Alexandre Beaudoin Bonotto Blog's: July 2017

Monday, 31 July 2017

25 Alexa tips and tricks - CNET

Let's help you make the most of Amazon's assistant.

from
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/amazon-echo-alexa-tips/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Best smart home tech for back-to-school 2017 - CNET

Looking for the newest smart home gadgets to impress your friends at school? Check out everything that'll make dorm life better.

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https://www.cnet.com/pictures/best-smart-home-tech-for-back-to-school-2017/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Super Bright LED Corn Light Bulb for Indoor Outdoor Large Area - E39 Mogul Base 5500Lm AC 110~265V 5000K White, 250~300W HID HPS Replacement for Garage Parking Lot High Bay Warehouse Lighting (54W) - CNET

Super Bright LED Corn Light Bulb for Indoor Outdoor Large Area - E39 Mogul Base 5500Lm AC 110~265V 5000K White, 250~300W HID HPS Replacement for Garage Parking Lot High Bay Warehouse Lighting (54W)

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Ring Spotlight Cam Release Date, Price and Specs - CNET

The Ring Spotlight Cam, which starts at $199, will also come in a wired version.

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https://www.cnet.com/products/ring-spotlight-cam/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Taylor 7411 Stainless Steel Digital Bathroom Scale - CNET

Taylor 7411 Stainless Steel Digital Bathroom Scale

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/taylor-7411-stainless-steel-digital-bathroom-scale-c92f1e3c/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Saturday, 29 July 2017

Zmodo EZCam 720p WiFi IP Camera for $36 + free shipping - CNET

Zmodo EZCam 720p WiFi IP Camera for $36 + free shipping

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/zmodo-ezcam-720p-wifi-ip-camera-for-36-free-shipping-2048302/#ftag=CADa08b18a

LaView 8ch 6-Camera DVR Surveillance System for $375 + free shipping - CNET

LaView 8ch 6-Camera DVR Surveillance System for $375 + free shipping

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/laview-8ch-6-camera-dvr-surveillance-system-for-375-free-shipping-2048173/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Netgear Arlo Video Server w/ 2 IP Cameras for $189 + free shipping - CNET

Netgear Arlo Video Server w/ 2 IP Cameras for $189 + free shipping

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/netgear-arlo-video-server-w-2-ip-cameras-for-189-free-shipping-2048122/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Friday, 28 July 2017

What is Ecobee? - CNET

Catch up on the basics of the popular connected thermostat.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/what-is-ecobee/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Paradigm Persona 3F Speaker System Review

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/paradigm-persona-3f-speaker-system-review

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/rogue-one-star-wars-story

Manchester by the Sea

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/manchester-sea

What is Ring? - CNET

Catch up on the basics of the popular smart doorbell.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/what-is-ring/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Apple Drops iPod Nano and Shuffle

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/apple-drops-ipod-nano-and-shuffle

Marantz Touts New ‘Futureproof’ AV Receivers

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/marantz-touts-new-%E2%80%98futureproof%E2%80%99-av-receivers

Will.i.am's i.am+ buys home hub manufacturer Wink - CNET

The Black Eyed Peas star could be taking on Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/will-iams-i-am-buys-home-hub-manufacturer-wink/#ftag=CADa08b18a

9 home remedies for mosquito bite itch - CNET

Mosquitoes are out in force this year. Getting bitten is an inevitability. Save yourself some discomfort from the itch and use one of these home remedies.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/9-home-remedies-for-mosquito-bite-itch/#ftag=CADa08b18a

1byone Digital Body Weight Scale Bathroom Scale - CNET

1byone Digital Body Weight Scale Bathroom Scale

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/1byone-digital-body-weight-scale-bathroom-scale-a05a99bc/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Thursday, 27 July 2017

A Facebook Smart Speaker?

