Get lit: How to decorate your vehicle with Christmas lights - CNET

Jazz up your car or truck with some festive holiday lights for parades or tailgate parties.

from
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-decorate-your-vehicle-with-christmas-lights/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Yamaha YAS-207 Soundbar System Review

Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Value

PRICE $300

AT A GLANCE
Plus
DTS Virtual:X mimics height/surround
HDMI in and out with ARC
Pleasant voicing in most modes
Minus
Only one video input
3D Surround mode can be slightly harsh

THE VERDICT
The Yamaha YAS-207, which uses DTS Virtual:X processing to simulate height and surround effects, sounds pretty good and is easy on your checkbook.

When Dolby Atmos and, shortly thereafter, DTS:X made their debuts, I expected I’d soon be reviewing a flood of speaker systems and receivers supporting object-oriented surround in a 360-degree soundfield. My hope was that height-capable surround would spark renewed interest in surround speaker packages and receivers — and in home theater overall.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/yamaha-yas-207-soundbar-system

Amazon's Alexa will soon offer personalized responses - CNET

The new capability is being tested by a handful of developers and will be more widely available next year.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-alexa-personalized-responses/#ftag=CADa08b18a

PicoBrew Pico Model C Release Date, Price and Specs - CNET

Our review in progress of the Pico Model C started with a long day of brewing.

from
https://www.cnet.com/products/picobrew-pico-model-c/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Bluetooth Body Fat Scale, multifun Digital Bathroom Scale with Body Composition Monitor, Smart Scale with iOS & Android Healthy Weight Loss Tracking App - CNET

Bluetooth Body Fat Scale, multifun Digital Bathroom Scale with Body Composition Monitor, Smart Scale with iOS & Android Healthy Weight Loss Tracking App

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/bluetooth-body-fat-scale-multifun-digital-bathroom-scale-with-body-composition-monitor-smart-scale-with-ios-android-healthy-weight-loss-tracking-app-6e708ee9/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Flashback 1972: Atari Tests Pong

Pong, one of the earliest arcade video games, had an inauspicious start 45 years ago this week when gaming pioneer/Atari co-founder Nolan Bushnell and game designer Allan Alcorn wheeled a prototype of their first coin-operated game machine into Andy Capp’s Tavern in Sunnyvale, California to see how the bar’s patrons would react. It was an instant hit.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/flashback-1972-atari-tests-pong

Save on Ozeri Precision Digital Bath Scale (400 Lbs Edition), In Tempered Glass With Step-on Activation, Black and more - CNET

Save on Ozeri Precision Digital Bath Scale (400 Lbs Edition), In Tempered Glass With Step-on Activation, Black and more

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-ozeri-precision-digital-bath-scale-400-lbs-edition-in-tempered-glass-with-step-on-activation-black-and-more-3d5fa8a8/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon wants to put Alexa on your office desk - CNET

Amazon's latest extension of its digital assistant enables office workers to reorder supplies and fire up a conference call with voice commands.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-alexa-for-business-ech-aws-reinvent/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save Big on EECOO Products - CNET

Save Big on EECOO Products

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-big-on-eecoo-products-06c2ea1c/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Eufy BodySense Smart Scale with Bluetooth - CNET

Eufy BodySense Smart Scale with Bluetooth

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/eufy-bodysense-smart-scale-with-bluetooth-76408d2e/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Etekcity Digital Body Weight Bathroom Scale?400 Pounds - CNET

Etekcity Digital Body Weight Bathroom Scale?400 Pounds

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/etekcity-digital-body-weight-bathroom-scale400-pounds-76aa2a45/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save on Echo Dot + Philips Hue Bundle - CNET

Save on Echo Dot + Philips Hue Bundle

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-echo-dot-philips-hue-bundle-da7b5df0/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save on Switchmate Voice Activated Smart Lighting, works with Toggle Switch - CNET

Save on Switchmate Voice Activated Smart Lighting, works with Toggle Switch, White TSM001WCAN and more

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-switchmate-voice-activated-smart-lighting-works-with-toggle-switch-white-tsm001wcan-and-more-9d2cc86e/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Wireless Wifi Video Doorbell, Doorbell Camera, Vuebell, with HD720p Cam - CNET

Wireless Wifi Video Doorbell, Doorbell Camera, Vuebell, with HD720p Cam, Two-Way Audio, IP53 Waterproof, Smart Motion Detetion, Infrared Night Vision AC 8-24V DC 9-36V(Hard Wire Version)

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/wireless-wifi-video-doorbell-doorbell-camera-vuebell-with-hd720p-cam-two-way-audio-ip53-waterproof-smart-motion-detetion-infrared-night-vision-ac-8-24v-dc-9-36vhard-wire-version-3e4e3071/#ftag=CADa08b18a

20% Off Hestan Cue Smart Cooking System - CNET

20% Off Hestan Cue Smart Cooking System

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/20-off-hestan-cue-smart-cooking-system-d6bea9c5/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save on First Alert PC910V 10-Year 2 in 1 Photoelectric Carbon Monoxide Alarm and Smoke Detector with Voice Alert, White and more - CNET

Save on First Alert PC910V 10-Year 2 in 1 Photoelectric Carbon Monoxide Alarm and Smoke Detector with Voice Alert, White and more

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-first-alert-pc910v-10-year-2-in-1-photoelectric-carbon-monoxide-alarm-and-smoke-detector-with-voice-alert-white-and-more-70de4b18/#ftag=CADa08b18a

2017 New Petnet SmartFeeder, Automatic Pet Feeder for Cats and Dogs, Works with Amazon Alexa - CNET

2017 New Petnet SmartFeeder, Automatic Pet Feeder for Cats and Dogs, Works with Amazon Alexa

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/2017-new-petnet-smartfeeder-automatic-pet-feeder-for-cats-and-dogs-works-with-amazon-alexa-4727b387/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Piper Classic Home Security Automation Bundle - CNET

Piper Classic Home Security Automation Bundle

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/piper-classic-home-security-automation-bundle-51545/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How Can I Make My iPhone Sound Better?

Got a tech question for Sound & Vision? Email us at AskSandV@gmail.com

Q Apple regularly gets flack for not offering Hi-res versions of its iTunes music catalog. I also hear that the quality of the DACs in the latest iPhones (Android phones, too) is not the greatest. Is there any device I can add to my iPhone that will coax the last bit of sound quality out of it?—Scott Oakley, Pine, AZ

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/how-can-i-make-my-iphone-sound-better

5 Security Tips to Fend Off Holiday Hackers

Chances are, you or someone in your family received a laptop, tablet, or some other smart, Internet-connected device as a gift this holiday season.

Related: How to prepare your house for the Internet of Things

To help keep your family safe during the holidays, McAfee, a leading cybersecurity company, offers up the following tips:

• Think before you click:One of the easiest ways for cybercriminals to compromise your device is through a malicious link. Be skeptical if you receive a link or other solicitation that you are not expecting.

