The typical programmable thermostat is little more than a clock that follows a set routine. It can change its five set points three or four preselected times per day. The RCS TR 40, TR16 and TXB16 are communicating network thermostats that can talk to a security system, a computer program or a set of sensors to change the temperature as needed. For instance, the thermostat can be programmed to set the temperature back whenever the homeowner arms the security system, then to bring the temperature up whenever the system is turned off. It can link up with a motion detector to adjust the temperature when someone enters the room. Or, it can be connected to a phone line response unit so that the homeowner can punch in the set point codes from another location.

RCS thermostats accomplish all this with X-10 technology and/or RS232 PC serial port connections. X10 sends data along the standard electrical wiring or RS232 along the PC cable. The thermostats consist of two parts--a controller and a wall-mounted display. The controller is mounted near the HVAC unit. The display, which looks like a standard household thermostat, gives the current temperature and set point. Push buttons are provided for setting set points, mode and fan functions. The display also contains a solid state temperature sensor.

Contact: RCS

Revised: October 6, 2004