Reaping the Benefits of a Smart Home is simpler and more affordable than you might think. The components will provide the comfort and convenience of home security, lighting control and energy management in an integrated system that doesn't require expensive rewiring or time-consuming renovation.

Designer-styled components replace existing switches and receptacles. A network of transmitters and receivers control functions, area by area or room by room and communicate over a home's AC wiring. You can start small, then add more modules to suit your needs and lifestyle!

A home automation system automates your whole house, triggering events and routines involving light fixtures, security components and the heating/cooling system based on the time of day, temperature or any other condition that you select. For instance, when a sensor detects a vehicle in your driveway, your home automation system could turn on your lights.

An automation system controls a collection of "sub-systems." A subsystem is a system that—even when operating by itself—provides benefits to a homeowner. Common subsystems include lighting, security, entertainment and heating/cooling systems, as well as devices like motorized drapes and basic appliances. A home automation system puts two or more subsystems under the control of one central controller, so that the press of one button can issue several commands to a variety of different electronic products.

A popular example: Pressing an "Away" button on a keypad or key-fob might arm the security system and set back the thermostat to an energy-saving level. Pressing the "Home" button does the reverse.