The INSTEON (patent pending) PowerLinc Controller is a stand-alone home automation interface for controlling lights, appliances, heating/air conditioning systems and alarm systems. This module has on-board memory so timers and macros can be downloaded without the need to leave your computer up and running. This home automation interface uses a computer's Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection for downloading timer and event macros.

The Smarthome Design engineers added the internal intelligence to control your home without a computer running a full-time automation program. On-board clock keeps accurate time, all the time, with integrated 10-year battery backup.

No More Fights over the COM Ports -
Unlike other home automation interfaces, which use the slower RS-232 communication protocol, the PowerLinc Controller transfers data at much higher speeds. Best of all, it plugs into any USB port or expansion hub so there's no need to plug and unplug other peripherals like PDAs, scanners or printers when you need to update the programming. In fact, many new computers, in particular laptops, don't include serial ports any longer, which will make using serial-based interfaces expensive and difficult to use.

Don't Block your Outlets -
PowerLinc Controller includes Smarthome's innovative pass-through AC outlet on the front of the unit. This outlet that allows you to plug in additional AC devices. While the outlet doesn't have any control features, it really helps against "power strip buildup".

Safety Tested and Factory Certification -
The PowerLinc Controller is safety tested and approved. The assembly lines for Smarthome Design Products are ISO9002 certified. In order to meet the ISO 9002 standards, the entire factory underwent rigorous inspections of procedures and policies before being thoroughly audited. The certification received was based on its dedication to high quality management systems and strict adherence of quality systems and guidelines.

Using PowerLinc USB & PowerLinc Controller with DirectX Input Devices
We have found an incompatibility between the PowerLinc USB and PowerLinc Controller (USB) and certain USB input devices that are used by programs running Microsoft's DirectX system. When running a game that uses USB input devices like joysticks, we recommend unplugging the USB cable for the PowerLinc USB or PowerLinc Controller. While we have not tested all possible combinations of Microsoft's operating systems and versions of DirectX for compatibility, we still recommend unplugging the cable to the PowerLincs during game play.