Smart Home World Magazine March 2023

CONTENTS

Cover Story

Real Estate Builders and Developers have invested in Smart Home Automation, in order to enhance their projects and gain a foothold in this competitive segment. Read on to know more…

Guest Article

Kishan Jain, Director, Goldmedal Electricals writes on how Home Automation is ushering in a New Era for the Real Estate sector.

Case Study

Preetu Muley Pandey the Founder and Chief Interior Designer of Pree D’fine balances aesthetics with Smart Home Automation which has resulted in a personal retreat for the clients.

Ashutosh Wad & Manjunath

Hathwar of Space Dynamix along with Beyond Alliance have designed a contemporary Smart Apartment that is characterised by clean lines and subtle colours.

In Conversation

Priyanka Singh, Principal Architect, Chalk Studio shares her experience on integrating Smart Automation in her projects and their advantages.

Parth Shah, Co-Founder and Chief Sales Officer at SmartNode Automations Pvt. Ltd. shares information on their innovative product range.

Ranvijay Singh, Head of BRAVIA Business, Sony India, talks about the distinctive aspects, features, connectivity options employed in Sony’s smart TVs.

Marc Walpe, Global Director of PulseEight & Gallo Acoustics, discussed their Ultra HD distribution and control products.

Product in Spotlight

A detailed analysis on the Melitta Barista TS Smart Automatic Coffee Machine.

The latest updates on new product launches and events in the industry.

We will soon enter the new financial year on a very positive note! And as a team, we are ready to explore new uncharted segments. Zooming in on the Indian Real Estate segment, we foresee numerous changes in response to the advancement in adopting Smart Automation in their projects. Builders and Developers have invested in Smart Home Automation, in order to enhance their projects and gain a foothold in this competitive segment. Our cover story this month will give readers an overview of how builders are gradually integrating Smart Ecosystems in their projects in the form of Surveillance, Smart Safety, Lighting Control and Curtain Control, Electrical etc. in order to attract techsavvy millennial buyers.

We also have Kishan Jain, Director, Goldmedal Electricals writing on how Home Automation is ushering in a New Era for the Real Estate sector. While in the Case Study segment, we have featured Preetu Muley Pandey’s project where she balances aesthetics with Smart Home Automation which has resulted in a personal retreat for the clients and Ashutosh Wad and Manjunath Hathwar of Space Dynamix along with Beyond Alliance have designed a contemporary Smart Apartment that is characterised by clean lines and subtle colours and offcouse smart technology.

In the interview section, we have Priyanka Singh, Principal Architect, Chalk Studio sharing her experience on using Smart Automation in her projects, and Parth Shah, Co-Founder and Chief Sales Officer at Smartnode Automations Pvt. Ltd. sharing information on the brand’s innovative smart home solutions. Plus, Ranvijay Singh, Head of BRAVIA Business, Sony India, talks about the distinctive aspects, features, connectivity options, voice control, and display technologies employed in Sony’s smart TVs.

Coming to Smart Home Expo 2023, do not miss the chance to register. This year the Expo has new brands, new collaborations, educative sessions and more… don’t miss the chance to upgrade yourself to the latest in the smart automation segment.

Enjoy reading and get back to us with your feedback.

Inviting Brands, Store Owners and System Integrators to showcase their projects in Smart Home World. Send us your videos and images at: sandeep@ smarthomeworld.in

Chief Editor: Swati Balgi

swati@smarthomeworld.in

Tech Journalist: Sunny Sawant sunny@smarthomeworld.in

Marketing Head: Sandeep Singh

sandeep@smarthomeworld.in

Assistant Manager - Sales: Monika Agnihotri

monika@smarthomeworld.in

Smart Home World thanks the various companies that have submitted information. For any editorial submissions, please contact Ms. Swati Balgi, Editor, at swati@smarthomeworld.in. The information published in News, Ongoing Trends and Product Gallery is as per the details furnished by the respective manufacturer/distributor. It does not reflect the views of Smart Home World or of the management of

SWATI BALGI

Smart Home Automation to Transform the Real Estate Segment

Builders and Developers have come a long way in terms of incorporating Smart Home Automation in their projects. Right from providing advanced security systems and smart locking systems to providing complete Smart Homes Automation in their upcoming projects. Read on to know more.

The Indian Real Estate segment has seen numerous changes in response to the advancement in adopting Smart technology in their projects. Experts have noted that there has been a significant trend toward the adoption of Smart Home Automation. It is noted that well-established Real Estate Builders and Developers have invested in Smart Home Automation, in order to enhance their projects and gain a foothold in this competitive segment.

It has been observed that homebuyers, especially millennial buyers want complete control of their homes at their fingertips. Builders are providing such Smart Ecosystems in their projects in the form of Surveillance, Smart Safety, Lighting Control and Curtain Control, Electrical etc.

Smart Home Automation Drivers and Markets

According to Allied Market Research, India’s home automation market size is expected to reach $13,574.1 million by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 29.8% during the forecast period 2019-2026. There are various factors that will help the market to grow as there is awareness and demand from home buyers regarding safety and security, convenience, low utility costs, and time-saving. While Smart Home Automation was initially seen as exclusively for the Elite-class, recent technological advances and affordable pricing have enabled them to

Smart Features in Some of the Upcoming Projects:

Surveillance: A smart home has a 24/7 surveillance facility. Features like video door monitoring and CCTV security outside the houses, protecting your property from outsiders and trespassers.

Smart Safety: This feature monitors gas leakage detection, Intrusion sensors, curtain sensors, fire detection, and control, and saves you from life-taking hazards.

Lighting control: With this feature, you can control the lights with remote On/Off or presence detection. It also allows you to choose the time of light activation according to the sunset time of your city.

Electrical: Smart electrical features such as smart air conditioning, smart refrigerators, and centrally regulated air conditioner give you comfortable and sustainable living. The power supply of all these appliances can be smartly controlled from any corner of the house. This makes up a very convenient feature to determine where energy can be saved. Energy efficiency is another aspect that is becoming increasingly popular among home buyers.

Entertainment: AV controls, gaming consoles

be accessible to a much larger audience. Smart home Automation technology largely appeals to tech-savvy millennial buyers, who constantly look for ways to enhance their lifestyle through Smart Automation. But it is interesting to note that Smart homes’ target audience is not solely limited to millennials, as smart devices offer a range of features and solutions that appeal to individuals across communities and generations. Multiple cities, especially Pune, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Gurugram to name a few cities are witnessing considerable growth in the adoption of the smart home system.

Integrating digitalization with their residential portfolio in Mumbai, Piramal Realty, the real estate development arm of Piramal Group, has recently launched digitally enabled smart apartments known as DigiSelect Homes. Another project Tathastu, by Ganga Realty in Gurugram offers advanced security systems, such as biometric recognition and smart locking systems. Their apartments are equipped with smart lighting, centralized ACs, and curtains controlled by a smartphone App. They have also incorporated smoke and gas leak sensors in the kitchen for enhanced safety.

Smartworld Developers has tied with Schneider Electric for home automation for their upcoming project, with over 5,000 homes under construction and 15000 more to be added in next couple of years. The others to offer Smart Home Automation in their projects are Emaar Digi Homes, Mahindra Luminare and Ireo’s Skyon in Gurugram.

and smart home entertainment devices build a connected viewing and listening experience.

Communication: Features like GPS navigation connected to entry and exit, and proximity door unlocking give you a unique experience of living.

Phone Set-up: A home-based system enables you to initiate with a mobile phone when the house is empty. The system provides you the ability to enter the name and model number of the phone so it can be verified for use. You will further be able to communicate with the system when approaching home to switch the television or the oven on and any other electrical appliances in the house.

Leading developers from across the country are catering to these aspirations and integrating the above-mentioned technological innovations within the luxury home segment. Be it the state-of-theart smart home experience with voice and touchenabled automated homes, biometric authorization at the main door and video door phone. Automation is provided for smart mood lighting, ACs, curtains, TV & appliances, smoke and gas leak sensors in the kitchen. Other unique features are Wi-Fi router with a panic button in the master bedroom, smart glass in kitchen and voice command controlling device in living room.

Why Builders and Developers are investing in Smart Home solutions?

Vikas Garg, Joint Managing Director, Ganga Realty

With calls worldwide for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, there is increasing demand for smart homes that are sustainable. What are your views on the same?

We believe that sustainability is an essential aspect of the real estate industry. We are committed to creating smart homes that are not only luxurious but also sustainable. We have incorporated various eco-friendly features and energy-efficient lighting. We recognize the need for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and will continue to prioritize sustainability in our projects.

There is a demand for New Age home automation for apartments, as a developer what are you providing to the buyers?

We understand the growing demand for new-age home automation. Our projects are equipped with various smart home features, including surveillance systems, smart safety features, lighting control and electrical systems. Our buyers can control their homes with a simple click on their smartphones, providing them with the ultimate convenience and luxury.

We understand that young buyers who have lived abroad are accustomed to smart home automation and expect the same in their homes in India. Our team at Ganga Realty offers various smart home automation features, such as voice-controlled assistants, smart lighting, and centralized ACs. We prioritize technology and innovation and continuously strive to provide our customers with the latest in smart home automation.

Prashin Jhobalia, VP Marketing Strategy, House of Hiranandani

Smart home technology largely appeals to tech savvy millennial buyers. As an expert, what are your views on the same.

Smart home technology has gained significant popularity among homeowners, particularly techsavvy millennials and globe-trotters who are aware of the latest trends in housing. This encourages them to embrace technology in their day-to-day lifestyle. However, this does mean that the audience for smart homes is limited to tech savvy millennials. The ease and convenient lifestyle offered by smart homes appeals to senior citizens, dinks, and nuclear families with children.

Smart home technology offers a range of benefits, including convenience, security, energy efficiency, and ease of use. Working professionals can switch on required appliances before returning home for greater comfort. Eg Air conditioners can be switched on before the homeowner returns so that on arrival the home is cool and comfortable. Similarly, senior citizens can switch on any gadgets they require with a single voice command. They do not have to struggle with the process of operating their gadgets manually, which they often find complex and time-consuming.

Use of cameras, sensors, and other devices enhances safety and security in a home. These devices can be monitored and controlled remotely. This feature provides peace of mind to homeowners, especially senior citizens, nuclear families with kids and young professionals who are away from their homes for extended periods.

