Controlling devices with IP
What can I really control?
Today we’ll look at controlling devices with IP.
Control with IP
IP controllable devices are popping up everywhere
Everywhere you turn there are new IP devices. IR- or RF-only remote controls are quickly becoming dinosaurs. And while some might wish that manufactures would release all new gear with IR and RS-232 codes, the truth is many don’t. Why is that, you wonder? Well, first of all IR and RS-232 are protocols of the past. Don’t get me wrong, they certainly have their place but today’s market is demanding devices that can be controlled from both a dead simple remote and their desktop miles away. Protocols like IR and RS-232 are great when you are close to the equipment you want to control. But, they are not options when your client wants to check the security cameras while away from home. This is a job for IP-controllable devices.
The number of IP-enabled remotes entering the market is another indication of this trend. While having a staff of programmers to write proprietary code certainly still works, it is expensive and at times not very profitable. Include an IP enabled remote, link to the browser interfaces and now you have eliminated programing cost and headaches while giving your client access to their equipment in ways they may not have considered or thought possible.
The current IP trend indicates that manufacturers recognize the need for flexibility and are willing to give clients what they want. Your clients want flexible devices and interfaces whether they are in the same room or miles away.
What can IP control?
Devices controlled via IP
There are many, many choices when it comes to devices that are IP controlled. When looking at control in general you’ll want to consider not only how the system is used but where it is used. Any desire at all to control things remotely over the web means that you’ll want to narrow your focus to IP products. You’ll also need to choose products that can work with popular firewall choices.
Another, sometimes overlooked benefit to IP controllable products is their web interfaces. Many manufacturers offer straightforward web interfaces to their IP addressable products. Using and integrating these interfaces with a browser-capable remote can mean getting a handle on those custom programming costs. Eliminating unknowns will not only be good for your client, it will also be good for your bottom line.
IP products do have different considerations, however the end result of flexibility, cabability and interoperability will result in happy clients singing your praises to all their friends.
So many choices, how do you decide?
Once you understand how your clients will be using their new system, the choices will start to narrow. While it is certain that bells and whistles attract many clients, at the end of the day everyone wants a system that fits the way they live. As you begin to figure out and understand how they live you’ll be able to guide your client towards the right choices for them.
The makers of the moodSeer audiophile music server are here to aid you. We strive to create robust products that exceed your expectations to give you the winning edge. Talk to us, we are happy to answer your questions and help you bridge the IP gap.
