Introduction - Universal Devices ISY-994i Series User Manual

1 Introduction

Thank you for purchasing a Universal Devices, Inc. ISY Series device. The ISY provides
central control of home automation devices in a residence and is designed to play the role of
home automation device controller in any domestic UPnP network.
When properly accessorized, automation devices controlled by the ISY include: INSTEON
lighting devices, ZigBee devices, Z-Wave devices, X10 lighting and power devices, relays,
fans, curtain sweeps, thermostats, motion sensors, intruder alarms, power consumption
monitors and many others. ISY interfaces securely to both wireless and wire line local area
networks and the internet. Controlled systems can be managed via a browser interface
from any smartphone or other internet browser from any location with internet access.
The user guide concentrates on INSTEON functionality in it's examples. Depending on your
device's options INSTEON may or may not be installed, however examples are
interchangeable with other devices and protocols.
With the ISY, you can:
 Program, configure and manage your INSTEON, Z-Wave and X10 devices
 Automate your home using sophisticated timers, triggers, and macros
 Conserve energy in your home
 Remotely control your home using the ISY's web interface
 And, MUCH more!
This User Guide will help you install and configure your ISY and will provide links to
additional resources that you may find helpful. Please read through this guide before
beginning installation.
1.1 Lighting and Power Overview
In order to make the most of the capabilities of the ISY, the user will find that a basic
understanding of the devices to be controlled is helpful. This section contains a review of the
salient characteristics of the types of device that the ISY can control.
When lights or power outlets are automated, the devices involved will almost always use Z-
Wave, INSTEON, or X10 protocols. Such devices include light switches, power sockets, wired
and remote controllers and IR receivers. Although INSTEON or X10 protocols can coexist in the
same device (often referred to as dual-band), the way each of the protocols operates is quite
different. The ISY controls both together so they can form a managed lighting solution that is
simple to operate and easy to enhance.
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