[Articles] SmartHome close to releasing Dual-Band INSTEON thermostat

[CT Droid]

Currently, if you want to automate a thermostat using the INSTEON technology, you have to purchase the Thermostat Adapter SmartHome currently sells. While it does seem to do the job, it doesn't look pretty, plus it doesn't support the new Dual-Band technology. SmartHome is addressing this in an updated version of the VenStar thermostat. The INSTEON technology now has been integrated into the unit itself, so you don't have to look at the adapter sticking out anymore, and it now supports INSTEON Dual-Band technology. There is no ETA yet, and MSRP is not known yet either, although I suspect it will be similar to the current thermostat+adapter kit, which runs $199.

Keep on reading for the specifications and a picture.





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[BLH]

There is a new Thermostat listed in the 'Smart' line of their products.
http://www.smartproline.com/
The 4715 looks like it, as it has the Insteon Adapter Internally.
Though it doesn't look like it uses 120 volts and there could be some confusion, or there is going to be an additional Dual Band running on 120 volts.
The specifications sheet from the above link says it uses 120 volts. While the Quick Users Guide does not show any 120 volt connections.
The specifications sheet on the Smartpro site was just updated to say 24 volts AC.

Also the FCC database has internal and external photos of the 4715.
FCCID:SBP4715

 

[electron]

Yep, I confirmed, definitely not dual-band. Also looks like this won't be available to regular consumers. I guess SmartHome is targeting high end installations/installers with the new SMART brand. Bummer.

 

[az1324]

This is just a thermostat with an adapter glued inside and the wires soldered. Other than that I cannot see how it is functionally different from what exists now. It does not provide any dual-band bridging itself.

Just like the deadbolt adapter is a keyfob glued inside an I/O-Linc.

Innovation at its finest! :huh:

 

[BLH]

Yes it looks like the Smart Line of products is for professional installers.
Maybe there will be a consumer version of the Network Bridge also shown on the Smart site. That would be a good addition to many DIY installations.
Insteon phase coupler and repeater all in one.

 

[electron]

This is just a thermostat with an adapter glued inside and the wires soldered. Other than that I cannot see how it is functionally different from what exists now. It does not provide any dual-band bridging itself.

Just like the deadbolt adapter is a keyfob glued inside an I/O-Linc.

Innovation at its finest! :huh:

Did you look at the existing thermostat? It has that adapter sticking out, pretty ugly, that alone makes this new thermostat an interesting upgrade.

 

[az1324]

Did you look at the existing thermostat? It has that adapter sticking out, pretty ugly, that alone makes this new thermostat an interesting upgrade.

Yeah there is definite aesthetic improvement. But it's still a hack. Anyone can stuff an adapter inside the thermostat case. With the resources that they have and the fact that they paid to get another FCC certification, it is a disappointing result. Something more impressive would have been a redesign with a new pcb and reduced BOM that would have lowered costs and passed on savings to the customer.

 

[az1324]

After seeing the pics I installed my adapter internally too. Looks same as FCC photos, works same as always. Took 10 minutes. It is located close to an access point so not sure how range is affected.