Security & Audio Systems

Feb 12, 2001

1 Feb 2001
It seems like my furnace (the one that was moved) may not be drafting properly up the flue. My HVAC contractor came back out and made some changes that might have fixed it, but I'm still not sure.
I received the alarm panel I chose for the house and got it installed. The alarm is an HAI OmniPro with all the bells and whistles. I also ordered two of the HAI thermostats, an outdoor temperature sensor, and the web control software, all of which work with the panel . The OmniPro can handle basic home automation (X-10, messaging, event programming, etc.) and may completely meet my needs for an automation controller. It notably lacks infrared capability, but this can be added with an Applied Digital Ocelot since the OmniPro supports external RS-232/485 messaging. Most importantly, the Omni keypads passed the wife test for cosmetic acceptability.
8 Feb 2001
We are expecting preliminary construction to begin in the next few days. This will involve laying out the locations for all the new framing and cutting out the concrete floor for a beam support footing and plumbing.
Yesterday I received some more equipment to complete the first six zones of the audio distribution system. I settled on a Kustom 6640 with dual infrared keypads. This unit is the best price for features I found, and I plan to get another one eventually to complete the system. I would have preferred a system with RS-232 control capability like the Xantech unit, but it was just too expensive and their keypads are just plain ugly (did NOT pass the wife test). We also received our in-wall speakers which are RBH MC-6s. These seem to be nicely matched with the Kustom distribution amplifier.
12 Feb 2001
Over the weekend we got most of the audio system speakers installed. Having music throughout the house is nice and highly recommended.