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.

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."

Dallas resident Harley Jebens (http://www.ucontrol.com/testimonials.html) switched to uControl after burglars broke into his home by cutting his telephone line to disable his security system. "uControl provides back-up connections so my alarm system is always monitored. Plus uControl is much more responsive. Unlike other alarm companies, uControl notifies me if one of the connections goes down and immediately switches to another connection to keep the security system working."

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 the 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, PDA 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 service lets you personalize how you manage your home security."

Compatible with Existing Alarm Equipment

Designed to replace traditional alarm security providers, uControl is compatible with 95 percent of installed alarm systems (http://www.ucontrol.com/compatible.html) allowing homeowners to use the existing keypads, control panels, smoke detectors, motion detectors, and sensors already installed in their homes. For homes that don't currently have an alarm system, uControl will provide installation services.

Almost one out of four U.S. homes, or 26 million homes, has a security system, according to Parks Associates. Of these homes, 80 percent have broadband and nearly 15 percent use only VoIP or cellular phones instead of traditional phone lines.

"Today, as consumers switch to VoIP or choose a cell-phone-only lifestyle, they often find themselves forced to keep their traditional phone line to operate their home security system," says Tricia Parks, CEO of Parks Associates. "With uControl, consumers have a reliable and affordable security system that operates over broadband or with a cellular connection or both, eliminating their dependence on traditional phone lines."

uControl Plans

uControl offers two monitoring plans (http://www.ucontrol.com/plans.html): the Dual Connect Plan (utilizes broadband and phone connectivity) and the Triple Connect Plan (utilizes cellular, broadband and phone connectivity). Both plans offer customers continuous, real-time monitoring; remote access and control; notification with customized alarm alerts via phone, email or SMS messaging; VoIP and digital phone compatibility; and compatibility with existing alarm systems.

Monitoring fees are $24.95 per month for the Dual Connect plan and $32.95 per month for the Triple Connect Plan. Homeowners that switch to uControl choose three-year or month-to-month plans. With today's announcement, uControl is available to the entire U.S. population.

Like traditional alarm companies, uControl provides dispatch capabilities for police and fire emergency personnel from UL-licensed monitoring centers.

Customers who choose uControl are sent a uControl Link, equipment that is easily self-installed onto the existing alarm control panel in the home. The one-time uControl Link equipment fee is $99.95 for the Dual Connect Plan and $124.95 for the Triple Connect Plan (with the cellular radio included). The uControl Link includes broadband Ethernet and WiFi interfaces.

The uControl Link can be installed in about 20 minutes either by the customer or by a uControl technician. "Installing the uControl box to my current alarm system was super simple," says Dallas resident Lavita Jones (http://www.ucontrol.com/testimonials3.html). "The instructions were detailed, everything was color-coded and the necessary tools were provided. It was as easy as 1-2-3."

Gateway to Home Automation

Over the coming years, uControl plans to provide its customers with new home automation services, such as video cameras and thermostat and lighting controls.

"While desired by most homeowners, home automation is currently complex, confusing and expensive," Johnson says. "The uControl Link will serve as an easy-to-use central hub for future home automation services by simply adding wireless technology that is compatible with leading thermostat or lighting control equipment."

In September, uControl was selected to present its technology and service at DEMOfall (http://www.ucontrol.com/awards.html), an invitation-only showcase considered one of the world's premier forums for new products and technology innovations.

"uControl is making a smart entry into the home automation market by riding the coattails of the home security alarm services installed in some 26 million homes in America," says Chris Shipley, DEMO executive producer. "The company provides a superior service at a better price, while giving homeowners more control over their home monitoring system."