Q: What is HomeTroller?
A: HomeTroller is a standalone home automation controller based on HomeSeer HS2+ software. The unit includes Windows XP Embedded which gives it the ease of use of Windows but the reliability of an embedded operating system. The system uses HSSentry™ and HSProtect™ technology to ensure the highest reliability and protect the operating system from virus and spyware attacks. The system is compatible with all software add-ons that are available for the standard HS2 software.

Q: What is XP Embedded?
A: XP Embedded is a modular version of XP Professional. OEM's such as HomeSeer Technologies are licensed to create their own versions of the operating system. HomeSeer has created a version of XP that contains only the necessary operating system components to support the unit's control software and add-ons. This greatly reduces the size of the operating system while improving performance. When HomeTroller boots, it uses only 128 MB of Ram. Typical XP systems use about 250 MB or more before any application is loaded. The reduced size of the operating system also increases the reliability since less services are running.

Q: Can't I just purchase the same hardware and build my own system for much less?
A: Yes and no. It's certainly possible to find similar hardware but very few systems include the mix of features we've assembled in HomeTroller (like 4 serial ports!). Also, XP Embedded is only available under license to OEM manufacturer's. It's not available to consumers. So, unless you're an OEM manufacturer, you won't have access to this OS. Without XP embedded, HSProtect will not work.

Q: Why does the unit have 4 serial ports?
A: Serial communication remains the most popular choice in home automation. While many newer technologies are starting to use USB and ethernet interfaces, most security systems, infrared controllers, A/V devices, irrigation systems and HVAC systems continue to use serial ports. USB to serial converters may also be used for systems that require more than 4 serial ports.

Q: How long does the system take to boot?
A: The system boots into Windows in about 45 seconds. HomeSeer HS2+is up and running shortly after that. The HomeSeer load time is dependent on the size of your configuration.

Q: How much power does it use? I don't like leaving my PC on.
A: The system uses about 22 watts of power under normal operation with the base peripherals. That's about the same amount of power as 4 7-watt night lights! The unit is designed to remain on 24/7.

Q: What happens if my home loses power?
A: The unit is set to always start when power is applied. So if you lose power, the unit will automatically start when your power comes back on. The control software can be set to automatically restore your lights to their correct state. Also, since the unit uses so little power, you can attach a battery backed UPS and it could run for quite a long time depending on the size of the UPS.

Q: Does it make a lot of noise?
A: The system includes 3 fans; 1 for the processor and 2 for the case and you will notice a bit of noise if you install it into a quiet room. We recommend installing the unit in the basement or closet near the main utility entrance of the home. This will simplify integration with various home systems for most home owners.

Q: Can I attach a monitor and keyboard/mouse to it?
A: Yes. While the unit can be managed totally using a web browser (over a network), there may be times when you may want to manage the unit directly. A basic keyboard/mouse combo may be purchased directly from us when you order the unit or you can use any standard PS2/USB units. The unit also includes a standard VGA port for connection to a monitor.

Q: Can I attach a touch screen monitor?
A: Yes. The video subsystem on the unit is quite robust and will drive a touch screen monitor. The video supports resolutions up to 1920x1440.

Q: What is the PCI slot for?
A: The system includes one PCI slot, which may be used for any standard PCI card. Our HomeSeer PCI modem may be installed in this slot for telephone messaging and voice command support. The PCI modem may be purchased at a special discount when ordering the unit.

Q: What is HSSentry™?
A: HSSentry is a hardware system watchdog which is integrated directly with our embedded software. If the software stops responding for any reason, HSSentry will restart the unit. The default 'timeout' setting is 10 minutes and may be changed by the user.

Q: What is HSProtect™?
A: HSProtect is a technology designed to protect the contents of HomeTroller's operating system volume. Data written to this volume will not be saved unless intentionally done so by the user. The feature allows users to install new device drivers and other critical programs to the operating system volume but prevents unwanted files from being written to that volume. This feature is only available on HomeTroller (and PRO-100) controllers and works only under Windows XP Embedded.

Q: Can I install other applications?
A: It is not advised to install other applications as this could impact the reliability of the system. Since the operating system is a subset of Windows XP, not all applications will install. Most smaller applications should install fine. Larger applications such as Microsoft Office, will not install.

Q: Can I install anti-virus software?
A: You can, but its not needed. With HSProtect, its not possible for a virus to infect the operating system files. As such, installing any anti-virus software will serve only to slow down the system and may cause compatibility issues.

Q: What happens if I do corrupt the operating system? How do I restore it?
A: A special 'System Restore' flash drive may be purchased when HomeTroller is ordered (or at a later time). The drive will restore HomeTroller to its original factory configuration but reformatting the hard drive and reinstalling the OS and HS2+ software.

Q: What about system updates?
A: System updates will be provided by HomeSeer Technologies as needed. You cannot run Windows Update and you should not apply standard XP patches unless HomeSeer has authorized them.

Q: I already own HomeSeer, can I get a discount to upgrade to HomeTroller?
A: Yes. We are offering a $100 discount to current HomeSeer users who wish to transfer their license to HomeTroller. For those who transfer, you will be issued new license codes (pre-activated on HomeTroller) and your old license codes will be deactivated.