Control4 Launches Low-Cost Home Controller

Sleek and Compact HC-200 Delivers Home Control for Under $500 [The following is a release from Control4]

September 19, 2008

Control4, the leader in affordable IP-based home control and entertainment systems, today announced the Control4® Home Controller HC-200, the first sub-$500 home controller, which will be unveiled at the 2008 CEDIA Expo. The HC-200 expands Control4's already comprehensive suite of home automation solutions for any sized home or apartment. The small and sleek HC-200 will provide complete control in compact installations or serve as secondary controller in large installations. For approximately the same price as a universal remote, an HC-200 can replace existing remote controls delivering easy navigation and streamlining home entertainment. The same HC-200 can also control lights, temperature, security and multi-room music, even Real Networks Rhapsody streaming music service. In a larger system, the HC-200 works as a secondary device generating a rich, high-definition on-screen user experience making it easy to manage all of the different systems in the modern home utilizing the included Control4 SR-150 Remote. All of this control and compatibility is achieved in part by the HC 200's comprehensive standards-based communication technology including Ethernet and ZigBee mesh networking and an optional Wi-Fi adapter. "We believe the HC-200 sets a new standard of affordability for home automation," said Will West, Chief Executive Officer of Control4. "The evolution of our Home Controller line highlights Control4's commitment to providing flexible alternatives to fit the different needs of homeowners and in the case of the HC-200 will open the door to new customers who are ready for something more capable than a simple universal remote." Key HC-200 features include: -- SR 150 RF remote -- controls AV equipment, HVAC lighting and other many other systems in the home without worrying about line-of sight -- On-screen HD enhanced Control4 graphic interface -- Audio outputs for streaming audio from a digital music collection to a TV or AV receiver -- Standard Ethernet and ZigBee communications and optional Wi-Fi adapter -- USB port for external storage or Wi-Fi network adapter -- Control a wide range of devices through serial, IR, IP and ZigBee control -- HC-200 is rack mountable in standard width, 1U rack mounting bracket that can hold up to two HC-200 controllers -- Audio input for any audio source, including iPod or other MP3 players -- Sleek design enables versatile mounting and easy installation (extremely small form factor allows flexible placement behind flat panel displays The HC-200 is expected to ship in November with a list price of $499. For a complete listing of product specifications please visit http://www.control4.com.

Read More: