Connected Home - Home automation control systems & residential technology

RTI Integration Designer 9.0 programming software

CF — Fri, 24 May 2013 10:51:51 +1000

Integration Designer 9.0 introduces a new way for integrators to design large systems using multiple processors, known as the "master/slave mode." The new mode allows additional processors to be added as expansion devices to the master processor. The processors communicate via Ethernet, enabling the resources of the slave processors to be available for control of devices — even two-way drivers can be assigned to run on a slave processor.

NBN Co deal with TransACT to speed ACT rollout and lower costs

CF — Fri, 24 May 2013 10:49:53 +1000

Under the agreement, with an initial value of around $9 million, NBN Co will purchase TransACT's existing fibre-to-the-premises network, which covers approximately 8,500 premises/lots, and has agreed to purchase network assets currently planned or under construction covering a further 4,500 premises/lots.

Under the agreement, NBN Co will also pay for long-term access to TransACT's extensive system of underground ducts throughout the ACT.

NuForce IA-18 integrated amplifier

CF — Fri, 24 May 2013 10:33:55 +1000

This unit incorporates components used in NuForce’s Reference Series products. These include much of the same circuitry as the P-20, Nuforce’s most recent flagship preamplifier, a cross matrix array (CMA) capacitor module, and two V3 amplifier output modules.

Tax information for contractors in the building and construction industry

CF — Thu, 23 May 2013 10:44:26 +1000

The ATO will compare this information with income you include in your tax return.

The information businesses will report to the ATO includes:
Your Australian business number (ABN)
Your name
Your address, and
Total amount paid to you, including any GST.

Make sure you:
Lodge your 2012-13 tax return by the due date and include all your income
Lodge any prior year tax returns as soon as possible, and

HIA Trades Report highlights difficult conditions for residential construction

CF — Tue, 21 May 2013 10:54:27 +1000

The HIA Trades Report, a quarterly survey of builders and sub-contractors, indicates a relatively high availability of skilled labour continued into the first quarter of 2013, while developments in trade rates were benign.

“Skilled tradespeople continue to operate in weak conditions – residential construction experienced declining activity in 2012 and while there are signs of a recovery in 2013, it is from a very low starting point,” says HIA economist Diwa Hopkins.

NuForce P-20 pre-amplifier

CF — Tue, 21 May 2013 10:44:54 +1000

Volume controls invariably introduce noise and channel imbalance issues, and in response to this problem, NuForce designed the P-20 as a no-compromise solution. This NuForce Pre-Amplifier incorporates an accurate volume control technology, using a switched-resistor ladder network with the latest in thin-film technology.

Yamaha adds RX-V675 and RX-V775 to '75 Series

CF — Tue, 21 May 2013 09:32:36 +1000

Reflecting a change in our musical habits, and in particular the way we discover music, integration of Pandora internet radio on both the RX-V675 and RX-V775 provides a personalised music streaming service for users to create their own stations on computers and devices based on a favourite artist, song, composer, genre or comedian. Whether listening to old classics or discovering new music, the ability to log in directly from the AV receiver enables users to quickly and conveniently enjoy synced music playlists tailored specifically to their tastes.

mySmartCare touch-based digital health monitoring technology

CF — Tue, 21 May 2013 09:10:33 +1000

mySmartCare powered by GrandCare's technology will be available throughout Australia and includes telehealth functionality, socialisation and family coordination features as well as activity of daily living monitoring. For the residents, it means social connection, games, weather and news reports and one button video chat calls with children and grandchildren.

QualiFi and Audio Products Group to merge

CF — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:05:42 +1000

This transaction will merge all APG’s consumer electronics (CE) and custom installation (CI) brands, Denon, NAD, PSB, Loewe, AKG (personal audio products), Tannoy (residential products), Niles, Elan, Sunfire and Xantech with QualiFi’s existing brands, Marantz, Jamo, ZVOX, Stealth Acoustics, MK, Forte to create a strong brand portfolio in the Australian AV market.

