Honeywell Releases Cost-Effective, Wi-Fi Touch Automation Controller

Honeywell released the Wi-Fi version of Tuxedo Touch, a touchscreen security and automation controller with Z-Wave functionality. Wi-Fi eliminates the need to run a CAT5 when connecting to a local area network—an enhancement that greatly simplifies the installation process while saving dealers time and labor.

Tuxedo Touch features a bright, full-color, 7-inch display and uses a built-in controller that can communicate with up to 232 Z-Wave? enabled devices such as thermostats, lighting controls, shades and locks. Additionally, a built-in web server gives users the ability to communicate with and control Tuxedo Touch in their home or building when using Wi-Fi-enabled devices including smartphones, tablets, PCs and Internet TVs without the need to purchase or install an app.

“Tuxedo Touch with Wi-Fi will help dealers expand their offering from life safety to lifestyle,” explained Robert Puric, director, product management at Honeywell. “On-premises control of Z-Wave devices add convenience and home automation for a fraction of the price of similar solutions. Wi-Fi also offers dealers an opportunity to retrofit the millions of existing Honeywell VISTA systems already installed.”

Besides controlling various security and environmental functions, Tuxedo Touch allows users to view local weather information, upload digital photos and videos and simultaneously view streaming feeds from up to four IP video cameras. There are five training videos that can be viewed right on the display that explain how to use some of the advanced functions of Tuxedo Touch.

Tuxedo Touch is also compatible with Honeywell Total Connect? Remote Services, which let home and business owners control their security systems from any Internet-enabled device, when using Honeywell VISTA-15P, 15PSIA, 20P, 20PSIA, 21iP, 21iPSIA, 128BPE, 128SIAE, 128BPTSIA, 250BPE and 250BPT control panels.