to comply?

We sure hope so. We’ve rounded up some of the first iPhone applications and interfaces available.

Click here to view the 7 iPhone applications and interfaces for custom installation systems.

Source: CE Pro

As the iPhone grows in popularity, so too does the amount of home control manufacturers offering iPhone interfaces for home control systems.

The latest application is a plug-in Web server from SmartLabs called the NetLinc Insteon Central Controller.

NetLinc turns the iPhone, iPod touch, PC or any Web-enabled device into a wireless remote for Insteon-compatible lighting, HVAC, appliances and security systems. (more…)

Second generation of HomeSeer’s home controller HomeTroller 2 supports Z-Wave, Insteon and X10 out of the box, and offers about 20 optional drivers, plug-ins and applications. Retails now for $895.

Key Features of HomeTroller 2

• Built-in web server for remote access anywhere.
• Easy-to-use web interface allows easy access and control with any web browser.
• Supports the widest variety of user interfaces, including in-wall button controllers, touchscreens, wireless remotes, PDAs, PocketPCs, cellphones and voice (microphones).
• Compatible with a wide variety of technologies and companies including Lutron, Leviton, Z-Wave, UPB, Insteon and many others.
• Designed for voice control by microphone and telephone.
• Creates alerts, announcements and reminders by email, telephone and text message.
• Supports complete telephone messaging with caller ID announcements (w/optional telephone interface).
• Includes calendar-based functions for easy scheduling.
• Automation events may be created ‘on-the-fly’ using voice commands.
• HSProtect guards the embedded operating system from virus, spyware and malware attacks.
• HSSentry continuously monitors the unit to ensure extremely reliable operation.
• Fanless, diskless design for ultimate mechanical reliability.
• Ultra low power consumption conserves energy and lowers utility bills.
• Includes true ‘trigger-based’ automation with advanced conditional options.
• Built-in power failure recovery feature runs events missed during outages when power is restored.
• Includes multiple serial and USB ports for integration with the most commonly used technology interfaces.

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