Linksys PLTK300 PowerLine Network Kit Review & Ratings

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Linksys PLTK300 PowerLine Network Kit Review

My wi-fi experiences a problem in a certain part of the house. I had tried different routers including 'N' and the signal would randomly and frequently drop in this one area. I installed the PowerLine in under 30 minutes. The two computers connected have not experienced any outages ever since. Don't forget NOT to plug either unit into a power strip or APS. It will only work if the plugs are directly into the wall socket.

Linksys PLTK300 PowerLine Network Kit Overview

The Linksys Powerline Network Kit contains a single-port Powerline Adapter, and a four-port Powerline Adapter, which let you easily create a network using the existing electrical outlets in your home. Now you don't have to drill holes in walls and climb through the attic or cellar to install network cables -- just use the wires that already run through the building.With Powerline Network Adapters, you can connect computers or any other wired Ethernet device using the HomePlug 1.0 with Turbo network standard. They also work with older HomePlug 1.0 devices. Adding devices to the network is as simple as plugging a Powerline Adapter into an electrical outlet, and connecting your Ethernet-equipped devices to the built-in Ethernet ports. Additional devices can be connected to the same network using additional Powerline Adapters plugged into any electrical outlet anywhere in the house.

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Save 3% Off: Smarthome 2412N SmartLinc INSTEON Central Controller Review & Ratings

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Smarthome 2412N SmartLinc INSTEON Central Controller Review

**Sorry for the length of this but since the instructions on connecting to IPhone are hard to find, I added what I had to do so you know what you are getting**
I purchased the Smarthome 2412N with two Icon appliance modules (Icon is the economic version of the Insteon module). I was having problems with remote computer equipment that would freeze and require me to drive 50 miles to reboot. Now with SmartLinc, I can reboot the computers from anywhere. I also looked at the Schlage device but it was more expensive and required the door locking mechanism. I just wanted to control wall outlets.
The initial connection was extremely easy. I plugged the SmartLinc to the wall outlet that my DSL modem was plugged into and then actually use the pass-through to connect the DSL modem (it works with cable modem also but I am just saying what I did). I connected the SmartLinc to the modem, turned on the computer and followed the instructions. Hooking up each appliance module was simple. First, plug the module in a wall outlet. Use your browser on your home computer (connected to the same DSL modem) to connect to your Smartlinc device. DON'T FORGET TO SET UP A USER NAME AND PASSWORD! Ask the device to search for new modules. Press the button on the side of the module. And then you are connected. You can then test the module. I had no problems with either module.
Once you have the module setup, register your device. If you have a dynamic IP address, registering your device allows you to find the external IP address of your device when the address changes. [It can connect to your device only if you do not change your default port, but there is a work around below if you know the external IP address].
That is the simple part. Now the more difficult part, hooking up to your IPhone. First off, do this while at the SmartLinc device and turn on your IPhone WiFi connected to your network. Downloading the program from the ITunes store was easy. I just went to the App store application on my IPhone and typed "MobilLinc". I selected the Lite version (do this even if you plan to use Pro to make sure the program works for your situation before spending money). Once loaded on the phone, though, the problems began. You first need to put in your settings. I will save you some trouble by telling you that your Host Type is 2412N (this is not the default so you need to change it). The Username and password are the ones you set up for your device and not your IPhone or PC username and password (i would suggest using the same but then all the IT people will yell at me about security..it is just power outlets). Next, enter the local connection for your Smartlinc (the 192.***.***.** number) and if you used the Smartlinc default, you will be using port 80. If you have a wireless network with a password (like mine), you will be asked for that password when you try to sync. At this point, don't bother with external. Change the connect method to "Internal Connect" and try syncing. If it works, great, if it doesn't, then you need to visit the SmartLinc forum or call technical service. [Hey SmartLinc...you really could just put this all on a web page to make it easier for everyone].
Once that is set, then try your external connect. For me, my port 80 was already set for another device, so I had to change the external port. I also had to turn off my WiFi as this did not work when I connected to the internet when connected to the same network as the SmartLinc. The external http:// address may be difficult if you have one that changes, but I have an external fix address that follows my dynamic address. This is where you really need to be a computer whiz to make this work, but if you can find a friend or be patient with tech service, you can probably get through it. [This can and should be improved as it would be easy for SmartLinc to set up a way to control applications through a secure web page at their site].
Now since I only have two devices, I am able to get away with not upgrading to MobiLinc Pro. The ModbiLinc Lite is meant to test your connection and only allows One Scene and One Device. I was able to work around by connecting one of my devices in "My Scenes" and the other I cannot using "My Device". If you have more than two, you will need to pay the upgrade, but it is less than $20.
HOWEVER, IF YOU HAVE WEB BROWSING ON YOUR SMARTPHONE, YOU CAN AVOID ANY LIMITATION BY JUST CONNECTING DIRECTLY TO THE SMARTLINC USING YOUR EXTERNAL ADDRESS FOLLOWED BY A COLON AND THAN YOUR POT NUMBER. As an example, if my external address was 75.253.1.19 and I used port 8182 (instead of 80) as my SmartLinc port forwarding port. I can connect to the device from any browser anywhere by typing 75.253.1.19:8182 (don't forget the "http://" before the IP address) and I get all the functions as if I was at home. Still MobiLinc is a neat little application.
I am extremely happy with the way things work once I got through the set-up. I can now control my remote site from anywhere and that is an amazing thing to say. Bravo to Smarthome!