 

• Update your software:Whether it’s your PC, smartphone, digital assistant or even your drone, keep the software up to date. Manufacturers plug security holes with device updates so it’s important to always install the latest versions as soon as possible. Where applicable use up-to-date security software.

 

• Beware of shady public Wi-Fi hotspots: Cybercriminals often deploy fake Wi-Fi hotspots that appear to be legitimate, but give them visibility into your browsing habits. If you have to use public Wi-Fi, refrain from online shopping or banking. If you need to shop or bank on public Wi-Fi use a Virtual Private Network (VPN), like McAfee Safe Connect, to encrypt your network traffic. (With bank-grade Wi-Fi encryption, your personal data and online activities are kept private, even when you’re connected to a public Wi-Fi and/or an open network. You can protect your privacy by hiding your IP address. Your physical location and information such as banking account credentials and credit card info are secure while surfing online. McAfee Safe Connect allows you to connect through a virtual server at locations around the world to access your favorite content and geo-restricted apps and sites from anywhere.)

 

• Do your homework:Not all manufacturers take security seriously, especially when it comes to connected toys, so it’s important to research if there have been any reported security vulnerabilities before purchasing.

 

• Protect your home network: Secure all of your connected devices and your home Internet at its source with McAfee Secure Home Platform. This solution gives you insight into what devices are on your network, and protects all of your connected devices.

The post 5 Security Tips to Fend Off Holiday Hackers appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-security/5-security-tips-to-fend-off-holiday-hackers/

10 Tips: Using Amazon Alexa with a Crestron Home Control System for Advanced Voice Control of Your Home.

From the editor: This article is based purely on the author’s experience integrating Amazon Alexa with Crestron. There are other brands of home control systems that offer similar voice control perks. 

 

 by Will Gilbert, Greg Michelier and Rock Scofield of Think Simple

 

One of the most exciting developments in home control is the alliance between Crestron and Amazon Alexa.

 

Now you can control any combination of home devices with a simple voice command. Just say “Alexa, good morning,” and your shades will open, your thermostat will adjust, your TV turn on and tune to the news, your coffee start brewing – or anything you want.

That’s on top of the thousands of possible uses of Alexa by herself, such as adding events to your calendar, shopping online, or helping you tune your guitar.

 

With Crestron linked to Alexa, you can trigger any combination of otherwise unconnected systems to work together to make your life easier. Say “Alexa, good night,” and you can lock the doors, turn on the alarm, turn off all the lights, and even put your music on a 30-minute off timer.

 

Your house can respond to the way you’re feeling as well. “Alexa, it’s too cold” can raise the thermostat. “Alexa, it’s too dark” can bring up the lighting levels.

 

You can expect Alexa to operate everything in your home, including your audio/video system, lights climate, shades and security, pool or hot tub. Other systems can do some of this, but we like Crestron with Alexa best for three reasons:

 

• It’s comprehensive. Anything Crestron can control, Alexa can control.

 

• It’s seamless. There’s no need to say, “Alexa, tell Crestron we are leaving.” Simply say, “Alexa, we are leaving,” and she’ll set the security system, temperature, lights and other systems to your preferred away mode.

 

• It’s easy for the integrator, and that’s good for you. Crestron has built the Alexa Voice Service into the Pyng Control Hub, as well as the SIMPL programming platform, making Alexa a simple, reliable, reasonably-priced add-on.

 

At Think Simple, we like Crestron/Alexa so much that we offer it with every new home system, and we now install it more than half the time.

Still, we’d like to help everyone get the most out of their voice-controlled homes. So we thought you’d enjoy these 10 insider tips:

 

1. Install Alexa in every high-use area, or anywhere you’d rather not have to touch a control screen or your phone. In the kitchen, change the channel or turn up the lights when your hands are wet. In the bedroom, flip on a night light without fumbling in the dark. In the family room, stop hunting for the remote.

 

2. Put your Echo or Echo-enabled devices in places that are convenient but out of the way: on your night stand, on a counter, or built into the ceiling.

 

3. Keep it simple. Used with Crestron, Alexa can control a remarkable range of devices, but you can’t really have a conversation with her – she is limited to certain commands said in a certain way. While it’s easy to say, “Alexa, turn on the lights,” don’t expect to say, “Alexa, turn on that red lamp over there next to the couch.”

 

4. For that reason, we like to use Alexa to control the presets we set up with Crestron. “Alexa, we are home,” or “Alexa, party mode.” For most people, “Alexa, turn off the TV in 15 minutes” is the most complicated command they will want to give.

 

5. Keep your setup simple as well. For example, you can run Alexa’s voice through your home audio system, but it’s quicker, easier and just as nice to save your audio system for music and use the Echo device for her voice.

 

6. We like to use Sonos speakers with our Alexa installations, simply because Sonos works so very closely with Crestron and Amazon.

 

 

7. Ask your integrator about the Sonos One smart speaker. It has Alexa built in, so you don’t need an Echo device. It has automatic equalization as well, so it sets up fast and sounds great.

 

8. When you start using Alexa, it can help to put a cheat sheet with several commands next to the device, just to get you acclimated to the technology. (We normally provide one for Think Simple clients.) Of course, if you get stuck, you can always just ask, “Alexa, what can I say?”

 

9. Creat a profile for your voice (under “Your Voice” in the Alexa app). Alexa works well out of the box, but by doing this step she will be able to call you by name and personalize your experience.

 

10. Don’t forget to try out some of the third-party applications (or “skills”) that can do all sorts of things in addition to controlling your home. They’re a lot of fun and very helpful.

 

One more thought. Alexa will be a great addition to your home, but she keeps getting smarter, adding features, and improving her understanding and accuracy.

 

Think Simple is an integrator of high-end residential systems with offices in Fort Lauderdale, Nassau and New York. Visit them at thinksimple.com.

 

The post 10 Tips: Using Amazon Alexa with a Crestron Home Control System for Advanced Voice Control of Your Home. appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/smart-home/10-tips-using-amazon-alexa-with-a-crestron-home-control-system-for-advanced-voice-control-of-your-home/

How to fix broken Christmas lights - CNET

Don't throw away that strand. There's a simple fix.

from
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-fix-broken-christmas-lights/#ftag=CADa08b18a

4 easy alternatives to hanging Christmas lights - CNET

Ditch the ladder. These tips will have your house lit without stringing lights.

from
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/save-hours-of-work-by-replacing-your-string-lights-with-these-easier-options/#ftag=CADa08b18a

You can now string two Google Home commands together - CNET

You no longer have to separate all your commands when talking to Google Home. It can handle two requests at once.

from
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/you-can-now-string-two-google-home-commands-together/#ftag=CADa08b18a

These smart locks will let you ditch your keys - CNET

You don't need a key if you've got a connected deadbolt on your front door -- and your options are continuing to grow.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/smart-lock-roundup-deadbolts/#ftag=CADa08b18a

2017 Holiday Guide: 10 Outstanding Blu-ray Gift Sets

So, apparently putting a bow on a fancy new TV and cramming it under the tree (or wherever your holiday customs dictate) is a thing now, which means you (or some lucky recipient) will need something extra-good to watch on it. We’ve got you covered. Each of the Blu-ray titles on our 2017 holiday list have been hand-picked to bring the merriest of AV enjoyment — half of this year’s crop even elevates the holiday cheer to 4K status. Sort of makes me think that poor VHS has become the modern equivalent of a lump of coal….

