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Home Theater - Structured Wiring/Networks - Security
Audio/Video - Telecomm - Automation/Lighting Control |
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Smart Homes:
Your Wish is Their Command
Imagine a dream home with a high IQ. You rise in the morning to the soft strains of your favorite CD that automatically ushers in the day. Your window blinds slowly rise; your lamps dim perfectly. Freshly brewed coffee awaits you, along with just-baked muffins from your eager-to-serve microwave. So far, you haven't lifted a finger.
As you head out the door, your home's internal temperature drops to save energy. Your security system snaps into place automatically. Your car is all warmed up-10 minutes before your departure.
Welcome to your "smart" home. If it all sounds Jetsons-style, think again. Today, you can automate just about anything-from your heat, lights, security system, appliances, audio and video systems, telephone, and window blinds to your home office-as long as it has a microprocessor that leads to a hub and special wiring.
How smart should your home be? That depends on your budget. Costs range from a few thousand dollars to several hundred thousand dollars. The good news: Average consumers are finding it more affordable to have their homes wired and equipped. More homebuilders are offering "digital" homes. (They leave you with icon-driven touch pads to operate your new system.) People with older homes can now hire installers to set up their systems, too.
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