Rick Hunt has released a free Windows application to produce RF codes for the Philips Pronto remote so it can control the Byron Home Easy home automation modules. The Generator Will produce codes that will work with anything that is compatible with the HE200 remote.
"Three RF protocols are in use for the products marketed by Byron. First dedicated to the HomeEasy Heating controller the second (HE200 remote) to the Byron X10 type devices and early non ultra HomeEasy gear and the third (HE100 and HE300 remotes) for all the HomeEasy range.
Protocol first - (Heating device address) is set to the 5 pos dip switch address chosen on the device. This dip setting will be the binary of the number you need to enter for the RF code (as per user manual).
Protocol second - are codes 0 .. 15 (device) and 0 .. 15 (group A .. P) you choose, giving 255 possible codes
Protocol third - This has a 26 bit address giving 67 million addresses for each of the 16 units and it seems possible that this range can be doubled using the "grouped" command for each of the 16 unit No.(altho with the pronto you can group any number of devices with a macro).The group command will turn on a dimming device without triggering the dimming cycle sequence, as will the dim command. Byron would appear to allocate at random a different address to each transmitting device manufactured be it a key fob, wall switch, remote etc. The HE100 has two addresses to give the 32 device span.
With so many possible codes it makes sense to stick to as few addresses as you need, each address
operating 16 possible devices.
TIP - The program hashes the name/number entered into the 26 bit address, and would suggest eg "password bedroom 1" is a lot easier to remember than a number.
The door lock codes have a seperate command, I suppose to make them less likely to duplication but have not been able to check this fully not having one to test. Feedback on this would be appreciated.
Don't forget to set the Device property on your pronto to RF 0,0.
The program will ouput your code selection as a text file named "Heasyhex.txt" containing the Pronto hex codes which you can copy/paste as usual and also a txt file "Heasy.csf" which is a compiler script for use with CCFCompiler.exe (available from remotecentral) to generate a CCF file. If CCFCompiler.exe and CCFDll.dll are copied to the HEasy generator application folder it will do this for you."
Download the Code Generator Here : Feedback or comments to prontoeasy@tiscali.co.uk
We've just got details of a special offer for Automated Home readers. Laser has a limited time discount on Frank McAlinden's excellent HomeVision IO Expander units. Normally retailing at £46.95, they are now available at just £19.99 including VAT! Read on for the specs.
Home Vision IO Expander Product Description
The HV I/O Expander is an 8-input or 8-output digital expander module which connects to the HomeVision expansion Bus to increase it's IO capabilities. Up to 8 HV I/O Extenders can be connected to the HomeVision's expansion bus, each with it's own I2C address that is configurable by setting 3 removable links on the circuit board.
Used as an input module, it is electrically similar to Port C of the HomeVision and when used as an output module, it is electrically similar to Port A of the HomeVision.
To gain access to the I2C commands in HomeVision, the user must enable the commands as listed in the HV IO Expander documentation below. The document has a sample macro to show how to read an input device and write to an output device.
Key Features
Available now from Laser.com : Franks Site armaghelectrical.com.au
This time we're joined by Ian Lowe and Mal Lansell of the xPL Project.
We discuss how the open source Home Automation Protocol came about, how it aims to be the "glue" in your smart home setup and the variety of hardware that can talk to each other through the systems hub.
http://blip.tv/file/get/Markmccall-AH0016TheXPLHomeAutomationProtocol600.mp3
iTunes | Miro | Zune | RSS | Right Click to Download (43 Minutes - 20.0MB)
Check out the show notes below for all the links to the subjects covered...
Featured Interview - Ian Lowe and Mal Lansell from the xPL Project
Please email us your comments on this show and suggestions for what you'd like to hear next - podcast@automatedhome.com
The DB9 Connectors from the MaxBlox EZ Termination System allow you to terminate your cable with just a screwdriver! Ideal for those RS-232 or RS-422 cables in a home automation setup, these are a god-send when you want a fast finish and don't want to get the soldering iron out.
"BTX Technologies, winner of the 2005 CEDIA “Manufacturers’ Excellence Award,” will be showcasing the MaxBlox™ CD-MX9M (male) and CD-MX9F (female) DB9 connectors. Building on the technology of BTX’s previous solutions, the CD-MX9M and CD-MX9F are patent-pending professional nine-pin D-sub connectors that feature an innovative and rugged design, allowing installers to terminate a DB9 with just a screwdriver.
