Networking Briefs

Lexington, Ky.— The new $800-suggested SC-4 system controller makes it possible for Elan's Via home-control touchpanels to directly control contact-closure devices such as motorized drapes, video screens, and video-projector lifts. The device also adds intelligent on/off control to home theater and distributed-AV systems, preventing individual IR-controlled devices from inadvertently being turned off when commanded to turn on.

For contact-closure control, Elan touchpanels previously had to be integrated into higher cost HD System and Elan Z distributed-AV systems.

Compton, Calif.— Computer peripherals and accessories marketer Belkin will ship its first five 802.11b network devices beginning Nov. 1 in North America. They consist of a $179-everyday wireless access point, $299 cable/DSL router, $99 USB adapter, notebook PC Card at $99, and PC PCI card at $39. Their components are Wi-Fi-certified, and by January, these devices themselves are expected to have the Wi-Fi logo.

Nevada City, Calif.— TDK has shipped its second Bluetooth product, a USB adapter, and by mid-November will add two more products — a PC Card and snap-on device for the Palm M series. The USB adapter retails for a suggested $145. The company's first Bluetooth product, a $199-suggested clip-on device for the Palm V series, was launched earlier this year. All Bluetooth products comprise the Go Blue series.

Arlington, Va.— Home network technology will play a prominent role at January's International CES, where Bluetooth and Wi-Fi wireless-network pavilions are planned and a conference track will be devoted to the topic.

The conference track at the Jan.8-11 event includes such issues as wireless networks, broadband data delivery, and whole-house remotes.