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/facebook-smart-speaker

Kodak 720p 180° Panoramic Surveillance Camera for $63 + $3 s&h - CNET

Kodak 720p 180° Panoramic Surveillance Camera for $63 + $3 s&h

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/kodak-720p-180-panoramic-surveillance-camera-for-63-3-s-h-2045225/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to get started with a Google-powered smart home - CNET

The Google Home smart speaker can be a convenient centerpiece in your connected setup.

from
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-get-started-with-a-google-powered-smart-home/#ftag=CADa08b18a

August 2017 New Gear

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/august-2017-new-gear

How to center your smart home around your Google Home video - CNET

If you're an Android fan or you have a Google Home, here's how to set up a smart home that plays well with Google.

from
https://www.cnet.com/videos/how-to-center-your-smart-home-around-your-google-home/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Reelgood: TV Guide for the Streaming World

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/reelgood-helps-find-something-good-stream

Enable Alexa notifications to get package tracking alerts - CNET

Alexa can send you notifications when your Amazon order goes out for delivery. Here's how to turn it on.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/enable-alexa-notifications-to-get-package-tracking-alerts/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Tasty One Top Release Date, Price and Specs - CNET

The website has created a Bluetooth-connected cooktop to work in tandem with its popular Tasty recipes.

from
https://www.cnet.com/products/tasty-one-top/#ftag=CADa08b18a

New 60 Watt Equivalent SlimStyle A19 LED Light Bulb Soft White 2700K 12 Pack - CNET

New 60 Watt Equivalent SlimStyle A19 LED Light Bulb Soft White 2700K 12 Pack

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/new-60-watt-equivalent-slimstyle-a19-led-light-bulb-soft-white-2700k-12-pack-98cdbdd8/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Do I Need a Dolby Vision-Compatible Receiver?

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/do-i-need-dolby-vision-compatible-receiver

Flashback 2008: FCC Approves Sirius XM Merger

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/flashback-2008-fcc-approves-sirius-xm-merger

James Loudspeaker Unveils New Line of Home Theater Speakers

The three models of the new Q-Series floor-standing loudspeakers recently launched by James Loudspeaker can be built-to-suit the design of your home theater. In addition to three standard models, Q-Series speakers can be custom sized and finished to meet the exact needs of any media room environment.

Leveraging the technology in James’ flagship BE-Series in-wall speakers, all three Q-Series models employ a rigid, reinforced MDF enclosure, a stylish grille made from elegantly coated aluminum bar stock, and the signature James Loudspeaker 1-inch Beryllium quad tweeter array. Each model is capable of handling enormous amounts of amplifier power, and is aesthetically inspired by the shape of Quartz crystals found in nature. The Q-Series speakers can be employed for a 2-channel music system and/or a multi-channel theater when a floor-standing form factor is the preferred solution.

Here are the three new models that make up the Q-Series home theater speaker line:

Q60: The Q60 has been engineered to use two amplifiers (bi-amplification), one for the full-range portion of the speaker and another for the internal 12-inch down-firing aluminum cone subwoofer. Above the 12-inch subwoofer, which features a 3-inch voice coil capable of handling 1000+ watts of power, the Q60 utilizes a 3-way system comprised of two 8-inch woofers, two 6.5-inch midranges and the Beryllium quad tweeter array. $15,000 each

Q48: The Q48 implements the same bi-amped system and 12-inch subwoofer as the Q60, utilizing a pair of 8- inch woofers, two 5.25-inch midrange drivers and the Beryllium quad tweeter array. As the mid-sized Q-Series model, the Q48 delivers superb detail, dynamic realism and effortless high output levels from a smaller form factor. Like the Q60, the Q48 is fully customizable in terms of finish and even physical dimensions if necessary. $10,000 each

Q30: The Q30 loudspeaker has been tuned to deliver a highly refined listening experience from a small floor-standing form factor. Like the Q60 and Q48, the Q30 features the Beryllium quad tweeter array, ensuring a silky smooth high-frequency response, high output levels, low distortion and reliability. The 8-inch midrange and 8-inch long-excursion woofer all feature aluminum cones with Santoprene rubber surrounds for clarity, detail, and longevity. $6,000 each

The post James Loudspeaker Unveils New Line of Home Theater Speakers appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-theater/james-loudspeaker-unveils-new-line-of-home-theater-speakers/

Savant Smart Home System Puts Roger Penske in Driver’s Seat

The owner of this smart home gained fame as an auto racing magnate, but Roger Penske now gets to spend his days on auto pilot, thanks to an amazing array of technologies at his fingertips. The team at R.D. White Co., Royal Oak, Mich., was put in charge of the design and integration of full-blown Savant automation system that would supervise the operation of audio, video, security and much more, and all the Penskes need to do it tap a button to set things in motion. It’s a setup that was recently honored wiith the Electronic House Home of the Year Bronze award for Best Modern/Contemporary Smart Home, $150,000 and up. See more Home of the Year winners here and here.

