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IR Receiver Mounts in a Single Gang Electrical Box for a Professional Finish

Official Smarthome Blog - Fri, 08/13/2010 - 1:00pm

The WL95 is designed to reject interference from Plasma, LCD, LED Displays and Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL) from entering the IR signal line. This IR Receiver mounts easily into a single gang, electrical J-Box, is supplied with mounting screws, and comes with a Decorator-style insert, allowing the installer to use a Decorator-style wall cover plate. This provides an integrated look for control of A/V equipment behind closed doors or any IR Repeater System that is in close proximity to light sources described above.

  • Range up to 120 feet
  • J-Box Mounting with Decorator-style insert
  • 4-screw terminal block for interface to Xantech Connecting Blocks
  • Works in normal 3-wire mode
  • Improved Compact Fluorescent Light rejection
  • May be used in Direct Sunlight
  • RF Grid included for EMI reduction
  • Talk Back LED for IR reception and full system operation indication
  • Status LED for system On/Off indication (requires 12VDC Source @10mA)
  • Price: $200.62
  • Read more


    Review of PCI-DSS 2.0

    Network Security Blog - Fri, 08/13/2010 - 9:14am

    Here’s the most complete review of the changes I’ve seen to the update of the PCI-DSS and PA-DSS to version 2.0 over at the PCI Guru blog.  And a hat tip to John Kindervag for pointing me in the right direction. That’s all for now. 

    Cloning Retail Gift Cards

    Schneier on Security - Fri, 08/13/2010 - 6:36am
    Clever attack. After researching how gift cards work, Zepeda purchased a magnetic card reader online, began stealing blank gift cards, on display for purchase, from Fred Meyer and scanning them with his reader. He would then return some of the scanned cards to the store and wait for a computer program to alert him when the cards were activated and...

    Wireless Motion Sensor and Alarm Kit to be Used Indoors or Outdoors!

    Official Smarthome Blog - Thu, 08/12/2010 - 6:37pm

    The Skylink Wireless Motion Alert Kit can be placed indoors or outdoors to alert you of security breaches. Using infrared technology, the motion sensor will detect any movement and report it to the Household Alert® Receiver to alert you.

    You can set the system to one of three operating modes to be alerted of movement. All three modes will flash an LED to notify you of movement, but you can change the mode based on the audio indicator you would like to receive. Alert Mode beeps when a sensor is activated, Alarm Mode will scare off intruders with a 95 dB siren, and Off will not emit and audio indictation.

    A Supervised Sensor is included in the units to monitor their batteries and let you know when the battery life is getting low. Up to 16 sensors (sold separately) can be used in up to 4 zones with this Wireless Motion Alert Kit.

  • Alerts you when motion is detected surrounding your home, garage, or business
  • Supervised Sensor monitors the sensors and their battery condition automatically
  • Built-in piercing 95 dB siren
  • Both audio and visual indicators
  • Easy to set up
  • Price: $39.98
  • Read more


    IR Receiver Mounts in a Single Gang Electrical Box for a Professional Finish

    Official Smarthome Blog - Thu, 08/12/2010 - 6:30pm

    The WL25 is designed to reject interference from CRT, DLP and LED Displays. This IR Receiver mounts easily into a single gang, electrical J-Box, is supplied with mounting screws, and comes with a Decorator-style insert, allowing the installer to use a Decorator-style wall cover plate. This provides an integrated look for control of A/V equipment behind closed doors or any IR Repeater System that is in close proximity to light sources described above.

  • J-Box Mounting with Decorator-style insert
  • 4-screw terminal block for interface to Xantech Connecting Blocks
  • Works in normal 3-wire mode
  • RF Grid included for EMI reduction
  • Talk Back LED for IR reception and full system operation indication
  • 7 units may be powered by one 781ERGPS power supply (regulated 12VDC 200mA supply)
  • The Talk-Back Led should only blink when you are sending infrared commands to the Micro Link IR receiver from a remote control
  • Price: $73.74
  • Read more


    PowerLinc Modem – INSTEON USB Interface (Dual-Band) 2413U Review

    Official Smarthome Blog - Thu, 08/12/2010 - 6:16pm

    MICHAEL — EDINA, MN Date: 7/19/2010
    Review: Prodect exactly as desrcibed. Fast shipping!!!

