Wired Homes: The Future Today

There are many ways you home can be a "wired home". Here are just a few:

l Access controls: Including driveway gates, security keypads, electronic locks, etc.

l Audio/video control systems: Home theater, audio and video systems.

l Communications: Telephone systems and intercoms.

l Control devices and sensors: These activate lights, appliances and systems.

l Home automation protocols: These allow different products and subsystems in the home to communicate with one another.

l Home theater/satellites: Large screen television, top-notch sound systems, and satellite dish technology.

l HVAC and energy management: Heating, ventilation and air conditioning control.

l Lighting devices and sensors: Preset and activate internal and external lights to turn on, off, dim, or brighten according to your schedule.

l Motorized devices: Open and close garage doors or blinds at preset times.

l Security systems: Alarms, motion sensors, even child-tracking devices.

l Utility-based services: Monitor and control energy-management requirements.

l Whole-house control systems: Control and automate many systems in your home simultaneously.

l Windows and covering controls: Open or shut blinds or draperies remotely and automatically.

l Wire/wiring and cable systems: Structured-cabling systems.