Superna Q&A

Mar 15, 2006 CEPro.com: What is Superna planning on showing/debuting at EHX Spring?

Mundt: We will be showing off many of our Superna solutions. For instance, we will have live demonstrations of ConfigNet, our home automation, control, and media management software suite that requires absolutely no programming. These demonstrations will also include various configurations of our ControlBox, multiple touch panels, and other CE devices that, because of our standards-based platform, can be seamlessly controlled. We'll also show off that we're about more than just automation and control by streaming digital media, including HD video up to 1080i, over a standard home network.
In addition, we're going to debut a few new members of our ControlBox family as well as the latest version of our ConfigNet software suite which includes new support for our partners like Global Cach?, Z-Wave, and others and integration with Microsoft's Media Center Edition.

CEPro.com: Where does Superna see the future of home automation?

Mundt: We envision a stronger connection between CE devices, home systems, and computers. This will come about partly because of the continuation of the already present trend toward open standards. Standardization allows products from wildly disparate manufacturers to interoperate seamlessly and brings about a market where decisions are made on what is the most appropriate product for a customer and not limited by what products they've purchased before.

Another promising trend is how many new players are entering the market with products geared towards simplicity and affordability. We think that's great because, after all, shouldn't a smart home be all about simplicity in the end?
These trends obviously create a greater freedom of choice for the customer regarding what products they would like to use in their homes with regards to functionality and price points. Smart home a la carte, if you will.

CEPro.com: What are Superna's plans for 2006?

Mundt: 2006 is shaping up to be a great year for Superna. We are expanding as a company and also extending the Superna platform. We have new products in the pipeline that offer more options to both installers and consumers. In addition, we are working with old and new partners to offer support for as many products as possible.
Along with all that will come the continued expansion of our distribution platform as well as our customer training. We're very excited about what's in store for this year.

CEPro.com: What does Superna think about "convergence" -- the word, whether it's happening, where it will take the industry, etc.?

Mundt: Superna IS convergence.
The word itself is quite descriptive. It encapsulates many of the trends we've described, which are leading towards making products work together. Also, IP networks are used for more than just sharing broadband; the media space is combining with media networking; UPnP, Z-Wave, Insteon, and others are all converging on control. It all demonstrates some pretty exciting indications for the future of digital home systems.
At the end of the day, people will not be locked into one solution from one manufacturer but rather will have access to a best of breed solution. This will also result in lower costs and usher in the era of truly affordable home automation.
Convergence is definitely starting to happen now and will just become bigger in the near future.