Ways to Integrate AV Equipment with a Home Automation System

Home automation systems are becoming increasingly popular as they provide the means to combine various systems within the home, including music, networking, security, lighting, HVAC, pool control, gate control and more. Computer and information technology is utilized to control home appliances, features and systems allowing the homeowner to interact with those systems from virtually any location in the home.

Home automation can be used to integrate a wide range of systems within the home, including the following:

• HVAC – The traditional home HVAC system relies on a manually controlled or programmable thermostat to heat or cool the home. However, with home automation, the homeowner can adjust the temperature remotely, even from the office.
• Audio-Visual – Audio-visual (or AV) equipment can also be integrated easily within a home automation system. This equipment can include HDTVs, surround sound systems, home theater systems, AV lift and tilt systems and more.
• Lighting – Homeowners can control the lighting in all areas of their home remotely by integrating lighting controls into their home automation system. Any level of control is possible, from lighting up a single room to turning on or off the lights in the entire home.
• Security – Security technology including cameras and monitoring equipment can also be integrated within a home automation system, allowing control and remote viewing through smartphones and other devices.

Methods of Control

There are several control methods available for home automation systems depending on the type and complexity of the system in question. Some of the more common include a keypad, a touchscreen interface, such as using a smartphone or tablet like the iPad, a handheld remote control or even controlling the system through a PDA or a networked or Internet-connected PC or laptop.

Of course, the cost varies with the control type. Keypad controls are among the least costly, while custom LCD touchscreens are among the most expensive (and most popular today). Each method offers greater degree of control over the home environment as well. For example, only basic functionality is available through a keypad, but a touchscreen monitor can offer multilayer control.

Common Protocols Used in Home Automation

There are different protocols used in home automation systems. The RS232 protocol is the most common as well as the most cost effective. If you’ve ever connected a non-HDMI computer monitor to the back of a PC, you’ve used similar technology. It offers plenty of security, as well as fast, robust transfer speeds.

For AV equipment integration, there are two options:

• Hardwired – Hardwired systems will use EYE or AUX ports to connect devices to the system through a device like Ultralift’s R2D7 Bridge, which allows this equipment to connect to the RS232 system.
• Wireless – Wireless systems are possible using radio frequency control. Again, Ultralift’s R2D7 unit has the ability to control motors wirelessly using radio frequency, operating AV unit lifts and tilts, and helping to integrate AV equipment into a home automation system seamlessly.

As you can see, AV equipment can be integrated into virtually any home automation system by utilizing the right technology. Ultralift Australia offers TV lifts, TV mounts, projector lifts and mounts, camera lifts and more to ensure your home automation system blends as seamlessly into your home as it does with your lifestyle. Contact us should you require any assistance integrating your AV solutions in a Home Automation System.