Other Systems Sony has upgraded its New Home Solutions (NHS) builder packages in an effort to simplify installation and integrate the process for custom and semi-custom builders. New to the series are Sony-branded in-wall and in-ceiling speakers that deliver a 7.1-channel surround-sound solution for home theater. Three systems make up the NHS line.
The NHS-3030 combines an audio/video receiver, six source components including a 400-disc DVD changer, and music server. Consumers can also choose from additional sources including XM Radio tuners and secondary DVD players (which also play CDs). Up to three more standard or high-definition video sources can be added to the system, which provides audio and video for up to 13 rooms.
The NHS-2030 and NHS-1030 systems offer similar source options for six rooms, and the NHS-330 basic system provides three sources to three rooms.
Each NHS system is built around a Sony HDTV. Choices include the Bravia flat-panel LCDs, Grand WEGA rear-projection TVs, or SXRD front projector. The NHS systems range from $10,000 for a three-room system to $60,000 for a 13-room package. The systems come as a single SKU and have been optimized with a custom wiring solution to install with minimum time and effort.
Broan and INSTEON hooked up at the builders’ show to demonstrate a system that offers homeowners affordable control of ventilation fans to meet the requirements of AHSRAE Code 62. The code, used by many authorities nationwide as the indoor air-quality standard for residential applications, calls for intermittent and continuous ventilation throughout the day.
Broan’s SmartSense technology works with the company’s Ultra Silent fans in rooms where ventilation is needed such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, and exercise rooms. Controllers attached to the fans communicate information including status and ventilation rate to the master control. Because Insteon speaks over the existing powerline, no additional wiring is required.
Using data such as the volume of air ventilated, the master control then intermittently operates fans for appropriate ventilation. An ancillary benefit to the SmartSense solution is energy management, the company says. Since the SmartSense system constantly monitors and activates fans, it operates only when necessary as opposed to ventilation systems that run continuously. Broan says SmartSense uses fewer than 50 watts during ventilation cycles compared with other systems that can use 1,500 watts or more.
Elsewhere, Home Director reappeared at the show with a new product line and new business model. The company is targeting developers and service providers with its palette of home entertainment, structured wiring, and home control solutions. The strategy puts in a backbone ahead of the builders, which the company says lowers the entry cost of home technologies for the builder community. The company has a nationwide network of partners to handle wire pulls and customer support and will assist builders in finding higher-end installers for more sophisticated installations.—Rebecca Day specializes in writing about home electronics. She can be reached at customhomerd@aol.com.