Smarthome 2412N SmartLinc INSTEON Central Controller Overview

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Hawking HRPG1 HomeRemote Pro Control and Remote Monitoring Internet Gateway (White) Review & Ratings

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Hawking HRPG1 HomeRemote Pro Control and Remote Monitoring Internet Gateway (White) Review

Update April 6, 2010: After several additional conversations with 'Cal' at Hawking home automation tech support, I have finally given up on the Hawking gateway and camera, tossed both in the garbage bin, and purchased a Vera gateway from MiCasaVerde. I have been able to attach to all devices in my home and have everything working perfectly (including the Wayne-Dalton thermostat). The Vera control website is easy to use and there is no subscription fee (unlike Hawking). Additionally, there is a very active forum on the MiCasaVerde website that is excellent in terms of describing proper device set-up, potential modifications, etc. I regret having wasted as much time and money as I did on the Hawking set-up, but I'm thrilled with the Vera and with MiCasaVerde. If you are considering the Hawking gateway - just don't. Buy a Vera.
Original Review: I did quite of bit of research looking for technology that would let me control lights, appliances and thermostat settings via the internet for our vacation home. From a design perspective, Hawking's z-wave controller has all of the features I was looking for. Individual devices can be turned on and off, devices can be linked to simultaneously turn on or off and "scenes" can be created to execute a series of commands based on a schedule or the activation of a single device (e.g. turn on one light and a series of devices can be turned on).
But great designs are worthless if the technology is extremely immature and/or full of bugs. Compound these problems with one of the worst tech support groups I've ever dealt with and you'll have Hawking's Home Automation product group (note - Hawking's home automation tech support is not the same as the India-based group that supports their networking and computing products...unfortunately Home Automation seems to be staffed by one gentleman named "Cal" whose standard answer is "send an email to the product manager" - not one of which as ever been answered).
I have been able to get lights and appliances to turn on/off on a basic schedule. Now the list of things that don't work. I have reported all these to Hawking with not a single response (as yet - but I'm still hoping!) from the mysterious product manager:
1. The gateway does not recognize my Wayne Dalton thermostat as a thermostat. As a result, I can not adjust temperature settings or even see the current temperature in the house. This is a known problem - still waiting for a fix from Hawking. No response since July 2009
2. The gateway gets its current time from Hawking's servers. The Hawking server time is now off by two hours. To fool the server, I have to set all of my on/off times two hours earlier than I actually want them to occur. Problem reported to Hawking in April 2009 with no response from the "product manager".
3. Hawking's HRPC2 camera (designed to work with this gateway) would not work as long as I was using a Motorola cable modem and wireless router. Reported the problem to tech support (Cal, as usual) and was told that there was no problem. When I finally switched to a Linksys router, I got the camera to work (after several hours of playing with settings). Unfortunately the picture quality is terrible and many of the features do not work as described.
You should be able to tell that I really, really, REALLY want this technology to work. I have dozens of hours invested in trying workarounds and dealing with "Cal", the solo tech support guy. Unfortunately, it's just too full of bugs and Hawking seems disinterested in this part of their product line. I suspect that they haven't sold enough of these things to warrant any real effort. If they'd just work with me, I would happily update this review. Reading the reviews for the HRPC2 camera (all of which are 1-star), I see that I'm not alone in my frustration with Hawking. I have started researching alternative technologies and can't wait to toss all of this Hawking equipment in the garbage bin.

