Feed aggregator

Technology is Making Life Harder for Spies

Schneier on Security - Mon, 07/26/2010 - 5:12am
An article from The Economist makes a point that I have been thinking about for a while: the modern technology makes life harder for spies, not easier. It used to be the technology favored spycraft -- think James Bond gadgets -- but more and more, technology favors spycatchers. The ubiquitous collection of personal data makes it harder to maintain a...

ICON Relay – INSTEON Appliance Module, 3-Pin 2856S3B Review

Official Smarthome Blog - Sun, 07/25/2010 - 6:46pm

ROLAND — MANCHESTER, TN Date: 1/4/2010
Review: Works! What more to say.

ROBERT — HARPERS FERRY, WV Date: 3/5/2010
Review: I have this hooked up to a movie poster lightbox (LED) and controlled through an IRLinc and HouseLinc. Works flawlessly, as do all of the other ICON units I have in my system.

LARIS — PARK CITY, KS Date: 1/9/2010
Review: The insteon Appliance module is rapid responding, I am very happy with the three units. I plan on buying modules that will dim lights as soon as I resolve the SmartLinc Central Controller issue.

Review

Read More Reviews

OR

Buy the ICON Relay – INSTEON Appliance Module, 3-Pin 2856S3B at Smarthome.com


Thermostat Adapter – INSTEON and Totaline / Venstar Compatible 2441V Review

Official Smarthome Blog - Sat, 07/24/2010 - 6:38pm

MICHAEL — WALNUT CREEK, CA Date: 1/11/2010
Review: Works great! This with an ISY99 is one of the nicest ways to program a thermostat.

JOHN — PITTSBURGH, PA Date: 1/9/2010
Review: This new version gave me all the features I needed when accessing my thermostat with the 2412N Rev2 Smartlinc controller over the internet.

JOSEPH — LEBANON, OH Date: 1/4/2010
Review: The upgraded thermostat adapter has greatly increased its functionality when used with the Universal Devices ISY. Thank you SmartHome for your attention to your customer’s needs.

Marcie — Rockford, Illinois Date: 1/15/2008
Review: I love being able to control my thermostat remotely. With the touch of a button, I can turn our heat down at bedtime to 65 degrees once I”m tucked into bed all warm and toasty.

Read More Reviews

OR

Buy the Thermostat Adapter – INSTEON and Totaline / Venstar Compatible 2441V at Smarthome.com


Flexibility In Lighting!

Official Smarthome Blog - Sat, 07/24/2010 - 3:03pm

The Cyron SCR3-W-RL Indoor Ribbon Lights makes it possible to add lighting in spaces never before possible. Cyron ribbon lights offer great ease of installation for long linear runs. The indoor grades have 3M tape transfer on the back for easy peel and stick. 12VDC power supply is sold seperately in a 30W and 50W. Cyron Ribbon Lights are the answer for: long linear runs, curved surfaces, small spaces with limited or no ventilation, shelving units, edge lighting glass/acrylic, signage, soft lighting/crown moldings, and where multicolor LEDs are directly visible.

  • Indoor Ribbon Lights
  • Day White LEDs
  • 16.5 Feet Reel
  • 3M Tape Transfer For Easy Peel and Stick
  • Price: $199.95
  • Read more


    Screwless Wallplate Offers a Professional Finish to your Switch Installation

    Official Smarthome Blog - Sat, 07/24/2010 - 3:01pm

    The Lutron Claro 3-Gang Wallplate is the perfect choice for providing a clean, color matched finish to your Lutron Maestro, Maestro Wireless, Diva or Skylark dimmer or switch installation. The wallplate is simple, elegant and easy to install, with no visible screws or hardware. The superior snap-on design allows the front plate to fasten securely and tightly to the adapter plate regardless of your wall condition. The oversized build of the wallplate hides gaps around the installation box and mounts flush to the wall ensuring a clean appearance. Each wallplate is ASTM tested and made from durable polycarbonate with a gloss finish, so they are easy to clean and built to maintain their beauty for many years to come. The Lutron Claro 1-Gang Wallplate adds a sleek, solid feel to your walls and home décor while removing the eyesore associated with standard wallplates.