Savant Takes the Smart Home Pole Position

This ease of control has led Penske to wonder how he and his wife possibly lived without it, reports integrator Tim Weiser of R.D. White Co. Through the Savant system they can manage 17 A/V zones, security system, 16 zones of climate, intercom, 225 lighting zones, 35 window shades/drapes, pool and spa system, four garage doors with status, motorized gate, water valves, and remotely reset their cable boxes and modem.

“There have been many hours of custom programming, working with the owners to make their home simple and fun to use,” says Weiser. Many of the buttons have had custom sound effects added; a chime plays throughout if an exterior door is opened or a car pulls into the driveway; the owners easily can set the time the gate automatically opens and closes each day. When they turn on the lights in the master bath the TV automatically turns on, setting to their favorite channel and volume level.

Mulitmedia Races to the 17 Entertainment Locations

Other trades on the project included builder Thomas Sebold & Associates, Gary Steffy Lighting Design and Eric Charles Designs. The main areas of the home feature Planar displays with gorilla glass screens to reduce the glare from sunlight beaming through large windows. Both master bathrooms received custom Séura mirror TVs. “We worked with the builder and designer to get every display built flush into the walls in many different surfaces including wood, limestone, marble and fabric,” says Weiser. In total, there are 17 TV locations, including a home theater, where a 98-inch Planar 4K TV provides the eye candy.

Each of these TVs can access content from five DVRs, Apple TV, and a BluRay Disc player, which R.D. White Co. stowed away in a centrally located equipment closet. A Savant Pro matrix switch juggles the delivery of the content.

Sonance Architectural Series speakers, which the clean look of the Acculux recessed lighting, provide the audio to these 17 zones. In addition to playing TV audio, they tap into a Savant media server to play tunes from major Internet radio stations. The music can also travel to outside, where the pool deck is surrounded by 14 Sonance speakers and two subwoofers.

Remotes, Tablets and Keypads Put Penske in the Smart Home Driver’s Seat

Given the sheer mass of media areas, plus the plethora of other high-tech features, having multiple modes of control was crucial to the design of this smart house. R.D. White Co. loaded up the residence with a variety of user interfaces so that the Penskes would be able to monitor and manage every aspect of their home conveniently and efficiently. These interfaces include a combination of more than a half-dozen iPad (running on each iPad is the Savant control app) docking locations, 15 Savant WiFi remotes, and several Lutron keypads.

Systems Design & Installation

R.D. White Co., Royal Oak, Mich.

Equipment Highlights

Savant automation, media server
Planar, Sony, Séura displays
Sonance theater & architectural speakers
Cambridge Audio, Panasonic electronics
Avigilon, Panasonic surveillance cameras
Holovision door station
Middle Atlantic racks

The post Savant Smart Home System Puts Roger Penske in Driver’s Seat appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/homes-of-the-year/smart-home-system-puts-roger-penske-in-drivers-seat/

Wired vs. Wireless Whole-House Music Systems

In today’s increasingly wireless world, there’s a perception that it’s best for all communications and entertainment devices to be untethered for convenience and flexibility’s sake. However, in the day-to-day world of A/V dealers and installers, the choice between the wired and wireless music systems requires careful consideration. Homeowners, too, should be aware that wireless may work well in some residences, but not in others.

To spread light on the situation, Desirée Webster, Legrand’s senior marketing communications manager, recently spoke with two longtime residential pros John Francioso of Ultrasounds (Lynnbrook, N.Y.) and John Spies of Absolute Media Systems (Newtown, Conn.) about the differences between wired and wireless whole-house music systems.

The resulting debate reveals that while integrators admit they prefer to install hardwired audio systems for performance and reliability sake, wireless is the new king due to its flexibility, lower cost and reduced disruption of the home during the installation process.

Webster: Why might you as an installer recommend a hardwired network for a whole home audio system over a wireless one?

John Spies: Several reasons jump to mind right off the bat. Hardwiring is more reliable, faster, and usually less expensive. Another advantage is that with the added reliability of wired networks we get many fewer tech support calls from customers.

John Francioso: I agree. But there are homeowners who would rather avoid in-wall wiring—particularly in finished homes where walls aren’t open for prewiring.

Webster: Are there specific scenarios where a wired system would be better than a wireless one?

Spies: Wireless systems are susceptible to Wi-Fi “broadcast storms” that overwhelm the network and result in transmission dropouts and failures. Mixing wireless and wired components, while not a problem with some systems may require using a managed switch, which adds cost and time to the installation.

Francioso: In a new home where walls are open for prewiring, wired systems make sense for performance and cost-effectiveness. But even then, I get more requests from customers to go wireless.

Wireless systems are susceptible to Wi-Fi “broadcast storms” that overwhelm the network and result in transmission dropouts and failures.

John Spies, Absolute Media Systems, Newtown, Conn.

Webster: Conversely, which scenarios would require a wireless approach?

Francioso: In existing homes where there is no easy way to get in and navigate within the walls, or customers don’t want to take the time or bear the cost to run wires throughout the house. In a multiple dwelling unit (like an apartment or condo), you are often not allowed to touch anything, let alone drill into walls, so wireless is really the only option.

Webster: With respect to networked whole home audio systems, what are the pitfalls of wireless systems that you find customers do not take into account?

Spies: The performance of wireless depends on many variables, including architectural and environmental factors. Many new building materials aren’t RF (radio frequency)-friendly and result in weak signals in some rooms. The 2.4MHz band, which is preferable to use for distance, is also subject to more noise, making it less reliable.

Webster: Are the majority of your network installations for wired or wireless networks?

Spies: For my business, I believe the balance has tipped to wireless, and I expect that to keep growing. But there will always be situations where you’ve got to run copper – or fiber. Networking has changed the nature of my business, and we make network installation a part of every proposal we write.

Francioso: From my experience, it seems that the industry is making a major shift to wireless. The majority of my customers are asking for wireless. I also do some hybrid systems – using both wired and wireless components – but not many.

The majority of my customers are asking for wireless.

John Francioso of Ultrasounds, Lynnbrook, N.Y.

Webster: What’s your preference for networks used for home entertainment, wired or wireless, and why?

Spies: I lean towards wired, for reliability and to preserve wireless network bandwidth for applications that require a wireless connection.

Francioso: I have a wired network in my home, which I find to be a more reliable and robust than a wireless system. If there is a connectivity issue, you’re generally going to solve it a lot faster.

Webster: How does cost play into the decision of going wired vs. wireless?

Spies: It’s not cut and dry—it depends on the situation. If you have open walls and can pre-wire, that makes a wired system very attractive and cost-effective. Wireless can add complexity, and, depending on the situation, make it more expensive than wired.

Francioso: You have to expect to take some time going through the options with your home systems integrator. Take advantage of the expertise integrators bring to the table and know that there are trade-offs involved with different choices.

The post Wired vs. Wireless Whole-House Music Systems appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-audio/wired-vs-wireless-whole-house-music-systems/

Here's how to clean your grill safely video - CNET

Clean your grill safely with these handy tips

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https://www.cnet.com/videos/heres-how-to-clean-your-grill-safely/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Wi-Fi Security: Luma Guardian Offers Protection for $5 a Month

The more devices you connect to the Internet, the more susceptible your Wi-Fi network becomes to cyber hacking, viruses, and bandwidth issues. It’s a problem that can be difficult monitor and remedy. To help homeowners maintain fast, reliable, secure Wi-Fi networks, as well as provide on-demand guidance on how to add new products to the network, Luma has launched a new subscription service that operates much like your own personal IT department.

For $5 a month, subscribers of the Luma Guardian service can take advantage of professional support for their Wi-Fi networks. “I can protect your privacy, clean up viruses, check on your ISP speeds, answer any tech questions and more,” reads the Luma Guardian webpage, which also offers a 30-day free trial.

Why Subscribe to Luma Guardian?

