News / Media

Sep 08, 2011 By Steven Castle/Electronic House

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http://hdliving.com/green-technology/2011/09/08/home-control-system-saving-easy

Being green and energy-efficient is often considered a mindset. The mantras of reduce, re-use, and recycle are repeated ad-nauseum. But one doesn’t need to adopt a minimalist mindset to be green and energy-efficient. In fact, Steve and Mashid Rizzone were of the mind that their new home, six years in the works, would be both green and energy efficient—and their contemporary California spread is as far from minimalist as you can get.

The nearly 12,000-square-foot Newport Beach compound encompasses three levels, with two kitchens, nine baths, a four-car garage, a gym, a state-of-the-art 14-seat home theater, 16 TVs, an infinity-edge pool, outdoor cooking area, motorized and movable glass walls, nine zones of heating and cooling, 17 zones of audio and video, an indoor waterfall, 11 closed-circuit security cameras, five biometric (fingerprint) access points, and nearly four miles of cabling. Oh, and there are views of the harbor to kill for.

So … um … how do you make all of that green and energy-efficient? Start with 3,000 square feet of solar panels mounted on a hillside to provide the home’s electricity. Add hundreds of super-energy efficient and long-lasting LED (light emitting diode) lamps throughout the house. Stir in ample helpings of an easy-to-use Savant home control system that operates nearly everything. And mix with generous portions of green building features, including a structural steel framework, recycled steel studs, concrete walls that help warm and cool the home, blown-in cellulose insulation, Energy Star-rated appliances and a rainwater harvesting system for landscape irrigation.

“This house has been a labor of love,” says Steve Rizzone. “We started about six years ago. We bought the property and decided that we wanted to build an energy-efficient house and be specific in terms of construction materials. In the interim we had two children, and we felt it was important to send a message to the kids. This was capped by what has happened in the last two years with energy and the cost of it, and what’s happening with the planet.”

The homeowners have applied for the highest level of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) for Homes certification. The LEED system typically won’t certify a home that’s as large as theirs, but the Rizzones are not easily deterred. They’re still going for Platinum-level certification.

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http://hdliving.com/green-technology/2011/09/08/home-control-system-saving-easy

We hope you are all safe during the power outage. Many of your systems have been designed with surge protection and some with surge protection with battery backup. These units are specify implemented in your system to protect it from events like yesterday. Some of these units will come back online automatically and others will need to be manually brought online. In order to turn these units back on please follow the steps below (most of these units are located at the bottom of your equipment racks).

1) Locate the power unit (Below are some pictures of what it might look like) (It might have one of following names on the front, Belkin, Apc, Panamax, Furman, Monster Power, Crestron).

2) Press and hold the power button for 3 to 5 seconds (at which point you will hear a beeping sound, some models).

3) This should start to power on your equipment rack.

4) Depending on the size of your system (number of remotes, Smart light switches, HVAC, touchscreens, TV’s, Security Cameras). It will take anywhere from 10 to 15 minutes for it to fully reboot.

5) Once the system is up please use it minimally for 2 to 3 hours to allow the battery units to recharge.

If you have any concerns please don’t hesitate to contact us via email info@audioimpact.com or phone 858-271-4154.

Belkin

APC

Panamax

Furman

Monster Power

Crestron

Episode

Convenience is king, but lighting control systems today offer much more.

August 18, 2011 by Steven Castle

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http://www.electronichouse.com/article/how_to_add_lighting_control_to_your_home/

Want to freshen up the appearance of your house, enjoy greater convenience and save some energy to boot? Then you should look into a lighting control system.

A lighting control system can automatically dim your lights, enact preset “scenes” so only the fixtures you need come on, automatically turn on and off lights so you don’t have to run around the house to do so- and interact with other home systems such as motorized window shades, security systems, thermostats and whole-house control and automation systems.

There are many types of systems available, in a variety of configurations and price points. You can have a fully wired system if you’re building a home or addition. If not, no worries: Opt for a wireless system that transmits commands over radio frequency signals instead of wires. A combination of the two works for many homeowners.