    EDWARD — MENLO PARK, CA Date: 4/17/2010
    Review: Painless install. Works well with Indigo software on the Mac. You’re not really supposed to put an extension on the USB cable for the best signal but I’ve got a 6 oot extension and I’ve not had any problems at all. There is a slight “chirp” sound when linking to other units but it only happens during set-up and is inconsequential.

    JASON — NEWCASTLE, WA Date: 4/15/2010
    Review: Works great, much faster than the old PLC.

    OMER — WAYNE, NJ Date: 3/23/2010
    Review: Good Product, easy to program!

    Read More Reviews

    OR

    Buy the PowerLinc Modem – INSTEON USB Interface (Dual-Band) 2413U at Smarthome.com


    Use the Universal Smart Module to Lower Water Usage and Costs!

    Official Smarthome Blog - Thu, 08/12/2010 - 5:55pm

    The Alex-Tronix USM Universal Smart Module® coordinates itself with your sprinkler timer’s run times, and adjusts irrigation schedule based on current temperature and location. It learns each station’s summer peak watering duration and modifies the run times by a daily percentage based on location, date, and temperature. Patented “Temperature Budgeting” technology is S.W.A.T. tested and results in lower water usage and costs.

  • Module adjusts irrigation schedule based on current temperature and location
  • Control up to eight stations
  • 50% of the cost of a smart controller
  • “Set it, don’t sweat it”® programming. Simply enter date, time, and zip code
  • No monthly service fees or expensive weather stations
  • Price: $169.00
  • Read more


    Wireless Door/Window Sensor for Added Protection

    Official Smarthome Blog - Thu, 08/12/2010 - 3:45pm

    The Mace 80356 Wireless Security Door/Window Sensor detects when a window or a door is being opened, and alarms the owner for intrusion. When the window/door sensor is triggered, the unit will sound an alarm and activate the main control of the Mace Wireless Home Security System with a wireless RF transmission up to 300 feet away. This door/window sensor is to be used with the Mace Wireless Home Security System ONLY.

  • Wireless door/window sensor for use with the Mace Wireless Home Security System ONLY
  • Activates alarm when door or window is opened
  • Wireless RF transmission up to 300 feet
  • Price: $30.00
  • Read more


    PCI 2.0 Summary of Changes

    Network Security Blog - Thu, 08/12/2010 - 3:14pm

    This morning the PCI Council released the Summary of Changes for PCI 2.0.  And to be brutally honest, so far I’m completely underwhelmed.  Obviously we don’t have the details on what the changes actually are, but the high level view of them makes it sound like there are almost no significant changes.  Strike that: there are no significant changes at all.  There is some clarification and some mention of virtualization, but I was hoping for more.  I wasn’t expecting much more, but I was hoping.

    I got to talk to Bob Russo from the PCI Council in July, and he’d hinted at the level of change.  And maybe I’m just not realistic in asking for major changes.  Despite the fact that PCI has been around for a while now, there are still a lot of merchants and service providers who have issues complying.  It may be that the realistic thing for the Council to do is continue to build support and compliance with what they have now, rather than pushing to increase security by making major changes.  Sometimes it is better to accept minor changes you know you can enforce than to try for something grander that you’ll never attain.

    I’m hoping to get another chance to talk to Mr. Russo.  I’ve asked nicely, really I have.  I’d like to understand why this is the sum total of changes they’re making before switching to a three year lifecycle.  I’m not sure I’ll like the answers, but I still want to hear them directly from the man who’s in charge of the group setting and managing the PCI Standards.  Obviously, my approval is not necessary, but as one of the people who helps enforce the PCI Data Security Standards, I want to understand the reasoning.

    IR Distribution Kit Features a Compact IR Sensor that Blends in to its Surroundings

    Official Smarthome Blog - Thu, 08/12/2010 - 1:00pm

    The interference from a TV can wreak havoc with your IR control system. Xantech designed this Micro Link IR Receiver to resist the interference from DLP and CRT TVs – so you can mount install this IR receiver kit in any room with confidence. The DLP/CRT Proof Micro Link IR Receiver Kit makes it possible to control up to four different audio and video components behind solid doors or walls using your existing IR remote.

    The IR receiver is a small peep-hole style infrared repeater assembly, perfect for a nearly flush in-wall or cabinet installation with minimal footprint for a professional finish. The high sensitivity of this receiver allows it to receive IR commands up to 80 feet away, it also includes a ‘talkback’ LED so you’ll know the command was received and sent to the emitter. Using the included connecting block, you can connect the IR receiver to the four IR emitter ports. The connecting block supplies power to the IR receiver using the included power supply. The connecting block receives IR signals coming from the IR receiver and distributes the IR signals out to your audio and video components using the included IR emitters. With a Xantech IR Kit, equipment can now be concealed for clean room design. In addition, a centralized IR receiver means there is only one IR target resulting in improved remote control interaction. Featuring color-coded connectors, a Xantech IR Kit is easy to install, and allows a worry-free installation. Includes Black, Brass and White bezels.