The connectors can be panel- or cable-mounted in a MaxBlox CD-MX915H hood in a fraction of the time it would take to solder, saving installers both time and money. When used in conjunction with the hood, these connectors simply slide, snap, and lock into the hood without the use of tools.
Optimized for use in any RS-232 or RS-422 applications, the DB9 connectors are manufactured by BTX with genuine Phoenix Contact® terminal blocks, the industry standard for reliability. They are also available in HD15 male and female for VGA applications"
BTX MaxBlox : [Via: blog.svconline.com]
Submission by Paul Freeman - After buying a new Sony PS3 and seeing it in action on my Panasonic Home Theater Projector via the HDMI Inteface I was a little dissapointed when I turned on my original XBOX, which was connected to the Projector via its Component Cables.
Now, obviously the XBOX is only 720p but it seemed extra dull and lackluster compared to the new HD PS3. After a little searching on the internet I found a unit which connected to the Component Cable and converted the signal to an HDMI Output. It seemed too good to be true at a very reasonable $50, too cheap to be any good? I thought why not give it a try so I just ordered it to see what it really does.
Once the unit arrived I connected the input/otputs and the included power supply, and turned on the Projector and XBOX. I was totally amazed at the transformation in the picture quality and mostly the brightness of the Image.
The picture is so much more vivid and bright. I have been useing the converter for about a month now and can say I'm really pleased with the little unit. If you're trying to consolidate your cables and video switching to HDMI I can recommend it too.
Available from www.ebay.com - (International Shipping available)
Product Introduction:
The component video (YPbPr) converter allows older analog devices to be integrated seamlessly into the modern home theater. This adapter connects component video home theater devices to HDMI compliant digital monitors. It also takes digital audio and encodes it onto the HDMI signal for the full HDMI video and audio effect. With the Component + Digital Audio to HDMI Adapter legacy home theater devices can be easily connected any HDMI display for the full digital video and audio experience.
Product Features:
Product Specifications:
Available from www.ebay.com - (International Shipping available)
Sand Hill Engineering have released the new v6.0 of their Mac home automation software - XTension. With many new features including the X2Web web interface, a new database and graphic charting package XTdb plus new Video Pitcher.
"Sand Hill Engineering is proud to announce the release of XTension 6.0, the highly-acclaimed application suite for home automation that has served thousands of homes for over 12 years.
This latest version supports multiple concurrent powerline and RF interfaces and a wide array of new home convenience devices such as the Oregon Scientific wireless product line from weather gauges to bathroom scales, BBQ temp sensors, atomic clocks and power monitoring.
This version is supported by the simplest and yet most extensible web interface, X2Web; a new database and graphic charting package XTdb; and a sleek new Video Pitcher.
More Screenshots Here
XTension now supports the USB and WiFi / Ethernet based RF receivers and sensors from RFXcom, bringing "1-wire" devices seamlessly into the XTension database. The ethernet receivers can be located anywhere in the house, or over the web.
XTension supports the Weeder Technologies wired control and monitor product line, such as discrete sensors and relay output.
Base price is $149.95, and there is a free LITE version."
We're honored to have been mention by Cali Lewis in her latest Episode of GeekBrief TV today! Husband and Wife Team Cali and Neal produce an awesome tech news video podcast that recently took second place in our Top Ten Tech Podcast Awards.
Do yourself a favour and subscribe to the Podcast and follow Cali and Neal as they prepare to set out across America bringing us tech news from each state on their year long adventure.
http://m.podshow.com/media/382/episodes/118860/hd-118860-07-15-2008.mp4
Marmitek have launched their new SCART switcher - the Connect236. At around £65 the unit supports RGB, S-Video and Composite and can switch 6 inputs via its IR remote control. Marmitek say the unit supports "Full matrix function" with 6 analogue video-inputs, 3 digital audio-inputs, 3 analogue video- and audio-outputs and a digital audio-output.
"Marmitek introduces the Connect236. A scart switch with six inputs for various sources, three outputs for different devices and only one scart cable to your TV. That means you never have to switch cables again, because all devices stay connected. Besides that, you have a cinch input at the front of the switch so you can easily connect your game console or laptop. With three outputs you can record a program on your hard disk at the same time as you watch a DVD, while the children are watching TV upstairs through the decoder.
