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Home Automation is the process of taking something that normally has

to be switched or monitored manually and automating that

process via software, timed events or even remote control.

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There are 3 main technologies used in Home Automation.

Let’s quickly learn about some of the advantages and disadvantages of each!

Choose one to learn more! Exit

X10 is one of the oldest X10 technologies and dates back to the 60’s!X10 operates off of your homes existing power lines so there is no

additional wiring needed. It is a very simply technology and is a great introduction into the world of Home Automation!

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Advantages of X10• X10 is the cheapest option in Home Automation• This technology is the easiest to install and set-up• X10 technology is proven and will be around long-term• Operates over the wire and has a pretty long range• Again, X10 is cheap. Sometimes as low as $12 per switch!

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Disadvantages of X10• X10 is limited in its functionality. While other systems can

perform more functions and do more, x10 is real basic.• X10 does not integrate well with other systems and is very

proprietary.• The manufacturers tech support is not very

knowledgeable of the product should issues arise.

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More Information for X10For more information regarding X10 products, you can visit

http://www.X10.com

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Zigbee is a one of the newest technologies and actually operates off of your wireless home network. All of the different components talk and communicate wirelessly over the network and are in constant communication.

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Advantages of Zigbee• Zigbee boasts the most advanced network and capabilities• As all of the components are in constant communication with

each other, you always know the status of your units.• This system easily integrates with internet software as it

communicates through the network• Huge selection of many different kinds of units

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Disadvantages of Zigbee• Zigbee units are expensive, sometimes up to $80 per switch• Heavy reliance on the wireless router means issues should the

wi-fi in your home have troubles• Newer technology that is still growing, has yet to prove itself

in the consumer market• Has a limited range (as far as the wireless router can connect)

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More Information for ZigBeeFor more information regarding ZigBee products, you can

visit http://www.zigbee.org/Home.aspx

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Z-Wave is one of the current most popular methods of Home Automation. This technology is a protocol (like ZigBee) and is licensed to many different manufacturers. As result, there are many different products on the market. It operates via RF (radio frequency) and speaks wirelessly with other Z-Wave units on its network.

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Advantages of Z-Wave• Z-Wave is a very robust system but easy to integrate• This technology does not rely on wires or a network, instead,

it has its own network of communication (RF)• Due to the nature of how the units both send and pass along

signals, this technology can cover large areas• Huge selection of many different kinds of units

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Disadvantages of Z-Wave• The more modules the better the network (as each unit

repeats the signal) otherwise, there is a max range of 100 ft• Expensive units. Generally costs about $60-$80 a unit• Other wireless RF signals can interfere and cause

interruptions in the Z-Wave network

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More Information for Z-WaveFor more information regarding Z-Wave products, you can

visit http://www.z-wave.com

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