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Looking to take the next step in automating your home? Or maybe you want a solid security system that can do a bit more? The new M1 system from Elk Products may be just what you need! The M1 system has more features that you can shake a stick at, all the while maintaining affordability. asiHome was able to obtain a few of these units before they were released, and all we can say is that we were impressed. From the ease of installation to the powerful, yet simple, programming software, this is a system for the DIY'er that wants to upgrade their automation system as well as security system. Just check out some of these features: - Security: 16 on-board zones, expandable to 208
- Capable of up to 48 wireless zones
- Flash Memory allows updates to system firmware whenever new software is available
- RS-232 port allows connection to computers and other devices with serial communications capability
- 512-event history log
- Full-text programming from the LCD keypad - easy to make changes or additions
- Integrated voice module features 500-word vocabulary, with up to six words or phrases per announcement, as well as 10 custom recordable phrases
- LCD keypad features large 2-line display, built-in temperature sensor, and programmable function keys
- Powerful Whenever/And/Then programming lets you set-up sophisticated automation functions based on your lifestyle
- Telephone interface to control system from any touchtone phone - inside the house, or out
One of these units has been put into action in our Las Vegas Project House, and was up and running in no time. The first function programmed was to monitor a sliding glass door that leads to the swimming pool. Every eight seconds, the door is checked, and if "not secure" (open) a voice message is played - "Pool sliding glass door is open". It took less than a minute to program this rule, and works flawlessly. A new rule was set for party situations, when the door might be opened and closed often. By pressing a function key on one of the keypads, the first rule can be disabled temporarily. Another button press, and it's back in business. The M1 systems come in standard and Gold models: Features | M1 Standard | M1 Gold | Automation - (Whenever/And/Then) Rules Capacity | 20 Rules | 528 Rules | Keypads Supported | 4 | 16 | Serial ports supported (RS232) | 1 | 8 with expanders | Phone number capacity | 4 | 8 | Number of HVAC thermostats supported | 1 | 8 | Total number of outputs supported | 20 | 205 | Advanced lighting options (Pre-set dim, extended code, levels, scenes) | No | Yes | Analog zone definitions supported | No | Yes | Additional capacity for transmission of serial ASCII strings | No | Yes | Sunset/Sunrise calculation and activation | No | Yes | Larger capability for events (time and date), tasks, lights, outputs | No | Yes |
Each system, whether standard or Gold, is available in four configurations. All systems come with the controller, 14"x14' enclosure with lock and keys, and a 16VAC transformer. System Packages: - SYS1: Base system with controller, enclosure and transformer
- SYS2: SYS1 plus 1 keypad
- SYS3: SYS2 plus 12VDC-8Ah battery
- SYS4: SYS3 plus Voice/Siren speaker and RJ31x jack
Expansion options include: - Additional keypads
- 16-zone input expander
- 16-output expander with 8 voltage outputs and 8 relay outputs
- 16-output expander, voltage only
- Relay board with 8 form "C" relays
- Data bus wiring hub
- Ethernet port expander/interface
- Serial port expander
- Mini proximity reader for keypads
- Two-way listen in module with 3 microphone inputs
- Speaker and mic for two-way listen-in feature at keypad
- Temperature sensor for -40 to 150 degrees F
- PC programming software - included with first purchase
These are just some of the options and features available in this full featured system. If you're ready to take the next step in automating your home, the Elk M1 system is for you! NOTE: Standard Systems will be available Sept. 1, 2004. Gold Systems are shipping now
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