The service is essentially a VPN service, antivirus (through Webroot), Internet speed monitor and tech support line in one — something CEO Dr. Paul Judge says is part of a natural progression for the company. After baking IoT security into its system mesh networking system, Luma saw many security problems throughout clients homes, reports TechCrunch.

“We invented Luma Guardian because we want to bring the experience to every household of having a personal IT team on demand at an affordable cost. Large businesses have full-time IT teams to manage their networks, protect their privacy, guard against hackers, and optimize speed and bandwidth. The home network is now as complex as a business network, so consumers need an IT person to keep all their technology connected and secure.”

— Dr. Paul Judge, Co-Founder and CEO of Luma

“We’d been blocking them, and the next step was how do we go to their devices and clean them up?” says Judge. “How do we install antivirus and clean up the infections on those devices? For 15 years, we built networking and security equipment for companies. You can have the best equipment in the world, but at the end of the day, they had a team to manage it all. Having someone there who pays attention is key.”

It’s safe to say Luma expects the concierge service — referred to as an “IT team for the house” — to appeal to older users. The company has signed the 78-year-old one-time Dos Equis pitchman, “Most Interesting Man in the World,” Jonathan Goldsmith to rep the service.

“Luma doesn’t just move your Wi-Fi around the house so that everyone in the family can share, it also keeps your family from sharing your private d*mn personal information with creepy people,” recites Goldsmith.

But besides those who might benefit from a Wi-Fi tech support line, consumers may also be interested in a network monitoring service in order to keep an eye on Internet speed. Luma customers will receive a report showing their average daily Internet speed, giving them fodder to go back to the cable company or phone company with their concerns if the promised speed is not met.

Here is a list of services included with a Luma Guardian subscription:

Privacy VPN – Stealth Mode is a virtual private network (VPN) that encrypts web traffic from the user’s Luma system to the cloud, and then anonymizes the traffic before it reaches third-party websites. Stealth Mode can be turned on and off with the touch of a button in the Luma app and covers all of the devices on the home network.
Device Antivirus – Luma Guardiantakes protection to the next level, partnering with Webroot to provide antivirus protection and remediation for up to 3 devices. Webroot SecureAnywhere® performs regular, lightning-fast scans, blocking viruses, malware, ransomware and suspicious files, while protecting users from cybercriminals.
ISP Speed Monitoring– Luma Guardian monitors for slow or spotty Internet service and sends users a monthly report to show if they are receiving the expected speed and bandwidth from their internet service provider (ISP).
Premium Support – Luma Guardian members receive a priority support phone number, which enables them to move to the front of the line for assistance from a tech expert who is based in the United States. Users can also rely on the chat option through the Luma app, which provides them with expert service for all tech-related questions at their fingertips seven days a week.

Luma Guardian is available for $5 per month for the first year through the free Luma app or customers can test out the service with a free 30-day trial. Luma Guardian can be accessed through the Luma app, chat, phone or email. The Luma Home WiFi system is available for purchase at LumaHome.com, Amazon.com, BestBuy.com, Target.com and select retailers, including Home Depot and Bed Bath & Beyond. The free Luma app is available for download through the iOS App Store and Google Play.

The post Wi-Fi Security: Luma Guardian Offers Protection for $5 a Month appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-security/wi-fi-security-new-luma-guardian-service-offers-protection-for-5-a-month/

Wednesday, 26 July 2017

Tidal Force Wave 5 Headpones

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/tidal-force-wave-5-headpones

5 reasons why you’ll want a smart pet door - CNET

These superconvenient pet door features will make you howl with delight.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/features-to-consider-before-buying-a-smart-pet-door/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Hippih 400lb / 180kg Electronic Bathroom Scale with Tempered Right Angle Glass Balance Platform and Advanced Step-On Technology, Digital Weight Scale has Large Easy Read Backlit LCD Display D-010 - CNET

Hippih 400lb / 180kg Electronic Bathroom Scale with Tempered Right Angle Glass Balance Platform and Advanced Step-On Technology, Digital Weight Scale has Large Easy Read Backlit LCD Display D-010

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Music Streaming Hits Milestone as Album Sales Fall

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/audio-streaming-hits-milestone-album-sales-fall

