The introduction of Apple’s iPad has made it much more affordable to add a touch screen panel to your home automation system. A touch screen from a Home Automation vendor can be as much 10 times higher than an iPad loaded with Home Automation software. When the iPad is released in late March, the cost of owning a touch screen panel to operate a Control4 Automation system will become under $900. Not only will the iPad give you “Door to your Drape” control, but with additional apps from iTunes you will be able to start you car, stream media and much more all from one powerful interface. The iPad will also act as a mobile controller out side of your “Home Zone” whereas proprietary controllers only work within the homes wireless coverage.

So if you can imagine.., your on the couch reading an eBook on your iPad and listening to music, the door bell rings and the music automatically pauses. You simply switch to your Control4 app to see who’s at the front door before you unlock the door...all from your iPad anywhere in your home or anywhere in the world. The iPad will not only bring new and exciting innovations but will effect electronics that already exist in your car, at businesses, in schools and at home today.

Tags: iPad, Control4, Touchscreen, Automation