Another advantage of smart home technology is its ability to help homeowners save money on their energy bills by automating energy-consuming

devices and appliances. For example, homeowners can program their lights, thermostats, and other electronic devices to turn off automatically when not in use, thus reducing wastage of energy.

What kind of growth prospect do you see for this segment where developers will integrate smart automation in their ready to move in apartments?

The adoption of Smart home automation is likely to continue to rise as more people become familiar with the technology and its benefits. Additionally, the increasing availability of smart devices and the declining costs of these technologies are likely to further fuel the growth of the smart homes market.

Another reason for its rising popularity is the wireless and retrofit features offered by the latest smart home technology. Unlike the past when smart home technology required complex wiring to connect every gadget and was required to be infused in the early stage of construction of the homes, the current technology offers easy installation and connectivity with different gadgets in a ready home.

Enhancement in networks to 4G and 5G and the presence of compatible devices increases the speed of connectivity and reduces time in accessing the benefit of the technology. This too has led to incresing popularity of smart homes.

Home automation adds to the luxury quotient of the house and provides convenience and control over daily life. Home buyers are willing to invest in smart homes for the comfort and convenience it offers. As more people embrace technology for easy and convenient living, the market for smart homes is expected to expand, making it an increasingly attractive segment for developers to target.

Singhal, CEO Smartworld Developers

Smart-home technology largely appeals to tech-savvy millennial buyers. As an expert, what are your views on the matter?

The convenience, energy efficiency, and security features of smart-home technology have contributed to its rising popularity in recent years. Although it may have initially appealed primarily to tech-savvy millennials, and was broadly considered as a more “urban concept” it has since expanded its appeal to a wider audience that includes people of all ages and income strata. As quoted by Techarc 32% of Indian consumers may spend Rs 20k-50k on smart connected devices in 2023 with affordability being a key criterion for fast adoption of the trend. Pandemic induced work-from-home concept incidentally has provided a unique opportunity wherein a lot of firsttime home buyers realized the potential and the convenience of Smart Home Automation technology. The rising energy costs, tech-friendly installations that streamline day-to-day operations, a mindset that supports ‘sustainability’, and the numerous benefits related to smart homes led to this realization.

While it is true that millennials are more likely to embrace new technology, this does not diminish the fact that people of all ages are now recognizing the benefits of investing in smart-home technology.

What is the kind of growth prospect you see for this segment where developers and builders integrate Smart Automation in their ready-to-move-in apartments?

The smart home segment shows great potential for growth as more developers and builders are

integrating smart automation into their ready-tomove-in apartments. By adopting and implementing smart technology solutions, developers will have a competitive edge over others as the demand for smart homes continues to increase. Going by the market scenario, customers are already looking for thirdparty automation solutions that fulfil their needs. So, developers are offering smart technology in a basic package. With India’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and moving towards a cleaner and greener environment, there is tremendous potential for smart automation of homes.

According to a Statista report, the Indian smart home market is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2022-2027) of 8.15%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$6.85bn by 2027 and the number of active households (smart home) is expected to amount to 66.12m users by 2027.

Can you share details on the projects where you have used Smart Automation?

Please share the names of the brands used in the project.

We are a new-age Real Estate Group, and our projects are under construction. However, we foresee that smart homes will no longer be a luxury but also a necessity. In line with the same, we have partnered with Schneider Electric, a leading provider of cuttingedge home solutions and eco-friendly products for driving 360-degree home automation in all our upcoming projects, through this collaboration, Smartworld Developers will build positive impact homes with lower waste and healthier interiors by incorporating smart product lines from Schneider Electrics. This will not only augment our customer’s lifestyles but will contribute towards India’s goal of reducing the emissions intensity of its GDP by 45 percent of the 2005 baseline by 2030. With over 5000 homes under construction and 15000 more to be added in the next couple of years SW intends to make this SMART approach a key differentiator in our new developmental approach.

Vivek

Ashok Singh Jaunapuria, Managing Director and CEO OF SS Group

With calls worldwide for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, there is increasing demand for smart homes that are sustainable. What are your views on the same?

Smart homes, which incorporate advanced technology to optimize energy and resource use, are a promising solution for achieving sustainable living. They can reduce energy consumption, enhance indoor air quality, and minimize waste production. Smart homes can incorporate a range of features such as automated lighting, heating and cooling systems, energy-efficient appliances, solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and home battery storage. These technologies can save homeowners money on their utility bills, improve the overall comfort of their homes, and contribute to reducing carbon emissions.

There is a demand for New Age home automation for apartments, as a developer what are you providing to the buyers?

To cater to the growing demand for New Age Home Automation we are providing Energy-Efficient Appliances, Buyers also want energyefficient appliances such as thermostats, refrigerators, and washing machines. Developers can equip the

apartments with these appliances or provide incentives for buyers who bring their energy-efficient appliances. Customizable Automation: Some buyers may want to customize their automated systems to suit their lifestyle needs. Developers can provide a platform that enables residents to customize their home automation system, which they can do by themselves or with the help of a technician.

The Internet of Things (IoT): IoT devices are becoming ubiquitous in modern homes, making them attractive to buyers. Developers can provide IoT devices such as smart locks, security cameras, and sensors that work together to make the apartment a more secure and convenient place to live.

Gunjan Goel, Director, Goel Ganga Developments

There is a demand for New Age home automation for apartments, as a developer what are you providing to the buyers?

In today’s fast-paced world, homebuyers are looking for convenience and comfort in their daily lives. This has led to an increase in demand for home automation systems that can help simplify everyday tasks and make life more comfortable. As a result, there is a growing demand for New Age home automation for apartments.

We are providing a range of smart home automation solutions that cater to the needs of our buyers. Our

home automation systems are designed to make life easier by automating routine tasks, such as turning On/Off lights, adjusting temperature, controlling security, and much more.

Our smart homes come equipped with voiceactivated assistants like Amazon’s Alexa or Google Home that allow residents to control various aspects of their homes with simple voice commands. In addition, the company offers other automation features such as automatic door locks, surveillance cameras, and motion sensors to ensure the safety and security of residents.

Moreover, we offer customizable home automation solutions that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of our buyers. We work closely with buyers to understand their needs and preferences, and then offer solutions that fit their lifestyles

The young buyers who have studied and lived abroad are used to Home Automation, and now those who want to buy a home in India look for smart Automation features. What do you have to offer to this segment?

Home automation is becoming increasingly popular in many parts of the world, and India is no exception. Some of the most popular home automation features in Goel Ganga Developments include Smart lighting, Smart thermostats, Smart Security, Smart entertainment and Voice-activated assistants.

Overall, the demand for smart home automation features in India is likely to continue to grow as more young buyers with international experience enter the housing market. For Builders, providing smart home technology solutions is a smart business investment and for homebuyers, modern functionalities already built into their new home are a value-added service for the homeowner.

Increasing Demand for Home Automation

There’s a lot that we learnt from our experiences during the pandemic. But perhaps the one realization that stood out the most is that home is our ultimate safe haven. People spent a lot more time at home over the last few years, and have thus developed a keener understanding of what their homes should offer in terms of convenience, safety & security, energy efficiency, and more. This in turn has fueled significant demand for smart homes and home automation solutions.

Home automation is expected to become a $13.57 billion market in India by 2027, according to a study by Allied Market Research. Clearly, the idea that homes should not only be spacious and luxurious but also be equipped with solutions that make life easier and safer has struck a chord with large numbers of homebuyers.

Kishan Jain, Director, Goldmedal Electricals writes on how Home Automation is ushering in a New Era for the Real Estate sector.

Let us take a closer look at some of the factors that are rapidly making home automation a ‘must-have’ among prospective homeowners:

Ease of Use

Touch. Tap. Swipe. These are familiar gestures in a world of smartphones, tablets and other such devices. Now imagine being able to control your home appliances with similar ease. That’s what home automation makes possible. The touchscreen controls and intuitive interfaces of smart home devices enable homeowners to operate them effortlessly. When these smart home devices are compatible with your smartphones and tablets, you essentially gain a master ‘remote control’ for your home that works wherever you are! For instance, you could turn on your air-conditioner while returning home from a walk, or turn off your lights while on vacation.

Safety & Security

In addition to enhancing convenience, home automation solutions help safeguard your homes and your lives. Consider the added layer of protection that you get from a smart home security system, as compared to traditional alarm systems. An automated security system can be customized to your specific requirements, and notify you about any changes to your home’s security status on your smartphone.

With home automation systems, you can control your doors from wherever you are with a simple voice command or keypad through your smartphone or other mobile devices. A smart lock can notify you every time someone enters or leaves your home. Smart security systems can also keep a record of every individual who has visited your home throughout the day.

Smart home security features are particularly valuable for elderly homeowners (or elderly family members of homeowners). Moreover, the convenience offered by smart home appliances also goes a long way towards boosting safety for seniors. For example, a presence-detecting switch that turns on the lights when its motion sensors detect someone entering a room would ensure that an elderly person wouldn’t have to move around in the dark looking for a switch, avoiding any potential mishaps.

Energy Efficiency

Sustainable living is a national mission for India, with our ambiguous target to achieve Net-Zero Carbon Emissions by 2070. Achieving this goal, to a large extent, depends on individuals making more sustainable choices for their families and homes. This is another area where home automation can tremendously help.

A home automation system significantly reduces energy wastage at home in a number of ways. Remote access to switch off lights and appliances when one is not in the room (or even at home), automatically adjusting the intensity of lights, ensuring that multiple high-intensity appliances (such as an electric oven) aren’t in use at the same time are some of the ways homeowners can use home automation to save energy. In addition, energy management systems based on IoT can provide realtime data on power consumption, which will further help optimize electricity use and thus boost the energy efficiency of your home.

Cost Savings

In addition to all the other benefits of home automation, it has the advantage of saving you money. Being able to switch Off lights and other appliances remotely through your smartphone,

or automatically when you leave a room reduces unnecessary energy wastage.

At a more fundamental level though, home automation systems can leverage predictive analytics to optimize energy consumption in real-time, which in turn helps significantly reduce a homeowner’s energy bills. Dimming the lights and adjusting the thermostat or air-conditioner – simple cost-saving actions that we could perform every day but often neglect to, are completely automated by these smart systems.