NUGEN Audio updates LM-Correct and Loudness Management Batch processor

CF — Fri, 17 May 2013 10:46:35 +1000

Dialogue gating can be used to automate dialogue-anchored loudness measurement and correction, facilitating decisions based on the loudness of sections with dialog in the source material. In conjunction with other loudness parameters, the dialog measure can also be used as an indicator of dialog clarity.

"The addition of a dialogue-gated measurement adds an additional level of flexibility to our offline loudness tools," says NUGEN Audio creative director of Jon Schorah.

CEDIA Region 1 announces further awards finalists

CF — Fri, 17 May 2013 10:31:52 +1000

They are as follows:

Best training initiative by a trade supplier

Aldous Systems (UK)

Power Ethernet (UK)

Pulse Marketing (UK)

Best showroom

CleerVu (UK)

Finite Solutions (UK)

Projecting & Sounding ART (Greece)

Pulse Marketing (UK)

Crowning a CEDIA member or a home technology professional with the Best Showroom Award, this category rewards the hard work which goes into building and running a perfect showroom that is both visually impressive, demonstrates the appropriate skills and technologies to its target visitors.

Jacques Electronics launches new website

CF — Fri, 17 May 2013 09:23:43 +1000

The website provides user friendly functionality and navigation which compliments the company’s new products and market specific solutions. Jacques has also gone social to coincide with the new website, offering further insight into the company and interaction amongst its consumers via multiple social media platforms.

Sony Xperia Tablet Z now available for pre-order in Australia

CF — Tue, 14 May 2013 10:54:50 +1000

The Xperia Tablet Z combines the very best of Sony’s technology, design and connectivity in one premium, high-performance device. Slim, lightweight and water-resistant, it features an OmniBalance design that complements its smart phone sister, the Xperia Z.

“Designed with the modern day consumer in mind, the Xperia Tablet Z has received a positive response since it was first announced at MWC,” says Sony Australia network entertainment marketing manager Jun Yoon.

CEDIA Region 1 announces shortlist for 2013 Awards

CF — Tue, 14 May 2013 10:46:40 +1000

“The CEDIA Awards honour first-class, residential custom installation projects,” says CEDIA chair Gary Lewis.

“The volume of entries has increased this year by more than 75% which demonstrates their appeal, the strength of the competition and the value members receive in taking part. These are highly prized accolades and rightly so. We are showcasing the best of the best from across the region and are looking forward to an incredible Awards Ceremony in London on Friday 28 June.”

The project shortlist for 2013 CEDIA Awards, by category, is as follows:

SwannSmart allows users to check security cameras via mobile device

CF — Tue, 14 May 2013 10:07:14 +1000

Called the SwannSmart, it streams live video and images directly to secure cloud storage to stream encrypted live video without needing to be connected to a computer.

Home and business owners can see and hear what’s happening during the day or in low light with infrared night vision up to 3.7m.

It is also ideal for remotely monitoring a baby and family, as well as older children and elderly relatives. Visual contact can also be maintained with pets to ensure that they have enough food, water and shelter.

Main features:

Vogel’s PFW 6800 series wall mounts

CF — Tue, 14 May 2013 09:56:06 +1000

This new series offers turn, tilt, reach and rotate functionality for very large displays. These heavy-duty mounts are constructed for professional use in airports, shopping centres, trade shows, and other public venues and residential use.

Flexibility for XXL displays

Vogel’s PFW 6851, PFW 6852 and PFW 6855 provide extra positioning flexibility with turn, tilt and reach functionality for screens ranging from 37-82 inches that weigh from 136-227kg.

GreenPeak releases new Internet of Things white paper

CF — Fri, 10 May 2013 10:37:09 +1000

Most of the end-nodes on the internet today are people using PCs, laptops and smart phones. However this is rapidly changing as more devices in the home are connecting to the internet, building the Smart Home, and starting to shift the balance away from people towards connected things. These devices are usually sensors, controllers, actuators or combinations that together, can be considered as “Sentrollers”.

iRoom Asia Pacific appoints Stephen Miller as sales director

CF — Fri, 10 May 2013 10:19:11 +1000

Miller brings over 20 years of industry experience in integrated technologies and custom installation industry, and will use this experience to continue the expansion of the iRoom brand through-out the Asia Pacific Region.