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/2017-holiday-guide-10-outstanding-blu-ray-gift-sets

Marillion: Misplaced Childhood: Deluxe Edition

Performance
Sound

I hate to admit it, but I didn’t “get” Marillion when I saw them open for Rush at the Rosemont Horizon just outside of Chicago on March 21, 1986, playing their 1985 breakthrough album Misplaced Childhood in its entirety. While I was properly enamored with the uplifting performance of their touchingly seductive FM hit “Kayleigh,” I just wasn’t able to connect with the rest of the set for some reason. Apparently, I wasn’t alone in that feeling, since I also heard a good bit of the crowd boo/catcall Marillion throughout their performance, the first time I had heard such a thing occur at a live show.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/marillion-misplaced-childhood-deluxe-edition

Amazon AWS DeepLens Release Date, Price and Specs - CNET

The new Amazon AWS DeepLens video camera wants to train developers on deep learning.

from
https://www.cnet.com/products/amazon-aws-deeplens-video-camera/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Sonos One review - CNET

Move over, Amazon Echo and Google Home. The Alexa-powered Sonos One is the first smart speaker that actually sounds good playing music.

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

Blame It on the Emoji

If brown and dirty is your idea of a stocking stuffer, you won’t have far to go. Bed Bath & Beyond offers the Bluetooth Poop Emoji Speaker ($20, in brown), while Staples sells the Poop 4K Emoji Powerbank ($15, you already know the color) for charging your phone. And Macy’s has the EmojiNation Backpack for little girls and big girls ($35) decorated with a variety of emojis including a poop wearing a crown.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/blame-it-emoji

How to Have a Smart Home for Less Than $1,000

Enjoying the benefits and convenience that a smart home can provide no longer has to be a big expenditure of time or money. These days, you can simply order the devices you want, or buy them right off the shelf, and install them yourself. If the install it yourself part sounds intimidating, there’s always the option of hiring a low cost service or installation company like Best Buy’s Geek Squad or an Amazon professional to do that for you. First, round up the products you want to comprise your smart home. Here’s a look at six of the most essential products:

 

A Smart lock – enables you to lock and unlock your door without a key and keep track of who comes and goes, right from your phone. One of the most popular on the market today is the August Smart Lock Pro + Connect, which attaches to your existing deadbolt and installs in about 10 minutes. It also allows your kids’ phones to serve as their house keys, and you can instruct Alexa, Siri or Google Assistant to control you lock. It sells for $249.00

 

 A Video Doorbell – provides visitor detection, because you can stream live video on your phone as visitors approach your front door. Vivint’s video doorbell features a camera with night vision allowing its 180-degree camera to display crystal-clear video day or night. Its two-way talk feature lets you speak directly with visitors via a built-in mic and speaker. It sells on Amazon.com for $180.00

 

Smart Lights – Philips Hue, for example, is a personal wireless lighting system that lets you easily control your light and create the right mood for every moment. Prices vary depending on the type of Hue product you select. Check out the Philips website here.

 

A Smart Thermostat – allows you to adjust the temperature of your home remotely. Nest is a popular choice, and its latest third-generation thermostat sells for $249.

 

Smart Garage Door Opener – lets you remotely control access to your garage from your smartphone. You can receive reminders on your phone when you’ve left the door open. A smart garage door opener also allows you to manage who can access your garage and set rules for automatic opening and closing. The Aladdin Connect is a popular model and is available at Amazon, Home Depot and Lowe’s.

 

An Amazon Echo – can control all of these devices, play music on demand and give you the latest weather and news. Amazon offers several Echo units, with the Echo Plus being very well suited to home automation. The Amazon Echo Plus sells for $149.

The post How to Have a Smart Home for Less Than $1,000 appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/smart-home/how-to-have-a-smart-home-for-less-than-1000/

IoT Devices: Are You Prepared for Accept the Risk?

Don’t let your happy holidays become unhappy hackidays. Check out the findings of McAfee’s survey to better protect yourself and your IoT (Internet of Things) devices from falling prey to hacking predators. IoT devices range from laptops and tablets to toys, so be sure you’re well prepared.

McAfee‘s November 14th announcement, which reported the results of its third annual “Most Hackable Holiday Gifts” list, can help consumers identify potential security risks associated with popular gifts this holiday season. The laptops, tablets and smartphones category leads the list, followed by drones, digital assistants, connected toys, and connected appliances. In addition, McAfee, one of the world’s leading independent cybersecurity companies, conducted a survey to identify the habits and behaviors of consumers as they get ready for the holiday shopping season.

Their findings show that most consumers agree that security is a necessity for laptops, tablets, and smartphones (69%). However, only 22 percent believe connected toys require security, 29 percent believe drones should be protected, and 56 percent think that digital assistants need to be secured.

“We continue to see connected devices high on holiday wish lists, but it’s clear consumers don’t always understand the importance of protecting devices at every point of connection and within products themselves,” says Gary Davis, chief consumer security evangelist at McAfee. “In many cases, consumers are simply unaware that their devices need to be protected or how to protect them. This lack of awareness and action can be exploited by cybercriminals to break into devices and steal personal information.”

Almost all consumers (91%) claim that they know it is important to keep their online identity and devices safe, but only 53 percent take the necessary steps to implement protection. Sixteen percent assume that the manufacturer has built security into the product, and another 22 percent know they need to put security precautions in place but don’t know how.

The post IoT Devices: Are You Prepared for Accept the Risk? appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-security/iot-devices-are-you-prepared-for-accept-the-risk/

Google Project Sunroof is Like Zillow for Your Solar Panels

It’s usually the biggest question facing any homeowner looking to possibly add solar panels to their roof: Will solar panels be effective on my house? Google’s Project Sunroof aims to answer that burning question. The mega-company has created an online tool to help homeowners make the move into solar by providing you with a wealth of information about installing solar on your home.

Think of Project Sunroof like a Zillow for your solar panels.  It takes data from Google Earth or Googlemaps to predict the amount of sunlight time as well as any obstructions that may prevent your solar panels from achieving their maximum performance and value.  Visually, the website displays which side of the roof would work best for photovoltaic panel placement using a simple and effective white-to-yellow-to-purple color gradient. White depicts the brightest portion of your roof (usually the southern facing portion) while purple shows areas of shade.

