| Home automation controller runs Windows XPe |
Aug. 08, 2006
 Embedded Automation (EA) has introduced a Windows XP Embedded-based home automation controller into its mHome product line. mServer Residential Edition is a centralized home management platform for lighting systems, security systems, HVAC control, IP cameras, irrigation controllers and IR messaging, according to the company.
(Click here for larger image of the mServer device)
According to EA, mServer connects to a home network to provide "always-on" real-time monitoring, status, and control from "any" connected computer, including Media Center PCs. The device is controlled via the company's mControl software, which also runs on Media Center PCs. The software can be accessed from a web browser, and works with off-the-shelf control components supporting the INSTEON, Z-wave, and X10 protocols, EA says.
mControl supports the control of lighting systems, HVAC, IP cameras, security systems, and IR messaging
EA lists the following key features and specifications for the mServer Residential Edition device: - Processor -- 800 MHz "Pentium compatible"
- Memory -- 256 MB of RAM
- Display -- VGA port
- Storage -- 512 MB CompactFlash card
- I/O ports:
- 2 RJ45 Ethernet
- 4 USB 2.0
- 3 serial
- Parallel port
- PS/2 keyboard and mouse
- Audio -- line-out, line-in, and mic-in jacks
- Dimensions -- 1.75 (1U high) x 8.5 x 7.25 inches
mServer's Rear panel connections
(Click image to enlarge)
Voice recognition, too
In related news, EA announced a deal with One Voice Technologies to add voice recognition capabilities to mControl. The company says that by using One Voice's mceSpeechTools, users can verbally control lighting, thermostats, and appliances, as well as home entertainment content such as movies, music, and photos. Voice control will be available in the upcoming release of mControl version 1.55, and will require the separate purchase of One Voice's Media Center Communicator.
Availability
mServer Residential Edition is priced at $1,400, and is available from retailers such as Smarthome.com, according to EA.
Related stories:
(Click here for further information)
|
|
|
7 Advantages of D2D Backup
For decades, tape has been the backup medium of choice. But, now, disk-to-disk (D2D) backup is gaining in favor. Learn why you should make the move in this whitepaper.
4 Legal Reasons to Control Internet Access
The Internet is obviously a valuable resource for many organizations. However, many are exposed to legal liability concerns because they fail to control Internet access. Learn if you're safe in this white paper.
Rapidly Resolve J2EE Application Problems
Whether you are in the process of building J2EE applications or have J2EE applications already running in production, you must ensure that they deliver the expected ROI. Learn how in this white paper.
Load Testing 2.0 for Web 2.0
There are many unknowns in stress testing Web 2.0 applications. Find out how to test the performance of Web 2.0 in this white paper.
Build Better Games Online
For the game infrastructure providers, life is complex. Making money from games has become more complicated. Why? Find out in this white paper.
Building a Virtual Infrastructure from Servers to Storage
This white paper discusses the virtual storage solutions that reduce cost, increase storage utilization, and address the challenges of backing up and restoring Server environments.
Gaining Faster Wireless Connections with WiMAX
Welcome to what is quickly becoming the hyperconnected world where anything that would benefit from being connected to the network will be connected. Learn more in this white paper.
Is Your Desktop a Security Threat?
The new wave of sophisticated crimeware not only targets specific companies, but also targets desktops and laptops as backdoor entryways into those business’ operations and resources. Learn how to stay safe in this white paper.
Increasing SAN Reliability by 100 Percent
Storage area networks (SAN) are a strong part of storage plans. Learn how to increase your reliability and uptime by 100 percent in this case study.
|
|
|
|
|
Use of this site is governed by our Terms of
Service and Privacy Policy.
Except where otherwise specified, the contents of this site are copyright © 1999-2008
Ziff Davis Enterprise Holdings Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission of Ziff Davis Enterprise is
prohibited. Windows is a trademark or registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries and is used by WindowsForDevices under license from owner. All other marks are the property of their respective owners. WindowsForDevices is an independent publication not affiliated with Microsoft Corporation.
news feed