Many lighting control systems today incorporate motion and occupancy sensors to turn on and off lights automatically. And some lighting systems are starting to work hand-in-hand with shading and thermostats. Lutron, for example, is rolling out this seamless integration in its wired HomeWorks QS and wireless RadioRA 2 systems. If a sensor detects too much sunlight coming into a room, or if the temperature exceeds a certain point, the shades can automatically descend. Conversely, the shades can open to harvest daylight and warmth from the winter sun, while triggering lights to turn off.

Whole-house lighting control systems are available from companies including Lutron, LiteTouch, Vantage Legrand, CentraLite and Leviton- as well as home control companies Crestron and Control4. Also available are a variety of lighting control products that employ wireless Z-Wave and ZigBee technologies.

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http://www.electronichouse.com/article/how_to_add_lighting_control_to_your_home/

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http://exciteawards.customretailer.net/product/2011/AMX_Enova_DGX_16___AMX___AVS_ENOVADGX16_ENC-283.html

The HDCP installation nightmare is solved with the Enova DGX 16 modular, digital matrix switcher. With its built-in NetLinx controller it functions as a complete integrated solution that manages and distributes analog and digital audio and video including HDMI/HDCP, control, and Ethernet up to 100 meters over one standard twisted pair cable. With AMX’s exclusive InstaGate Pro” Technology, HDCP becomes a hassle-free plug-and-play operation; no tools, no delays, and no key constraints - it just works.

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http://exciteawards.customretailer.net/product/2011/AMX_Enova_DGX_16___AMX___AVS_ENOVADGX16_ENC-283.html

Crestron Press Release August 22, 2011

New Crestron Integrated Partner, Pro Audio Technology Boosts Sound Experience with Upgraded Speakers and Subwoofers

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http://www.crestron.com/about/press_room/press_releases/show_release.asp?press_release_id=1663

The Theo Kalomirakis Home Theater in Crestron Worldwide Headquarters Experience Center recently received a jolt of power via high-output loudspeakers and subwoofers from Huntington Beach, CA-based Pro Audio Technology (PRO). The new Crestron Integrated Partner donated speakers and subwoofers to demonstrate the power of the Crestron PROCISE® surround sound processor and PROAMP amplifiers located in the theater. The Theo Kalomirakis Home Theater may look the same but the sound quality creates a whole new listening experience for visitors.

Opened in 2009, the state-of-the-art Experience Center provides integrators, architects, consultants, and designers with an interactive space to introduce clients to Crestron, meet with Crestron executives, collaborate with system designers and demonstrate the latest technology in an elegant, fully functional environment. The Theo Kalomirakis Home Theater, designed by the father of home theater himself, delivers the highest quality 3D HD video and surround sound experience, featuring the PROCISE PSPHD and three PROAMP amplifiers.

To enhance PROCISE, Crestron’s high-definition 7.3 surround sound processor and PROAMP amplifiers, Pro Audio Technology installed three SCR-15sm large format screen channel speakers to provide an unparalleled listening experience at every seat in the room, including true-to-life impact, effortless vibrant and unrestricted output levels. PRO employed six SCRS-12ai effects channels speakers to create a highly dynamic soundfield that remains coherent from the front to the back of the theater, maximizing the immersive experience while enhancing believability. All speakers are DSP optimized for highest resolution and compensation of boundary effects by PRO’s PMA digital engine.

Dual LFC-21sm subwoofers were placed in the front of the room to provide maximum low frequency extension and visceral slam. PRO’s LFC-12im in-wall subwoofers were mounted in the rear of the room to provide even distribution of low frequency content and minimize room modes. “We are thrilled to house Pro Audio Technology speakers and subwoofers in our state-of-the-art Theo Kalomirakis Home Theater,” said Crestron Product Marketing Manager, Keith Kennedy. “The new speakers showcase the performance capabilities of PROCISE, and we couldn’t be happier with the results.”

“We were excited to work with Crestron on the upgrade of the Theo Kalomirakis Home Theater and bring the dynamic, high-output listening experience of Pro Audio Technology to this compelling demo,” said Pro Audio Technology Vice President, Larry Reagan. “The Pro Audio/PROCISE system will be a very useful tool for designers and integrators wishing to introduce their clients to reference level performance.”