  • 3-Gang, Decora-style design accommodates three dimmers, switches or accessories
  • Two-part screwless design
  • Color matched and fitted to work perfectly with Lutron Maestro and Maestro Wireless switches
  • Also works Lutron Diva and Skylark series switches, and other manufacturers’ Decora-style and designer series switches
  • Smooth, gloss finish makes it easy to clean
  • Price: $11.54
  • Read more


    ToggleLinc Relay – INSTEON Remote Control On/Off Switch (Non-Dimming), Ivory 2466SI Review

    Official Smarthome Blog - Fri, 07/23/2010 - 6:35pm

    PAUL — WETHERSFIELD, CT Date: 6/18/2010
    Review: A design I’ve had in mind for years, glad to see it finally come to market, no training needed for the family whatsoever.

    STEPHEN — DAVENPORT, IA Date: 4/1/2010
    Review: It works. Easy to install. Great personal help from SMARTHOME. Fast delivery.

    JOYCE — YPSILANTI, MI Date: 4/1/2010
    Review: Works great and easy to install. I would change one thing in the design of future relays. There is a led light on the switch that lights up when the switch is off and the led goes off when the switch is on. I would reverse this action on future designs.

    KEVIN — PINE BUSH, NY Date: 1/8/2010
    Review: Great product – Happy to see Toggle switches staying around!

    Read More Reviews

    OR

    Buy the ToggleLinc Relay – INSTEON Remote Control On/Off Switch (Non-Dimming), Ivory 2466SI at Smarthome.com


    Enjoy the Convenience of Controlling a Light or Fan from Multiple Locations or Via Remote Control

    Official Smarthome Blog - Fri, 07/23/2010 - 5:59pm

    The Lutron Maestro Wireless RF 6 Amp Multi-location Switch functions much like a standard switch with the added ability to be controlled by other devices as part of Maestro Wireless lighting system. It can be controlled by a Radio Powr Savr Ceiling Wireless Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor to automatically turn on and off when someone enters or leaves a room, or via a portable remote using the Maestro Wireless RF Pico Controller, each sold separately. The switch is designed for On/Off control of lighting (up to 6 Amps) or fans (up to 3 Amps). It is compatible with single pole/multi-location incandescent, halogen, MLV, ELV, non-dim fluorescent ballasts and general purpose fans. This switch and other devices on the Maestro Wireless systems are incredibly easy to install and operate, allowing you to control lighting levels with any combination of up to 10 dimmers, switches, companion dimmer, companion switches, sensors and wireless controls. Local lighting controls such as this are useful in locations where single circuits of lighting or a fan need to be switched. It also easily installs as part of a Two-location and Three or More-location application. Since there is no need for pulling new wire it is perfect for retrofits. Features a clean, flush, stylish appearance. Coordinate using Lutron Claro Wallplates, sold separately.

  • Replace existing switches to control an 6 Amp light or a 3 Amp fan
  • Create a system of up to 10 devices
  • Clear Connect Radio Frequency (RF) Technology provides reliable communication
  • True multi-location on/off control setup available when used with other compatible products
  • LED: Glows brightly when the Electronic Switch is On or glows softly as a night light when Electronic Switch is Off
  • Uses standard single-pole and 3-way wiring for easy installation in any home
  • Price: $64.71
  • Read more


    Enjoy the Convenience of Dimming a Light from Multiple Locations or Via Remote Control

