Mobile handsets have become full-featured media servers capable of connecting automatically to other consumer devices such as TVs, picture frames, security systems, home automation systems, game consoles, and audio systems.
While services such as Facebook can make a great movie and a good stock buy, at least so far, they can also be a way electronic systems contractors can connect with customers and potential clients, and a way to be “Liked.” On the other hand, there is the growing concern over the alleged manipulation of these sites, especially in reviews and so-called user ratings, and a growing business in restoring reputation by specialists when bad words are posted.
A yearlong experiment with America's electric grid starting this summer could mess up traffic lights, security and home automation systems and some computers, as first reported by the Associated Press.
New technology is enabling residents to see who is at their apartment complex or front door from anywhere in the world. Video door phones that can be connected to a network are allowing homeowners who have a smartphone or Internet access to remotely view visitors and grant access to either communal or residential areas.
Carlsbad, Calif.-based Xantech presented Bensalem, Pa.-based APA Music & Pictures with a plaque commemorating the two-millionth installation of Xantech products.
Toshiba Corp., Tokyo, bolstered its smart-grid operations with the purchase of the Swiss electronic-metering company Landis+Gyr AG for $2.3 billion in cash and assumed debt.
The sale is pending regulatory approvals, the companies said in a statement, but should be completed in three months.
The Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (CEDIA) tells smartHOME that Tim Costello, chairman and chief executive officer of Builder Homesite, and New Home Technologies, will deliver the keynote address at CEDIA EXPO 2011 during the Annual Keynote Breakfast, Friday, Sept. 9 at 8:30 a.m.
Lighting control manufacturer Lutron Electronics, Coopersburg, Pa., boasts “A Night of Light,” a series of free, national networking events held at Lutron Experience Centers throughout the country.
Home Automation, Inc. (HAI), New Orleans, a manufacturer of integrated automation and security products since 1985, announced that integration has been finalized between HAI Omni and Lumina Family control systems and VIVOTEK IP surveillance solutions.