Electricity: Home-automation systems

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Introduction

Technology is advancing at the speed of light, and wireless technology is being used to make our homes very “smart.” We are constantly striving to enhance the safety, comfort and convenience of our homes and to help save time as we scurry about in our daily activities.

Home-automation systems can integrate personal computers, hand- held computers, communication systems, home network systems, audio and video systems, home entertainment systems, lighting controls, security systems, heating and cooling controls, appliance controls, garage-door openers and scores of other features and products that enter the marketplace on a continuous basis.

The X10 system is one communication language that allows compatible products, devices, controllers and components to talk to each other using the existing electrical wiring in a home.

Transmitter devices that are plugged into receptacle outlets or otherwise connected to the home’s existing wiring send signals to receivers in other locations in the home that are also connected to the existing wiring. A lighting controller on the nightstand in the bedroom can turn on all the exterior lighting around the home’s perimeter in case of emergency, simply by sending signals over the existing 120-volt wiring.

Home-automation System Options

Smoke detector, Contact switch, Motion sensor, AC adapter, Battery backup, Slim-line motion detector, Glass-break detector, Smoke/Heat detector, Wireless receiver, Telephone jack, Keypad at front door, Keypad in hallway, Other keypads, Telephone control board , Voice dialer, 2-way module, Weatherproof siren, Security strobe light, Magnetic controls, Glass-break sensor, Garage door contacts

Options of a home-automation system:

Smoke detector, Contact switch, Motion sensor, AC adapter, Battery backup, Slim-line motion detector, Glass-break detector, Smoke/Heat detector, Wireless receiver, Telephone jack, Keypad at front door, Keypad in hallway, Other keypads, Telephone control board , Voice dialer, 2-way module, Weatherproof siren, Security strobe light, Magnetic controls, Glass-break sensor, Garage door contacts

Home-automation Components
Place control panels in inconspicuous, secure locations. Carefully connect all components according to the manufacturers instructions. (2x4 , Stud, To sensor, To control pad, 120-volt line, 120-V x 12V transformer).
Wall-mounted keypads and remote mini-controllers allow you to control lighting, drapery, thermostats, alarm systems, communications equipment and other automation devices around the home.
Wireless wall switches allow you to operate lamps and other items via special transmitters plugged into receptacle outlets.

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Are you looking for home electrical items -- such as switches and fuse boxes -- or parts and accessories for ones you already have? Try our dedicated electrical supply pages here:
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Recommended Reading

Home Security: How to Select Reliable Locks and Alarms for Your Home, Office, or Car

Home Security: How to Select Reliable Locks and Alarms for Your Home, Office, or Car

Too many people get lulled into a false sense of security by silver-tongued salesmen and install expensive alarm systems but do nothing about their vulnerable doors, windows and locks. Home Security reveals how burglars actually target and break into buildings and offers proven techniques and tactics for thwarting would-be burglars, from neighborhood vandals to the most sophisticated art thieves and government agents. The advice includes dozens of low-tech, low-cost, low-maintenance measures to safeguard your home or office inside and out. An extensive section on alarms shows you the best way to install a secure system that meets your protection needs, as well as how even the most expensive of these systems can be circumvented if you're not careful. The last part of the book details reliable home safes, safe gun storage, vehicle alarms and other special situations, including how you can protect yourself and family members when you are away from home. In the war against burglary, knowledge is your best defense.
  

Recommended Products





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Last modified: Friday, 2020-02-28 15:38 PST