    Official Smarthome Blog - Fri, 07/23/2010 - 4:56pm

    The Lutron Maestro Wireless RF 600 Watt Multi-location Dimmer functions much like a standard dimmer with the added ability to be controlled by other devices as part of Maestro Wireless lighting system. It can be controlled by a Radio Powr Savr Ceiling Wireless Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor to automatically turn on and off when someone enters or leaves a room, or via a portable remote using the Maestro Wireless RF Pico Controller, each sold separately. The dimmer incorporates advanced features such as fade on / fade off, long fade off, and rapid full on. This dimmer and other devices on the Maestro Wireless systems are incredibly easy to install and operate, allowing you to control lighting levels with any combination of up to 10 dimmers, companion dimmers, switches, companion switches, sensors and wireless controls. Local lighting controls such as this are useful in locations where single circuits of lighting need to be dimmed or switched. It also easily installs as part of a Two-location and Three or More-location application with the use of one or more Maestro companion switches. Since there is no need for pulling new wire it is perfect for retrofits. Features a clean, flush, stylish appearance. Coordinate using Lutron Claro Wallplates, sold separately.

  • Replace existing switches to dim and control incandescent/halogen bulbs up to 600W
  • Create a system of up to 10 wireless devices
  • Clear Connect Radio Frequency (RF) Technology provides reliable communication
  • True multi-location dimming setup available when used with other compatible products
  • LEDs show preset light level and glow softly to act as night light
  • Uses standard single-pole and 3-way wiring for easy installation in any home
  • Maintains stable light levels, despite power line frequency and voltage variations
  • Price: $64.71
  • Read more


    Friday Squid Blogging: Squidbillies

    Schneier on Security - Fri, 07/23/2010 - 3:19pm
    Where do these TV shows come from? Follows the adventures of the Cuylers, an impoverished and dysfunctional family of anthropomorphic, air-breathing, redneck squids who live in a rural Appalachian community in the US state of Georgia....

    Ultra Small Light Virtually Vanishes From Sight!

    Official Smarthome Blog - Fri, 07/23/2010 - 1:53pm

    The Cyron CL1202W 2×12 Cabinet LED Lighting System is perfect for under kitchen cabinets, lighting display cases, and shelving units. Ultra small size virtually vanishes from sight! Less than 1/4″ thin, Less than 1/2″ wide. Two 12″ light bars hermetically sealed for extreme water resistance, safe to clean with common household cleaners. Linkable for future system expansions. This 12VDC low voltage system makes installation a simple task. The lightbars are in silver and black for a perfect match to any application.

  • Perfect For Cabinets, Light Display Cases, and Shelving Units
  • 36 Ultra Bright SMT LEDs Per Lightbar
  • 140 Lumens, Daylight White 6500K
  • 120 Degrees Light Dispersion
  • System Operation: 12VDC3W
  • Price: $66.90
  • Read more


    The Washington Post on the U.S. Intelligence Industry

    Schneier on Security - Fri, 07/23/2010 - 11:46am
    The Washington Post has published a phenomenal piece of investigative journalism: a long, detailed, and very interesting expose on the U.S. intelligence industry (overall website; parts 1, 2, and 3; blog; Washington reactions; top 10 revelations; many many many blog comments and reactions; and so on). It's a truly excellent piece of investigative journalism. Pity people don't care much about...

    Internet Worm Targets SCADA

    Schneier on Security - Fri, 07/23/2010 - 7:59am
    Stuxnet is a new Internet worm that specifically targets Siemens WinCC SCADA systems: used to control production at industrial plants such as oil rigs, refineries, electronics production, and so on. The worm seems to uploads plant info (schematics and production information) to an external website. Moreover, owners of these SCADA systems cannot change the default password because it would cause...

    Turn Your Car’s Vents Into Extra Storage Space

    Official Smarthome Blog - Thu, 07/22/2010 - 6:51pm

    The Vent Pack XL hangs from your vehicle’s air vent for easy-access storage and features a bonus front pocket sized to fit a cell phone. Constructed of sturdy material, this organizer is made to last.