Hawking HRPG1 HomeRemote Pro Control and Remote Monitoring Internet Gateway (White) Overview

The HomeRemote Pro Internet Gateway is the heart of the Hawking Technologies HomeRemote Pro Home Control and Remote Monitoring System. Using the broadband connection in your home, the Pro Internet Gateway communicates with the HomeRemote Pro servers to give you remote control of your home's surveillance system, appliances and much more.
Note: this product includes only the Pro Internet Gateway. To build a HomeRemote Pro Home Control and Remote Monitoring System, you will also need to add HomeRemote Pro accessories or Z-Wave-enabled products (all sold separately) to your home. For everything you need to set up a system, the HomeRemote Pro Starter Kit includes this Gateway, a Pro Door/Window Sensor and a Pro Lamp Module.
How the HomeRemote Pro Monitoring System Works The HomeRemote Monitoring System is an award-winning system that lets you monitor your home, secure it from intruders, and control its appliances and power usage via a cell phone or an Internet browser while you'reworking, at school, or even traveling abroad. You can also use it to monitor your children or pets, or keep tabs on an elderly family member. And business owners can use the system to keep an eye on their premises or employees.
By connecting the Pro Internet Gateway to your Internet router, you'll effectively create a wireless network that "connects" your home to the Internet. And by adding HomeRemote Pro accessories to your home, such as a Pro Door Sensor or Pro Lamp Module, or other HomeRemote Pro-enabled products, such as Electrical Appliance modules or Pro Motion Detectors (sold separately), you'll have the option of remotely controlling your heating and cooling system, lighting, blinds, garage door, and virtually any electrical appliance in your home.
If you want to add surveillance features to your property, by installing HomeRemote Pro video cameras, such as the Wireless Video Camera or Video Camera with Night Vision, you can monitor your premises 24/7 in real time from virtually any place in the world.
Award-Winning Z-Wave Wireless Technology At the heart of the HomeRemote Pro System is Z-Wave wireless "mesh" technology, an award-winning wireless standard for home automation. Unlike traditional remote technologies that rely oninfrared signals, Z-Wave is not affected by walls or other barriers, and it offers two-way communication, giving you confirmation that your commands were received and executed. With Z-Wave, the guesswork and finger-crossing is taken out of the equation.
Because each "module" or HomeRemote Pro accessory acts as a repeater that extends the distance of the Z-Wave signals, with a few easily installed and strategically placed HomeRemote Pro accessories, your entire home can be covered in a matter of minutes without any hard-wiring or special installation.
Easy Set Up: No Special Tools or Wiring Required Setting up a HomeRemote Pro Monitoring System up couldn't be easier. Once you connect the Pro Internet Gateway to your router, you log into the HomeRemote Pro Web site, where you can customize your HomeRemote Pro System by naming the rooms in your home. (You can also personalize your HomeRemote Pro Web page with photos of yourself and other custom touches.) Then it's just a matter of plugging accessories into outlets throughout your home and adding them to your system.
The "installation" of HomeRemote Pro accessories is as easy as plugging in one of the several HomeRemote Pro modules into available electrical outlets. Once the modules, which are about the size of typical home appliance timers, are connected, you simply plug your lamp or appliance into it. The modules let you control appliances remotely (you can schedule them, or turn them on or off on demand), and they will also act as "repeaters" that effectively extend your home's Z-Wave wireless network.
You're now ready to control your home through a browser from anywhere in the world. And by adding your cell phone number to your account settings, your Internet-enabled cell phone can be used to control your home and even stream video of particular rooms.
Note: HomeRemote Pro has two levels of services, basic and pro. Some features mentioned above require a pro-level service. Click here for a comparison chart of the differences in features and capabilities between the basic and pro-level services.
Other HomeRemote Pro Features The HomeRemote Pro System offers several customization and monitoring features that give you the ultimate in control and oversight of your home.
The system's Scene/Scheduler feature allows you to create a rule that applies to a group of different appliances. For example, instead of turning all your lights off one by one from your cell phone as you're leaving your house, you can set a Scene called "All Lights Off" that turns off all your lights with the press of a button, or turns them off on schedule you've created.
The Alerts and Notifications feature send email and text (SMS) message alerts to designated recipients whenever a specific event, such as the opening of a door, occurs within a room. Device Linking allows one module or sensor to trigger other modules to turn on or off. Opening a door, for instance, could trigger all the lights in your home to turn on.
And to help you keep an eye on your property, Activity Logs let you view recent and past events in your home if you suspect suspicious activity, or if you simply want to monitor your home while you're away.
Expanding your HomeRemote Pro System The HomeRemote Pro System can be customized to grow as your needs grow. You can add additional HomeRemote Pro Wireless Door Sensors, Motion Detectors, Appliance Modules and Lighting Modules, or specialty products, such as window shades, thermostats, garage door openers, keyless door locks, light switches, and outdoor lighting modules from other HomeRemote Pro compatible manufacturers. The HomeRemote Pro System is compatible with all products featuring the award-winning Z-Wave technology logo.
HomeRemote Pro Services Basic-Level service is included with a purchase of this Pro Internet Gateway and with the HomeRemote Pro Starter Kit. For a small monthly fee, you can upgrade to Pro-Level Service to utilize all features on the HomeRemote Pro System. For more information on subscriptions and HomeRemote-compatible products, visit www.homeremote.net.
The Home Remote Pro Internet Gateway is protected by a one-year limited warranty.
What's in the Box One Home Remote Pro Internet Gateway (HRPG1), one Power Adapter, one Ethernet Cable, and Quick Installation Guide.

