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Hawking Technologies Unveils The HomeRemote System Built on Freescale's ZigBee Compliant Platform (24/1/2006)

HomeRemote Enables Homeowners to Monitor, Control and Secure Their Homes from the Web

Products enabled with ZigBee(TM) technology from Freescale Semiconductor (NYSE:FSL) (NYSE:FSL.B) are coming to home improvement and consumer electronics stores nationwide from Hawking Technologies, Inc.

Using ZigBee technology, the Hawking HomeRemote(TM) System communicates wirelessly with local sensors and devices that are installed throughout the home. Through a user-friendly Web interface, consumers can easily keep an eye on their homes, secure their property from intruders and control daily appliances with the click of a mouse anywhere in the world.

"Our vision is to efficiently connect people to everyday accessories and appliances to make life more enjoyable and secure," says Jason Owen, chief manager of product development and marketing for Hawking. "Freescale's extensive ZigBee platform offerings and expertise enabled us to quickly develop and launch the HomeRemote(TM) System to meet consumers' demands for wireless home monitoring and control products."

The HomeRemote(TM) System monitors whether doors and windows are open or closed, controls power outlets and lights, reads room temperatures, and provides many other useful control features. ZigBee technology provides the backbone for a comprehensive home network and enables interoperability for future enhancements.

"Hawking's HomeRemote System gives consumers the peace of mind to know their homes are safe and secure," said Franz Fink, senior vice president and general manager of Freescale's Wireless and Mobile Systems Group. "Being selected by a leader in home and office networking solutions like Hawking, underscores Freescale's leadership in providing cutting-edge ZigBee solutions that will have a positive impact in our daily lives."

Freescale's ZigBee-compliant platform, which includes the MC13193 2.4 GHz RF transceiver, a low voltage, low power HCS08 MCU and the Figure 8 Wireless Z-Stack ZigBee software, provides a robust, cost effective, and easy-to-deploy solution. ZigBee-enabled on-chip features and enhancements reduce external components and total bill of materials, while providing battery lifetimes of up to several years.

Key Features of the HomeRemote System

The system offerings consist of two gateways: the HRG1 Wireless Home Automation Gateway and the HRH1 Wireless Home Automation Hub. The HRG1 combines the Wireless Home Automation Gateway with a Wireless-G Router for a total home Internet access package. In the case that users already have a broadband connection at home with an existing router, the HRH1 is a standalone Home Automation access point that simply plugs into the Ethernet port of your current network. A slew of wireless sensors and devices are also on the product roadmap to support the system and its applications. The following products will be ready to ship during the launch of the HomeRemote(TM) line:

HRG1 - Wireless Home Automation Gateway (Includes Wireless-G Router)
HRH1 - Wireless Home Automation Hub
HRDS1 - Wireless Door/Window Sensor
HRPO1 - Wireless Power Outlet
HRPO7 - Wireless 7-Outlet Power Strip
HRSE1 - Wireless Signal Extender

www.hawkingtech.com