The cost savings even extend beyond the home itself – you save fuel by not having to drive home if you forgot to lock the door or switch Off an appliance since you can do so remotely!

To sum up, home automation makes your homes safer and more secure, and more sustainable and energy-efficient. It saves you time, effort and money. Is it any wonder that homebuyers are increasingly making home automation a priority during the purchase process? We can certainly expect significant disruption in the real-estate sector from smart homes and home automation solutions in the years ahead.

The Art of Fusing Design and Smart Home Automation

Preetu Muley Pandey the Founder and Chief Interior Designer of Pree D’fine balances aesthetics with Smart Home Automation which has resulted in a personal retreat for the clients.

Welcome to a space that speaks of luxury and style, where every detail has been carefully crafted to create this apartment spread over an area of 2,200 sq.ft in Altamount Road, Mumbai. This stunning apartment, designed by Preetu Muley Pandey, Founder and Chief Interior Designer of Pree D’fine is the epitome of sophistication and design excellence and offers a unique and memorable living experience. When asked, Preetu says, “The main idea was to create neutral palettes without heavy walls to ensure that the spaces feel light and soothing.”

Design Concept

Apart from the sleek interiors, the designer has aesthetically integrated Smart Home Automation that takes care of the client’s requirements. As soon as you step inside, you’ll be struck by the luxurious textures of the furniture, which Preetu mentions have been “thoughtfully selected to add depth, warmth, and interest to the space”. From the velvet of the sofa to the armchair and to the dining hall chairs, every element of the furnishings has been chosen to create a sense of luxury and comfort.

The couple had conflicting views on automation, with the wife against it due to a past poor experience, while the husband loved it. The team ensured them that the system was very simple to use, sturdy, and had a very prompt service team. With a little convincing from her tech-loving husband, the wife agreed to give automation another chance. This time, both of them were on the same page. The system was a game-changer that made their lives more time-efficient, smoother, and more luxurious than ever before. The wife was amazed at how easy it was

to operate, and the husband was thrilled with its seamless performance.

Smart Automation and Design

The Smart Automation products have been integrated in their living room, dining room, media area, and all bedrooms. They have opted for Lutron + Crestron for automation and Focal + Marantz for audio. The integration of these smart automation systems offers a comprehensive solution for a fully automated and customized living experience.

Elaborating on the skillful incorporation of Smart Automation Preetu adds, “The apartment is an old structure and has a lot of deep beams and columns so instead of considering that as a hindrance, we used it to our advantage. We used the space between two beams to conceal the automated projector machine. We manipulated the wiring routes such that we don’t have any bulky beams.”

Preetu created an exceptional use of colours and textures in the space, with a harmonious colour palette that is both soothing and stylish. One of the standout features of the apartment is the bedroom, which is finished in a rich, Prussian blue colour scheme. This bold, yet sophisticated hue creates a sense of serenity and calm and is the perfect backdrop for the beautiful textiles and furnishings in the room.

Whether you’re relaxing in the spacious living

room, cooking in the gourmet kitchen, or getting a good night’s rest in the luxurious bedroom, you’ll feel pampered and indulged in this unique and exceptional space.

Advantages and Takeaway

Highlighting the advantage of using smart automation

Preetu further adds, “We often underestimate the power of technology, but it’s time to change that. By stepping outside of our comfort zones and embracing the unknown, we can discover a world of limitless possibilities. From revolutionizing design to improving our daily lives, technology has the power to do wonders when done right.”

She further adds, “The client now enjoys seamless control with just one click instead of manually operating each entity and dimming lights to the correct level. The home theatre system was the biggest boon here since the projector machine, screen and speakers were synchronized to turn on while the lights dimmed and the blackout curtains closed.”

Preetu in her parting note says, “My simple advice to budding professionals regarding the use of Smart Automation in their projects would be - The key to success in the digital age is to adapt and evolve. Smart Automation is the next step in this evolution, so seize the opportunity to stay ahead of the game.”

Reference Guide:

Location: Altamount Road, Mumbai

Built Area: 2,200 sq.ft carpet

Architect/Interior Designer: Pree D’fine

Systems Integrator: V Tech

Automation System Used: Lutron + Crestron

Audio: Focal + Marantz

Lighting: Hybec Dali dimmable lights

Security Cameras: Hikvision

Digital Locks: Yale

Biometrics: Yale

Smart Locks: Yale

Networking Devices Used: Ubiquity

Blending Design and Smart Automation

Ashutosh Wad & Manjunath Hathwar of Space Dynamix along with Beyond Alliance have designed a contemporary Smart Apartment that is characterised by clean lines and subtle colours.

In this totally claustrophobic, chaotic urban space around us, this residential apartment transcends you into a different zone where you can spend some time delving into your mind and relaxing.

This 4 BHK apartment designed by architect Ashutosh Wad and Manjunath Hathwar of Mumbaibased Space Dynamix along with Crestron - Beyond Alliance has a timeless appeal. Explaining the design concept Ashutosh Wad adds, “In this project, we have aimed at achieving a minimalistic yet practical decor. Detailing is such that maintenance is minimal thus making this abode easy to live in, never overpowering the senses while elevating one’s mood gently.”

The family of husband and wife, two daughters, one son, and grandmother all three generations living under one roof wanted simple yet classy decor for their home.

Explaining the design concept, Manjunath Hathwar adds, “We tried to incorporate colours in limited proportion. One admires the extensive use of blue Romano Marble around the bed back and the same flouted pattern is replicated in other areas.”

The layout planning was the most important phase in this project as the client was not happy with the builder-provided layout. The team redesigned the interiors to incorporate all the client’s requirements. Another important aspect of the design was the integration of Smart Automation into this apartment. Adding further insight into the design concept Manjunath adds, “One of the most important challenges was the ceiling height, so we opted for inceiling speakers in such a way that the ceiling height wasn’t compromised at all and yet we were able to get a 7.1 audio in place.”

Beyond Alliance, the technology partners for this project provided their expertise for automation, audio-visuals, networking, and security solutions. Beyond Alliance has opted for Crestron systems to add intelligence to the homes. Right from Human Centric Lighting to dimmable tunable lights, Somfy motorized shades and drapes, biometric smart locks from eKey, surveillance in common areas and a robust Wi-Fi wired mesh network using Aruba are skillfully incorporated in the home.

Speaking about the advantages of Smart Automation Ashutosh adds, “The automation is not a product

that breeds laziness, it is all about adding artificial intelligence into the homes. Everyday routines of the users are fed into the system. Drapes open at the scheduled times, sleep patterns in terms of when to switch the AC Off and when to turn the fan On at what hour of the night and at what speed are all a part of the night scene. We program energy-saving routines by balancing the use of natural and artificial lighting.”

He further elaborates, “User-friendliness is the core reason for choosing Crestron. The App is customizable. The youngest and eldest should be able to use the projector and be able to navigate through the tech without any learning curve.”

Encouraging younger budding designers Manjunath adds, “Automation system can only be as good as its integrator, and after-sales support strength is as important as technical expertise. I would strongly urge our design and build industry to make each corner of their home as smart as they make it aesthetically beautiful. The fun begins when design meets intelligence.”

Brand Details:

Automation System Used: CrestronBeyond Alliance

Lighting: DALI dimming

Security Cameras: Hikvision

Digital Locks: Yale

Biometrics: eKey

Smart Locks: Yale

Hardware Used: KNX

Networking Devices Used: Aruba

Motorized Shades and Drapes: Somfy

In

Conversation with Priyanka Singh, Principal Architect of Chalk Studio

Priyanka Singh is the founder and Principal Architect of Chalk Studio. She pursued Interior Design at The Parsons School of Design, in New York. She believes that a space should be designed while keeping all 5 senses in mind. Her design philosophy is about making an impact in the subtlest way as good design is as little design as possible because it concentrates on the essential aspects, contributing to the pure beauty or function of the space.

Smart Home World, speaks to Priyanka Singh who shares her views on Smart home Automation.

Residential Interiors have undergone a drastic transformation in order to enable a fast phase of work and flexibility. What is the role of smart automation systems in your projects?

Over the years there is a marked shift in the way smart home automation is perceived. Clients are now demanding Smart Automation as that allows the user to enhance their experience by using smart home systems, especially lighting, and curtains to name a few. Smart automation systems create a luxurious experience for users as it lets them conveniently manage devices from any corner of the house. Plus, the other added advantage is that these systems offer eco-friendly solutions in the form of lighting control, and window treatments that cut down the energy bill and improve overall environs.

What are the latest automation systems that you have integrated into your residential projects?

Recently, we have used analog automation in one of our projects. This type of automation enables clients to operate their lights, curtains, and music system by the touch on their phones or touch keypads.

Apart from this, we are also using DALI (Digital Address Lighting Intelligence) dimmable lights in one of our ongoing projects which are cost-efficient and allows the user to access the light, audio, and curtains from any corner of the house.

What, according to you, are the musthave smart home products in today’s contemporary homes?

Temperature control lighting is necessary as it helps the users to change the colours and temperature of the lights according to their preferences and mood. Apart from this, smart security systems enable the user to maximise their locking system by adding multiple locks such as fingerprints, access cards, face locks, smartphones etc.

Furthermore, safety automated geysers and home purifiers help the users to note the timely usage of the products and will reduce energy consumption. Sound system control helps the users to control the music without getting up.

What are the major expectations of clients from smart automation systems? How have you fulfilled those expectations, and what are the Brands that you have integrated into their home?

In today’s digitized world where everybody is tech savvy, users want everything to be present on their

smartphones, and this is where the smart home systems come into the picture. We came across the brand name Lutron, which has helped us to understand how automation in interior spaces has made our lives easier. The DALI automation highlights flexibility and helps the users to change the lighting and aesthetic of the house at a later stage as per their needs.

What role do System Integrators play when it comes to designing a smart home? How important is their role?

Smart-home integrators take on the task of building a smart-home system that can meet a homeowner’s expectations for technology that works reliably, without the continual need for tweaking. It provides one-person contact, which helps us with the solutions for our multiple needs and problems. System integrators are important because we have a specialized vendor who can come on board with their correct knowledge and solutions.