As far as the user friendliness of the Connect236, we have thought of everything. You can connect every digital and analogue A/V device* and with only one remote control you choose which signal you want to watch. The Connect236 then automatically selects the correct audio channel (SD, Dolby ProLogic or Dolby Digital 5.1/7.1) for maximum Home Theatre pleasure. And when you switch from a DVD to a game or television program, the audio simply switches too. Furthermore the Connect236 is both S-VHS as RGB compatible. Suitable for everything and everyone! That is the Marmitek philosophy of smart and attractive solutions in your home.
Complex becomes simple
Thanks to the full matrix function of the Connect236 you can connect every device to the scart switch at the same time. With six analogue audio/video inputs, 3 digital audio inputs, 3 analogue video and audio outputs and a digital audio output, no device is too much. This not only reduces the number of cables in sight, but it also enhances the ease of use for the entire family. Because the Connect236 makes operating the audio and video equipment very simple: just turn it on and start enjoying. Also connecting a second television set is very easy and this can be done both wired and wireless. You can pull a cable from the second TV to the Connect236, establish a wireless connection with a Marmitek video transmitter or use the existing COAX network in your home for transmitting the signal with one of our modulators.
Model and price
The Connect236 is designed for effortless and optimal cooperation of all your devices. This device is small and compact, with only functional connections and buttons. At the front side the LCD display shows all the information about the devices connected. This way Marmitek makes all your audio and video as user-friendly as esthetical at one go. The suggested retail price of the Connect236 is 79.95 euro incl. VAT."
Innovative UK smart home security system AlertMe (see our in-depth review) have just announced a reduced monthly subscription - down from £11.99 to £9.99.
They've also increased the monthly text message allowance from 20 to 50. On top of that they have launched a new £149 "Starter" Kit (the previous £399 kit will now be known as the "Premium"). The Starter ships with a Hub, a motion sensor and a keyfob, but has the GPRS and Battery backup removed to save costs.
"We've improved the value of the monthly subscription, by reducing the cost from £11.75 to just £9.99 (including VAT), and by increasing the number of included text messages from 20 to 50. Existing customers will see the improved subscription in their next monthly billing. Any extra texts beyond that are then charged at only 5p.
Of course you still get GPRS backup of the broadband link, two-way connection by email, free software upgrades as new features appear, logging of all your history data on the web, Customer Support between 9am and 9pm 7 days a week and more.
We've launched a new kit priced at only £149 called the Starter Kit. This is in addtion to our original kit which is now called the Premium Kit and costs £399. The Starter Kit consists of a Hub, a motion sensor and a keyfob and is ideal for anyone living in a one or two bedroom property, or indeed anyone just wanting to get started with AlertMe at the lowest possible price. Of course any of the increasing number of AlertMe accessories can be added to it.
Apart from the number of accessories, the two other main differences from the Premium Kit are that the Hub doesn't include GPRS backup or battery backup, which is fine as long as your mains and broadband connection are reasonably reliable; and also it is sold on a "Pay As You Go" tariff.
Just as with prepay mobile phones, it comes with a "top up pot", already filled with 50 texts. After that, every text sent costs 15p. When the pot is empty, it can easily be topped-up again by credit or debit card. To pre-order your Starter Kit call us on 0845 200 2873 today! "
AlertMe.com : Our AlertMe Review : Our AlertMe Podcast
Launching at around $1,000 the Belkin Flywire is not cheap, but if you need to transmit those HiDef signals to your TV in the next room (or even out on the patio) and you don't fancy running cables then it might be for you. Any of its 6 source inputs can be selected by IR remote and it supports 480p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p/24 True Cinema resolutions and its HDCP-compliant too. A cheaper "R1" model with "In-Room" range will be available too for around $700. Launch is set for October in North America, Europe and Asia with the R1 due Q1 2009. "FlyWire lets you place your HDTV anywhere. It allows you to wirelessly connect to, and switch among, several video-source devices: high-definition or standard-definition, digital or analog. It supports the most advanced high-definition standards, including 1080p/24, for today's high-end 120Hz TVs.
This innovative wireless HD interface from Belkin lets you connect your complete line of high-definition and standard-definition components, such as Blu-ray® players, digital video recorders (DVRs), HD set-top boxes, Wii, PS3™ or Xbox® video-game consoles, or standard DVD players/recorders.
With a range capable of reaching your entire home, FlyWire enables you to relocate or hide your components and mount your flat-panel HDTV anywhere, on any wall or surface, inside or outside of your house. You can enjoy HD programming from your HD set-top box, play the most intense video games with no latency, and watch HD movies at 1080p for a True Cinema experience."
Features