Bioluz LED "Flame Tip" Dimmable Candelabra LED E12 Candelabra Base Candle Bulbs 2700K (Warm White) 40 Watt using only 5 Watts, Chandelier, Indoor/Outdoor - CNET

Bioluz LED "Flame Tip" Dimmable Candelabra LED E12 Candelabra Base Candle Bulbs 2700K (Warm White) 40 Watt using only 5 Watts, Chandelier, Indoor/Outdoor

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Severtson Ships Acoustically-Transparent 4K Screen

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/severtson-ships-acoustically-transparent-4k-projection-screen

Talking TV: Contrast Is More Than Just Black and White

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/talking-tv-contrast-more-just-black-and-white

What is HomeKit? - CNET

Catch up on the basics of Apple's smart home platform.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/what-is-homekit/#ftag=CADa08b18a

What is Alexa? - CNET

Catch up on the basics of Amazon's virtual assistant.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/what-is-alexa/#ftag=CADa08b18a

What is the Google Assistant? - CNET

Catch up on the basics of Google's virtual assistant.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/what-is-the-google-assistant/#ftag=CADa08b18a

What is Nest? - CNET

Catch up on the basics of the popular smart home company and its products.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/what-is-nest/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Tuesday, 25 July 2017

Bluesound Ships Wireless Speaker Link

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/bluesound-ships-wireless-speaker-link

Night Owl 8-Ch. 4-Cam 1080p Security System for $300 + free shipping - CNET

Night Owl 8-Ch. 4-Cam 1080p Security System for $300 + free shipping

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/night-owl-8-ch-4-cam-1080p-security-system-for-300-free-shipping-2044316/#ftag=CADa08b18a

8 World War II Films Worthy of Any Collection

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/world-war-ii-films-1

Klipsch Resurrects Another Classic

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/klipsch-resurrects-another-classic

Wallflower Release Date, Price and Specs - CNET

The Wallflower is a $170 Wi-Fi-enabled device that sends you alerts when the stove is on and you're not home.

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https://www.cnet.com/products/wallflower/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Xiaomi MIJIA Smart IP Camera for $32 + free shipping - CNET

Xiaomi MIJIA Smart IP Camera for $32 + free shipping

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/xiaomi-mijia-smart-ip-camera-for-32-free-shipping-2044517/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Atari Comeback Includes Bluetooth Speakerhat

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/atari-comeback-includes-bluetooth-speakerhat

Does Your Car Have Good Vibrations?

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/does-your-car-have-good-vibrations

Reolink 1440p IP Security Camera for $65 + free shipping - CNET

Reolink 1440p IP Security Camera for $65 + free shipping

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/reolink-1440p-ip-security-camera-for-65-free-shipping-2044067/#ftag=CADa08b18a

“Dark Knight” Home Theater Comes to Life with 4K Video and JBL Audio

Oomi Smart Home System Works with Amazon Alexa, Nest, Philips Hue, and More

Amazon Alexa voice assistant, Philips Hue smart light bulb, and Nest thermostat—they’re what many in the smart home industry call “shiny objects.” By this, they mean that these products are well-known and popular among consumers—the types of products that people look for and want for their homes. Fantem is capitalizing on this popularity by enabling its Oomi home automation system to easily integrate and connect with these devices.

In addition to this impressive suite of smart devices, the system can connect to any Oomi or Z-wave devices such as Schlage door locks. This is the first time that Oomi will be available for customers to purchase directly.

The Oomi system allows for wireless control and automation of home lighting, entertainment, security and more. It provides in-home control and monitoring from Oomi Touch, the dedicated touchscreen super remote, and remote access and control while away from the home with the Oomi App.

Oomi’s patent pending technology allows for easy setup and configuration: Tap-and-Touch, which utilizes the Near Field Communication technology, provides instant pairing of all Oomi devices and has been a cornerstone of the system since it debuted in 2015. Beyond compatibility with hundreds of Z-wave devices, additional integration with popular connected home devices like Philips Hue, Nest thermostat, and Amazon Alexa make Oomi easy to integrate into any IoT home.

