uControl launched its next-generation home security service that provides redundant connectivity and better security at a lower price for the more than 26 million U.S. homeowners who want more from their existing, installed alarm system. uControl demonstrated the product for the first time today at the DEMOfall '06 conference in San Diego.

The Austin-based company is the first to offer an enhanced home security service that connects to existing, installed alarm systems and communicates over three redundant connections - broadband, cellular and phone lines. In addition to delivering always-on connectivity and real-time security, uControl enables people to control and monitor their alarm system from the Web or from their cell phones - anywhere, anytime.

Always-on Physical Connectivity

"uControl delivers the first home security service that keeps people truly connected," says Jim Johnson, founder and chief executive officer. "Unlike traditional home security services, uControl provides redundant, back-up connections for always-on monitoring even if your phone line is cut or you switch to VoIP service."

uControl's technology was developed with tomorrow's homeowners in mind, Johnson says. "Homeowners who have given up their traditional phone line and turned to their cell phone or VoIP phone service cannot rely on their alarm system to work without buying additional services from their current security provider. With uControl, homeowners get a better security system that is compatible with broadband, VoIP and cell-phone only homes - at a lower price."

Virtual Connectivity

Homeowners can also monitor and control their homes remotely from any computer and cell phone, giving them more flexibility and control to keep connected with their homes and families.

"uControl allows you to arm and disarm your system from work, receive alerts when your children get home from school, or use your cell phone to make sure your house is secure before entering," Johnson says. "The uControl security system lets you personalize how you manage your home security."

uControl made its announcement at DEMOfall, one of the world's premier forums for new products and technology innovations. The company was selected among hundreds of companies to launch its product at the invitation-only showcase. Throughout its 16-year history, DEMO has been a launching pad for many of the world's most important new technologies, such as Java, TiVo and the Palm Pilot.

"I invited uControl to launch its service at DEMO because the company has developed a better, more feature-rich way to protect your home and family by enhancing existing alarm equipment with new technology that is managed simply through a Web interface," says Chris Shipley, DEMO executive producer. "uControl is poised to turn the traditional alarm industry on its head, and at the same time, establish its foothold in home automation."

Compatible with Existing Alarm Equipment

Almost one out of four U.S. homes, or 26 million homes, has a security system, according to Parks Associates. uControl's product and technology is compatible with most existing home security equipment, so homeowners can use existing keypads, controllers and sensors already installed in the home.

"uControl is the only solution that leverages the customer's investment in their existing, installed security system, plus gives them additional features and services," Johnson says.

Priced at $24.95 a month for the broadband-only plan or $32.95 per month for the broadband plus cellular plan, uControl provides more features and services at a lower monthly monitoring fee than traditional alarm companies. Homeowners that switch to uControl choose three-year or month-to-month plans. And like traditional alarm companies, uControl provides the same dispatch capabilities for police and fire emergency personnel from UL-licensed monitoring centers.

uControl will be available to more than 50 percent of the population in November, and offered nationally in early 2007. In November, uControl will offer broadband and cellular connections, with landline phone connectivity offered in 2007.

Website: http://www.ucontrol.com/
Website: http://www.demo.com/conf/index.html