Harrisburg, Pa. — National IT/CE distributor D&H Distributing has beefed up its assortment of connected-home devices, and is encouraging its dealer and integrator customers to do likewise.
“The pervasive presence of this category at this year’s CES event is proof that smart technologies are sharply on the rise, adding to the ubiquity of the ‘Internet of Things,’ ” said D&H sales VP Rob Eby. “Not only does this technology deliver convenience and security, it allows the homeowner to use automation to manage the way they consume energy, conserving resources and establishing a ‘green’ sales angle for dealers.”
New additions to the D&H lineup include:
AwoXWiFi lighting: AwoX has developed Striim Bluetooth-enabled lighting, including four-way, multi-color LED bulbs that can be adjusted for tone and brightness from the user’s smartphone. One such model includes an integrated speaker. Music from the consumer’s smartphone can be synchronized across various AwoX bulbs for a rainbow light show.
Belkin WeMo home automation: This series of products allows homeowners to control their electronics, power, water and Wi-Fi from a smartphone or tablet. Its light switches work via an app that is compatible with a range of mobile operating systems, including Android, iOS, iPad and iPod touch, offering alerts on how much energy the homeowner’s electronics are consuming.
Oplink Connect Home Systems: Oplink offers Wi-Fi-based devices that perform functions from monitoring doors and windows and providing IP surveillance to alerting users to fire or a water leak. Homeowners can purchase a fully bundled security kit including Wi-Fi cameras, window and door sensors and key fobs, plus a motion detector and siren.
Kwikset SmartKey locks: Kwikset’s SmartKey technology lets homeowners re-key their home security system in seconds if a key is lost or unreturned. The technology is available on door knobs, levers and electronic deadbolts.
Quirky Smart Homeproducts: Quirky offers a line of home devices that can be monitored and controlled through the Wink home-automation app, including its Norm thermostats, GE lighting, the Aros smart window AC, a propane fuel tank gauge, individual light switches and more. A Wink relay/hub system allows homeowners to control all their smart home devices from one central location, maximizing energy efficiency and customizing usage.
Ascend/Quirky garage door controller: The Ascend/Quirky garage door controller also works with the Wink app, letting users open their garage doors from anywhere via smartphone, compatible with most existing openers. Users can monitor the status of the doors from their phones, receiving alerts when they open or close.
“More manufacturers are looking to integrate their connected-home devices not just with a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth feature, but with the user’s ever-present cellphone,” added Eby, “allowing consumers to maintain control over their homes and devices from across the room or across the world.”
