Getting Smart with “Smart” Home Technology
DoorBird provides protection and automation for the Panorama Idea Home
Homeowners today have a strong interest in smart home technology and the security and automation they provide. But, off the shelf systems can be cumbersome, unattractive, and often an impermanent solution to a permanent need. For the Panorama Idea Home, a luxury custom retreat in Breckenridge, Colo., every component of the home must meet or beat expectations in both form and function. This includes the home’s smart system. So, Thrive Home Builders, who are completing the project, understood the importance of selecting the right home automation, security, and smart system. The decision was clear with DoorBird.
“The DoorBird system and family of products are very high end,” said Gene Myers, founder and chief sustainability officer of Thrive Home Builders. “It's an all-wired doorbell style unit that integrates with any kind of smart home system. It has all the bells and whistles.”
Myers notes that when researching and specifying a smart home system, there are many things to consider. How does it function? Do you have to change the batteries to keep it working? How is this going to age with the home, and can it integrate with new technologies in 5 or 10 years? Finally, how does it look, and does it complement or detract from the home’s appearance?
The DoorBird technology starts with a D1101V Surface mount IP Video Door Station at the main entrance. The system offers two-way audio, an ultra-wide-angle HDTV camera with night vision and infrared LED's, and a 4D motion sensor capable of picking up movement 20 feet away. Perhaps its most valuable feature is the open API local interface for integration with third party systems. This means that no matter what technology the homeowner may choose in the future, the system will be able to interact and upgrade with it.
In addition, the panel system comes equipped with a configural bistable latching relay which means it offers programmable automatic door releases—a very handy feature in second home or vacation rental situations when the owner needs remote access. Customizable door codes enable the homeowner to allow controlled access to different groups and captures time and date history of entrance and exits. The station also offers a geofencing automatic door and gate opening system, allowing for proximity access for owners when returning home.
A master control panel, the A1101 IP Video Indoor Station, is installed in the Panorama Idea Home great room, as well as a companion unit in the primary bedroom. This station allows for two-way audio with noise reduction and echo cancellation and a live video feed of the front door on a four-inch, true color, touch display screen. The central control unit also offers full access to all the home automation features, like door lock and gate control.
For back doors, in the garage, and other access points, the Panorama Idea Home has a set of A1121 Surface Mount IP Access control device that allows for access to home as well as activating and disengaging the home security system. The pads are conveniently located in multiple locations and include a two-way audio system. For additional security the keypad is equipped with a tamper sensor.
As with most smart home systems, the DoorBird technology can be accessed on mobile devices and includes an option for video and audio calls. In other words, no matter where the homeowner may be, they have access and control of the home plus the ability to remotely monitor the system, activity, and live view of the front door in real time on their mobile devices.
“Making the home functional, safe, and enjoyable is something that the builder should take care of. We aren’t interested in trying to compete with Google, Amazon, or any of the other off-the-shelf technologies and products that mount next to the front door and rely on a WiFi connection to work,” said Myers. “We are interested in what's behind the walls, making sure the system is hard-wired and is part of the home, not an afterthought.”
“What we like about DoorBird is that it has all the features and functionality that we expect, plus more. The sleek design of the camera and control system makes it a cut above the rest,” said Myers.
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