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Panasonic Wireless Network Camera and Pet Cam (BL-C20A) Review & Ratings

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Panasonic Wireless Network Camera and Pet Cam (BL-C20A) Review

Compact, very easy to set up and the image is sharp and clear. Free DDNS service makes this the best buy. I have another camera, Linksys, and I had to pay for this service. I defitely will drop it when it comes up for renewal. No more Linksys camera for me!
After a few days of use..I still love it! I just found out that I can access the camera with my Mac via Firefox browser. This alone beats all other cameras in the market! Set up the motion detector to email pictures is a breeze. You can also set the camera to periodically send a picture, motion or not. The only thing that you could say it is less than the Linksys is it could not send a video. Linksys video only lasts 30 seconds anyway. Highly recommended.
8/21/08: I have 2 of these cameras and the first one (3 yrs old) just failed. It is just not powered up doesn't matter how many times I tried. I guess it is expected. It has been reliably in service for 3 yrs. I will buy it again, when Amazon has a good deal.
The camera's software works flawlessly in Mac OS. I regularly access my camera via Safari web browser. This alone beats most other camera out there. You can get to it from either Windows or Mac. I set it up to email the jpeg to my Blackberry and view the picture there. Could not figure out how to do this on an iPod though.
3/20/09: When the 2nd camera failed, I thought the power supply was the culprit. I bought a $15 power supply from W**T and guess what? It works again. So I now both of my cameras work again! If your camera failed, likely it is the power supply!
Also, I can access my cameras from my iPod touch (live) using the supplied Safari browser when I have a wifi connection. COOL!!

Panasonic Wireless Network Camera and Pet Cam (BL-C20A) Overview

Wireless Network Camera Automatic Network Configuration, Universal Plug and Play, Set-up Wizard, Remote Pan/Tilt Control, Built in PIR motion detector

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