  • Rugged material stands up to everyday use
  • Large enough for PDA, cell phone or MP3 player
  • Durable netting allows you to see inside the organizer
  • Adjustable clip fits almost any vent
  • Price: $5.98
  • Read more


    Plug a Lamp Into This Lutron Maestro Wireless Plug-in Dimmer for Reliable Remote Control

    Official Smarthome Blog - Thu, 07/22/2010 - 4:47pm

    The Lutron Maestro Wireless 300 Watt Plug-In Lamp Dimmer functions much like standard dimmers and have an integral microprocessor, allowing them to be incorporated into Maestro Wireless solutions. The dimmer incorporates advanced features such as fade on / fade off, long fade off, and rapid full on. This dimmer and other devices on the Maestro Wireless systems are incredibly easy to install and operate, allowing you to control lighting levels with any combination of up to 10 dimmers, companion dimmers, switches, companion switches, sensors and wireless controls. Maestro Wireless Plug-in Lamp Dimmers are useful in locations where single plug-in lamps need to be dimmed remotely. It can be controlled by a Radio Powr Savr Ceiling Wireless Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor to automatically turn on and off when someone enters or leaves a room, or via a portable remote with the Maestro Wireless RF Pico Controller, each sold separately. Features a clean, flush, stylish appearance. Coordinate using Lutron Claro Wallplates, sold separately.

    Using Lutron’s reliable Clear Connect RF Technology, you’ll have reliable wireless communication every time. Wireless lighting control allows you to build custom solutions for any room or space in a home, all with the touch of a button. The Maestro Wireless family of products offers you more value, convenience, flexibility and energy-savings for your money.

  • Controls incandescent/halogen table or floor lamps up to 300W
  • Create a system of up to 10 wireless devices
  • Clear Connect Radio Frequency (RF) Technology provides reliable communication
  • True multi-location dimming setup available when used with other compatible products
  • LEDs show preset light level and glow softly to act as night light
  • Adjustable maximum light level provides energy savings and extended bulb life
  • Can be configured as a switch for non-dimmable loads
  • Six-foot (1.8 m) cord length
  • Requires No Wiring or Tools
  • Maintains stable light levels, despite power line frequency and voltage variations
  • Price: $95.59
  • Read more


    I/O Linc – INSTEON Low Voltage / Contact Closure Interface (1 In / 1 Out) 2450 Review!

    Official Smarthome Blog - Thu, 07/22/2010 - 2:30pm

    MICHAEL — SPRINGFIELD, MO Date: 1/5/2010
    Review: Easy to set up, works flawlessly.

    GREGORY — VAUGHAN, ON Date: 1/4/2010
    Review: Works great with the 7455 contact and the 2475 In-LineLinc Relay to control and outside light. It’s important to read the directions when linking the I/O Linc to the In-LineLinc Relay, otherwise the light will be on when it should be off.

    TODD — CARROLLTON, TX Date: 6/27/2009
    Review: Very cool product. Very well thought out with lots of possible applications due to large programming option set available through the ISY.

    ROBERT — WAVERLY, VA Date: 6/19/2009
    Review: Works great, I had no problems at all getting these up and running.

    Read More Reviews

    OR

    Buy the I/O Linc – INSTEON Low Voltage / Contact Closure Interface ( 1 In / 1 Out ) 2450 at Smarthome.com


    Save Energy by Automating Lights to be On Only when an Area is Occupied

    Official Smarthome Blog - Thu, 07/22/2010 - 1:45pm

    The Lutron Radio Powr Savr Wireless RF Ceiling Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor are battery-powered passive infrared (PIR) sensors that can automatically control lights or fans on a Lutron Maestro Wireless system. The Radio Powr Savr Wireless RF Ceiling Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor detects the heat from people moving within an area to determine when the space is occupied. The sensors then wirelessly transmits the appropriate commands to an associated Maestro Wireless devices (or devices) on or off automatically. Up to 3 sensors can be added with each RF dimming or switching device for extended coverage. Each sensor may be added to up to 10 compatible RF dimming and switching devices for spaces with multiple zones of lighting. They combine both convenience and exceptional energy savings along with ease of installation.