Products of which category (lighting, security, entertainment, etc.) witness maximum demand when it comes to integrating smart home devices while doing the interiors? Why?

From the interior point of view, temperature and lighting experience maximize the demand when it comes to smart home devices. These systems are cost-efficient and more sustainable in long-term use. It also reduces the efforts of the users to change their lights at a later stage.

What are the major benefits of Smart & Connected Homes in the current “TechSavvy Era”?

One of the major benefits of smart and connected homes is that it acts like living entity. Everything is on the user’s smartphone, which caters to their need in day-to-day life.

As we progress into the digital age, the lifestyle of the users will take a major shift as each and everything can be controlled through their phones, sensors, remotes, etc. This would enable the user to check on their homes when they are travelling.

How would you define the current demand for smart home integrations?

As the awareness of such products is increasing, the demand for them is also proportionally increasing. This gives assistance to the users in experiencing tech-friendly products with just a touch on their phones.

People are open to possibilities in terms of the technology shift and are excited about what the future hold for them, which would make their lives much better.

In which sector (hospitality, commercial, residential), according to you, traditional devices and techniques are getting rapidly displaced to make room for smart devices and systems, aided with the latest technologies? And why?

Refreshing the memories of the school days, when security used to be a major concern has now been replaced with biometrics, the use of access cards for every room, and sensor door.

Smart lights, which are either sensor-based or remotebased, have drastically displaced traditional light fixtures. In residences, a shift from those shutter televisions to smart televisions has majorly taken place. These inbuilt smart televisions and other devices, such as automated curtains, are helping users to experience the technology in a much better way.

How do you foresee the Smart home industry 5 years down the line?

Five years down the line, all the services will be automated, helping the users to worry less about dayto-day concerns, such as security, energy consumption etc. The use of manual labour would be negligible, as the production of more robot-based machinery will take over them. Thus, making the process in any sector faster and with fewer mistakes.

In Conversation with Parth Shah, Co-Founder and Chief Sales Officer at SmartNode Automations Pvt. Ltd.

What inspired the creation of SmartNode, and how has the company evolved over the years?

SmartNode was created with the aim of providing innovative smart home solutions to customers in India.

Over the years, we have evolved to become a leading player in the home automation industry, with a wide range of retrofit products and a strong network of channel partners across the country. Our commitment to quality, design and customer support has helped us build a loyal customer base and established a strong brand reputation in the market.

SmartNode has a strong network of channel partners across India. How do you ensure that your partners are aligned with your brand values and committed to providing customers with high-quality products and excellent service?

At SmartNode, we understand the importance of having a strong network of channel partners who are aligned with our brand values and committed to delivering high-quality products and excellent service to customers. That’s why we take a comprehensive approach to work with our partners that goes beyond simply signing them up and sending them on their way.

We start by building a solid foundation that ensures our partners have the tools and resources they need to be successful. This includes providing training, marketing materials, and ongoing support to help them sell our products with confidence.

We also work closely with our partners to ensure they understand our brand values and the importance of delivering exceptional customer service. But it doesn’t stop there. We also hold ourselves accountable for the success of our partners. We regularly monitor performance and provide feedback to help our partners improve and grow. And if any issues arise, we work together to find solutions that benefit both our partners and our customers.

Our commitment to our partners is unmatched, and we’re confident that our approach will help us continue to build a strong network of partners who are dedicated to delivering the best possible experience to our customers.

With its in-house manufacturing, design, and development team, how does SmartNode ensure that its products are built to meet the specific needs of Indian households?

SmartNode’s in-house manufacturing, design, and development team ensures that our products

meet the specific needs of Indian households. Our dedicated research and development team updates our products regularly, keeping up with the latest technologies to offer our customers the most advanced products available. By manufacturing our products in-house, we have the flexibility to customize our products to meet the specific needs of our customers. Our goal is to break the trend of Indian products lagging behind Western products by building high-quality products that exceed our customers’ expectations.

At SmartNode, we are committed to providing our partners and customers with the latest technology products that are specifically designed to meet their needs.

How does SmartNode’s commitment to quality and design set it apart from other smart home providers in India?

SmartNode stands out from other smart home providers in India through our commitment to quality and design. We offer a wide range of products and services that can be customized to meet the specific needs of our customers.

Our products are designed with an emphasis on quality and reliability, ensuring that our customers have the best possible experience.

We prioritize our channel partners because they are the face of our brand in their respective territories.

Curtain Controller

Door Lock Controller

Lighting Automation

We provide them with the necessary support to deliver highquality products and excellent service to our customers.

At SmartNode, we believe that our commitment to quality and design, coupled with our strong support system, sets us apart from other smart home providers in India.

Can you talk about some of the innovative solutions that SmartNode offers for Indian households, and how they enhance the luxurious and smart lifestyle of your customers?

SmartNode offers a variety of innovative solutions that cater to the needs of modern Indian households. Our products are designed to enhance the luxurious and smart lifestyle of our customers, while also making their lives easier and more convenient.

One of our most popular products is the smart device, which is a Wi-Fi controlled that can fit into regular switches. This device allows customers to control their switches through an App or Voice commands providing them with greater control over their lighting and other electrical appliances.

Our curtain controller is another innovative solution that offers

convenience and comfort to our customers. With the help of this device, customers can control the opening and closing of their curtains remotely using an App or Voice Commands. Our IR blaster is designed to control devices that use infrared signals such as air conditioners, televisions, and home theater systems. With this device, customers can control all their infrared devices using an App or Voice Commands, eliminating the need for multiple remote controls.

Our door lock controller is another innovative solution that provides greater security and convenience to customers. With this device, customers can lock and unlock their doors using an App or Voice Commands.

Our RGBW controller provides customers with the ability to control the colour and brightness of their LED lights. This device is perfect for those who want to set a specific mood in their homes, with various colour and brightness options available.

We also offer a scene controller that allows customers to customize their home automation settings for different scenarios such as movie nights, romantic dinners, or parties. With the touch of a button, customers can set the perfect ambiance for any occasion.

Finally, our touch switches come with a range of customization options, including different materials, icons, and colour switches, providing customers with a personalized touch to their homes.

All of these innovative solutions are designed to provide customers with greater control, convenience, and luxury in their homes.

With its experience centers in major cities across India, how does SmartNode provide training and support to its Channel Partners and system integrators to ensure that customers receive the best possible service and support for their SmartNode products?

SmartNode provides training and support to its Channel Partners and system integrators through its channel partner onboarding process. We require our partners to have a dedicated technical support person and a salesperson and we have a separate training team to ensure that our partners are well-trained and equipped to provide the best possible service and support to our customers.

With experience centers in major cities across India, we offer hands-on training and support to our partners and provide them with the necessary tools and resources to deliver customer-centric solutions. Our commitment to training and support ensures that our partners are aligned with our brand values and provide customers with high-quality products and excellent service.

Can you tell us more about SmartNode’s upcoming KNX solution, and how it will provide customers with even more options for integrating their smart home systems?

SmartNode is excited to introduce our upcoming KNX solution, which will provide customers with even more options for integrating their smart home systems.

As a company, we are committed to offering truly made-in-India products that are developed, designed, and manufactured in India.

Our KNX base actuators and touch panels are currently in development, and we plan to expand our wired base portfolio in the future. Our goal is to become an Indian company that offers a complete range of high-quality home automation products. We are dedicated to developing our KNX solution from scratch and aim to be one of the few companies in India to achieve this level of innovation.

Our vision is to make a global impact with our products and provide our customers with cuttingedge solutions for their smart homes.

SmartNode has built strong relationships with architects who recommend SmartNode to their clients. How does SmartNode work with architects to ensure that their solutions meet the specific needs and preferences of their clients?

We have built strong relationships with architects who recommend SmartNode to their clients.

In Conversation with Ranvijay Singh, Head of BRAVIA Business, Sony India

Ranvijay Singh, Head of BRAVIA Business, Sony India, talks about the distinctive aspects, features, connectivity options, voice control, and display technologies employed in Sony’s smart TVs in an interview with Smart Home World. He emphasizes Sony’s exclusive technologies like Triluminos Pro, Acoustic Surface Audio+, Dolby Vision ATMOS, among others.

Could You Please Provide A Brief Overview Of Sony’s History And Expertise In The Electronics Industry, Specifically In The TV Business?

Sony India, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation in Japan, has been a premium brand in various product categories including television, digital imaging, personal audio, home entertainment, gaming, car audio and professional solutions since its establishment in 1994. Sony has always prioritized customer satisfaction by delivering unparalleled standards of sales and services. Throughout its history, Sony has embodied the spirit of innovation and immersive experiences in its television business, consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible. From the first transistor television in 1960, to the introduction of the colour television Trinitron, the world’s first LED backlit, OLED television, and most recently, the world’s first Cognitive Intelligence television, Sony BRAVIA has been renowned for pioneering state-of-theart technologies.

The newly introduced BRAVIA XR provides the most immersive viewing and listening experience to date, as it employs cognitive intelligence to understand how humans see and hear. As a result, the XR television displays content in a manner that is consistent with how it would be perceived in the real world.

Could You Provide Us With An Overview Of Sony’s Current Offerings In The Smart TV’s Market?

Sony’s entire lineup of BRAVIA FY22 has been upgraded to the Google TV platform, providing a user-friendly interface akin to using an Android phone, offering a comfortable and convenient content watching experience. The major segments of our flagship models such as the Mini 4K LED X95K, MASTER Series OLED A95K, XR OLED A80K, 4K XR Full Array LED X90K and 4K LED X85K, X80K, X75K are loaded with the latest and innovative technologies for a highly immersive experience.

The 4K LED X75K with X1 processor, Live colour and Google TV ensures lifelike pictures at competitive pricing. The X80K with Triluminos Pro colour technology,

Dolby Vision Atmos, far-field mic, BRAVIA CAM support, is a true successor of last year’s bestselling 140 cm (55) television X80J. The X85K with a 120Hz panel refresh rate and gaming features above X80K makes it a good stepup variant.

