Belkin adds new sensors to WeMo “internet of things” line
Belkin has announced a tonne of new sensors compatible with its “WeMo” home automation line of products.
The new sensors can be used in combination with existing WeMo devices – such as wifi lightbulbs, plug sockets and light switches. By patching together the sensors and switches using the WeMo app, you can automate your home – for example, setting the bedside table to switch on when the motion detector senses you getting out of bed.
So what’s new? Here’s the new sensors and Belkin’s descriptions:
WeMo Door and Window Sensor (F7C038)
A magnetic contact sensor that detects an open or closed state on any window or door in the home, the WeMo Door and Window Sensor allows users to check for unexpected entry into the home while away or even in a different room. The WeMo Window and Door Sensor works with any type of door or window within the home including standard interior/exterior doors, sliding doors, refrigerator doors, even safes and jewellery boxes. Easily check in to see if windows or doors were left open by mistake, or receive a notification if someone has gained unexpected entry to the home. The sensors work with other WeMo devices and can be programmed to automate a variety of tasks including heating or cooling. For example, pair with a WeMo Insight Switch and a fan heater to automate the heating to only turn on when the window is closed, helping to save money and energy.
WeMo Keychain Sensor (F7C039)
The WeMo Keychain Sensor is a small fob designed to be placed on a keychain, pet collar or in a bag and alerts users when the fob’s carrier is at home or away. The WeMo Keychain Sensor helps users keep track of family members’ whereabouts and ensure they make it home safely. The sensor automatically sends an alert when the fob’s wearer no longer is connected to the network, letting them know that someone has come or gone. The WeMo Keychain Sensor is great for working parents so they know when their kids have arrived home from school or for pet owners to know if their animals have strayed too far from home. With the WeMo app, users can set up a series of customised alerts for each sensor, automate other WeMo devices to respond to the sensor, and even configure a small button on the Keychain Sensor to control any WeMo device simply when pressed.
WeMo Alarm Sensor (F7C040)
The WeMo Alarm sensor enhances current alarm systems with monitoring capabilities and is an ideal solution for retrofitting offline alarm systems for use with smart devices. The small sensor sits next to existing home alarms and notifies users if they are activated via a mobile alert. Designed to distinguish between the sound of an alarm and other ambient noises in your house, the sensor uses a proprietary algorithm to accurately identify your alarms, reducing the possibility of a false notification. Through the WeMo app, users can set up a list of emergency contact options, making it easy to react immediately to fires, break-ins, gas or carbon monoxide leaks even when away.
WeMo Room Motion Sensor (F7C041)
The WeMo Room Motion Sensor is an infrared sensor that detects heat signatures for precise, room motion detection, even in large rooms and hallways. Immune to pets, the WeMo Room Motion Sensor reduces the possibility of false alarms and offers a broad 10 metre range and 90-degree field of view. Designed for indoor applications, the sensor can be used to safeguard a private room, ensure home security while away or automate other electronic devices via motion. Through the WeMo app, users can check the last detected movement within the room, set mobile motion alerts and notifications, and configure uses with other devices in the WeMo Ecosystem. For example, use in combination with a WeMo Light Switch to automatically turn on lights in the hallway so children can have an easier time getting to the bathroom at night.
WeMo Water with Echo Technology
WeMo Water sensors with Echo Technology turn a home, building or office’s existing infrastructure into sensors that can relay information about whole home water consumption. WeMo Water uses a small sensor placed on one water pipe to sense pressure changes that occur throughout the plumbing system and then uses advanced machine learning-based algorithms to analyse vibrations. WeMo Water can identify usage time, duration and cost of any end-unit on the system (showers, bathtubs, sinks, toilets, etc.), accurately calculate water consumption per object, and even alert users to potentially devastating damage and leaks.
It certainly sounds like Belkin is making a play to have pretty much everything connected.
The sensors are expected to be released in the second half of 2015 – and as you might expect, at this early stage prices are yet to be announced.