In addition to offering a pleasing and simple visual presentation, Project Sunroof presents all the information a potential solar buyer would want.  After you input into Sunroof your home address, the web tool immediately spits out information on how many solar hours a system could generate in one year, as well as the estimated square footage available for solar panels and an estimated net energy savings for your home over the next 20 years.   If you scroll down you can see an estimated reduction in your carbon footprint starting with your carbon tonnage. It is represented in icons showing the number of cars taken off the road and the number of tree seedlings grown during a 10-year span.  The final row shows installation estimates with upfront costs and savings in both the short term and long term.

In the end, Google Project Sunroof is a great tool for you as a homeowner to gauge and examine all your options.  Similar to the process of buying a car, it is important to always know what you’re getting into from all angles.  This website gives you that perspective and offers realistic expectations on the kind of savings you might enjoy.

The post Google Project Sunroof is Like Zillow for Your Solar Panels appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-energy-management/google-project-sunroof-is-like-zillow-for-your-solar-panels/

On-wall Speakers from Klipsch are Slim and Pair Great With Flat TVs

Not everyone enjoys the look of traditional floor standing speakers, nor do they enjoy the floor space they take up.  Yet, they are noted as being the best style to use if you want the best sound quality possible.

Klipsch has designed an innovative on-wall speaker that solves this problem. Their Reference Premiere Designer On-Wall speakers produce top-quality sound in a more fashionable design.  These speakers’ slim form factor will pair nicely with a wall mounted flat panel television.  According to Michael Buratto, Klipsch’s product manager, “We created Klipsch Reference Premiere Designer On-Wall speakers to bring the dynamics, detail, and power of our critically acclaimed Reference Premiere box speakers in slim on-wall solution – for attractive, elegant and décor-friendly performance.”

This new speaker range comes in four different models: RP-140D, RP-240D, RP-640D, and the RP-440D-SB.  Each speaker is incredibly versatile, because they can be placed in any of the traditional home cinema locations (with the exception of the RP-440D-SB which is designed as a three-channel passive LCR sound bar).  As a nice touch, Klipsch includes a glass base for each speaker, so you don’t have to just mount them on the wall.  If you do choose to wall-mount them, though, each speaker has dual 4-way keyholes to securely fasten them to the wall.  Some people enjoy the technical appearance of no grilles on speakers, but if you want a cleaner look, you can cover the drivers with a magnetic wrap-around grille to help these speakers blend in.

According to Klipsch press release, “This series incorporates the legendary acoustics, premium materials, and advanced technology as the award-winning Reference Premiere home theater speakers.  Exclusive Tractrix^® Horn technology improves high-frequency response and extension, while enhancing imaging and dynamics.”  Throw in a titanium tweeter and Klipsch’s Cerametallic copper woofers, and you have a speaker which is both incredibly detailed and surprisingly efficient.

Pricing

RP-440D-SB  $699.00

RP-640D  $499.00

RP-240D  $299.00

RP-140D  $199.00

 

The post On-wall Speakers from Klipsch are Slim and Pair Great With Flat TVs appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-audio/on-wall-speakers-from-klipsch-are-slim-and-pair-great-with-flat-tvs/

New SVS Subs Deliver Flagship Tech at Lower Prices

SVS today introduced a new series of subwoofers that brings technology from its flagship 16-Ultra Series to smaller cabinets with lower prices.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/new-svs-subs-deliver-flagship-tech-lower-prices

6 all-in-one home security systems to watch your place 24/7 - CNET

Want a easy home security solution? Try one of these all-in-one systems.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/all-in-one-home-security-systems-to-watch-your-place-247/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Samsung Launches App to Help the Color Blind

Samsung has launched an app for its QLED line of TVs that helps people with Color Vision Deficiency (CVD), commonly known as “color blindness,” experience accurate color while watching TV.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/samsung-launches-app-help-color-blind

Yale Assure Lock SL Key Free Touchscreen Deadbolt review - CNET

This $169 touchscreen deadbolt is Yale's slimmest style yet, but you'll still need a $50 module for smart home integration.

from
https://www.cnet.com/products/yale-assure-lock-sl-key-free-touchscreen-deadbolt/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Sony XBR-65X900E LCD Ultra HDTV Review

Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Value

PRICE $2,000

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Extensive streaming options
Strong contrast with full-array local dimming
Accurate out-of-box color
Minus
Average LCD off-axis picture uniformity
HDR highlights a notch below the top TVs
Android TV interface can be confusing

THE VERDICT
The impressive performance delivered by Sony’s midrange UHDTV makes it a compelling choice for budget buyers upgrading to HDR.

Here’s the top Sony TV news for 2017: The company started selling its first big-screen OLED models. With an elegant “One Slate” design and an ability to emit sound from actuators positioned directly behind the glass screen, Sony’s A1E line (November 2017 and soundandvision.com) is destined to give LG’s OLEDs some competition. But when you consider that a 65-inch model costs about $4,000 after discounts, the Sony OLEDs are pricey. Fortunately, there are plenty of other Sony Ultra HDTVs to choose from, including the midrange X900E series, which lists for $2,000 for the 65-inch model and will run you about $1,800 on the street.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/sony-xbr-65x900e-lcd-ultra-hdtv-review

Streaming Subs Are Explorers

It’s no surprise that Parks Associates finds 59 percent of U.S. broadband households subscribe to a streaming service like Netflix, Amazon, or Hulu—or that the trend is upward. But those streaming subscribers are also in an exploratory mood, with “an increase in households subscribing to two, three, or even four or more services,” reports Brett Sappington, Parks’s senior research director.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/streaming-subs-are-explorers

Buy 2 Amazon Cloud Cams, Save $40 with code 2CLOUDCAM - CNET

Buy 2 Amazon Cloud Cams, Save $40 with code 2CLOUDCAM

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/buy-2-amazon-cloud-cams-save-40-with-code-2cloudcam-1232c00a/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Buy 3 Amazon Cloud Cams, Save $70 with code 3CLOUDCAM - CNET

Buy 3 Amazon Cloud Cams, Save $70 with code 3CLOUDCAM

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/buy-3-amazon-cloud-cams-save-70-with-code-3cloudcam-c560288e/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Oppo Adds MQA to UDP-205 4K Blu-ray Player

Oppo today announced the availability of a firmware update that adds MQA decoding to its UDP-205 4K/Ultra HD Blu-ray player, the $1,299 audiophile version of the UDP-203 one of Sound & Vision’s 2017 Top Picks.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/oppo-adds-mqa-udp-205-4k-blu-ray-player

Save $50 on Echo Show and Amazon Cloud Cam - CNET

Save $50 on Echo Show and Amazon Cloud Cam

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-50-on-echo-show-and-amazon-cloud-cam-10afa4d9/#ftag=CADa08b18a

All-new Echo (2nd Gen) - Buy 3, Save $50 with code ECHO3PACK - CNET

All-new Echo (2nd Gen) - Buy 3, Save $50 with code ECHO3PACK

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/all-new-echo-2nd-gen-buy-3-save-50-with-code-echo3pack-4befc73a/#ftag=CADa08b18a

7 cool Alexa devices not made by Amazon video - CNET

Alexa is everywhere these days. Here are some gadgets we think are worth keeping an eye on that aren't made by Amazon.

from
https://www.cnet.com/videos/7-cool-alexa-devices-not-made-by-amazon/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Buy 2 Echo Shows, Save $100 with code SHOW2PACK - CNET

Buy 2 Echo Shows, Save $100 with code SHOW2PACK

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/buy-2-echo-shows-save-100-with-code-show2pack-7d2698eb/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Should You Cover Your Speakers With Grilles?