The XR Full Array LED X90K with Cognitive Processor XR, which thinks like a human brain, ensures a realworld picture and a 3D surround experience. Newly added features such as BRAVIA CORE and BRAVIA CAM support enhance the overall TV experience. The XR 85X95K 4K Mini LED is loaded with Cognitive Processor XR, advanced mini-LED backlight system, 120Hz panel refresh rate, along with BRAVIA CORE and BRAVIA CAM support, making it a super performer.

The XR OLED A80K with XR OLED contrast pro, XR OLED Motion, and Sound from screen is one of the best OLED televisions in India. The XR MASTER Series A95K OLED TV is a flagship model that comes with XR OLED contrast pro, XR OLED Motion, gaming features like 120 Hz display low latency modes ALLM, VRR, HDMI 2.1 and 3D. Its futuristic design and loaded premium features establish this television as one of the most desired televisions.

BRAVIA X75K

BRAVIA X80K

BRAVIA X95K

Can You Tell Us About The Unique Viewing Experience That Sony Smart TV’s Offer, Which Sets Them Apart From Competitors?

Sony has many proprietary technologies that make its televisions stand out in the market. One of the latest is the XR cognitive processor which revolutionises the viewing experience by reproducing content the way humans see and hear, resulting in a lifelike experience. This processor is enhanced by the XR Triluminos Pro technology, which delivers billions of accurate colours for a natural and beautiful picture quality.

Sony also offers the BRAVIA CORE app, which is a preloaded, exclusive movie service that allows users to redeem new movie releases and stream top movies. BRAVIA CORE features Pure Stream, which can stream HDR movies at up to 80Mbps, similar to 4K UHD Blu-ray, on a wide range of content. This significantly improves detail, colour and contrast compared to conventional 1525Mbps streaming content.

In addition, BRAVIA CAM adjusts sound and picture settings based on the user’s location in the room and distance from the TV for an optimum experience. Sony’s acoustic surface sound technology uses special actuators to turn the screen into a multi-channel speaker, delivering a more powerful and realistic sound that matches precisely with what is on the screen.

The FY22 BRAVIA television lineup is now upgraded to the Google TV platform, which provides the best UI experience and convenient content watching. The televisions feature cinema-oriented features such as IMAX, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, Netflix calibrated and Calman ready, enriching the viewing experience. For gaming, BRAVIA XR televisions offer features such as 120 Hz display, low latency modes ALLM, VRR, HDMI2.1, Auto Game Mode, Auto HDR Tone Mapping and 3D surround sound, making them the preferred option as a giant gaming machine.

How does Sony’s operating system differentiate itself from its competitors, and how does it enhance the user experience?

Sony’s BRAVIA television lineup is equipped with the Google TV platform, which is a unique and outstanding feature. This platform offers an unparalleled user interface (UI) and makes it incredibly easy to watch and access content. With Google TV, users can enjoy personalized views, customized watchlists, and seamless connectivity across multiple devices. Moreover, the platform is updated regularly to ensure that users have access to the latest technology.

Additionally, Sony televisions have built-in Google Chromecast, eliminating the need for external devices to cast compatible

content from phones or tablets. The televisions also support Apple HomeKit and AirPlay, making it easy to stream content from Apple devices such as iPhones and iPads. This feature allows users to share content on the big screen and control the television with ease.

Could you please describe the distinctive features and unique selling points of Sony’s high-end smart TV models?

Sony boasts a range of exclusive technologies and features that distinguish it from its competitors, making it a preferred brand in the premium segment. Some of the key features that set Sony apart include:

Triluminos Pro: Sony TVs come equipped with a unique TRILUMINOS PRO™ algorithm that can detect colour from saturation, hue, and brightness to reproduce natural shades in every detail, resulting in colours that are closer to those seen in the real world.

Acoustic Surface Audio+: Sony’s television line-up uses special actuators to turn the screen into a multi-channel speaker, allowing the sound to match precisely with what’s on the screen.

DOLBY Vision ATMOS: With Dolby Vision®, scenes are brought vividly to life for authentic viewing, while Dolby Atmos® fills the room with immersive surround sound, allowing users to enjoy a cinematic experience from the comfort of their own home.

Built-In Mic and Voice Search technology: Sony TVs have built-in microphones for hands-free voice search, allowing

users to find their favourite content quickly and easily using the power of their voice, without the need for a remote. This feature eliminates the need for complicated navigation or tiresome typing, making for a more userfriendly experience.

Perfect for PS5: As part of Sony’s ‘Perfect for PS5’ line-up, BRAVIA XR televisions can be paired with a PlayStation®5 console to provide an exceptional gaming experience. BRAVIA XR televisions automatically adjust and optimise the picture to the best settings for the PlayStation®5 console, resulting in immersive picture and sound that makes users feel like they’re right in the middle of the action. Additionally, with 4K/120fps as specified in HDMI 2.1, BRAVIA televisions provide smooth and clear movement for responsive gameplay.

How does Sony’s Smart TV differentiate itself from its competitors in terms of multimedia connectivity options?

Sony offers various connectivity options to its users, such as USB connectivity and Bluetooth compatibility, enabling users to connect their devices wirelessly for easy and convenient entertainment. With Bluetooth connectivity, users can pair their BRAVIA TVs with Bluetooth headphones or earphones and enjoy their favourite shows and music without any interruptions or disturbances.

In addition, Sony televisions come equipped with builtin Chromecast, allowing users to effortlessly switch between their phone, tablet, or laptop to the TV. With Chromecast built-in, users can cast all their favourite movies, shows, apps, games, and more directly onto their TV.

For gaming enthusiasts, Sony TVs feature connectivity options such as 120 Hz display, low latency modes, ALLM, VRR, and HDMI 2.1. Sony also offers an innovative technology called BRAVIA CAM, which optimises picture

and sound quality to ensure users always have the best viewing experience. BRAVIA CAM also offers gesture controls, video chat, and many other engaging features.

Could you please provide more information on the voice control feature available on Sony’s Smart TVs and its advantages for users?

Sony’s Smart TVs feature built-in microphones that allow for hands-free voice search, providing users with a convenient way to operate their television using their voice. In addition, if the television is equipped with Google Assistant, users can also ask for assistance from the Assistant using voice commands.

Could you please provide further details on the display technology and resolution utilized in Sony’s Smart TVs?

Sony’s range of televisions features a variety of display technologies, including OLED, which offers striking contrast and real-life depth in every scene. The fullarray LED backlighting technology produces realistic contrast in bright and dark areas, resulting in pictures with enhanced depth and contrast. With the 4K Mini LED screen, users can enjoy exceptional contrast thanks to the unique XR Backlight Master Drive technology that delivers dynamic range like never before, providing incredibly deep blacks and dazzling lights as well as beautifully natural mid-tones without flare or halos around highlights.

Additionally, our televisions are available in both 4K and 2K resolution, and our powerful processor utilizes advanced algorithms to reduce noise and enhance details. With a clearer 4K signal, viewers can enjoy content that is closer to 4K quality, full of life-like colours and contrast.

In Conversation with Marc Walpe, Global Sales Director at Pulse-Eight and Gallo Acoustics

In an interview with Smart Home World, Marc Waple discussed Pulse-Eight’s Ultra HD distribution and control products, as well as the distinctive features that differentiate them from other manufacturers in the industry. The discussion also covers Pulse-Eight’s pre-amplifiers, which provide large format multizone DSP signal processing, and Gallo Acoustics’ spherical loudspeaker system. Additionally, he highlights PulseEight’s ability to adapt to changes in the audio industry, particularly with the growing demand for high-definition video and audio.

What are some of the unique features of your range, and how do they set you apart from other manufacturers in the industry?

Pulse-Eight has a unique advantage in the industry. We are one of the few manufacturers, and we design and manufacture all of our products in the UK, which is rare for consumer electronics, and even rare for video and audio signal management products like ours. This gives us complete control over the manufacturing process, allowing us to micromanage our quality and output, and conduct extensive testing beyond what our competitors do.

One of our key unique selling points (USP) is our ability to integrate Consumer Electronic Control (CEC) features. This technology allows users to control devices connected to our products using the infrared remote control that came with their smart screen, saving money on control systems and simplifying the user experience. By manufacturing our own products, we have the flexibility and adaptability to integrate new and unique features like CEC.

Additionally, owning our own factory has allowed us to navigate the challenges presented by the pandemic more effectively than some of our competitors. We were not reliant on other people’s factories that may have been closed down due to COVID, nor did we struggle with supply chain disruptions caused by shipping problems. Our ability to manufacture our products in-house gave us an edge in navigating these challenges and ensuring our customers receive high-quality products in a timely manner.

How do your audio solutions, such as audio matrixes and audio manipulation, enhance the listening experience for your customers?

At Pulse-Eight, we are one of the few manufacturers in the world that produce large format multi-zone DSP signal processing pre-amplifiers. We offer a range of products

that can manage signals for audio management, signal conversion, and room correction, with the capability to manage anything from 8-zone to 1280-zone signal management. This allows our customers, whether they are residential or commercial, to tailor their listening experience to the user and client. For instance, our products can be used to manipulate and control the audio requirements for a large hotel lobby, including different areas such as the bar, restaurant, reception, and lounge.

Can you talk about the design philosophy behind Gallo Acoustics’ spherical loudspeaker system and how it improves upon traditional speaker designs?

Gallo Acoustics’ design philosophy for our spherical loudspeaker system is centered around the idea that sound should not be trapped or muffled within a speaker box. Traditional square or rectangular speaker boxes can create echoes and reverberations in a room, which can negatively impact the quality of the audio.

By contrast, our spherical loudspeakers allow for sound to be pushed in a circular pattern until it reaches the listener, driver, or port. This means that the sound is not trapped inside a box, but instead travels freely in a 360-degree pattern, resulting in superior audio quality.

Furthermore, our spherical loudspeaker system also offers a unique aesthetic solution for customers. The spherical design is not only visually appealing, but it also has the added benefit of being able to blend seamlessly into any room.

It’s important to note that we are not saying that rectangular speakers are inherently bad. However, our spherical design offers a superior audio experience and a visually unique solution for customers. We believe that our design philosophy sets us apart in the industry and provides a truly exceptional listening experience.

How has Pulse-Eight evolved and adapted to changes in the audio-visual industry, particularly with the increasing demand for high-definition video and audio?

