Schlage LiNK Rebrands as Nexia Home Intelligence

Ingersoll Rand (IR) announced at CES 2012 it has rebranded its subscription-based Schlage LiNK automated deadbolt system as Nexia Home Intelligence.

The Nexia system includes the Schlage locks, Trane ComfortLink II Control for HVAC, shade control from Pella Windows and Doors dubbed SmartSync - three powerful brands in consumer circles.

Using Z-Wave communication, Nexia allows homeowners to control locks, HVAC, video surveillance, lights, shades and energy usage via a web-enabled computer and most smartphones.

John Evans, president of residential security at IR, says Nexia is "entirely rooted in real-world needs of everyday households," which sounds like he is differentiating the product from home control that is much more costly.

Among the systems' features are:

• Video storage capability using a Schlage camera that records live video based on specified parameters, such as the door unlocking. There is an additional monthly fee for this feature on top of the standard $8.99/month
• Sensor scheduling for windows and doors to automatically lock at specified hours
• New user interface that offers a "dashboard" design
• Dedicated Android app for Android tablets
• Astronomical clock for adjusting lighting
• Whole-home energy monitoring using Powerhouse Dynamics eMonitor
• Pella SmartSync that can control shades or blinds in the company's Designer Series windows and doors

National builder Lennar Homes already offers Nexia as a standard amenity in many of its communities as part of its "Everything's Included" program. Verizon also includes Nexia in its entry-level automation offering.

The system will also integrate with Lowe's Iris cloud-based home management system. The basic Nexia Home Intelligence Kit sells for $299.