Network Protocol Advances Home Automation

Called Insteon, the company's network protocol is said to be the first to combine power line with RF communications to provide secure, reliable, and fast connections for automatic or remote control of lighting, security devices, entertainment systems, appliances, and climate control. This approach is also said to be 30 times faster than the X10 home automation standard, which works exclusively through power lines, while maintaining backward compatibility with X10. To install the system, users need to plug-in two RF access points and two filters to prevent interference with PC power strips and certain brands of televisions. On the OEM side, the protocol can be integrated in products such as washing machines, dryers and dishwashers, HVAC devices, garage door openers, and others. For further information, call SMARTHOME INC., Irvine, CA. (800) 762-7846.