Before joining the iRoom team, Miller recently held the position of executive director at the Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (CEDIA) Asia Pacific for over 8 years.

Axis Communications AXIS M3024-LVE and AXIS M3025-VE cameras

CF — Fri, 10 May 2013 09:57:48 +1000

Axis Communications, has introduced AXIS M3024-LVE, which provides 1-megapixel or HDTV 720p video with an 80° field of view, and AXIS M3025-VE, which delivers 2-megapixel, HDTV 1080p video with a wide 93° viewing angle. Both cameras have an automatically removable infrared-cut filter. It allows the cameras to capture color video during daytime conditions and make use of infrared (IR) light in low-light conditions for high-quality black and white video. AXIS M3024-LVE further enables surveillance in complete darkness when using its built-in infrared (IR) illumination, see film.

Sydney switches on the National Broadband Network

CF — Fri, 10 May 2013 09:20:56 +1000

Superfast broadband now passes 1,300 homes and businesses in Blacktown with a further 9,300 premises in the area to come online over the coming months, including premises in Lalor Park.

The Sydney switch-on was marked with a ceremony in Blacktown this morning which included the first live NBN-enabled children's book-reading session.

Broadband rollout plan extends to nearly five million homes and businesses

CF — Tue, 07 May 2013 10:54:03 +1000

More than 1.35 million premises have been added to the rollout in the updated three-year plan. The plan adds almost 190 new towns and groups of suburbs, as well as more homes and businesses in areas covered by the previous plan.

This brings to 4.85 million the number of premises that will have construction commenced or where services can be ordered by June 2016.

Vogel’s expands Connect-it range of displays

CF — Tue, 07 May 2013 10:50:14 +1000

Vogel’s Connect-it floor solutions (floor stands and trolleys) are a flexible system. With only a few standard components, you can create a solution for almost any requirement. From a single display floor stand in a shop window, or a back-to-back display set-up in an airport, to a movable video conferencing set-up for corporate use, the flexibility of the Connect-it floor solutions fit every situation.

Swann Security DoorEye digital peephole

CF — Tue, 07 May 2013 10:43:15 +1000

The system activates a camera every time the doorbell is rung and gives you a clear high resolution colour image of who is at the door on a 7mm LCD screen. Not only that, it also records up to 100 colour images.

The camera is able to operate day and night, is weather resistant and has a 60 degree viewing arc. It has a white gloss finish that will suit any home décor and the monitor supports up to a 2GB SD card for recording the images. All recorded images can be transferred to a PC via the USB cable supplied with the pack and which also serves as the battery recharging source.

Clipsal helps launch digital hubs

CF — Tue, 07 May 2013 10:35:07 +1000

With support from Clipsal by Schneider Electric and funding from the Australian Government, the City of Prospect, South Australia has developed one such Hub and officially opened it to the public on April 30.

“The Digital Hub showcases how the NBN technology can be used in the home environment,” says City of Prospect business and economic development director Justin Commons.

Denon Electronics IN-Command Series of home theatre receivers

CF — Fri, 03 May 2013 10:57:23 +1000

Notably, each model features a common core set of IN-Command features such as a three-year warranty, Audyssey MultEQ XT, full network streaming functionality, variable multi-zone pre-outs, I/P control, web configuration, remote access, I/R serial inputs, detachable power cord, Control4 certification, front panel I/R lockouts, fully assignable digital and analogue AV inputs, new HDMI video select functionality, AM/FM tuners, enhanced front panel cosmetics and expanded amp assign configurations.

Marantz to celebrate its 60th Anniversary

CF — Fri, 03 May 2013 10:50:57 +1000

Since its founding in 1953, the name Marantz has signified excellence in audio technology, product design and musicality. Today, Marantz continues to emulate the vision and commitment of its founder Saul B. Marantz, who opened up new horizons in great sound and music experiences.