Pulse-Eight has always been at the forefront of the audio-visual industry, constantly evolving and adapting to changes in technology and consumer demand. As members of the HDMI Forum and HD BaseT Alliance, we play an active role in shaping the evolution of video and audio formats. We are proud to have contributed

to the development of these formats and have helped ensure that they meet the needs of consumers and manufacturers alike.

One example of our commitment to innovation is our recent launch of the HD BaseT Video Matrix. We are the first manufacturer in the world to offer a range of HD BaseT 3.0 matrixes, which offer uncompressed, bitperfect 4K60 4:4:4 video. This means that we can deliver the highest quality video without any compression, ensuring that we do not lose Dolby Vision HDR or any other important features.

We are excited to be launching our HD BaseT Video Matrix in India through Electronics Mart India Limited, and we believe that this will provide consumers with an exceptional viewing experience. As always, we are committed to staying at the forefront of the industry, and we will continue to innovate and evolve to meet the changing needs of our customers.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in developing and manufacturing your products, and how do you overcome them?

The biggest challenges we face in developing and manufacturing our products are the component shortages that have been evident in the consumer electronics, automotive, telecommunications, and IT industries over the last three years. This shortage has resulted in companies not having their full ranges or

portfolios that they did pre-pandemic. For instance, a tiny component such as a $2 resistor not being available can cause a delay of up to six months for the latest AVR from a company. We overcome this challenge by redesigning the board and substituting the unavailable component with something that is available, which allows us to continue supplying products to our customers without any delay or extended lead times.

How do you ensure that your products meet high standards of quality and reliability, and what steps do you take to address any issues that may arise?

To ensure that our products meet high standards of quality and reliability, we follow a three-tier testing process in our factory. First, we test the board when it comes from our production line to ensure that it meets the requirements of the job it was designed for, such as input, video, output, video, IR, or audio. After the board passes the initial test, it is assembled into the finished product, and we test that all the boards work with each other. Finally, we take the finished product and test it on a jig. For example, if it’s a video matrix, we will run ten TVs, ten 100 meters cable runs, and ten sources through the video matrix at full resolution, maximum distance, and full throttle for an extended length of time. Only when the product passes this rigorous testing process is it serialized and shipped to our customers. We perform these three tests with every single product we produce to ensure that our products meet high standards of quality and reliability.

How do you approach customer service and support, and what steps do you take to ensure customer satisfaction?

As a company, our approach to customer service and support is to prioritize the satisfaction of our customers.

To achieve this, we have established a dedicated customer support team that provides global support for all of our products. Our support team operates 24 hours a day, Monday through Friday, to ensure that customers can get the help they need, regardless of their location or time zone.

For our Pulse-Eight dealers and distributors, we have a support line that they can call and speak with our representatives. We implemented this procedure during the pandemic to make it easier for customers to get the support they need without having to visit a physical location or work within a typical nine-to-five schedule.

While we are pleased to say that our customers rarely need to use our support services, we are happy to provide this resource when needed. Our goal is to ensure that all of our customers receive the help they need and are satisfied with our products and services.

Can you share any exciting new developments or products that Pulse-Eight and Gallo Acoustics have in the works?

Certainly, for Pulse-Eight, we debuted our new video over IP solution at ISC in February in Barcelona. Unlike any other video over IP solution, we are taking the approach to have a single-piece, single-skew multipurpose product, so customers don’t need to overthink the installation or specification with various different parts at each end of the IP video distribution string. We take a single piece that does every single job you want it to do.

So, the product we showed in Barcelona in February is our One IP transceiver. It’s called One because you only need one part, and that one piece will send video onto the network and then look for its buddy and receive video. But, at the same time, that sending unit will also receive video from other buddies on the system, and it’s the same one piece. Along with that, we work on a smaller, less expensive IT infrastructure, which makes it more attractive to our customers and therefore brings the cost down – less parts, less IT infrastructure, less cabling, less cost. So, that’s our big plan for Pulse-Eight’s new video over IP.

For Gallo Acoustics, we also took the opportunity at the same show to launch a brand-new range of products that utilize the design cues of our profile subwoofer. Our profile subwoofer is a ten-inch on-wall subwoofer that’s designed to fix the wall or fit under a couch. We take that same design queue and we’ve made on-wall solutions, various different sizes of rectangular speakers that would sit next to or below your panel TV or around the room in your Dolby Atmos configuration. And these are typically a few inches out of the wall, in black or white, with attractive grills to have a very minimal footprint but high-output audio. Both the Pulse-Eight Video over IP One IP solution and the Gallo Acoustics Profile range will be available towards the second half of this year.

How do you envision the future of audiovisual technology, and what role do you see Pulse-Eight and Gallo Acoustics playing in shaping that future?

A traditional video family of products is a hub and spoke video matrix, where everything connects to it and feeds the home or business. However, consumers are no longer giving us the rack space for these kinds of systems. All sources, including Apple TV and PlayStation, are now located near the TV, and game consoles need access to their controllers and other peripherals. Our IP solution decentralizes the rack, allowing us to place sources anywhere in a project and adapt our products to the customer rather than the customer adapting to our product. This is exciting because it enables our products to be more flexible and adaptable.

As for Gallo Acoustics, our profile lends itself to flat panel minimalistic designs with speakers to match. However, our unique spherical sphere design of products is not something we want to change too quickly as there is nothing wrong with them. We are, however, evolving some more products that I cannot disclose at the moment.

Overall, we see the future of audio-visual technology becoming more adaptable and flexible, allowing customers to have more control over their systems. Pulse-Eight and Gallo Acoustics aim to play a significant

role in shaping this future by continuing to innovate and develop products that meet the changing needs of customers.

How do you see the Indian market for Smart Home Technology evolving, and what role do you envision Pulse-Eight playing in this market?

It’s an exciting opportunity for us to be working with our new distributor in Hyderabad, EMIL. With this partnership, we see huge opportunities not only with our traditional dealers who will be purchasing PulseEight and Gallo from Emil, but also with the retail spaces that the group holds, such as the Barrage Electronic Stores, Audio and Beyond Stores, and even the Easy Kitchen Stores. Partnering with these retailers is exciting for us as we learn about their pricing strategies, store openings, and other initiatives.

As for how the Indian market is evolving for smart home technology, I may not be the best person to answer that question. However, we are thrilled to have a new partner for both of our brands in India and look forward to playing a significant role in shaping the future of smart home technology in the country.

Overall, we see a lot of potential in the Indian market for smart home technology and are eager to work with our new distributor to bring our products to customers across the country. With our innovative solutions and

commitment to quality, we believe Pulse-Eight can play a significant role in the growth and development of the smart home technology market in India.

How do you plan to showcase your products and speaker systems at Smart Home Expo 2023, and what can attendees expect

to see and learn from your exhibit?

For the upcoming Smart Home Expo 2023, we are excited to showcase our unique design cues for Gallo, including our custom finishes and new products such as the Profile speaker system. We also have a couple of other exciting new products that we will announce closer to the show.

In addition, we plan to demonstrate our traditional fixed format video matrix and audio distribution solutions for Pulse-Eight, as well as our new video over IP technology and multipoint transceiver. This dualpurpose transceiver allows for multipoint distribution of both video and audio, making it an excellent addition to our existing lineup.

Overall, attendees can expect to see a mix of both traditional and new products from Pulse-Eight and Gallo, as we strive to provide a balance between innovation and maintaining our existing customers’ familiarity. We are confident that visitors to our exhibit will learn a lot about our innovative solutions for smart home technology and be impressed by the quality and design of our products.

Melitta Barista TS Smart Automatic Coffee Machine

Silveor Lifestyle India LLP Established in 2019 has over the years established itself as a reliable premium lifestyle brand in both the National and International markets. The brand Melitta® stands for the expert balancing of tradition and modernity – with the goal of offering extraordinary coffee enjoyment in harmony with the heartbeat of the times. In its over 100 years of company history. Melitta is inventing products that make everyday life for people all over the world more enjoyable, more pleasant and simpler.

Melitta Barista TS Smart Automatic Coffee Machine

The Barista TS Smart coffee machine lets you prepare 21 coffee specialties straight from your smartphone using the Melitta® Connect App. It has two bean chambers, one automatic and the other manual. This means that you can automatically prepare delicious coffee using our prepared recipes, or create one of your recipes using the manual bean select chamber.

Product Highlights

Melitta Barista Ts Smart coffee machine fulfils all your coffee wishes. The four classics espresso, café crème, cappuccino and latte macchiato can be selected with just a light touch. Using the menu, one can choose from another 17 varieties of coffee, such as flat white, ristretto, americano or espresso. It remembers your coffee preferences. With the ‘My Coffee Memory’ feature you can set your favourite coffee specialities without having to study IT. With the Melitta® Connect App many of the features on your coffee machine can be managed with your smartphone. For example, appliance settings can be managed conveniently and personal My Coffee Profiles can be programmed and saved. Practical tutorials assist you with cleaning and maintaining the appliance. The whole brewing unit can be removed and is easy to clean. This makes the inside of the machine accessible too, so it can also be cleaned easily.

Key Features of Melitta Barista TS Smart

• My Coffee Memory

• Automatic cleaning and descaling programme

• All-in-One outlet with LED lighting

• The high-resolution TFT colour display with One Touch

• Melitta® Connect App coffee machine can be managed with your smart phone.

Melitta Solo and Milk Bean To Cup Coffee Machine

With the Melitta Caffeo Solo & Milk, you’ll be getting a very compact, fully-automatic espresso machine for your home. Adjust the strength, temperature, and amount of coffee to your personal taste. Use the steam wand to froth milk to make a cappuccino. Warm up your cups on the warming plate on top of the device to keep your espresso hot for longer. The brewing unit can be disassembled so you can easily clean the different parts.

