This is the second post in a three part series pertaining to user interfaces. The first post we covered the modern day all in one remote that Robert Adler first patent more then 50 years ago. Now, we are are going to explore AV keypads. A couple questions we are going to cover are practical places to use an AV keypad, practical devices that they can control, and considerations of wireless vs. wired keypads.
First of all, let me state that you can use a keypad in pretty much any room to control any device you wish. However, the most practical applications for these user interfaces are in rooms that have multiple lighting scenes and multiple environmental controls like fans and motorized shading. From time to time, we may spec a job with a client and they request to control all AV from a wireless handheld device, so they can walk around the house with it. This is fine, but not including keypads for functionality in each room can become more of a headache for a client who has a family, kids, and plans on entertaining guests from time to time.
Many automation manufacturers, like Crestron offer wireless and wired keypads. So, what’s better and why? The answer is pretty easy. If you want your system to work 100% of the time and operate at the quickest response time, then wired is the way to go. There are just too many variables when it comes to wireless keypads. In a homes network, there are a number of wirelss signals flying from place to place. By adding 20 to 100 wireless keypads depending on the scope of the project, the network can become more open to failure. Even if the wireless keypads do work once installed, you may need to add another wireless device at some point in your home, and it could create inference with the existing keypads. When that happens, you will wonder why all of a sudden the keypads stopped working. The next thing you will do is call your integrator to come and trouble shoot the problem.
We integrate a lot of Crestron systems, so for that reason our keypad of choice as of today May of 2011 is the Cameo keypad pictured above. They are slim, well designed, and most importantly they work.
Key Takeaways: Wired keypads add redundancy, reliability, and ease of use for your family and guests.