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ADT Pulse.
Xfinity Home Automation. And even AT&T's entry is the "Digital Life ". Security companies aren't alone when it comes to helping you plan for and create an automated home. For a lot of us our first introduction to this concept came with the futuristic and fictitious cartoon family, the Jetson's. In 2062 the Jetson's and their homelife boasted of such applications as aero-cars , video calls, talking computers which performed household tasks and robotic maids. What appeared so far fetched then is currently available in houses of today. We already communicate with video conference calls, and small scale robots sweep our floors. What used to be reserved for the rich and famous is now being made available to the masses. Home Automation You probably have some fashion of home automation at work for you now. Does your coffee maker brew your morning cup of joe while you sleep? Does your garage door opener sync with your automobile? Do you have interior lights on a timer when you are away? These are basic features of an automated home. A more elaborate method of home automation is having a computer or network of computers used to control home functions and features automatically and sometimes remotely. This is commonly known as a "smart house". These operations can include the scheduling or instantaneously turning on/off of your interior/exterior lights, locking/unlocking doors, controlling your thermostat, activating/de-activating your security system and even operating small household appliances, all remotely from a computer or mobile device. Some of the more sophisticated features allow your home to perform tasks such as playing soft music, turning up lights in your bedroom and gradually opening your blinds all at your specified wake-up time. Or another example: Your homes fire/smoke alarm rings, this task triggers successive to do's such as calling 911, unlocking doors in your home so you can exit or safety personnel can enter and waking you and your family through a blaring siren.You can even program an intercom message telling you to get out of the house. It has been said of billionaire Bill Gates' smart house;
Graphics done by CavewomanStudios With Z-wavetechnology each device is embedded with a code, when the device is plugged into the system (brain) it recognizes the code, determines it's location and adds it to the network. When a command comes through, the controller uses the algorithm to determine how the message is sent. Routing messages can take up a lot of memory, Z-wave has developed a hierarchy between devices better responding to messages and their distribution. Zigbee technology uses "zig-zags", which looks for the best path to the receiver. Graphics done by CavewomanStudios Using a wireless network provides more flexibility for placing devices, but like electrical lines, they might have interference. Insteon offers a "dual mesh network". if the message isn't getting through on one platform, it will try the other. An Insteon device will broadcast the message; all devices pick up the message and broadcast it until the command is performed. The more Insteon devices installed on a network the stronger the message will be. Products You will need products to carry out these automated functions, here is a limited list;
The Market The market is flooded with companies wanting to assist you with your automated project. Larger companies like ADT, Vivint, Xfinity and others can take the guess work out of creating a complete system. They can provide you with a full automation package. They can also come with a hefty monthly expense, so do your homework and make sure you know what you are getting. For sophisticated systems you can spend upwards of $10,000 or more. But there is another way. The DIY market is a viable option. Most basic systems are simple in nature and tools. Many products are available in starter kits and can be purchased from home improvement stores, electronic stores, online venues, or check with your security technician to see what they recommend or if they have entry level systems. Do-it-yourself systems vary in cost depending on what you get. New companies launching home automation devices spring up on a daily basis. In addition to X10, Z-wave and Zigbee entries, companies like Lowe's and Staples are jumping into the do-it-yourself home automation category. In considering a DIY system be sure and research optional service plans, software required, whether or not your smartphone has a compatible app and the quality of workmanship (just read the customer reviews). This will help you in building a complete system that fits your home, wallet and lifestyle. Benefits Some could argue the benefits of having a smart system outweighs it's cost. And some could say a smart home would only perpetuate human laziness. But is it more about convenience and simplicity? Or necessity to assist homeowners with everyday tasks. We've all seen the commercial; Mom is at work, stuck in a roundtable meeting. Her son texts that he's locked out of the house. With a few taps on her cellphone she unlocks the front door so her son can get in. Convenience? or Necessity? One form of home automation called assistive domotics focuses on making it possible for the elderly and disabled to remain at home. This can delay moving to a healthcare facility or nursing home. This field uses much of the same technology and equipment as home automation for security, entertainment, and energy conservation but tailors it towards the elderly and disabled. Downsides This is all great life altering stuff but what are the downsides to this technology?