By Kevin Gallucci

To be frank, this is a topic that has no right or wrong answer, but there are a lot of different opinions about the best configuration.  Views differ from one manufacturer to the next and from one consumer to the next, as well.  Before I offer an argument one way or another, let’s take a moment to consider what a speaker grille does.

At a fundamental level, the speaker grille protects the drivers from accidental damage or from young little poky fingers.  The latter example comes from a personal experience when my very young niece was enticed by one of my speakers’ tweeters, and decided to stick her cute little finger into it.  If you have young children, feisty pets, or a clumsy uncle who stops by a lot, I would highly recommend leaving the grilles on your speaker unless you want to have an unplanned repair.

Grilles also act as dust covers to help keep the drivers clean.  This isn’t an issue if you’re willing to regularly clean your drivers, but grilles do help reduce dust and grime from reaching the drivers.  In addition, speaker grilles, in some cases, can offer a cleaner look than exposed drivers, thus making them more décor-friendly to your living area.

The important question, though, is whether speaker grilles impact sound quality.  In the past, I know Canadian speaker manufacturer, Paradigm, has recommended keeping the grilles on because they were designed to sound their best with the grilles.  On the other hand, Danish manufacturer, Dynaudio, has recommended leaving the grilles off to achieve the best sound quality.  Both manufacturers are greatly respected in the realm of high-end speakers, and both do a lot of R&D, so I would say you can’t say either is right or wrong.  I think it ultimately comes down to your preference.

I’ve heard a lot of speakers over the years, and my preference is to leave the grilles off (as long as my nieces aren’t around!).  I believe it helps me to achieve the most revealing sound from my speakers.  To be fair, though, that’s the kind of sound I’m looking for, but that’s one of the great things about audio.  Every person is affected differently by sound, and you should always follow what sounds best to your ears.  No two ears are exactly alike, and thankfully, no two sets of speakers are alike, so try it both ways – grilles on and grilles off – and decide for yourself how you prefer to hear your music and movies.

The post Should You Cover Your Speakers With Grilles?    appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-audio/should-you-cover-your-speakers-with-grilles/

Audio Research Tube Amp: Gateway to Audio Nirvana?

If you’re new to high performance audio, there is a very big question you will eventually ask yourself, “To Tube or not to Tube.”  The majority of amplifiers available are solid-state, which rely on transistors to amplify the signal, but there is an unexplainable mystique to a tube amplifier.  If you’re considering a tube amp, Audio Research is one of the leading manufacturers of tube audio products. The company recently launched the “SE” version of its acclaimed VT80.  The VT80SE is Audio Research’s latest and greatest, and it takes their entry-level tube amplifier to a new sonic level.

Audio Research has a reputation for making some of the best sounding audio products available, and the VT80SE builds upon this reputation.  This new edition switches from using KT120 output tubes to KT150 tubes.  Audio Research says, “Everyone should know that we have been deeply enamored with the KT150 as we feature it in all of our other amplifiers, from the VSi75 to the REF 750SE.

Its performance is unparalleled and its 3,000 hour average life allows years of uninterrupted listening.”  Now, for the first time, this higher-performing tube is in their entry-level model instead of just their top end.  It’s like an airline deciding that lay flat seats are so incredible; they are going to introduce them to economy class passengers too.  Okay, well maybe not to that extreme, but you get the idea.  In other words, these tubes are too good not to share with the rest of the line.

Tube amplifiers used to require bias if you changed out the tubes, but the VT80SE is able to auto-bias, so if you feel like changing from KT150s to KT120s, you have the ability to do so without any manual adjustments.  The VT80SE can automatically adjust and accommodate either type of tube, so you can tailor the sound you want from the amplifier.  If you’ve been considering making the switch to a tube amplifier, wondering what all the fuss is about, you should take the VT80SE for a spin and see if tubes are your gateway to audio nirvana.

Pricing: $8,900 Optional Tube Cage $500

The post Audio Research Tube Amp: Gateway to Audio Nirvana?     appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-audio/audio-research-tube-amp-gateway-to-audio-nirvana/

32 outdoor cameras that take home security seriously - CNET

Outdoor security cameras come in all shapes and sizes. Click through to find an option that works for you.

from
https://www.cnet.com/pictures/outdoor-cameras-that-take-home-security-seriously/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Nest Learning Thermostat E for $149 + free shipping - CNET

Nest Learning Thermostat E for $149 + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/nest-learning-thermostat-e-for-149-free-shipping-2143958/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How Important Is Your Internet Connection?

How important is internet connectivity? In a poll of 18- to 25-year-olds in the U.K., they valued a good internet connection more highly than trifles such as a healthy diet, hot water, daylight, and the welfare system. Now, I admit that vegetables have never been high on my favorites list. Hmm....

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/how-important-your-internet-connection

Online Sales Boom on Thanksgiving, Black Friday

Between Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday, online shoppers in the U.S. shelled out close to $8 billion ($7.9 billion), representing an 18 percent increase over sales during the same period last year, according to Adobe Analytics, which tracks online transactions at the largest 100 online retailers.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/online-sales-boom-thanksgiving-black-friday

Zmodo HD Mini WiFi Camera for $26 + pickup at Walmart - CNET

Zmodo HD Mini WiFi Camera for $26 + pickup at Walmart

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/zmodo-hd-mini-wifi-camera-for-26-pickup-at-walmart-2143304/#ftag=CADa08b18a

And More Cyber Monday Deals…

As a follow-up to the Black Friday deals we published on the eve of Thanksgiving, and as a companion to the deals offered through our own Shop:Sound & Vision portal, here are a few of the Cyber Monday deals that hit our inbox today. Most are only good through midnight so act quickly if you see something you can’t live without.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/and-more-cyber-monday-deals%E2%80%A6

Smart LED RGB Bluetooth Walkway Lighting - CNET

Smart LED RGB Bluetooth Walkway Lighting

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/smart-led-rgb-bluetooth-walkway-lighting-48949/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Smart LED RGB Bluetooth Strip Accent Lighting - CNET

Smart LED RGB Bluetooth Strip Accent Lighting

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/smart-led-rgb-bluetooth-strip-accent-lighting-36536/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save 20% on Schlage Sense smart deadbolts - CNET

Save 20% on Schlage Sense smart deadbolts

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-20-on-schlage-sense-smart-deadbolts-121b9360/#ftag=CADa08b18a

10 Best Cyber Monday Smart Home Deals on Amazon

Cyber Monday is in full swing, and Amazon offers a wealth of smart home devices. You’ll find a huge assortment of everything you need to more efficiently manage your home’s lights, appliances, garage doors, thermostats, and more. Here are 10 of the best deals you’ll find today on Amazon.

