The INSTEON (patent pending) PowerLinc Controller coupled with mControl software allows total control of a home from your TV set. mControl is the first software to support INSTEON, the next generation of home automation. Control your lighting, sprinkler system, HVAC, and security cameras from the convenience of your couch. mControl has been designed for Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005; however, mControl can also be run on Windows 2000 or Windows XP Pro and viewed from Internet Explorer 6.0 or greater. INSTEON-enabled mControl software is also available to be purchased separately. Smarthome does not accept returns on any opened software. The PowerLinc Controller home automation interface uses a computer's Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection for operation with timer and event macros. INSTEON and X10 Modules Supported mControl supports both the INSTEON and X10 protocols, allowing both systems to be used as your systems evolve. mControl's unique architecture also provides the ability to place the home automation adapters on your PC of choice so that you keep any clutter around the living room PC to a minimum. 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 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 ISO9001 certified. In order to meet the ISO 9001 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. Developer Information If you are interested in developing software for the PowerLinc V2 USB or Serial or for more information about becoming an INSTEON developer, please see the following pages for more information: Developer's Kit USB, Developer's Kit Serial, and the Prototyping Module - Isolated Power.