News

Xantech Introduces the ISM4 Intelligent System Manager to Keep Home Theater Systems Running (3/7/2008)

CEDIA UK Expo 2008

Xantech invents a way to outsmart 'human error' in today's sophisticated AV entertainment systems. The new 'Intelligent Systems Manager' is designed to prevent system catastrophes when casual users start pushing buttons.

Today's home theater systems are so complex that even turning them OFF incorrectly can disrupt settings. Xantech's new 'ISM4' Intelligent Systems Manager is an ideal back-up to eliminate the "human error" problem. It manages the power states of the components in a home theater system so that in the event of an un-programmed intervention, (such as a visitor turning off a TV screen at the unit itself) all of the video sources will remain coordinated and fully-functional.

"While it might seem unfair to describe this product as a 'granny guard,' we engineered the 'ISM4' for just that scenario: when the non-technical person attempts to access and use a high-tech entertainment system, which often results in a catastrophe," notes Xantech President Graham Hallett. "The potential for this device is almost unlimited because I believe that every installer will want one of these units in almost every job they do. The 'ISM4' delivers peace-of-mind for a very small price, reducing time-consuming and costly service call-backs. It belongs in any home where a complex audio/video entertainment system converges with family, children, spouses, and visitors because it brings real-world operational simplicity to leading-edge A/V components."

The 'ISM4' is designed for easy installation: just 'point and shoot' any IR remote controls from the equipment to be controlled, and the device learns their codes. No PC programming is required. Once programmed, the unit can sense the MASTER SOURCE so that if it is switched ON the 'ISM4' will automatically turn on all other sources connected. If the master source is turned OFF the 'ISM4' will make sure all sources turn OFF and stay OFF. If a unit is turned OFF when it is supposed to be on, the 'ISM4' will automatically turn the unit back on. Moreover, the 'ISM4' constantly checks the power status of all units every 30 seconds. Keeping with the need to conserve energy, the unit also conserves power by keeping all units OFF when system is turned OFF.

The 'ISM 4' will be available the end of June at a retail price of $350.

www.xantech.com