Wemo Mini Smart Plug, Wi-Fi Enabled, Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant

Was 34.99; Now $24.97

What you can do with it: Anything that’s plugged into this module, which plugs into any standard electrical outlet, can be controlled from an app on your smartphone. The Smart Plug can also respond to voice commands through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Things like coffeepots, irons, lamps, and anything that plugs into an outlet can controlled directly through the app and voice, as well as via a schedule you create. A really nifty feature is its ability to receive commands from a Nest thermostat. When Nest goes into Away mode, it can signal the Wemo Smart Plug to turn off whatever is plugged into it, for example.

 

Philips Hue White Smart Bulb Starter Kit (4 A19 Bulbs and 1 Bridge, Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant)

Was $99.99; Now $59.99

What you can do with it: From an app on your smartphone you can create schedules for the Philips Hue light bulbs to follow. For example, you can have them turn on in the morning and off at night. The Hue bulbs are LED and Energy Star rated, so you’ll also be able to save electricity. This base system can be expanded to include accessories like the Hue Tap or Hue Motion Sensor; or synch the lights with a Nest thermostat or SmartThings home automation system.

 

Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd Generation, Stainless Steel, Works with Amazon Alexa

Was $249.99; Now $169.15

 

What you can do with it: The Nest thermostat has always been smart, but this latest iteration lets you use your voice to adjust the thermostat settings. Designed to work with Amazon Alexa, the Nest thermostat listens for commands like, “Alexa, set my temperature to 72 degrees” and responds accordingly. Like all generations of Nest thermostats, this model learns the temperatures you like and programs itself in about a week. It includes a feature called Farsight: When the Nest thermostat spots you from across the room, it lights up to show you the time, temperature, or weather.

 

 

Samsung SmartThings Smart Home Hub

Was $99.99; Now $49

 

What you can do with it: The Samsung SmartThings Smart Home Hub is able to connect with and control a variety of smart home devices without any new wiring necessary. Compatible devices include light switches, speakers, door locks, thermostats, security sensors, and more. All of these devices can follow schedules programmed into the Smart Home Hub, or they can be controlled via voice through Amazon Alexa.

 

ecobee4 Alexa-Enabled Thermostat with Sensor, Works with Amazon Alexa

Was $249; Now $199

What you can do with it: The ecobee4 thermostat can be controlled by voice directly because it has Amazon Alexa built-in. You can also ask it to read the news and report the temperature—it can hear you from across the room. The ecobee4 monitors readings from room sensors in other areas of th4 home, so that there are no hot or cold spots in your house. It works with Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, IFTTT and more, which means its settings can be coordinated with other devices.

 

August Smart Lock 2nd Generation – Dark Gray, Works with Amazon Alexa

Was $229.99; Now $149

What you can do with it: You can ditch your traditional house keys and lock and unlock a door with your smartphone instead—it locks the door as you leave and unlocks it as you approach. The August Smart Lock installs on the inside of your door in minutes; you keep the door’s existing deadbolt. You can use the August smartphone app to grant and restrict access to visitors and you can use your voice to lock the door using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

 

SYLVANIA Smart+ LED Landscape Lighting Set, Gardenspots – Mini RGB Outdoor Kit with Removable _Stakes, Adjustable RGB Color Changing, Includes 9 Lights, 73699 (Formerly LIGHTIFY), Works with Amazon Alexa

Was $69.99; Now $54.99

What you can do with it: This set of nine landscape lights can be positioned in a variety of different ways to illuminate any outdoor settings. The lights are color changing and dimmable via a mobile app on your smartphone or tablet. You can create special lighting scenes for your backyard, and change the look on a whim. You will need to add a compatible smart home hub.

 

 

littleBits Electronics Smart Home Kit

Was $249.99; Now $163.45

What you can do with it: Designed for budding smart home DIYer’s, this kit includes everything you need to make internet-connected devices right out of the box. You can design your own smart home product and automate them with IFTTT to connect to web services like Facebook, Gmail and Twitter, or hardware like Nest and Phillips Hue.

 

 

Chamberlain WD962KEV Garage Door Opener, ¾ HPS, Battery Backup When Power Goes Out, Ultra-Quiet Belt Drive Operation, MyQ Smartphone Control Enabled (Internet Gateway Sold Separately), Includes 2-3 Button Remotes, Keyless Entry Keypad, Multi-Function Wall Control Panel

Was $238; Now $217.99

 

What you can do with it: You can gain more control over your garage door with a companion smart phone app. After this smart garage door opener has been installed, you can open and close the door remotely or set a schedule for it to follow.

 

DreamSpa All Chrome Water Temperature Controlled Color Changing 5-Setting LED Shower-Head; Color of LED lights changes automatically according to water temperature

Was $49.99; Now $27.89

What you can do with it: The DreamSpa lets you take a shower under the glow of your favorite color. The color of the integrated light on the showerhead changes with the temperature of the water. Five settings include Power Rain, Pulsating Massage, Hydro-Mist, Economy Rain  and Water-Saving Pause.

 

The post 10 Best Cyber Monday Smart Home Deals on Amazon appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/smart-home/10-best-cyber-monday-smart-home-deals-on-amazon/

Big Cyber Monday Deals @ Shop S&V

Attention online shoppers! Your big day has arrived, and our own Shop:Sound & Vision portal has done your homework for you. Click here for one-stop access to all the hot Cyber Monday deals offered by our retail partners including Amazon, Crutchfield, Best Buy, Wal-mart, and others. You can easily search by product category, brand, or retailer to identify just the right holiday gift!

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/big-cyber-monday-deals-shop-sv

Can I Play 4K/Ultra HD Discs On My 1080p TV?

