Coopersburg, PA–Lutron Electronics has introduced a device that provides control of its RadioRA home dimming system through Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005.
The device allows control of up to 15 rooms or scenes (or control of individual RadioRA dimmers) through a PC running Media Center Edition 2005, all with the ease of a remote control.
The new RadioRA Network Control Interface can be easily added to any RadioRA home dimming system that has a RadioRA RS-232 interface or a RadioRA Chronos system bridge and timeclock.
In2Networks, a software and technology development company, developed the network technology used in the product.
The RadioRA Network Control Interface is linked to a home network via a standard Ethernet connection and communicates to the RadioRA system via the RS-232 interface or Chronos system bridge and timeclock.
“Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 delivers a powerful yet familiar way to enjoy all your digital entertainment, including photos, music, live and recorded TV, and more,” said Kevin Unangst, director of Windows consumer marketing at Microsoft Corp. “Lutrons ability to easily control home lighting from a Windows XP Media Center Edition PC is an innovative extension for home-entertainment enthusiasts.”
“Lutron products help consumers create the perfect visual environment in their homes and offices,” said Andy Wakefield, manager of Lutrons home systems business unit. “The added feature of controlling home lighting while enjoying music or watching a movie will exponentially enhance a Windows XP Media Center users experience.”
Available late first quarter, the RadioRA Network Control Interface will have a list price of $400.