Product Highlight

Enjoy your daily coffee just the way you like it, Choose between an expresso or an americano, Suitable for cups up to 13.5 cm (5.3 in) thanks to height-adjustable coffee outlet Genuine fresh coffee enjoyment cup after cup thanks to the Aroma-Extraction-System for maximun coffee enjoyment, 3 settings for adjusting coffee strength, Double-cup mode Preserve the machine and coffee taste with automatic cleaning and descaling, Compatible with Melitta filter cartridges, Easy to clean interior thanks to the removable brewing unit

Key Feature of Melitta Solo and Milk

Height-adjustable coffee outlet

• Aroma-Extraction-System for maximun coffee enjoyment

Three settings for adjusting coffee strength and Double-cup mode

• Programmable automatic shutdown

Removable brewing unit

Melitta fully automatic coffee machine available all over India

Alphatec AV Launches Two Industry-Leading Professional Audio Brands in India

the classic line array construction with the advantages of a magnetostat, without any technical difficulties. The speakers are designed as a broadband speaker between 120 and 20,000 Hz, and the honeycomb membrane is uniformly driven by powerful neodymium magnets. With a range of 4 models that vary from 50 to 120 cms in height, the IC line of speakers is known for its high versatility and near-invisibility, as they are only 36mm wide and 22mm deep. Additionally, they offer White, Black, Gold, and Silver colour options for their speakers, as well as custom colour options for clients. These speakers can be mounted on-wall and in-wall, depending on the user’s preference.

Alphatec AV, a prominent distribution house for professional audio and video equipment in India, has recently announced the launch of two leading professional audio brands in India. Alphatec will exclusively distribute BEC-AKUSTIK, a German loudspeaker manufacturer that specializes in ultra-flat and slim speaker designs, and Audio Pro, a Swedish audio company that has been designing and manufacturing speakers with advanced streaming technology and high sound quality since 1978.

Alphatec’s in-house technical expertise, nationwide network, extensive after-sales-service, and extensive distribution experience across residential and installed sound sectors make them a perfect match for both BECAkustik and Audio Pro.

Veeryavanta Bhide, Director at Alphatec AV, expressed his pleasure at welcoming BEC-Akustik to their portfolio of brands for the Indian market. He said, “BEC offers truly innovative products, and with Alphatec having the right infrastructure, we believe that our cooperation will help us provide the best solutions to our customers.”

BEC, an industrial permanent magnet pioneer for over 25 years, has a unique patented design that combines

A spokesperson for BEC-Akustik expressed delight at having Alphatec as their partner. They said, “BECAkustik is happy to have Alphatec as our partner who is very well connected in the Indian market to bring our unique products to the right projects. Especially in the professional segment, Alphatec is well-known, and we are looking forward to a very fruitful cooperation.”

In regards to Audio Pro, Veeryavanta Bhide mentioned, “Audio Pro always offers truly innovative products that will help us bring to our customers the latest in streaming music technology with ultra-modern Swedish design. Moreover, both Audio Pro and Alphatec share a commitment to a sustainable approach, which we feel is at the heart of a successful cooperation between both partners, clients, and our planet.”

Audio Pro has launched an extensive line of wireless audio speakers for personal listening, multi-room audio, and movie watching, keeping the Indian market in mind. With the latest in wireless connectivity, including Bluetooth, Airplay2, Spotify Connect, and Google Chromecast for iOS and Android devices, Audio Pro takes your music experience to the next level. Alphatec will also be launching Audio Pro Business solutions, catering to leading premium retail, restaurants, hotels, and automotive showrooms.

Audio Pro’s wide range of offerings includes outdoor models, battery-powered portable systems, fixed installation powerful TV movie speakers with HDMI input, and versatile media streamers.

Veeryavanta Bhide added, “As a leading distribution house for the world’s best and industry-leading professional audio and video equipment across India and an exclusive partner of the best AV brands around the world, we are pleased to represent BEC-Akustik and Audio Pro in the Indian market. We are committed to providing the best possible solutions to our users and will further this vision through the launch of these two brands.”

For More Information please www.alphatec.co.in.

Artcoustic Launches the Evolve 1 for Indoor and Outdoor Use

Artcoustic launches the latest addition to their Evolve Series – the Evolve 1 for indoor and outdoor use. The Evolve 1 shares many characteristics with the other models in the Artcoustic range. Maintaining Artcoustic’s clean contemporary design, the Evolve 1 has been designed and engineered for a wide range of applications, suited for indoor and outdoor spaces, where premium sound quality and flexibility are required.

The Evolve 1 speaker can be expanded as a dual array speaker for higher sound pressure levels and further controlled horizontal and vertical dispersion, typically needed for more commercial applications. The Evolve 1 is an impressivesounding semi-full-range speaker solution, packed with high-end finesse and an impressive dynamic range, all from a very small and

aesthetic form factor.

The Evolve 1 has been designed to match the same tonality as the rest of the Artcoustic range and will especially excel in conjunction with the Artcoustic CPH-Trio amplifier, but can also be used with any other high-quality power source.

This range has been predominantly designed as a multi-room indoor high-fidelity audio solution but is also available for outdoor applications. As a unique feature, the Evolve 1 is available in our special outdoor high gloss IP66 (weatherproof) surface material, making it not only one of the most aesthetic outdoor audio solutions around, but it will also extend the legendary high standard of Artcoustic audio quality into any of your outdoor areas.

Crestron Horizon Keypads and Dimmers with superior functionality

Crestron Electronics, the global leader in home automation, announces the next generation of the popular Horizon® keypads and dimmers. These sleek and functional keypads and dimmers are designed to elevate both form and function for dealers and homeowners.

The Horizon Design

Horizon keypads and dimmers prioritize clean design featuring improved colour, finish, and alignment in visually appealing layouts, bringing a new level of luxury to any home project with a perfect look. Using feedback from homeowners, dealers, and architects, every aspect of

the redesign was meticulously engineered, from the single faceplate offering an opulent visual appeal to the subtle button protrusion providing an enhanced texture and feel when pressed. The buttons are also arranged in a single-piece design that improves alignment and consistency, elevating the tactile experience across every configuration. Deep functionality has been built into the backlighting of the keypads and dimmers, allowing the colour temperature of the backlight to be adjusted. The new “dim-to-warm” theme uses the local ambient sensor to automatically set the button backlight to cooler or warmer

based on the intensity of the room lighting. To help homeowners enjoy a restful night of sleep, Crestron has eliminated the shine of the keypads as well as reduced the light bleeds between the buttons and the faceplate to refine the appearance in dark or dimly lit rooms.

Deep Customization Options

The next-generation Horizon keypads and dimmers are available in the six most popular configurations, from singlebutton options up to five buttons in a single gang arrangement. Advanced colour control offers visual cues from a distance, making keypads another intuitive interface

in the home. When combined, the configuration and colour control can serve to further elevate the homeowner experience. Take, for example, a “Security” button that can illuminate red when activated and green when the system is Off, allowing homeowners to visualize the status of their system at a glance.

Engraving has always been a feature for Crestron keypads and dimmers, but the new Impress software tool enables dealers to create a variety of personalized engravings from mixing fonts and foreign character support to special characters and icons. Any engraving specified before device shipping will be preinstalled and included as part of the wider bulk-packing process for the entire Horizon range, saving huge amounts of time during installation.

“Our next generation of Crestron Horizon keypads take every aspect of this product to the next level and are a thoughtful addition to the Crestron lighting line. The ways in which dealers can not only

configure the keypads but also order and install is a huge win for both customers and dealers,” said Michael Short, senior director of Residential & Hospitality Marketing at Crestron. “The other major aspect is how beautiful these new keypads look; they are a perfect complement to any home.”

Availability

Dealers with current open Horizon keypad and dimmer orders can

convert their existing orders to new styles, with shipping to begin in May 2023. The new Crestron Horizon keypads and dimmers have an MSRP starting at $350 with prices ranging based on customizations and configurations. Each product is available in white, almond, and black.

For More Information: https://www. crestron.com/Products/FeaturedSolutions/Horizon-Keypads.

Genelec to Launch New Smart IP In-Ceiling and Pendant Loudspeaker Models in India

Genelec, a leading provider of professional audio equipment, announced today the launch of its new Smart IP in-ceiling and pendant loudspeaker models at Smart Home Expo 2023 in India.

The company’s new 4435A in-ceiling model and the 4436A pendant model, which is the company’s first pendant, will join the 4410, 4420, and 4430 on-wall Smart IP loudspeaker models.

The Smart IP range of loudspeakers, which was introduced in 2019, provides flexible power, audio, and management features via a standard CAT cable. All models can

be freely combined on a network and are compatible with Dante and AES67 streams, deriving power via PoE or PoE+ Power-over-Ethernet formats.

The new models feature a rearpanel RJ45 connector that offers access to Genelec’s Smart IP Manager software tool that allows installers to configure an almost unlimited number of rooms, zones, loudspeakers, and audio channels. The public API command set also allows easy integration with thirdparty automation systems.

Both the 4435A and 4436A models deliver a frequency response of

55Hz-39 kHz via two independent internal 50 W Class D amplification stages that drive a 130mm woofer and 19mm metal dome tweeter. The active design removes the need for bulky racks of external amplifiers and their associated cabling.

The new speakers are available in a range of finishes, and the 4435A can be ordered with a circular or square magnetic grille.

Genelec’s AV business manager, Kati Pajukallio, said: “The addition of the new ceiling and pendant

models makes Smart IP an even more flexible solution, suiting a wider and more diverse range of installations. The growing number of Smart IP loudspeaker solutions being deployed in prestigious projects all over the world has clearly shown that networked loudspeakers are the future of installed audio.”

Genelec will be showcasing the new models at Smart Home Expo 2023 scheduled to take place from 4th to 6th of May 2023. The availability and pricing of the new models will be announced soon.

Lithe Audio’s New iO1 All-in-One Wireless Indoor and Outdoor Speaker

Lithe Audio, a U.K.-based manufacturer of wireless audio systems for residential and commercial installations, today announced that the company’s new iO1 all-in-one wireless indoor and outdoor speaker. Offering a variety of mounting configurations to meet the needs of any space, the iO1 features a high-efficiency amplifier, wired and wireless connectivity options, and highquality components in one weatherresistant, IP66-rated speaker with an aluminum grille that requires only a power source for installation.

Designed for areas that require high-end audio quality but can’t accommodate a traditional ceiling speaker, the iO1 can be installed in six mounting configurations — onwall, in-corner, on-corner, ground spike, countertop, and pendant. Featuring dual full-range woofers, Waterproof tweeters, and 2 x 50W RMS Class D amplifiers, the speaker delivers full high-resolution audio at 192 kHz, 24 bits in these spaces. For connectivity, the iO1 supports both Bluetooth 5.0 and 5GHz and 2.4GHz WiFi, while embedded AirPlay 2 and Chromecast technologies enable

the simple creation of distributed audio systems.