Got a tech question for Sound & Vision? Email us at AskSandV@gmail.com

A I’m interested in buying a new Ultra HD Blu-ray player but don’t yet own a 4K TV due to budget constraints. Can an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc be played on a regular HDTV? What quality issues would I run into? —Billy Keener / via e-mail

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/can-i-play-4kultra-hd-discs-my-1080p-tv

Etekcity Digital Body Weight Bathroom Scale with Step-On Technology, 440 Pounds, Body Tape Measure Included, Elegant Black - CNET

Etekcity Digital Body Weight Bathroom Scale with Step-On Technology, 440 Pounds, Body Tape Measure Included, Elegant Black

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/etekcity-digital-body-weight-bathroom-scale-with-step-on-technology-440-pounds-body-tape-measure-included-elegant-black-90d1f6f8/#ftag=CADa08b18a

$20 off Amazon Cloud Cam - CNET

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/20-off-amazon-cloud-cam/#ftag=CADa08b18a

$20 off Amazon Cloud Cam - CNET

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/50-off-amazon-tap/#ftag=CADa08b18a

$50 off Echo Show - CNET

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/50-off-echo-show/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Nest Learning Thermostat for $175 + free shipping - CNET

Nest Learning Thermostat for $175 + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/nest-learning-thermostat-for-175-free-shipping-2141375/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Philips Hue Cyber Monday Collection - 15% Off - CNET

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/philips-hue-cyber-monday-collection-15-off-cscm/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Dive into home security with these indoor cameras - CNET

Whether you're serious about security or simply want to spy on a mischievous pet, these indoor security cameras are vying for a spot in your home.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/security-camera-roundup/#ftag=CADa08b18a

46 indoor security cameras for a safer smart home - CNET

You can't always keep an eye on things at home, so these smart security cameras promise to do the heavy lifting on your behalf.

from
https://www.cnet.com/pictures/connected-cameras-for-a-safer-smart-home-pictures/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to protect your packages from theft this holiday season - CNET

Here's how to keep an eye on deliveries, even when you're away from home.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/protect-your-packages-from-theft-this-holiday-season/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Rosewill Dummy Surveillance Camera for $0 after rebate + free shipping - CNET

Rosewill Dummy Surveillance Camera for $0 after rebate + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/rosewill-dummy-surveillance-camera-for-0-after-rebate-free-shipping-2139320/#ftag=CADa08b18a

VEIU Mini Smart Video Doorbell - CNET

With This Clever Doorbell, You'll Have Eyes on the Front of Your Home

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/veiu-mini-smart-video-doorbell-11738/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Sricam 1MP IP Camera for $12 + free s&h from China - CNET

Sricam 1MP IP Camera for $12 + free s&h from China

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/sricam-1mp-ip-camera-for-12-free-s-h-from-china-2137808/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Nest Cam 1080p Outdoor Security Camera for $144 + free shipping - CNET

Nest Cam 1080p Outdoor Security Camera for $144 + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/nest-cam-1080p-outdoor-security-camera-for-144-free-shipping-2137907/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Which Amazon Echo device should you buy? - CNET

If you're looking for a speaker you can control with your voice, you now have lots of options. Which Alexa-enabled smart speaker is right for you?

from
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/which-amazon-echo-device-should-you-buy/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Ozeri ProMax 500 lbs (230 kg) Digital Bath Scale, with Body Tape Measure & Fat Caliper - CNET

Ozeri ProMax 500 lbs (230 kg) Digital Bath Scale, with Body Tape Measure & Fat Caliper

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/ozeri-promax-500-lbs-230-kg-digital-bath-scale-with-body-tape-measure-fat-caliper-e5c0ae39/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Alexa-enabled Hunter Fans - CNET

Alexa-enabled Hunter Fans

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/alexa-enabled-hunter-fans-2ef65bbc/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save on the Anova Bluetooth Sous Vide - CNET

Save on the Anova Bluetooth Sous Vide

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-the-anova-bluetooth-sous-vide-1aec56a8/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save on Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller, WiFi, 8 Zone 2nd Generation, Works with Amazon Alexa and more - CNET

Save on Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller, WiFi, 8 Zone 2nd Generation, Works with Amazon Alexa and more

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-rachio-smart-sprinkler-controller-wifi-8-zone-2nd-generation-works-with-amazon-alexa-and-more-8e9ee580/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Samsung SmartThings Devices - CNET

Samsung SmartThings Devices

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/samsung-smartthings-devices-8a1f5c22/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Xbox One X Review: All 4K HDR Content in One Box

The newest generation, the Xbox One X, launched earlier in November so I have had a couple weeks to test it. With streaming 4k HDR capabilities, 4K HDR gaming, and a built-in 4k Ultra HD player, this game console has all the 4K content you could want in one device. However, Microsoft appears to be pushing the gaming aspects of the One X at the expense of the ease of streaming and playing movies, TV and videos.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/xbox-one-x-review-all-4k-hdr-content-one-box

2 Amcrest ProHD 1080p WiFi Security Cameras for $85 + free shipping - CNET

2 Amcrest ProHD 1080p WiFi Security Cameras for $85 + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/2-amcrest-prohd-1080p-wifi-security-cameras-for-85-free-shipping-2135330/#ftag=CADa08b18a

30 TV and smart speaker games to play with your family this Thanksgiving - CNET

If you're going to be spending time with family this holiday season, try playing these 30 games to avoid awkward conversations.

from
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/tv-and-smart-speaker-games-to-play-with-your-family-this-thanksgiving/#ftag=CADa08b18a

And More Hot Black Friday Deals...

Along with a variety of manufacturer-direct offers being served up for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, our own Sound & Vision shopping portal has identified a ton of attractive online deals from our retailer partners including Amazon, Crutchfield, Best Buy, Wal-Mart, and others. Click here to drill down by product category, brand, or retailer for all the hot bargains.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/and-more-hot-black-friday-deals

Buy 6 Echo Dots, Save $49.99 with code DOT6PACK, and the description will be Buy 6 Echo Dots, Save $49.99 with code DOT6PACK - CNET

Buy 6 Echo Dots, Save $49.99 with code DOT6PACK, and the description will be Buy 6 Echo Dots, Save $49.99 with code DOT6PACK

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/buy-6-echo-dots-save-49-99-with-code-dot6pack-and-the-description-will-be-buy-6-echo-dots-save-49-99-with-code-dot6pack-4c35b2bb/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Arlo Pro 3-Cam Smart Home Security System for $375 for Costco members + free shipping - CNET

Arlo Pro 3-Cam Smart Home Security System for $375 for Costco members + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/arlo-pro-3-cam-smart-home-security-system-for-375-for-costco-members-free-shipping-2134976/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Here Comes the Deal

Are you ready for the Big Sale Day? Or are you planning to skip the whole kerfuffle and go to the movies or play a round of Top Golf? If you’re are, indeed, a BF shopper here are a few of the deals we’ve been alerted to in recent days.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/here-comes-deal

Tech the Halls: 2017 Holiday Gift Guide

'Tis the season to start driving yourself crazy trying to figure out what the heck to get friends and family members for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa (insert your holiday here). The 2017 Holiday Rush is fast approaching, soon to be top of mind—unless you’re Scrooge or just really good at procrastinating. Me? I fall into the latter camp, so the rush won’t start until a week before December 25th. Same- and next-day delivery has spoiled us and made it exceedingly easy to perfect the art of...well, you know.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/2017-holiday-gift-guide

Prime Student Exclusive Deal: Up to $15 off Echo Dot and Case Bundle - CNET

Prime Student Exclusive Deal: Up to $15 off Echo Dot and Case Bundle

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/prime-student-exclusive-deal-up-to-15-off-echo-dot-and-case-bundle-44ff0855/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Top 5 AV Receivers That Will Bring Your Movies to Life

Looking for Convenient Control of Your Outdoor Lights?

