Ruslan Ulanov

Deal alert: ISY99i is on Sale

October 21, 2009 Ruslan Ulanov 1

If you (like myself) were impatiently waiting to get your hands on one of the ISY99i home automation controllers now might be a good time to get one as they are on sale at both Smarthome.com and Amazon.com. What is ISY99i? “The ISY-99i series is the most affordable and flexible standalone home automation solution for any INSTEON/X10 installation. Whether you are a DIYer, an electrician, or a home automation integrator you will enjoy the ease with which the once tedious task of programming INSTEON devices is accomplished.” ISY99i eliminates the need to run a dedicated PC (or MAC) computer to contol events and […]

The Ultimate List of Home Automation Software for iPhone, Part 3

October 19, 2009 Ruslan Ulanov 1

Last Updated: December 21, 2009 UPDATE: This list has moved to a new place, please go there for the most up-to-date information. This is Part 3 of The Ultimate List of Home Automation Software for iPhone. For your convenience the short link to this post is http://tinyurl.com/iphonehas3 (as in iPhone Home Automation Software, Part 3). The Ultimate List … Part 1 The Ultimate List … Part 2 The Ultimate List … Part 3

I/O Linc – INSTEON Morning Industry Lock Control Kit

October 14, 2009 Ruslan Ulanov 1

Irvine, CA – Smarthome announced the release of the new I/O Linc – INSTEON Morning Industry Lock Control Kit today. The kit, which includes two I/O Lincs and a Morning Industry RF Remote Control Key Fob, allows users to activate the locking mechanism of Morning Industry RF deadbolts and/or doorlocks (sold separately) via radio frequency (RF) to lock or unlock their door from any INSTEON controller.

Indigo 4.1.0 Home Automation Server Gets Released

September 30, 2009 Ruslan Ulanov 0

Perceptive Automation today announced release of the new version of company’s home automation software Indigo 4.1.0. The new version adds support for PowerLinc Modem (2412U/2412S, aka PLM) in addition to PowerLinc Controller (2414U, aka PLC). The PLM includes the ability to use extended INSTEON commands which can be used to control advanced functionality of newer INSTEON products. The PLM syncs INSTEON links significantly faster than the PLC. The new PRO version of the software also provides a way to create complex conditionals through embedded AppleScript. See the long list of General Improvements after the break.

An Introduction To Home Automation

June 23, 2009 Ruslan Ulanov 1

Tom’s Hardware reader John Knutson just recently published An Introduction To Home Automation. It walks you through the installation of INSTEON-based home automation system, including replacement of basic light switches with SwitchLinks, installation of motion sensors and SmartLinc controller, etc. In conclusion John came to the following verdict: My entire house has become a toy for me to play with and tweak. Great to show off your house to friends, neighbors, and family. Laziness (convenience) is taken to a whole new level. Did I leave the light on in the living room when I’ve already crawled into bed? Hit the off button and […]

How to Get More from Your Home’s Lights

June 23, 2009 Ruslan Ulanov 0

Lights are a staple in every home, but that doesn’t mean your switches should be like everyone else’s. With a few simple tweaks, the fixtures can do more simply illuminate your home as a bit of lighting control. They can curb your energy use, evoke ambiance, and protect your home, for example. Here are 10 simple ways to realize your lights’ full potential. Read the rest of the article by Lisa Montgomery on Electronic House magazine’s web site.

Memorial Day Weekend Sale at Smarthome

May 22, 2009 Ruslan Ulanov 0

Smarthome – the home automation superstore – has great deals on hundreds of cool gadgets, toys and of course home automation products. And this weekend they have a non advertised sale that will save you 20% off orders $100 or more. Plus, you can get a Free Shipping on orders over $200. To take advantage of this offer click the logo below and enter Promotional Code: EMEM09 at checkout. Don’t delay, the deal ends 5/25 at midnight Pacific Time.

Remote Control Your Home

May 22, 2009 Ruslan Ulanov 0

I found that great article written by Talha Ghafoor a while ago and wanted to share it with you, my dear reader. This article is a 101 on home automation for non-initiated of sorts. It touches on topics such as: Why Automate? How It All Works The Hardware Possible Scenarios And while mentioning different technologies available on the market today, the article focuses on X10 as “ the most popular and easy to deploy ‘poison’ of choice“. Please read the article here: Remote Control Your Home

How Smart is Your Home?

April 13, 2009 Ruslan Ulanov 0

Take the Smarthome How Smart is Your Home? Quiz for Your Chance to win a 32″ LCD TV from Sylvania. Take the 5 minute “How Smart is Your Home” quiz & everyone can be a winner! The first 500 to enter & complete the quiz get a free environmentally friendly recyclable bag. Everyone who enters & completes the quiz gets a chance to win energy-saving products (new prizes every month) and is entered into the Grand Prize drawing of a 32″ LCD TV.

Smarthome’s Tax Relief Sale