A new security system that uses software to combine home security and automation will be launched in South Africa early in 2015.
ADT Security South Africa will launch Home Automation, a system that will enable users to monitor and control the security of their homes remotely – from literally anywhere in the world. It’s backed by ADT Security’s Armed Response services which make it unique in South Africa.
The ADT Home Automation system uses Internet connectivity and Z-wave, a technology that has been adapted for the South African market, to extend its control beyond the home.
Many South Africans have access to one or more Web-enabled devices which make access to Home Automation easy and convenient. Users require only Web access at the installation site to set up the system and a Web-enabled cellphone, tablet, laptop or personal computer to monitor and control it. The system will be rolled out over a period of time and will initially offer the ability to arm/disarm an alarm system remotely, get notifications when there has been an alarm activation, stream remote video and still pictures of your premises real time and control electronic devices such as lights and appliances.
At a later stage, Home Automation will also allow residents to lock or unlock doors electronically, open garages and switch air conditioners and geysers on and off. The system will expand over time with a wide range of Home Automation devices destined for the SA market.
“ADT believes that this is the future of home security systems and gives clients the comfort of knowing what is happening at their house at all times,” says ADT marketing and strategy director for South Africa, Martin Ochien’g.
Z-wave is the wireless technology that allows home automation to take place and is at the heart of the Home Automation system. A base station for the system – the iHub – is installed at a central location and permits the building’s electronics to converse through the installation of Z-wave adapters at the alarm panel. There is no need for additional cabling, the system is fully wireless.
The gateway device that links the home to the Internet is also part of the iHub which, in basic terms, eventually allows all devices, including the alarm system to be controlled and monitored remotely. Z-wave does not interfere with WiFi and other devices such as cordless telephones because it operates at a very low power radio frequency.
Once devices have been linked to the network at the installation site, Home Automation’s use of intelligent mesh networking allows access to check the system’s status online through a portal. Each user sets their own secret access code in order to access their system, so it is secure against outside interference or hacking.
“The ADT Monitoring Centre will not have access to the user’s portal and will not be able to control or view any of its features. It will only be notified of security breaches at the premises and will dispatch Armed Response services immediately upon receipt of an emergency signal,” says Ochien’g.
One of the features that will be introduced by Home Automation is the ability to disarm (electronically unlock and lock) doors remotely to allow people access to the home. All it will require is a standard Yale lock that has been adapted for this purpose and can be installed by an electrician.
“It’s a system that is going to change the way that people manage their lives and we believe that this is an offering that will change the residential security market in South Africa,” says Ochien’g.
For more information contact Tyco South Africa, 086 1212 910, [email protected], www.tycosecurity.co.za
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