Anniversary marked by debut of two new products

Yamaha ’75 Series AV receivers

CF — Fri, 03 May 2013 10:46:15 +1000

Designed with ease-of-use in mind, the entry-level RX-V375 doesn’t skimp on delivering features which were previously reserved for higher-end models. In addition to exclusive Yamaha technologies including YPAO auto calibration and one-touch SCENE operation, the RX-V375 sees Yamaha employing a discrete amplifier configuration from the entry level model in the range.

Audio Visual Revolution appoints Audio Genesis as Sydney dealer

CF — Fri, 03 May 2013 09:04:48 +1000

With over 40 years experience in the audio industry, Audio Genesis has built an enviable reputation, delivering not only high quality sound, but a high level of personalised service to its customers.

Audio Genesis owner Harry York is an industry veteran, having commenced his career in South Africa in the early 1970s in a large music store.

Canton your_World wireless sound network

CF — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 09:08:57 +1000

People store music on their iPhones, iPods and computer. Chances are they already own an integrated docking station and speaker system. However most systems are limited to playing music in only one room of the house, or the installation of multi-room sound systems is cost prohibitive and requires metres of cable.

your_world: listen to your favourite music in one or multiple rooms around the home

Elite Screens Lunette A4K curved frame projection screen

CF — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 09:24:29 +1000

“It wraps the viewer in a vivid image with excellent direct and off-axis luminescence along with stunning colour uniformity,” says Elite Screens USA marketing manager Dave Rodgers.

“Sound breathes through the material with a minimal amount of acoustical insertion loss or dispersion. The design gives a superb performance free of visual artifacts so that viewers can sit, enjoy and be wrapped in a full cinematic experience.”

CEDIA Asia Pacific welcomes new members to its Board of Directors

CF — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 16:52:01 +1000

CEDIA Asia Pacific has welcomed Automation Associates director Brendon Reid and iRoom Asia Pacific’s Vic Scona to the Board for the remainder of the 2013-2014 term.

The introduction of these two well-respected industry figures promises to bring a new level of expertise to the Board, and CEDIA hopes their fresh insight and ideas will help the vision of the CEDIA member base.

The current CEDIA Asia Pacific Board of Directors is as follows:

Len Wallis (Len Wallis Audio)
Chairperson

Alexis Caldwell (LeisureTech Electronics)
Integrate EXPO and events

Bowers & Wilkins CI 800 loudspeaker

CF — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 09:33:23 +1000

Bowers & Wilkins has announced the arrival of CI 800. The flagship custom installation series delivers audiophile quality to people who demand high-resolution audio, but don’t want to see any loudspeakers.

NBN Co provides the Joint Committee on the NBN with detailed data

CF — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 10:01:05 +1000

In addition to taking questions, NBN Co also released a comprehensive set of data on the financial performance of the company and key metrics such as Capex and Opex, as well as costs broken down to the level of premises passed and connected.

NBN Co updated the committee on the total number of premises connected, user speed profiles and monthly average usage.

Also included was analysis of the wholesale prices over time for example services, based on the forecasts used in the Corporate Plan.

The tabled document is available on the NBN website.

Quantum Data 780A handheld test instrument for HDMI

CF — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:40:25 +1000

The 780A is identical to the 780 in form and operation and includes all the 780 features but supports HDMI 1.4 speeds of 297MHz on both its HDMI Tx and Rx ports. This enables engineers and AV installers to test 4K-capable HDMI sources, sinks and repeaters.

First NBN fixed wireless customer connected in Northern Territory

CF — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:23:02 +1000

“Mr Han Shiong Siah owns Tropical Primary Product, a family-owned business located just outside Darwin in Lambells Lagoon. He immediately signed up to the NBN through iPrimus when it became available," Senator Conroy says.

“On the NBN I now get much faster, more reliable broadband, with a thousand times more data than I was getting before, and all for the same price,” Han says.

“My fruit business demands that I have close and regular contact with my suppliers and customers both here and overseas.

