Nice/Nortek Control has released its Software Upgrade 8.7 for ELAN Control Systems, shepherding the latest control technology and broader integration to deliver the convenience and personalisation that homeowners want.

Topping the list of many major new features and enhancements, new Direct Control functionality, Bluetooth player capability, an entirely new subcategory of utility products integration, and the first-ever integration with the 2GIG EDGE Security Panel make this update significant for both integrators and end users of ELAN products.

With these and multiple other new features, integrators can provide their customers with an even more compelling and intuitive all-in-one solution with simplified integration for security, control, entertainment and comfort. The 8.7 Software adds complete control to important lifestyle aspects of today, such as home security, wellness, and home integrity (i.e., water leak detection) components without additional hardware.

The new Direct Control feature allows ELAN Remote Controls to communicate natively with an ELAN Controller, rather than using the home WiFi, for instant connections even in environments where home networks may be challenging. The new Bluetooth player instantly turns every ELAN Touch Panel into a Bluetooth receiver, eliminating the need for any external receiver. Anyone in the home, whether family members or guests, can connect their smart phone through an ELAN Touch Panel to play their own music through the whole home audio system.

This Software Upgrade also provides extensive new integration with popular home wellness and security products for an easier to design, install, and enjoy total control solution. For example, a new subcategory for popular utility products, such as power management and conditioning, air quality, and leak detection, has been added to bring more visibility to the wellness of the home for homeowners.

Further, setting the standard for security and control from a single platform, the 8.7 Software is the first to deliver seamless integration with the 2GIG EDGE Security Panel.

Nice/Nortek Control vice president of marketing and education, Richard Pugnier, says: “Our 8.7 Software substantially extends the strong capabilities of the ELAN System, making smart home integration even easier while addressing the ever-evolving interests of today’s homeowners. From our transparent, streaming music connection between smartphones and ELAN Touch Panels, to premium security integration, to monitoring for home health, this software upgrade emphasises the power and timeless value of an ELAN Control System and gives integrators expanded opportunities for success.”

Nice/Nortek Control vice president of ELAN product management, Jeff Shaw, adds: “In addition to these upgrades, we included many more of our dealers’ most requested features, making this software release one of the most comprehensive Software releases we have brought to market to date. For example, ELAN Intercom now leverages native mobile phone integration so users will never miss a call, support for KNX RGBW lighting has been added, plus exciting new live layer themes and much more. We invite our integrators to check out the full list of new capabilities in our management cloud to offer their customers the most relevant, easy-to-use control offerings bar none.”

Some of the specific requested utility solution offerings include ELAN Control Systems integration with the 2GIG EDGE panel, Moen Flo and Phyn water leak detection, TED energy-efficiency monitoring, and Broan/Nutone Overture indoor air quality control.

Combined, these new additions further advance Nice/Nortek Control initiatives to be ‘Stronger Together’ and help integrators create healthier, safer homes and better smart home experiences for homeowners.