Clare Controls has introduced the ClareHome System One, a compact home automation solution, complete with controller and studio-quality multi-zone audio.
The system is comprised of two new components: the Linux-based ClareOS Controller and the iMR Integrated Multi-Room Audio Solution, plus the company’s Streams Audio Bridge. Packaged individually, the components combine to provide a solution that opens valuable opportunities to dealers, both technologically and economically. The entire system can be installed in a traditional rack or on a shelf or – thanks largely to the iMR’s unprecedented combination of functions and compact form factor – in-wall, using a standard single stud bay enclosure. When mounted together, the System One components require minimal interconnection. The bridge, controller and iMR are powered jointly, and single Ethernet cables connect the iMR and the bridge to the ClareOS controller.
“The ClareHome System One reinforces our commitment to help dealers efficiently and effectively reach broader markets,” said Brett Price, CEO and founder of Clare Controls. “It combines our cloud-based ease of integration with a framework that simplifies and streamlines the hardware installation. The result is an affordable solution that offers our dealers a single, easy to install unit featuring all of the popular services and features their customers demand most.”
The star of the system is the new iMR Streams Audio Solution, which combines a CobraNet switch, preamplifier and modular amplifiers in a single, compact chassis to deliver lossless studio-quality digital audio to multiple rooms, from a variety of simultaneous sources. These may include today’s most popular internet music services (via the Streams Bridge), as well as audio sources found on the home network. The system also allows for simple integration of other music sources such as iPods, cable/satellite receivers and more. Various models provide either 25- or 50 watts per channel, in four- or six-channel configurations. Further channels may be added by bussing additional iMRs, via a single CAT5e cable.
The system also boasts Clare’s new Linux Controller. Offered as a cost-effective alternative to the company’s Mac mini controller, it delivers the same cloud-based management, OS functionality and Apple-based user experience as the original, at less than half the cost. It provides intelligent integration of lighting and shade systems (Lutron, Crestron, Vantage), leading security systems, select Z-Wave components and certified third-party ancillary systems, in addition to the Streams Audio Solution.
The Clare Controls ClareHome System One will make its official debut at the Clare Controls booth (#3150) at CEDIA EXPO 2012, held September 6-8 in Indianapolis, IN, with shipments starting in October, 2012.
