For some it may be something as simple as remote or automatic control of a few lights. For others, security may be the central application. Still others may choose to install advanced controllers or use voice recognition. As a very basic definition, home automation is anything that gives you remote or automatic control of things around the home.

Adding home automation to an existing home is surprisingly affordable and simple. Products start for as little as $40 are plug and play, and require no new wires!

What Can I Control?

Lighting
This is probably the most popular control category and a great way to get started with home automation. Starter kits are inexpensive and are easy to install. Dim fixtures you could never dim before, control them from anywhere in the house or the world via the Internet.

Security Systems & Access Control
Have your home call you and/or loved ones if there is ever an alert status. You can save money on security monitoring services or even monitor for non-traditional security events like water in the laundry room or basement. Additionally, products include devices, which will allow you to unlock the front door to let friends in or close the garage door from your office via the Internet.

Home Theater & Entertainment
Just imagine replacing that pile of remotes with just one controller. Now, imagine not having to know all 10 steps to starting up your home theater - just press the channel icon and your home automation system will do the rest. Built-in speakers are especially popular with homeowners as they provide beautiful sound throughout the house while without the clutter.

Phone Systems
Phone systems like VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), which are usually used for small business applications, are surprisingly convenient in the home. With caller ID and a home automation controller you can even screen your calls for only those you wish to receive. And voice control software can turn every phone in your home into a remote controller.

Thermostats
Remote control thermostats allow you to adjust the temperature from bed at night or even from a cell phone while on your way home. They can even trigger a notice to you if the temperature gets too low (freezing pipes) or too high for the comfort of pets, plants, etc.).

Irrigation
Have your sprinklers turn on only when it's dry. Some people even have the sprinklers turn on when there's motion in the yard at unwanted times - imagine someone trying to explain wet clothes to the police!

Networking
Home automation can be accomplished using various types of connectivity. What's great is that many of today's home automation products need no new wires - so they are perfect to retrofit into an existing home. If you are building new, or doing a major remodel, you should consider adding networking, audio, video and control wiring while it is easy and relatively inexpensive, later on you'll be happy you did.

How Can I Control Them?   

Remote Control
Remote control gives you the convenience of controlling lighting, appliances, security systems and consumer electronics from wherever you happen to be at the time like your couch, car or even in your bed. There are several different "methods" of controlling devices remotely including Infrared, RF (radio frequency) and hardwiring systems all with their own advantages and disadvantages.

Automatic Control
Automatic control adds even more convenience by making things happen automatically. Examples include having your lights turn on at dusk and off at your desired time, having your whole home theater turn on and tune to the desired station with the press of a button on. You can even control your irrigation system and make changes to zone times and frequencies via remote control or over the Internet.

What are the Benefits of Home Automation?         

• Convenience- Control your TV from the couch, and dim the lights at the same time. Imagine on those cold mornings having the heater in your bathroom coming on automatically 5 minutes before your alarm clock goes off so that it is warm when you enter.
  
  
• Safety- Come home to a lit house upon your arrival. Imagine your house sending you an alert if something is wrong, or have your security system call you if there is an alarm, even if it’s water in the laundry room or basement.

• Fun- High tech products for the home are fun to use and share with others. Whether viewing visitors at your front door on your TV or tuning your stereo by using voice recognition, you'll find it surprisingly enjoyable. And, when it comes to impressing the friends, you'll be happy to show off your newfound applications.

With the broad selection of home automation products offered today you could control just about anything you wish in your home. If you have questions about a particular product please visit www.broadbandnational.com or call one of our home automation specialists at 1-888-123-4567