In addition to the Pro Audio Technology speakers, subwoofers and DSP Engine, the Theo Kalomirakis Home Theater features Crestron PROCISE 7.3 HD surround sound processing, PROAMP amplifiers, ADMS Intermedia Delivery System™, Digital Projection TITAN Reference 1080p 3D three-chip DLP projector, Stewart Filmscreen 143-inch CineCurve screen, RPG acoustical room treatments and Acoustic Smart theater seats, guests are treated to a true cinema theater experience.

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http://www.crestron.com/about/press_room/press_releases/show_release.asp?press_release_id=1663

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http://exciteawards.customretailer.net/product/2011/ADA_TEQ_12_Acoustic_Room_System_with_Trinnov_Optimization-337.html

The TEQ series of electronic room-correction optimizers represent the most dramatic leap forward in controlling the acoustical relationship between loud speakers and room environments. Featuring Trinnov’s proprietary software, which is based on the most advanced understanding of 3-D acoustical-modeling, the TEQ’s 64-bit floating-point-processing provides room correction in a manner otherwise unachievable. You won’t believe your ears! The TEQ is available in as the TEQ-4 (4 channels for hifi) as well as the TEQ-8 and TEQ-12 (8 and 12 channel units for cinema).

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http://exciteawards.customretailer.net/product/2011/ADA_TEQ_12_Acoustic_Room_System_with_Trinnov_Optimization-337.html

The results are in!

Audio Impact came in 4th in the 2011 San Diego Best of the Best Home Electronics Store. Thank you for your votes and continued support!

Crestron controls and lifts by Electro Kinetics help art integrate with electronics.

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http://www.electronichouse.com/article/motorized_art_collection_hides_hdtvs

August 14, 2011 by Grant Clauser

So picture this, you’re building a gorgeous new riverfront property. You want delicious views of the water, lots of natural light and an airy modern feel to complement your extensive art collection.

You also want an exceptional audio, video and control system so you can enjoy movies, music and television with ease. But how do you make your fine art collection not clash with your top-line TVs and speakers?

To make those two worlds play nicely together you need to bring in pros who know integration and the systems that make them rock. The owner of this 12,000-square-foot home in Hyde Park, NY, called in Audio Video Systems of Plainview, NY to take on the task.

Depending on when you walk into one of the rooms in this home, the hallmark may be a large LG LCD TV or a stunning oil painting. In order to keep the TVs out of sight when not in use, Audio Video System used Electro Kinetic lifts to raise paintings, open hidden panels and move televisions into viewing position. All of that control is accomplished by a button press on a Crestron touchpanel, of which there are several in the house.

Besides the integration of TV lifts, the home also includes complete security, lighting and shade control. A Lutron Homeworks system is integrated with the Crestron automation so when someone wants to watch a movie in the media room, not only do the Stewart screen and Sony projector descend from the ceiling, but shades will automatically cover the floor-to-ceiling windows, and the lights will dim down to an off position.

In addition to the multiple disappearing TVs, Audio Video Systems took the integration a step further in the home’s great room, where two custom-built columns also hold Sonance CM speakers in addition to works of art.

Kitchen







Great Room







Master Bedroom







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http://www.electronichouse.com/article/motorized_art_collection_hides_hdtvs

Automation system manages misters, fans and dispensing of fly repellent.

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http://www.electronichouse.com/article/crestron_automation_keeps_horse_stables_safe_and_comfortable/

August 09, 2011 by Lisa Montgomery

When the flies are biting and the mercury is boiling, it’s no fun for a horse. To keep his animals healthy and content the owner of this stable in Arizona contacted HomeSmart Inc., Scottsdale, Ariz., to install a Crestron automation system. “He was already using a Creston system to manage the lights, thermostats and A/V gear in his home, so it made sense to use the same type of system for the barn,” says Jim Brunen, HomeSmart. In fact, it made so much sense that Brunen tied the home and barn systems together so that the owners can, for example, turn on and off the lights in the barn from any keypad or touchpanel in the house. And should a car pull into the driveway, the owners can see the image (captured by a surveillance camera) on the screen on a TV that’s in the barn just as they would on a TV in the house.

