-- Manufacturers can create affordable, mass-market Windows SideShow-
enabled remotes, including built-in support for Windows Media Center
-- Any Z-Wave device with a display can integrate with the ThinkRemote
platform and display Windows SideShow content using standard Z-Wave
profiles
-- Remotes can also communicate with any other Z-Wave enabled devices,
such as lights, blinds, thermostats, and security and entertainment devices
-- Reliable Z-Wave technology removes the need for line-of-sight,
allowing the remote to be used anywhere in home by utilizing Z-Wave's mesh
network repeater functionality
-- Two-way Z-Wave technology allows interactive displays in wireless
remotes and other devices, such as fridge magnets
-- Supports all Windows SideShow gadgets including weather, stock quotes,
email, and third-party gadgets
-- Content can be customized per user or shared with the whole family
-- Provides for optional control of Windows Media Player or other
software, and allows OEMs to integrate their own custom screens, menus, and
other functionality
-- Works with simpler non-display remotes as an alternative to infrared
PC remote controls
-- Z-Wave to IR bridge (using IR emitters on the PC) will be available as
an optional add-on for OEMs wanting to make their PCs the hub of the
entertainment center, allowing a Z-Wave enabled remote to send commands to
a cable box, amplifier, or other equipment via the PC
-- Initial release supports full Windows SideShow experience for text-
based remotes, including both glance data and regular content
"This is another example where
Z-Wave technology and its rich ecosystem of interoperable products is
enabling new and exciting applications," said Mark Walters, chairman of the
Z-Wave Alliance. "By integrating with Windows Vista we're extending the
reach of home control."
"Our goal was to create a low-cost way for manufacturers to create PC-based
remote controls and Windows SideShow-enabled hardware devices using
Z-Wave," said Chris Walker, President of ControlThink. "And while we
accomplished that, we also transformed the PC from a single-room computer
to a
whole-home entertainment solution and information hub. This is really
exciting, and opens significant new opportunities for PC and accessory
manufacturers."
As part of the initial launch, two hardware partners -- PiTech and CWTek --
are developing remote controls and other devices that take advantage of
Windows SideShow and Z-Wave technology. These products are expected to be
available for consumers in late 2007 or early 2008.
For more information, please contact ControlThink at 888.90.THINK.
About ControlThink LC
ControlThink® creates reliable, low-cost and
easy-to-use home and building control solutions. ControlThink is
reinventing home control, making it simpler and more affordable for all
homeowners. For more information about ControlThink, visit
www.controlthink.com.
ControlThink is a registered trademark of ControlThink LC.
About Z-Wave
Z-Wave® is the first technology to bring affordable, reliable and
easy-to-use wireless control to every aspect of daily life -- the home,
consumer electronics, healthcare, and energy use, to name a few. Z-Wave
is an award-winning, proven and interoperable wireless mesh networking
technology that allows a wide array of devices in and around the home to
communicate including lighting, appliances, HVAC, entertainment centers,
and security systems. Z-Wave brings many benefits to everyday life
including remote home monitoring, home healthcare, safety and security, and
energy conservation. Z-Wave certified products are currently available
from leading consumer brands in more than 170 products. Z-Wave is the
recipient of the 2006 Wall Street Journal Technology Innovation Award in
the wireless category, the CNET "Best of CES Award" in the enabling
technologies category, along with PC World's 2006 World Class Award, which
recognizes the 100 best technologies and products of the year. For more
information about Z-Wave please visit www.z-wave.com.
Z-Wave® is a registered trade mark of Zensys, Inc. and its subsidiaries
in the United States and other countries.
The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the
trademarks of their respective owners.
Contact Information: Contact: Emily Mason Ruder Finn for Zensys 312.329.3975 masone@ruderfinn.com