There has never been so many choices in home automation and the parade of options is just beginning. As fast as you research one company and it's latest entry in the automation field, a new product crops up. Take the time to look at your specific needs and think realistically about what tasks you would like to use in the future. Decide if this is something you feel comfortable doing yourself or if you want to leave it to the experts. Amazon Home Automation is a great place to start to research DIY products. Some day I suspect we will all be using some form of home automation, take your time and research your options. Talk to neighbors and friends who are already set-up and see what they consider to be the pros and cons, otherwise you may be the one yelling, "Jane,...stop this crazy thing!" Ok here is the scenario. You live in an apartment, dorm room, rental house, garage loft or maybe even a cottage on the property of someone's land. You want to be sure you, and the contents inside of your dwelling are safe but your existing space doesn't have a security system and you don't want to spring for the cost of having one installed. Do you have any options? You bet!
The solution is a portable wireless alarm system. Today's systems come complete with windows and door sensors, motion and smoke detectors. Generally, portable systems are straight from the box DIY solutions which usually install with no tools. (That's no holes to drill and no screws to turn.) Just open the box, plug it in and activate. Most systems can accomodate the use of wireless digital monitoring, for a monthly fee, of course. They can even initiate an email or text alert when the alarm is triggered.You can also be your own central station and have the system contact you in case of an alarm. Basic start-up packages vary in what they give you but you can be sure to receive some variation of the following; a keypad or base unit, window and/or door sensor(s), a camera, or wireless key remote. And although all systems are not created equal prices generally start around $200 and increase with the purchase of additional sensors, accessories or monthly monitoring. Possibly one of the best features of these systems, is it's portability. You can quickly and easily remove the system and components from one location and take it to the next, as many times as you need. So if you need a temporary security solution, rest assured there are realistic options available. A general keyword search on the web should yield you a plethora of choices to explore. Not sure how to choose? Or just need a second opinion. Your security representative can help you better narrow down a system which suits your needs best. Ok here is the scenario. You live in an apartment, dorm room, rental house, garage loft or maybe even a cottage on the property of someone's land. You want to be sure you, and the contents inside of your dwelling are safe but your existing space doesn't have a security system and you don't want to spring for the cost of having one installed. Do you have any options? You bet!
The solution is a portable wireless alarm system. Today's systems come complete with windows and door sensors, motion and smoke detectors. Generally, portable systems are straight from the box DIY solutions which usually install with no tools. (That's no holes to drill and no screws to turn.) Just open the box, plug it in and activate. Most systems can accomodate the use of wireless digital monitoring, for a monthly fee, of course. They can even initiate an email or text alert when the alarm is triggered.You can also be your own central station and have the system contact you in case of an alarm. Basic start-up packages vary in what they give you but you can be sure to receive some variation of the following; a keypad or base unit, window and/or door sensor(s), a camera, or wireless key remote. And although all systems are not created equal prices generally start around $200 and increase with the purchase of additional sensors, accessories or monthly monitoring. Possibly one of the best features of these systems, is it's portability. You can quickly and easily remove the system and components from one location and take it to the next, as many times as you need. So if you need a temporary security solution, rest assured there are realistic options available. A general keyword search on the web should yield you a plethora of choices to explore. Not sure how to choose? Or just need a second opinion. Your security representative can help you better narrow down a system which suits your needs best. That really is the question....
Apple's ingenious tagline, "There's an app for that" is a popular phrase that has catapulted the software industry as we know it. Particularly when it comes to mobile applications. There's over 100,000 apps in the marketplace many of them compatible with your smartphone. These apps do everything from play games to connect with social media sites. They can keep you informed of weather in your area and beyond, track your fitness goals, enhance your productivity, keep you updated with sports scores, serve as a GPS device,...the list goes on and on. Many security companies are adding smartphone apps to their product lines. Apps to arm and disarm your security system and assist with home automation. But are they right for everyone? Considering the home security app route? Narrow your decision process with these five questions.
 Many times the success of home security comes as an illusion that the home is occupied. A house that is dark and lifeless is a far better choice for invasion than one that is "alive".
FakeTV, packaging, unit and AC adapter Exterior motion detectors and interior lights on a timer have been staples in the burglar deterrent field. Now there is a new option, the FakeTV. FakeTV has super bright LED's that fill a room with light that accurately mimics the screen changes of a TV. This small, lightweight unit comes with an AC adapter and though it provides the equivalent light output of a 27 inch television it consumes the power of a night light. The unit is placed in front of a covered window (curtains, shades or blinds) so that light gets out but the unit is not visible from the outside. It can be operated three ways:
We tried it out for ourselves testing it within our own home. I must admit I was skeptical that the small device would be able to convey a real TV? We were pleasantly suprised! It really simulated the look of an actual television. We gave it to a neighbor to test and it got high marks from them as well! "It did exactly what it said it would do,... from the outside we would never known it was a fake." -Mildred Investigate it for yourself. You can access the website and get more information atwww.FakeTV.com.  There is no magic age for allowing your child to stay home alone after school. It's an anxious decision, but you can be better prepared and confident with some careful planning. Here's some tips to consider when letting your child stay home whether only for a minute or for a few hours.