“We’re happy to bring a smart home system to the market that creates new possibilities for all consumers, regardless if they’re looking to expand from their first smart device or just getting their feet wet” says Colin Marshall, vice president of Fantem. “Oomi revolutionizes the approach to smart home systems, allowing them to become a more prevalent part of the average consumer’s life.”

The Oomi Home kit, featuring a new and user-friendly interface, includes the Oomi Cube with magnetic lens cover for the built-in camera, Oomi Touch, Infinity Dock, two Oomi Bulbs, and an Oomi Plug. Consumers have the option to select between several different plug and bulb types depending on their country. The entire kit retails for $699.

Additional accessories available at Oomi.com are the Oomi Air, Oomi ColorStrip, Oomi MultiSensor, Oomi Door and Window Sensor, and Oomi Range Extender. Products coming soon include the Oomi Water Sensor, Oomi Siren and Oomi Cam.

The product is currently available at Oomi.com , and will be available on Amazon and other retailers such as Dell.com later this year.

The post Oomi Smart Home System Works with Amazon Alexa, Nest, Philips Hue, and More appeared first on Electronic House.

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https://www.electronichouse.com/smart-home/oomi-smart-home-system-works-with-amazon-alexa-nest-philips-hue-and-more/

New IP Camera Recognizes Faces

When most people install an IP camera, their top priority is being able to remotely monitor who’s at the front door. But there are other uses that can also provide valuable peace of mind. Positoined in the kitchen, living room, or anywhere else inside the house, you can use a camera to check up on the kids, make sure an elderly loved-one is okay, and see if Fido has upset the trash can.

Tend believes that monitoring the well-being of loved ones is just as important as seeing who’s at the front door, and designed its new Lynx Indoor IP camera to do just that. Featuring advanced facial recognition technology, the camera automatically recognizes familiar faces to maximize security and eliminate false alarms. Simply use the free Tend Secure app (for iOS and Android) to pre-load images of loved ones and other familiar faces to the Facial Recognition Library. Once trained, the Tend Secure app issues a mobile check-in alert when children arrive home from school or if unfamiliar faces are detected so users can immediately see a live stream of suspicious activity.

The video can be viewed in 1080p HD, accompanied by two-way audio. Because it communicates via Wi-Fi, the Lynx Indoor IP camera can easily be placed or mounted anywhere with no complicated wiring for 24-hour day- and nighttime (Infrared) monitoring. Multiple Lynx Indoor cameras can also be installed on the same network to monitor different rooms, entryways, or other locations around the home.

The system comes with lifetime free seven-day cloud storage; the past seven days of captured video and audio are saved automatically and stored on Tend Insight’s cloud-based servers for secure access from anywhere using the Tend Secure mobile app.

“We designed Lynx to be exceptionally user-friendly and accessible, giving anyone the ability to secure what you love with a system so incredibly simple that it blends effortlessly into your everyday activities,” says Herman Yau, Tend co-founder and CEO. “But, with our advanced imaging and facial recognition technology, you also get the most sophisticated system available on the market to protect what matters most.”

The Tend Secure Lynx Indoor Camera is available at Walmart, Jet.com, Amazon.com and tendinsights.com for $59.99.

The post New IP Camera Recognizes Faces appeared first on Electronic House.

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https://www.electronichouse.com/home-security/new-ip-camera-recognizes-faces/

Spotty Wi-Fi? Hear How a Detroit Couple Fixed the Problem in their New House

Eileen and Chris recently moved to Detroit, and their eero system was one of the first steps in making their new house a home. After suffering from spotty WiFi in their small bungalow in Venice, Calif., they were concerned that their much larger in Detroit home would only compound the problem. Both are work at home, and enjoy hosting dance parties and movie nights, so coverage and reliability were crucial.

The New Home Layout—A Lot of Wi-Fi Ground to Cover

Eileen and Chris live in a Victorian home built in 1895 that’s been restored and slightly renovated – “a great mix of new and old” says Eileen. At 2,200 square feet, with two floors and a basement in progress, there’s a lot of house to cover. Their home features beautiful hardwood floors throughout, with tile in the kitchen and dining rooms. The first floor includes a Vinyl DJ Setup/dance room, perfect for Chris to practice his craft, while hosting friends. This area is connected to the dining room, a kitchen, living room, TV room, and half bathroom. The second floor includes a master bedroom with a creative studio space for Eileen, a guest bedroom, Chris’s music studio, their “vintage store” room, and a full bathroom.