Power management company Eaton introduces the All-Pro MS180BT sensor, a Bluetooth-enabled motion sensor that lets users control their outdoor security lighting from the convenience of a mobile app. The sensor is compatible with any LED or incandescent security lighting product that uses a standard ½-inch threading connection.

Related: How to use motion sensors outdoor for home security

“Our Bluetooth-enabled sensor allows users to conveniently adjust motion and photocell sensitivity; duration settings; and to control a fixture wirelessly, including bypassing the motion function to temporarily put the fixture in flood mode, without touching the light fixture or a switch,” says Tyler Johnston, director of marketing, Residential Utility and Security Products, Eaton’s Lighting Division. “Without the need to climb a ladder to access the security light, this sensor provides a safer, faster and more convenient way to make adjustments.”

The easy-to-use app allows the iOS or Android device to connect directly to the fixture with a range of up to 60 feet. Without the need for a gateway, hub, or even a Wi-Fi connection, installation is simple and fixture response time is fast. In addition, the app allows professionals to complete installation and commissioning without accessing the end user’s smart device.

The sensor features a 180-degree detection area and is compatible with most Eaton outdoor light-emitting diode security lights, as well as other compatible security floodlight fixtures. The product is available in white or bronze.

In a recent post from streetdirectory.com, the various benefits of outdoor motion sensor security lights were highlighted:

1. If you are away from your home it will be protected because the lights come on bright all over your yard and anywhere they are pointed. You can feel safer knowing everyone can be seen. It is proven fact that homes with motion sensors have less crime than those that do not.2. There are many outdoor sensor security lights available. You can go online and look for the perfect one for your home. There are wireless and hardwired options.
2. 
   Motion lights are convenient for the family. When you come home and it is dark inside your home the motion lights will come on. If your hands are full you will be able to see to open the door. If your kids get dropped off after school, or playing sports, they can see to get into the garage, or to put their key into the door.4. Motion lights can clear your lawn of rabbits, and skunks because the pest do not like light. When it is dark outside it will scare them and they will leave the yard. If you have problems with raccoons in the trash you will not have this problem anymore because they will be scared and run off.5. Security lights save money. You do not have to have your lights on all day or night. They will come on only when there is someone in your yard. So you will save on bulbs and also you will see it is more useful for your home.6. Outdoor motion sensor security lights help your neighbors watch your house. If you go on vacation they can see if the light goes on in your yard, so they can go check out the house.

The post Looking for Convenient Control of Your Outdoor Lights? appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-security/46217/

Are Your Home Security Cameras Protected from Unwanted Eyes?

Sure, home security cameras give added peace of mind, but the reality is, an unsecured camera puts you at risk. Apolonio Garcia, CEO of Cincinnati, Ohio-based HealthGuard IT Security, states that home security cameras that you watch on your smartphone are vulnerable to hackers.

“With an unsecured video camera, someone half a world away can watch whatever you are doing in your home, such as grabbing a beer out of your fridge, or even worse,” Garcia said in an interview with WCPO Channel 9 in Cincinnati. He added that thieves can target it locally by hacking into your Wi-Fi signal if you live in an apartment building or via the cloud if your camera system sends a live image to your smartphone.

“It’s very easy for someone on the Internet to discover a device, and then exploit that device,” Garcia pointed out. “Theoretically, I could click on a web link and try to connect to your web server.” Garcia says hackers can watch your family, or use your camera’s IP address as part of a hacking attack, in something called a “denial of service” attack.

In order to protect yourself and your family, Garcia recommends the following:

• Change security system passwords: Never use the default setting, which is typically set as 1-2-3-4).
• Choose “encryption” if your security camera system has that option as it uploads video to the cloud.
• Update your Wi-Fi router, by going to sites like linksys.com or belkin.com and looking for “firmware update.”
• Update your security camera’s hard drive if it has one, by going directly to the manufacturer’s website and searching for updates.
• Make sure you are changing default passwords, and make sure you are keeping that camera updated, patched and getting security updates.
• And, while you may think you’re looking out for your child by putting a camera in their bedroom to ensure they’re sleeping safely, Garcia, along with other security experts, advise against it. There’s too much chance someone else may end up looking in on them, too.

The post Are Your Home Security Cameras Protected from Unwanted Eyes? appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-security/home-security-cameras-protected-unwanted-eyes/

Reinventing Old-Fashioned Home Heat Pump Technology

“For the loser now will be later to win, or the times they are a-changin’” said Bob Dylan. And he might have been thinking of air source heat pumps when he penned those famous lyrics.  Indeed, with the constant advancement in new technology, sometimes it’s worth reexamining old technology – like air source heat pumps — and its potential benefits in today’s smart homes in conjunction with smart thermostats.

Air source heat pumps work much the same way your fridge works but generate heat instead of cold.  Though this cheaper form of heat is extremely cost efficient during warmer months, it has an extreme drop off in efficiency during colder winter months… often having to rely on outside sources to make up the heat difference. Indeed, the technology was considered a liability when in used in colder climates.  But that is about to change.

Working alongside researchers from the U.S. Department of Energy (DoE), manufacturers have developed a more efficient heating system that can match up with winter weather of the Northern Midwest and the New England areas.  They achieved this improved efficiency by using a system that uses two different compressors. The first one operates per usual during normal weather conditions, while a second compressor kicks in automatically when the temperature drops to a certain point where the first unit’s performance is affected.

The benefactors of this new advancement are cold-weather homeowners, who can now use the technology as an inexpensive alternative to heat their homes. A study by the Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnership found that when replacing a heating system, owners had a savings of $450 when replacing an electric heater and $900 when replacing an oil heater.  Field tested in Ohio and Alaska the two available units — mild and cold — have proven more than capable to meet demand.

And it is just in time for winter. Home heating is the largest energy expense for most U.S. homeowners and accounts for nearly 30 percent of energy used in the nation’s residential buildings, according to the DoE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Millions of homeowners in colder regions of the country do not have natural gas available, leaving furnaces to be fueled with heating oil, propane, or electricity. So if you are looking to replace your heating unit and save some money on your heating bill, consider an investment in a new air source heat pump.

Source: https://energy.gov/eere/articles/cold-climate-heat-pumps-help-consumers-stay-comfortable-and-save-money

The post Reinventing Old-Fashioned Home Heat Pump Technology appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-energy-management/reinventing-old-fashioned-home-heat-pump-technology/