Questions To Consider Think about the area where you live. Are there neighbors nearby you know and trust to help your child in case of emergency? Do you live on a busy street? Is it a quiet area? What about crime in or near your neighborhood? Tips To Consider
These guidelines can help you feel secure about your decision and your child's independence at home.  School is almost over which means for many of us we will be making plans for a summer vacation. The goal for home security while you are away is to create the illusion that your property is occupied. Here are a few tips to help make sure your home is protected.
Basic Home Tips *If possible, get a house sitter. Having someone living in your home while you are away sends a clear message of occupancy. *Have a neighbor or friend park in your driveway and move the vehicle around to give the illusion someone is there. *Don't stop mail or newspapers, if possible have a neighbor or friend pick them up everyday. *Arrange to have your lawn mowed. *Don't discuss your travel plans in public. Strangers could overhear, follow you home, see where you live and return while you're away. This includes Facebook and twitter! Don't post on your wall when you are leaving or post pictures of yourself while you are away. This let's everyone know you are not home. Your friend list may not be filled with all friends. *Keep shades and blinds in their normal position. Burglars like homes with windows that are covered day and night. *You may consider turning your ringer down on your phone so unanswered calls won't be heard from outside. *If possible put interior lights on a timer to further give the illusion your home is being occupied. *Be sure and leave a phone number where you can be reached with a trusted friend or neighbor who's watching your home. *Make sure all doors and windows are locked and activate your home alarm (if you have one). The Family Pet Most people board their dog(s) or take them along on vacation, but if you can arrange to keep your dog(s) at home whether by a house sitter or a neighbor consider it. The presence and sound of a barking dog can be a deterrent to a burglar. It too can fool a burglar into thinking someone is home. A Word About Lighting Lighting plays a key role in home security. A well lit home interior and brightly lit yard can discourage an intruders approach. Traditional manual outdoor lighting requires someone to physically turn them on and off. A timer is essential thereby turning the lighting system on/off while you're away. Another option is motion lights. They are turned on when their sensors detect motion or body heat. A burglar approaching what appears to be a dark property activates the lights and it scares him away. One last option is solar lights. Most of these lights store enough energy in the daylight to stay lit during the night. There is a question of it's brightness? Is it bright enough to ward off an intruder. Whether your destination is theme parks or beaches, easing your fears about home security planning by taking these steps, will help to secure your property and will give you peace of mind while away. False Alarms. A reoccurring activity plaguing most of the cities and towns of America. Just last week in Gwinnett County, GA, authorities said enough is enough. The county is considering raising fines for false alarms. And it's not just Georgia, other states have experienced the same problem. False alarms are costly, dangerous and divert law enforcement officers and fire fighters from responding to real emergencies. In addition, they waste public resources and desensitize communities to actual incidents of crime and fire. They can make you reluctant to arm your system, exposing your home and property to undetected theft or fire. False alarms can also lead to neighbors ignoring your alarm when it is activated and costs citizens time, personal security and money as many jurisdictions are imposing costly fines for excessive false alarms.
There are various reasons behind the causes of false alarms but user errors account for many. Here are a few: *Weak or depleted batteries *Open, unlocked loose fitting or defective doors or windows *Domestic help, house cleaners, house sitters, pet sitters, contractors and the like *Inadequate training of all those allowed access to your home and alarm system *Drafts from heaters/air conditioning systems and open windows move plants, curtains, etc. setting off motion detectors *Pets that set off motions So what about prevention? Here are just a few ways to combat false alarms. Check with your alarm provider about additional ways to prevent false alarms. *Be sure and lock all doors and windows *Repair broken windows, latches or doors to ensure they don't malfunction or become ajar and cause an accidental activation *Secure moving items such as curtains, decorations even pets. Be sure they are not in the path of motion detectors. *Schedule a service call if your alarm is not working properly Following these simple steps can greatly reduce the possibility of having false alarms. If you have house guests or domestic helpers be sure and take the time to ensure they are familiar with procedures in arming and disarming the alarm system and canceling false alarms. |
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