The home’s exterior is all brick with wood accents and large wrap around front porch, perfect for a warm evening. They are currently in the process of planting and gardening in the front and backyard now that it’s finally warming, and potentially putting their “1960s canned ham trailer” to become an AirBnB ( “very @ShelterSocialClub inspired” per Eileen) in the backyard.

Favorite Past times—Greater Enjoyment from Better Wi-Fi

Eileen and Chris are a family of creatives. Eileen works as a digital marketer for a company that creates craft kits. This lends itself to some of her many hobbies, which include textile arts (macrame, weaving, indigo dying, etc.) Chris is a DJ and also manages the couple’s vintage business. When living in L.A., they sold items at flea markets, even running a flea market in Venice. “We love hunting for and giving old, storied objects new life!” They share three pets – Cats Victor and Truman, and Rusty the dog.

Since Chris is a Vinyl DJ, the couple can often be found listening to music – with a whole room dedicated to records and hanging out…”partying if you will.” They watch movies on their Smart TV, which Eileen says was a total upgrade as part of their move. Eileen also loves to cook. Both also work from home occasionally, love to garden, and still find time to run their vintage business out of the home.

Life pre-eero Wi-Fi

Many of Chris and Eileen’s devices use Wi-Fi, whether as cord cutters watching Netflix or Amazon Prime or working from home. Eileen also says “Wi-Fi is so necessary for me when I’m cooking,” from looking up a recipe or referencing cooking techniques online.

With a home constructed mostly of brick and wood, they worried about Internet signals getting lost. Prior to eero in their L.A. home, they relied on a basic single Wi-Fi router – the signal was terrible, and at the time they were only living in about 500-600 square feet. The couple experienced constant buffering when they watched movies, dead zones, and intermittent disconnection altogether.

A New Way to Wi-Fi

Once the couple was settled into their new Detroit home, it was time to install and configure eero. “Setup was super easy and painless. I think it took me all of maybe 10 minutes at most,” says Eileen. The house has three eeros – one connected to the modem in the ballroom as they call it (aka the record/hangout area), one in the bedroom, and one in Chris’s home music studio.

Now with their network up and running, they have all their devices hooked up (TV, laptops, smartphones, iPad) and have no need to disconnect to reduce strain on the bandwidth as they’d often done before “which is great,” Eileen says “it’s so much easier to work without having the Internet be slow because another device is sucking up the Wi-Fi. I didn’t think it would be possible for Chris to be watching TV in one room, and then me working on my laptop and phone in another. It’s amazing!”

Happy Wi-Fi, Happy Life

Whether asked about their Wi-Fi when guests are over or recommending to friends and family lamenting over Wi-Fi problems, Eileen simply tells them to get eero: “It will change your life.” Eileen and Chris appreciate the peace of mind in being able to rely on their technology. “I love that my Wi-Fi at home is now stable and consistent no matter what room I am in,” says Eileen.

As creatives with style to boot, aesthetics matter to them too. “I also love the design – it’s simple and clean, very understated and fits right in with my home decor.” Eileen adds “not an eyesore like old Wi-Fi extenders…”

Eileen and Chris take pride in their home not only for its beautiful and historic design but the memories they share together. “Home is a place where we can be ourselves, relax and do all the things we enjoy.”

All photography by @eeberger.

The post Spotty Wi-Fi? Hear How a Detroit Couple Fixed the Problem in their New House appeared first on Electronic House.

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https://www.electronichouse.com/smart-home/spotty-wi-fi-hear-how-a-detroit-couple-fixed-the-problem-in-their-new-house/

Monday, 24 July 2017

How to add a bidet to your bathroom (without a remodel) - CNET

Don't have the money or the room for a bidet? Here's the answer.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-add-a-bidet-to-your-bathroom-without-a-remodel/#ftag=CADa08b18a

8 Alexa tips for people who are too damn busy - CNET

If you find yourself constantly swamped by work and a growing list of things to do, you're not alone. Here are eight ways you can put Alexa to work for you.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/alexa-tips-for-busy-people/#ftag=CADa08b18a