Remote control over lights and surveillance cameras are fairly typical applications of a Crestron system. What’s a bit out of the ordinary is the way the system keeps the heat and flies at bay in the barn. Seven fans—one aimed at each stall and at each end of the barn—kick in automatically when the temperature of the barn reaches above 80 degrees. If it’s above 85 and the humidity level is lower than 40 percent, the fans stay off and a misting system emits a fine spray of water over each of the barn’s stalls. “Misting can lower the temperature by as much as 20 degrees,” says Brunen, “but they only work if it’s not humid.”

Flies are another common problem in barns. The Crestron system controls a pump that dispenses fly repellent into the barn from a 55-gallon drum. A fine mist sprays from emitters over each stall automatically every hour for between 60 and 90 seconds. Just before the pump is scheduled to spray, the fans turn off so that the repellent isn’t sucked out of the barn. After the spray has settled—which takes about five minutes—the fans kick back on.





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http://www.electronichouse.com/article/crestron_automation_keeps_horse_stables_safe_and_comfortable/

Runco Press Release 8-9-2011

New LS-1 introduces Runco’s high-quality, affordable projection to value-conscious customers looking for the very best performance.

Beaverton, OR – Runco® is excited to announce the newest addition to its critically-acclaimed LightStyle™ Series DLP™ projectors, the LS-1. The LS-1 is a single-chip 1080p DLP projector that provides an unprecedented option to homeowners looking for the performance and flexibility of a Runco projector at a very attractive price point.

“With the introduction of the LS-1, we are able to bring the renowned Runco performance to a broader group of video enthusiasts,” said Jennifer Davis, VP of Marketing at Runco. “Being able to hit this competitive price point enables our integrators more opportunities to sell to a large, previously-untapped market and for homeowners to enjoy the benefits owning a Runco brings.”

The Runco LS-1 is an ideal alternative for homeowners who want a high performance video option for watching TV or movies, but also want the color depth and picture quality for console gaming (i.e., PlayStation, Wii or Kinect), internet browsing or streaming video and movies via a set-top box. The Runco LightStyle product line offers the greatest range of brightness and image performance for different rooms and needs.

“Runco’s LightStyle Series allows us to deliver Runco performance to a new group of clients,” said Brian Hudkins, president of Gramophone LTD. “The beauty of the LightStyle Series is that we have been able reach a larger customer base due to its affordability, without sacrificing performance OR reliability as these projectors meet the high quality standards of Runco.”

The LS-1 uses Digital Light Processing (DLP) technology to deliver the best color and crisp detail available in this product class and combines Runco’s SuperOnyx™ technology with ConstantContrast™ and ViVix™ proprietary digital video processing to achieve deep black levels and significant contrast, well above 10:000:1. The LS-1 also incorporates the ISF™ (Imaging Science Foundation) calibration suite for optimal performance in various rooms and lighting conditions. These calibration tools feature day and night calibration memory settings, individual sharpness and noise reduction controls, programmable image memory selection keys, built-in test patterns and a dark room-optimized remote.

Its sleek, glamorous design and customization options make the Runco LightStyle Series projectors the perfect solution to pair with a design-conscious homeowner. The LS-1 can be customized with Runco’s FinishPalette™ which enables complete projector customization for the homeowner. FinishPalette adds full-color design options, including exact PMS color matching for any college or pro-sports teams, a gallery of artist impressions and the option to custom-print your own artwork. Complementing the FinishPalette offering are 25 hand-finished signature paint colors to compliment any décor.

The LS-1 is also available with Runco’s CineGlide™ lens solution that enables a motorized, mechanical 2.35:1 anamorphic lens to move in front of the standard lens for perfect Scope reproduction. Runco CineGlide enables the viewer to switch from 16:9 content to 2.35:1 content, without black bars on the top or side of the image, with the touch of a button.