Schneider Electric Pelco Sarix IL10 Series box cameras and micro domes

CF — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 10:10:49 +1000

Part of Pelco’s Value Range of IP cameras, the Sarix IL10 Series cameras produce high-quality, colour HDTV video, and the integrated fixed focal length lens enables sharp scene alignment and easy installation. The series, which comes in four models, is suitable for a variety of indoor environments.

Additional features of the Sarix IL10 Series include:

Gefen Daisy Chain HD System

CF — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 10:05:16 +1000

Similar to a tree scenario, the system uses splitters to create new “branches.” Users can create up to ten branches each supporting ten displays. Individual displays can be mounted next to each other or up to 100m apart. Source video is sent to the sender then over a single Cat 5 cable to the splitter. The splitter outputs two signals: one that connects to a receiver and display; and another that connects to another splitter. Each splitter also provides one HDMI output for a local display connection.

NBN Co signs contract to connect flats and units to the NBN

CF — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 10:03:02 +1000

ISGM specialises in managing contractor workforces across a range of sectors, including design, construction, installation, maintenance and logistics. Under the contract, ISGM will provide project development services, including notifications to residents and owners' corporations, survey, design and construction services. ISGM has previously provided MDU design and construction services for NBN Co in First Release sites.

Elite Screens Kestrel Stage Series

CF — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:36:40 +1000

“We have many portable free standing projection screen designs but our rental and staging customers wanted an even more refined solution,” says Elite Screens Inc. marketing manager David Rodgers.

“It is an elegant, beautiful design that brings the extra wow-factor to a mobile projector display in addition to it being ideal for formal occasions”.

LeisureTech announces A-BUS Your Audio Partner marketing campaign

CF — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 10:47:44 +1000

The campaign will highlight the changes occurring in the custom audio market and how A-BUS Cat 5 technology is more relevant than ever. System technology is evolving and will continue to be developed for today and tomorrow’s multi room audio market by A-BUS partner brands.

Pro Contro iPro.8 companion controller

CF — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:26:09 +1000

"While many consumers love using their smart phones and tablets for control of electronics and entertainment systems, the use of such devices does come with a few limitations that can lead to frustration — most notably, lack of tactile control, connectivity issues, and the numerous page-swipes required," says Pro Control general manager Mike Everett.

2013 Connected Home Market Monitor

paul — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 08:36:34 +1000

Over the past 12 months, the Australian and New Zealand home automation industries have continued to change. New technologies, protocols and standards have forced integrators to alter the way in which they perform their jobs, and the further widespread adoption of consumer products has resulted in manufacturers, distributors and installers developing new ways of making money.

But the impact of these changes can be difficult to determine.

That's why we run the Connected Home Market Monitor.

Autonomic appoints Australian distributor

CF — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 16:52:25 +1000

Founded over 20 years ago and based just outside of Sydney, Advance Audio represents an impressive array of internationally respected brands to both custom integrators and specialty retailers.

“The Mirage Media Server provides the most seamless solution for our dealers, delivering both streaming and locally stored music throughout the home,” says Advance Audio general manager Adam Merlino.

Elan g! introduces 6.2 software update

CF — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 10:18:36 +1000

According to control category core brands director Joe Lautner, ELAN prides itself on providing end-users with consistent, easy-to-learn and easy-to-use GUI, and today it expanded that capability with its first native ELAN g! app for OSX on Apple computers. In addition to the new OSX app, ELAN has further developed the on-screen display (accessible on programmed TVs) to be consistent in appearance and operation with all of ELAN’s touchscreen interfaces and g!Mobile apps for Android and iOS devices.

Swann HD Platinum-HD security systems

CF — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 09:50:01 +1000

The Swann Network Video Recording (NVR) systems are capable of full HD video with real-time live viewing and video playback. Initially there will be two versions, one with four channels and four cameras and the other with eight channels and four cameras.

Swann vice president-marketing Jeremy Stewart says that the new systems are the next generation of do-it-yourself video surveillance systems.