Product  Review - May 2006 Custom Builder

Napco Security Group's Securi-Smart Structured Wiring System has a dual-hinge door aluminum enclosure with a secure security compartment. These turn-key structured wiring kits combine voice and data lines in a Cat-5e wire. The system includes two telephone lines, a 10/100 Base Ethernet connection and a built-in computer networking capability. www.napcosecurity.com [1]

KBSound has designed a radio especially for the kitchen and bathroom. This remote-controlled radio can be installed out of the way in either the ceiling, kickboard or furniture. The kit comes with two metal speakers, single box power supply, tuner and amplifier, remote control, speaker cable, infra-red receiver and an antenna. The 2-inch speakers are offered in a white, black, nickel or chrome finish. Pre-sound installation is not required. www.kbsound.com [2]

LiteTouch is offering a new family of keypads — LiteTouch Metropolitan, LiteTouch Coastal and LiteTouch Euro. These new keypad designs are offered in a variety of colors and finishes, including 13 metal designs with optional backlit buttons for the Metropolitan line, and blue LED lights and a black patent leather cover for the Coastal line. The Euro line has a small square shape instead of a traditional rectangular shape. Each keypad has the capacity to hold up to nine programmable buttons. www.litetouch.com [3]

Eaton has updated Cutler-Hammer Structured Wiring Solutions. This wiring solution offers a home voice, data, video, computer and entertainment networking system. Enhancements include enclosures with larger conduit knockouts, venting holes on the cover and an additional three-position inside grounding lug. There is also a new 12-inch enclosure for space for future upgrades. Additionally, the telephone and video modules have been updated to work with the new technologies from local phone and cable companies. www.eaton.com [4]

Swann introduces digital video recording with Internet in the DVR4-Net. The DVR4-Net can record and play back up to four camera feeds via a computer monitor or television. Video recording can be activated manually through an on-screen menu display or automatically through built-in motion detection. Surveillance can also be conducted remotely via the Internet. The DVR4-Net has 250 GB storage space. The suggested security camera package has two high-resolution outdoor and indoor cameras. www.swannusa.com [5]

On-Q has released a new outdoor patio intercom to its residential Cat-5 Intercom System. As an extension of the in-home intercom system, the patio intercom communicates with the inside intercoms and other subsystems, such as audio. The wall plate and trim are weather resistant and available in four finishes: antique brass, brushed stainless, shiny brass and white. Additional features include LED activity lights and a separate microphone and speaker for integrated sound. www.onqlegrand.com [6]