  • Automate Maestro Wireless devices to turn on when you’re in the room and off when you aren’t
  • Passive infrared motion detection offers precise motion detection
  • Three settings: Auto-On/Auto-Off, Auto-On Low-Light/Auto-Off, and Manual-On/Auto-Off
  • Multiple ceiling-mount methods available for different ceiling materials
  • Battery powered – no wiring required
  • Price: $95.99
  • Read more


    Help a man out!

    Network Security Blog - Thu, 07/22/2010 - 12:45pm

    Like many people in the security blogger community, Tyler Reguly pays for his blog and other community efforts out of his own pocket.  For the most part, that’s not a big issue, since there are many options for blogs that are free or cheap.  But Tyler does more than just blog, he also hosts Damn Vulnerable Linux on his servers.  Again, usually not a problem, except he got SlashDotted and now has a bill of several thousand dollars to pay!  You can read the whole story and help by donating a few dollars to his cause.  I’ve had a few brushes with the same experience myself, so I can fully understand the panic he’s probably going through.  And on the off chance that he get’s more than the bill costs, he’ll be donating the overage to Hackers for Charity.

    More Research on the Effectiveness of Terrorist Profiling

    Schneier on Security - Thu, 07/22/2010 - 5:41am
    Interesting: The use of profiling by ethnicity or nationality to trigger secondary security screening is a controversial social and political issue. Overlooked is the question of whether such actuarial methods are in fact mathematically justified, even under the most idealized assumptions of completely accurate prior probabilities, and secondary screenings concentrated on the highest-probablity individuals. We show here that strong profiling...

    Control any Maestro Wireless RF Device with This Elegant, Compact Remote Control

    Official Smarthome Blog - Wed, 07/21/2010 - 6:42pm

    The Lutron Maestro Wireless RF Pico Controller is a simple to use portable remote that allows you to control Lutron Maestro Wireless RF Dimmers, Switches and Lamp Dimmers. The Pico Controller can be used in a variety of ways. Raise and lower light levels, program the on/off buttons to control one switch or a group of switches, and use the favorite button to do the same. It can function as a tabletop control on a pedestal (sold separately), a lightweight handheld remote, a control clipped to a car visor, or it can be wall-mounted with or without a Lutron Claro faceplate (sold separately) to mimic a traditional keypad…with no wiring! This remote control and other devices on the Maestro Wireless systems are incredibly easy to install and operate, allowing you to control lighting levels with any combination of up to 10 dimmers, companion dimmers, switches, companion switches, sensors and wireless controls. This device is powered by a CR2032 3V battery and requires no external power or communication wiring.

    Using Lutron’s reliable Clear Connect RF Technology, you’ll have reliable wireless communication every time. Wireless lighting control allows you to build custom solutions for any room or space in a home, all with the touch of a button. The Maestro Wireless family of products offers you more value, convenience, flexibility and energy-savings for your money.

  • Provides wireless remote control for Lutron Maestro Wireless RF devices
  • Can provide control for up to ten dimmers, switches and lamp dimmers within a 30 ft (9 m) range
  • Raise and lower lighting levels or recall a favorite lighting level
  • Use as a portable handheld remote or mount it on the wall for use as a keypad
  • Battery operated – requires no external power or communication wiring
  • Clear Connect Radio Frequency (RF) Technology provides reliable communication
  • Price: $43.08
  • Read more


    Mobile Trash Can For Your Car

    Official Smarthome Blog - Wed, 07/21/2010 - 4:39pm

    This mobile trash can goes where ever you need it! It is a perfect fit wether you have a car, RV, or truck. It pops up in a snap to allow for easy use, and is made of durable nylon so any messes are cleaned up quickly and easily.

  • Pops up to use, collapses down to store
  • Easy to clean PVC/nylon material, secures spills
  • Perfect for cars, RV’s and trucks
  • Price: $3.49
  • Read more


    Syndicate content