  • Control audio/video equipment from up to 80 feet away
  • Peephole-Style, mounts in 1/2″ diameter hole 2″ deep ideal for cabinet doors or walls
  • Green Talkback LED for System Verification
  • Includes DLP/CRT Proof Micro Link IR Receiver, Connecting Block, Power supply and four single emitters
  • Color-coded connectors for fast, easy installation
  • Price: $81.24
  • Read more


    Security Analysis of Smudges on Smart Phone Touch Screens

    Schneier on Security - Thu, 08/12/2010 - 5:48am
    "Smudge Attacks on Smartphone Touch Screens": Abstract: Touch screens are an increasingly common feature on personal computing devices, especially smartphones, where size and user interface advantages accrue from consolidating multiple hardware components (keyboard, number pad, etc.) into a single software definable user interface. Oily residues, or smudges, on the touch screen surface, are one side effect of touches from which...

    Solar Power Controller Saves Money, Water, Time and Energy!

    Official Smarthome Blog - Wed, 08/11/2010 - 6:22pm

    The Alex-Tronix Smart Clock is the only battery or solar powered temperature budgeting controller that can operate up to six stations plus master valve. It has four independent programs with 4 start times per day per program, and the operation options are automatic, semi-automatic, and timed manual. It has the ability to water on scheduled days of the week or interval of days, and rain delay function up to 99 days. Self powered controller with powder coated outdoor metal case with lock to minimize vandalism. The Smart Clock uses energy saving technology recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy.

  • Battery operated controller with “temperature budgeting technology”
  • Save money, water, time and energy
  • Six stations plus master valve
  • Watering based on scheduled days of the week or interval of days
  • Simple set it, don’t sweat it ® programming
  • Price: $1025.00
  • Read more


    Easy Fix Stops Faucet Leaks Forever!

    Official Smarthome Blog - Wed, 08/11/2010 - 5:41pm

    The DripStop® Valve replaces old-fashioned rubber washers and stops faucet leaks forever! Guaranteed for life, the DripStop Valve uses your faucet’s own internal water pressure to gently create a watertight seal. That’s why it works so much better – and lasts so much longer – than an old-fashioned rubber washer.

    The DripStop Valve can never be over-tightened and makes your faucet easy to turn on and off. DripStop is great for seniors, arthritis sufferers, and people with limited motion!

    The DripStop Valve works in most major brands of compression faucets and will even work if your faucet’s seat is chipped or worn. No ordinary washer can do that!

    The DSV-C DripStop Valve fits B & K, Burlington Brass, Crane, Central Brass Tub & Shower & Model # K-3-CT, Gerber, Milwaukee, and Universal / Rundle faucets.

    This DripStop Valve Combo Pack contains one each of DSV-A, DSV-B, & DSV-C. Also included is one DSV-D, for Price Pfister tub & shower faucets. (DSV-D is not packaged separately & only comes in Combo-Packs).

  • Permanently replaces rubber faucet washers
  • Guaranteed for life
  • Works in most major brands of compression faucets
  • Includes 4 DripStop Valve packages to fit virtually any faucet
  • Price: $3.31
  • Read more


    Control your A/V System and Computer Desktop Applications with a Single Remote!

    Official Smarthome Blog - Wed, 08/11/2010 - 5:30pm

    EZ Commander is a wireless trackball mouse and keypad that is used like a remote control. Just plug the included receiver into the USB port of your desktop or laptop, and start to experience the full control of your multimedia center. It’s as EZ as the touch of a button and without the need to sit in front of your computer.

    This all-in-one remote is composed of three parts: Media Control & PC Function keys, trackball mouse and keypad. After you install the included EZ Input software, you’ll be able to control almost any A/V device, and perform standard computer keyboard functions using the Media Control and PC Function keys. Use the mouse to surf the web for information, news or products. The keypad can be used to type words into your working computer applications – enter terms into the search bar, send emails and more…all in the palm of your hand, while relaxing on the couch.

