Is HAI the system to go with?

[mistercheeks]

I was talking with a contractor today that installs home automation system. I told him i was installing an HAI system he looked at me as if i was HIGH! I thought HAI was a pretty good system. He's into RTI systems and such. Just wondering your guys' take on HAI and RTI system . I'm still going to be using the HAI but is he totally right or not....Thanks!

 

[BraveSirRobbin]

That's probably because HE wants the business as that (I believe) is a closed, dealer only system (like Control 4 and Creston).
 
HAI is a VERY good system that not only DIY'ers are installing, but dealers themselves.

 

[dgage]

I'm not familiar with RTI but in looking at it, I'm reminded of Control4 and Crestron. So if that is correct I'll give you two reasons for his response.

One, he wants to sell you a home automation system, and those can be big bucks, as they have full products for controlling a whole house with audio, video, etc. HAI is not nearly as full featured for a dealer, it partners with many companies to provide an overall solution. For a dealer, it is easier to work with a single company, like RTI that has a wide array of products to address a customers needs.

The second reason is that HAI isn't as strong a controller, IMO, as you will often see many augment HAI (and Elk) with home automation software or hardware controller. HAI can be the basis for a system but it is better known as a security system that has automation capabilities (same with Elk).

So the response was two fold. Dang I might not get a sale and we really aren't talking on the same level of solution. At least, that would be my guess.

David

 

[mistercheeks]

I'm not familiar with RTI but in looking at it, I'm reminded of Control4 and Crestron. So if that is correct I'll give you two reasons for his response.

One, he wants to sell you a home automation system, and those can be big bucks, as they have full products for controlling a whole house with audio, video, etc. HAI is not nearly as full featured for a dealer, it partners with many companies to provide an overall solution. For a dealer, it is easier to work with a single company, like RTI that has a wide array of products to address a customers needs.

The second reason is that HAI isn't as strong a controller, IMO, as you will often see many augment HAI (and Elk) with home automation software or hardware controller. HAI can be the basis for a system but it is better known as a security system that has automation capabilities (same with Elk).

So the response was two fold. Dang I might not get a sale and we really aren't talking on the same level of solution. At least, that would be my guess.

David

Thanks for your response. I've installed a few HAI systems and have been really happy with the system. Its not a total package as far as audio/video. But i have been using irule ,its a great product and solves all my a/v needs. But as far as HAI as a system for controlling lights ,HVAC and security its a great system...just lacking the audio video controls but like i said irule handles all these needs AT A FRACTION OF A PRICE! Thanks for your input!

 

[InspiredTim]

Hai is a great system. Rti is a great controller. We are installing both of these devices. Leaf hdmi matrix switches, audio and movie servers do the rest. Use HAI for your main system and add what ever other system you need to complete the package. RTI have a nice IP driver for HAI.

 

[tmbrown97]

There's a lot of kool-aid drinking in the industry - As long as it does what you like don't worry about it - the HAI is extremely flexible in what you can do with it, and you won't need a dealer for every little step.

 

[jmorris644]

HAI is a great base system. Add Haiku and Haiku Helper to it and you have a fully programmable interface and a great built-in interface on any iOS device. iRule fills in the gap for theater control (for me anyway). I also just got Siri working and controlling my whole house using the Siriproxy for HaikuHelper. The only thing that I currently do not control through the HAI is my theater (iRule) and my hdmi matrix that I use for video throughout the house.
 
Joe