Could 2015 be the year of the smart home? There are certainly a lot of easy, affordable options for DIY home automation coming out these days. D-Link is creating a few of those options, starting with the Connected Home Hub (DCH-G020).
The Connected Home Hub (pictured) is exactly what it sounds like. It serves as the centerpiece for your smart home system, by connecting to a variety of WiFi and Z-Wave devices. The smart home hub is also insanely easy to install, plugging into any existing home network router. From there, users can add and manage connected devices using the mydlink Home app for iOS and Android devices.
Besides WiFi and Z-Wave devices, the Connected Home Hub will work with AllSeen compatible devices, including AllSeen lighting products. However, D-Link is also introducing a variety of compatible sensors and a WiFi Siren.
The mydlink Z-Wave Open & Close Sensor (DCH-Z110) can detect when doors and windows are open, and send alerts to a user’s mobile device. It can even keep tabs on temperature and lighting. This is a nice perk, if you want to set up “rules” in the mydlink app and get applicable notifications. Because the DCH-Z110 is battery operated, it’s easy to place almost anywhere. Promising 3.5 years of use on a single battery, the DCH-Z110 will start shipping sometime in the second quarter, priced at $39.99.
Next up is the mydlink Z-Wave Motion Sensor (DCH-Z120). Like your typical motion sensor, this battery-operated device can be placed anywhere and will send out alerts once motion is detected. However, because it includes a temperature monitor and light sensor, it can also trigger fans or other appliances, based on your preferences in the mydlink Home app. Boasting a battery life of up to two years, the mydlink Z-Wave Motion Sensor has been priced at $49.99.
Because we’ve been hearing a lot about water leaks lately, it would make sense that this new lineup also has the mydlink WiFi Water Sensor (DCH-S160). The water leak sensor plugs into any outlet and works with your existing home WiFi network or the mydlink Connected Home Hub. Once water becomes a problem, it will send out a mobile alert. Designed for use around water heaters, washing machines, dishwashers and sump pumps, the mydlink WiFi Water Sensor has an MSRP of $59.99
The last of the new lineup is the mydlink WiFi Siren (DCH-S220). This was designed as an added security measure, to scare off potential predators. Once that alarm sounds off, the system will fire off a notice to your smartphone or tablet. Featuring six different sounds for different devices and actions, the mydlink WiFi Siren is expected to sell for $49.99.
Each of the new devices works with existing D-Link Connected Home devices, including the WiFi Motion Sensor and WiFi Smart Plugs. All of the new D-Link sensors will start selling sometime in the second quarter of 2015. The mydlink Connected Home Hub is expected around the same time, with an MSRP of $79.99.
Read about more Smart Home Starter Kits and Hubs for Beginners
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