  • Fully-functional wireless mouse and keypad
  • Controls MS Windows desktop applications and your A/V and multimedia devices
  • Multilingual text input keypad
  • Laser pointer works well for business conference and presentations
  • Price: $34.98
  • Read more


    Late Teens and Facebook Privacy

    Schneier on Security - Wed, 08/11/2010 - 5:00am
    Facebook Privacy Settings: Who Cares?" by danah boyd and Eszter Hargittai. Abstract: With over 500 million users, the decisions that Facebook makes about its privacy settings have the potential to influence many people. While its changes in this domain have often prompted privacy advocates and news media to critique the company, Facebook has continued to attract more users to its...

    Network Security Podcast, Episode 208

    Network Security Blog - Tue, 08/10/2010 - 7:42pm

    This week’s episode was pretty refreshing- rather than covering our usual news stories, we spent most of our time answering some questions from our listeners (that’s you). Please keep ‘em coming folks- we’d much rather try and help you out than blather about unimportant nonsense in our feed readers. Besides, if you ask enough questions we don’t have to read. Which is good. Because Rich never learned how.

    Network Security Podcast, Episode 208, August 10, 2010
    Time:  45:27

    Show Notes:

    Network Security Podcast, Episode 208

    Network Security Blog - Tue, 08/10/2010 - 7:42pm

    This week’s episode was pretty refreshing- rather than covering our usual news stories, we spent most of our time answering some questions from our listeners (that’s you). Please keep ‘em coming folks- we’d much rather try and help you out than blather about unimportant nonsense in our feed readers. Besides, if you ask enough questions we don’t have to read. Which is good. Because Rich never learned how.

    Network Security Podcast, Episode 208, August 10, 2010
    Time:  45:27

    Show Notes:

    Handsfree and Streaming Audio Car Kit

    Official Smarthome Blog - Tue, 08/10/2010 - 6:34pm

    The Scosche Industries motorMOUTH™ II plugs directly into your car’s MP3/AUX input. Your phone conversation will play through your car’s speakers, so you can eliminate uncomfortable earpieces. With DSP echo cancellation, you’ll have crystal clear transmission, even in noisy vehicles. Once set up, you’ll be able to perform most of your phone’s functions, such as answering, toggling between calls, etc. with the motorMOUTH II multi-function button.

  • Auto-pairing makes initial setup hassle free
  • One touch voice dialing with most Bluetooth cellular phones
  • Includes switching audio splitter, AUX relocation cable, USB charging cable and car charger
  • Support profiles: HFP and A2DP
  • Price: $69.99
  • Read more


    Stop Fumbling for the Off Switch with the Plug-In Touch Dimmer!

    Official Smarthome Blog - Tue, 08/10/2010 - 6:20pm

    With the SkyLink Magic Tap™, you’ll be able to control your incandescent lamps with a simple finger tap. Magic Tap installs in minutes – just plug your lamp into Magic Tap, and then plug the unit into an outlet. Once Magic Tap is installed, you’ll be able to brighten and dim your lamp with simple button taps.

    Magic Tap can help you save electricity and money. The Magic Tap button allows more flexibility in lamp placement and use. You won’t have to reach up and fumble for the lamp knob after you crawl into bed. Keep Magic Tap within arm’s reach and stay comfortable while turning out the light.

  • Eliminates reaching for awkward lamp knob, toggle switch or chain
  • Adjusts light from dim, medium and bright with the tap of a finger
  • Works with standard bulbs and saves electricity
  • Built-in night light provides safety and comfort for the whole family
  • Price: $15.16
  • Read more


    No More Lawn Geysers Thanks to the Sprinkler Riser with Automatic Shut-Off!

    Official Smarthome Blog - Tue, 08/10/2010 - 6:13pm

    The No More Geyser NMG-49 is a sprinkler riser with an internal shut-off valve. When a sprinkler head breaks off, NMG-49 automatically shuts off the water at the break. Install directly into the water supply line, with a retaining pin held in place by the sprinkler head. When the sprinkler head moves, the retaining pin moves out of the way, and the water pressure causes the ball to seat in the valve fitting – stopping the flow of water through the riser.

    The NMG-49 stops the “lawn geysers” we have all seen; so it conserves water by avoiding water loss when a sprinkler head gets broken off, and it lowers the risk of property damage and liability caused by water flowing out of the sprinkler system.

  • Prevents geysers if the sprinkler head breaks off
  • Fully adjustable and installs directly into your existing sprinkler system
  • Price: $6.98
  • Read more


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