Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

WHOLE HOUSE SYSTEMS INTERVIEW

Compared to other systems, Network Lighting's system is much more cost-efficient. Not only does our system use less hardware, but the system also utilizes a series of "slave" systems that distribute the processing power of a single master controller throughout the home or business at a fraction of the cost.

QUESTION 1 - New House Construction. What is the process for including your home automation system in my design and construction process? Who should I talk to first ... when should I start ... what do I need to know ahead of time etc.

Installation of the product can be done as late as the Advanced Framing stage when plumbing and other in-wall transport systems are being installed. It is not necessary to know exactly how everything will be controlled at the installation stage because software programming and updates can be made at any time.

Note: Auxiliary inputs such as in-floor pressure sensors and driveway sensors should be installed as soon as possible.

QUESTION 2 - Old House Renovation. What is the process for adding your home automation system to my old house? Do I need to tear out walls etc.? Who should I talk to first ... what do I need to know ahead of time etc.

We have the option of installing non-invasive wall-mounted system enclosures that can be placed in UL-rated closets, basements, or other spaces. Homeowners have the option of routing powerline wiring into one of the central enclosures or sending it into distributed "slave" enclosures to cut down on wiring and "fishing" for wiring.

QUESTION 3 - What systems can I automate using your equipment? (i.e. Lighting / Entertainment / Security / Other) What is the most popular system to automate in the home ? What is the most cost effective system to automate? What is the most fun to automate?

Our Automation Systems are capable of controlling devices such as: Lighting (incandescent, fluorescent, magnetic low-voltage, etc.), HVAC Dampers, Draperies, Pumps, Garage Door Openers, Lifts, Screens, Pool Covers, Sprinklers, Showers, Baths, Distributed Audio/Video, Security Systems, Motorized Shades, Windows, Solenoids, Ballasts, Cameras, Audio/Video and anything that can receive a contact-input signal or can be controlled with RS232.

By automating Lighting and Thermostats, a homeowner can save up to 50% on utility bills over the course of the year. Some homeowners automate windows and shades to block out or let in sun as it travels across the sky to utilize natural heating/cooling and cut down on utility bills.

One of the most popular applications (home theatre) can also be the most fun. Homeowners become very creative when automating an entertainment center - big-screen TVs pop up from the floor, closets and armoires turn into screens, draperies close, lights dim, a projector drops from the ceiling, etc.

QUESTION 4 - How will I interface and control the system once it's installed? Do I need to call the dealer to make changes to schedules and modes etc.? How are software changes made (PC / Controller / Other)?

As soon as a decision is made on controls and automations for the home, each keypad is custom engraved to indicate programming for each button. Our technicians program the system to customer specifications and changes can be made at any time via modem connection. We can be anywhere in the world and still make changes in the home via laptop computer.

QUESTION 5 - Is your system compatible with other equipment and systems available? Which systems and how do they interface?

Network Lighting's system regularly interfaces with other control devices such as Phast, Crestron, Elan, AudioAccess, Mark 10, etc.

QUESTION 6 - Look into your crystal ball and tell us about the future of home automation. The technologies ... the marketplace ... the cost ... the availability and just the plain old fun we can look forward to.

As discussed in question 8, I believe the immediate future will include more of the same - hardwired and RF automation with a single standard of control (like a CEBUS model) for appliances and subsystems. As soon as the computer industry can create a 10+ megabit connection over standard phone lines, however, home controls will be possible over existing wiring - which could change the whole industry.

In that future, home control would follow an Internet model with everything controlled and programmed remotely. "Intelligent" devices such as refrigerators could create a list of items needed at the grocery store and send it to the store for delivery on a specified day. Wireless internet "uplinks" will be accomplished from your palm computer and you can control your home from there! With faster connection speeds and existing wiring, anything is possible.