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Integrators are now able to offer full two-way control over Apple digital media seamlessly via a Pronto control panel.
Philips Pronto, the value leader in two-way control solutions for the home, has joined forces with Australian developer ProntoProject.com to develop ProntoTunes, which provides two-way control over Apple iTunes, Apple TV and Apple AirPort Express via a Philips Pronto control panel. The new application offers integrators a visually stunning, feature rich control application for Pronto control panels.
ProntoTunes’ two-way interface application allows integrators a solution to seamlessly control Apple iTunes, Apple TV and Apple Airport Express digital media via Pronto control panels from anywhere in the home. To access and play digital media, users simply scroll through their library and play any of the available albums, artists, genres, playlists, movies, TV shows and more using the Pronto scroll wheel. The ProntoTunes application automatically discovers new media and instantly integrates it into the users’ media list. Cover art is displayed for the current playing file, whether it be music, movies or TV, and its SmartCache functionality stores large data, such as cover art, so users will not have to wait for it the next time they return to that selection. The robust integration of ProntoTunes supports a multitude of functions that portrays the familiar feel of an iPod, making it an easy transition for end users who are used to their iTunes control.
New accessory line developed by Polar Bear Solutions for Philips Pronto brings precision control of home audio visual devices to users
Philips Pronto, the value leader in two-way control soluti ons for the home, launched a line of accessories today designed by Polar Bear Solutions. These new accessories will enhance the company’s control solutions and give integrators new options when installing any Pronto product. The new line consists of two Wall Docking Stations, a Power Sensor Relay and a Video Sensor.
The Wall Docking Stations (PBS9600W and PBS9800W) are flush mount in-wall docks that allow the Pronto TSU9600 and TSU9800 control panels to be stored in wall, extending the possibile uses of the panels and allowing the product to compete with other more expensive solutions.
The PBS9600W allows for the removal of the TSU9600 from the wall, allowing for mobility while retaining functionality. The 9600W wall docking station also has a unique feature and hosts a set of four built-in buttons located at the base of the dock and can be used for critical services regardless of whether the Pronto TSU9600 is charging in the dock or has been left elsewhere in the room. These buttons allow for integration into an existing lighting control solution such as Lutron or iLight systems. They can also be used to control a projector screen or automate other aspects of the home or property.
New module offers easy two-way integration with Lutron lighting and shading control systems.
Philips Pronto, the value leader in two-way control solutions, in collaboration with lighting control manufacturer Lutron Electronics, has announced the availability of a new RadioRA 2 module for Pronto’s line of controllers, including the TSU9300 (limited), TSU9400, TSU9600 and TSU9800. This new module offers integrators a convenient integration between a Pronto touch panel and the RadioRA 2 wireless lighting control system.
Launched in 2009, RadioRA 2 is the next generation of Lutron’s RadioRA wireless whole-home lighting control system, introduced in 1997. RadioRA 2 controls lights, shades, HVAC and more via radio frequency system (RF) communication.
Working closely with Lutron, Pronto has developed a ProntoScript module that allows Pronto users to activate any RadioRA 2 scene with the touch of a finger on any Pronto control panel. This enables users to seamlessly control their lights and shades from the same Pronto controller used to control their entertainment system.
Extended integration functionality, new Sonos and TwonkyMedia modules, iPhone-style interfaces plus faster and easier programming will provide dealers with a step-change in total two-way home control.
Philips Pronto, the value leader in two-way control solutions for the home, is excited to announce the next generation of ProntoEdit Professional software, PEP 2.4, offering extended home integration and control possibilities. The new software cuts programming time and cost for dealers while dramatically improving the look and functionality of the Pronto control panel family.
The new PEP 2.4 software features enhanced UPnP (Universal Plug and Play)/DNLA (Digital Network Living Alliance) compatibility. The UPnP/DNLA engine now incorporated into the Pronto platform accelerates the development of two-way integration modules between A/V servers, players and control devices, so providing a straightforward, single solution for controlling any product of manufacturers adhering to the UPnP standard. The UPnP discovery mechanism embedded within the software’s ProntoScript library will help the Pronto control panel automatically find IP devices on the network.
Significantly, these developments allow Pronto to integrate Sonos multi-room audio systems quickly and directly into a system without the need for special hardware, additional PC’s or the use of a Sonos controller. The upgraded software also enables Pronto to control and access content from TwonkyMedia-based equipment, being one of the most popular UPnP servers on the market. New Sonos and TwonkyMedia pre-configured modules are available in ProntoScript. Further ground-breaking partnership agreements for new Pronto modules are in development and will be announced imminently.
This week Philips released the next major update of their ProntoEdit Professional software. Amongst the array of new features and fixes is support for uPnP and DLNA. This has allowed Philips to release a free ProntoScript module which gives users control of their Sonos zoned music system from their WiFi equiped Pronto remotes.
The Philips Pronto Professional TSU9300 is the most recent addition to the Philips line of professional control solutions, and is the entry-level model to the line which also includes the TSU9400, 9600 and 9800 controllers. HomeTheaterReview.com has posted a comprehensive review of the TSU9300 and their opionion is that:
A well-programmed Philips Pronto remote can honestly compete with the big boys at a fraction of the cost, while being easier to modify as well. This is a breakthrough product and one I think you will hear plenty more about in the future as it hits the street.
Only One Remote just released an important new release of their IR database for the Philips Pronto Edit Professional 2 software that now includes an excel file showing all of the newly added components along with updates to existing code sets. Highlights in this release are a complete set of discrete Vizio codes and all of the new Yamaha receiver codes. There are also updates to all of the major AV Receiver vendors.
If you are using an earlier release of the database O1R recommends you discard and replace it with this update. Many changes are added on a continuous basis as they discover improvements while using the database to build their own Pronto configurations.
Only One Remote is a consulting firm that specializes in programming Philips Pronto remotes. If you require assistance in programming a Pronto, HAI recommends that you contact them.
Only One Remote has developed free Pronto templates for the 9400, 9600, and 9800 Pronto remotes for you to review the quality of their work and to use in your projects. These templates are available here.
One of the advantages of the Philips Pronto Professional control systems is that you may create an advanced Pronto Script to control many applications. According to Click here for more information on Cytech
The Only One Remote Pronto Edit 2 software database is offered for free download to provide the “do-it-yourselfer” and the custom professional with an alternative to the factory database. Included in this release are several new devices as well as updated command names that will improve code substitution. Previous users of the database should restore this database and discontinue use of any previous versions. If you would like to keep any devices that you may have added to your current database, simple back your database up before restoring this version then use the open other database view to add any devices you wish to continue using. Bookmark this page and check for updates monthly.