Available in black and white, the speaker features an optical input and two Ethernet ports — one for a hardwired network connection, and one for daisy chaining another speaker. The iO1 can be powered by a standard electrical outlet or existing lighting circuit; is available with drivers for Control4, Elan, KNX, and Loxone control systems; and provides support for Alexa and OK Google for convenient voice control.

“With its multiple mounting methods, variety of connectivity options, and simple installation,

the iO1 offers integrators a single product to accommodate virtually any project — and it does so without sacrificing audio quality,” said Amit Ravat, managing director at Lithe Audio “With the iO1, it couldn’t be easier to create systems of any size — from a single speaker hanging over the patio table to a whole home audio system both indoors and outdoors. We can’t wait for its debut, so be sure to stop by our booth at Smart Home Expo for a sneak peek.”

The all-in-one indoor and outdoor speaker will begin shipping in Q3 2023 and will be showcased at the upcoming Smart Home Expo 2023.

McIntosh Unveils MHT300 Home Theatre Receiver for Unmatched Sound and Video Experience

McIntosh, the global leader in distinguished home audio systems, has announced the launch of its latest home theatre receiver, the MHT300. This powerful AV receiver combines the latest video and audio technologies to offer an unparalleled cinematic experience to movie lovers.

Featuring a 7.2 channel AVR, expandable to 7.2.4, the MHT300 delivers 150 Watts per channel into 4 Ohms/120 Watts per channel into 8 Ohms (with ALL 7 channels driven). The receiver is compatible with 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video and supports surround sound audio formats Dolby® Atmos and DTS:X™.

The MHT300 is engineered to deliver blockbuster power to all speakers, all the time. The power ratings apply to all seven channels being driven, meaning every 4 Ohm speaker will receive 150 Watts and every 8 Ohm speaker will receive 120 Watts of heart-pounding McIntosh power. The receiver has built-in processing for additional Height Channels 1&2, which can be enhanced with an additional 4 Channel power amplifier (MI254).

The MHT300’s connectivity options include 4 HDMI inputs and 1 HDMI output. Each HDMI port is HDCP 2.3 compliant, and all ports have 40Gbps of bandwidth and are compatible with High Dynamic Range (HDR) formats Dolby Vision™, HDR10+, and HLG. Additionally, the MHT300 features an enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) functionality.

The receiver is equipped with seven premium 32-bit Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs) to provide audiophile-grade processing. The Dirac Live Room Correction and

Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG technologies ensure the sound quality is top-notch, and the video quality is unmatched.

The MHT300 also features many McIntosh design cues, including a black glass front panel, an illuminated McIntosh logo, rotary control knobs, and a familiar form factor highlighted by silver trim.

The MHT300 is a 3U rack-mountable receiver and is available now through authorized McIntosh dealers.

NETGEAR Introduces Orbi

RBK863

to Deliver Unparalleled Wi-Fi Performance and Protection

NETGEAR, the leading provider of award-winning connected products designed to simplify and improve people’s lives; introduces a new addition to its Orbi line. The Orbi 863 Series builds on the awardwinning Orbi 850 Series by futureproofing the best seller with a 10Gb Ethernet port, supporting multi-gig internet connections; upgraded

antenna design for greater Wi-Fi performance, and a bundled year of NETGEAR Armor, providing homes with an automatic shield of security against internet threats across every connected device.

With NETGEAR’s latest Wi-Fi 6 tri-band and patented dedicated backhaul technology, the powerful

Orbi 863 mesh systems is designed to keep connections strong and running at maximum speeds in every room without slowdowns or buffering, providing families the bandwidth to address household demands even when simultaneously 4K/8K streaming, Zoom conferencing and Wi-Fi calling from a bedroom, basement

or outside in the yard. In an environment where homes are connected with Gigabit plus internet (1.4 to 10 Gigabit) and have an increasing number of connected devices – more than 25 on average -- the new Orbi provides the best Wi-Fi experience for Wi-Fi 5 and WiFi 6 devices.

The new Orbi RBK863 3-pack WiFi Mesh System provides up to 8,000 sq. ft. of coverage with up to 6Gbps Wi-Fi speed1 and support for 100 devices operating at the same time. This coverage can easily be expanded with additional Orbi RBS860 satellites. To achieve this industry-leading performance and wider range, NETGEAR uses patented dedicated backhaul Wi-Fi technology and antenna design. The exclusive tri-band mesh system with NETGEAR’s pioneering innovation ensures speeds stay fast as more Wi-Fi devices connect to the home network with less dropped connections.

Marthesh Nagendra, Country Manager India, ME & SAARC, NETGEAR “The past few years have seen huge changes to internet usage spurred by the pandemic, including a dramatic increase in just about everything from home

- working, shopping, learning, and socializing. As Internet Service Providers enable faster multi-gig internet speeds, up to 10 Gigabits per second, and hackers create new sophisticated cyber-attacks, high-performance and secure WiFi become imperative. The all new Orbi 863 is a great addition to our existing lineup designed to deliver superior Wi-Fi, higher incoming Internet speed of up to 10 Gigabit, supports an increasing number of devices and much more. On top of that, we couple it with one of the industry’s best internet security protection services to help customers to secure all their home Wi-Fi connected devices, including

laptops, phones, tablets, speakers, cameras, baby monitors, TVs, light bulbs, light switches and more.”

Built-In Security & Services

For added security, the Orbi 863 Series includes a year of NETGEAR Armor to protect the connected home from online threats. Unlike traditional endpoint antivirus products, NETGEAR’s Armor is built into the router as a comprehensive security solution to monitor activity going to and from the Internet, protecting computers, security cameras, baby monitors and other IoT devices, flagging external threats while eliminating the need for multiple security subscriptions or software. Additionally, it provides on-the-go protection and VPN for phones and laptops. Armor acts as a strong and effective “frontand backdoor lock” to any home network.

Pricing and Availability:

The Orbi RBK863 Mesh System and satellites are now available for preorder in a limited edition black color, which complements any home decor. The system will be available in the market at a price-point of INR 114,999 through authorized NETGEAR stores and partners.

Siemens new KNX Touch Control TC5 Panel

Siemens new KNX Touch Control TC5 panel extends room control capabilities. Siemens continues to expand the offering from its KNX Gamma building control range with the release of the second generation of the KNX Touch Control TC5 panel. Building on the success of its award-winning predecessor, the new version retains the elegant and modern design but offers a number of new features, further improving the aesthetics and the intuitive operating concept.

The 5” aluminium and glass panel device is available in a black or white finish and can be mounted in portrait or landscape orientations, making it suited to an even wider

range of applications.

With its updated firmware, the TC5 offers the potential to operate as an all-in-one KNX room control device, with multiple pages to enable the configuration of all desired room functions through the ETS software, including the display of data gathered by external sensors. This software also allows numerous settings, such as the three different options for temperature display on the homepage: internal sensor, external sensor or alternating every five seconds. The room temperature controller supports a range of HVAC applications, from heating and ventilating to fan coils, VRF (variable refrigerant flow), chilled ceiling and floor heating. Comprehensive

lighting functionality is provided for switching and dimming, as well as the capacity for Human Centric Lighting and solar protection through shading control. It also optimises indoor air quality, providing alerts for even the smallest of harmful particles such as PM2.5, PM10, CO2 and VOC (volatile organic compounds).

Up to five different alarm functions can be configured, with the option for acoustic and/or visual signalling.

Security is enhanced through the device’s password protection, with window contact and proximity sensors also adding to its integrated automatic capabilities.

Recognising the importance of controlling a room’s conditions in achieving a productive and healthy working environment, the TC5 has also been designed with building performance and optimsed energy use in mind as part of the move towards smart buildings. While it

is characterised by its capacity to customise a wide range of room comfort contributory factors, the ETS configuration can be used to lock various HVAC functions so that they cannot be over-ridden by the end user.

For further information on Siemens Building Products www.siemens.co.uk/ buildingtechnologies

The Cinema Designer Launches

TCD 2.0 to Revolutionize Home Cinema Design

The Cinema Designer (TCD) has announced the launch of TCD 2.0, the world’s leading software tool for home cinema design. TCD 2.0 has been redesigned from the ground up since early 2022 to provide advanced technical calculations and an intuitive workflow to create impeccable home cinema designs in just minutes.

TCD has been used by home cinema design professionals worldwide, simplifying the complex and timeconsuming work of creating a perfect home cinema design. The launch of TCD 2.0 provides exciting new features and enhanced functionality, including a new 3D model to build a cinema environment, new bass and model waveforms, interactive speaker layouts, and new database features that enable users to add their own products for each design.

“TCD is committed to providing our users with the most advanced and intuitive tool for home cinema design. These new features are the result of our extensive redesign, and we believe they will make the home cinema design process even more efficient, enjoyable, and profitable for our users,” said Guy Singleton, the founder of TCD.

More than 7000 users from 66 countries worldwide will immediately and automatically have access to TCD 2.0’s new features at no extra cost. These features include a new VR viewer inside the browser window in real-time, new CABS (double bass array) features, new acoustic treatment placement, and new TCD pro features for content creation spaces and production studios.

Over the coming weeks, Guy Singleton will host online training webinars for users of the tool. These sessions will introduce users to the tool’s workflow and focus on the new features.

“After viewing a demo of TCD 2.0, I am convinced that it will continue to revolutionize the industry, and CEDIA members will undoubtedly benefit from its new, game-

enables our members to access to this exciting platform at a substantial cost reduction, and I look forward to personally working with Guy to champion this valuable member benefit within the CEDIA community,” said Daryl Friedman, Global President and CEO, CEDIA.

“TCD 2.0 represents a significant leap forward in private cinema design technology, with new features and capabilities that make it a must-have tool for professionals in the industry,” said Sawan Nichani, Founder of MACBEE.

TCD includes almost 100 brilliant manufacturers, becoming an even more powerful and indispensable resource for the industry. TCD has revolutionized the design process, and as a result, standards have increased across the board, which is great for designers, manufacturers, and end-users alike.