LIFX Showcases ‘Smart Bulbs’ With Infrared Setting for Security Cameras
Maker of ‘smart’ lamps LIFX introduces two new products that can emit infrared light. Although invisible to the human eye, it can be picked up by security cameras, which improves its operation.
The two new bulbs are the LIFX Z and the LIFX +. The LIFX + is a conventional lamp that will be available in the form of a ball lamp and a reflector lamp. These can be set to infrared, and to sixteen million colors. The ‘regular’ LIFX + can be supplied with an E26, E27 and B22 fitting, but the reflector lamp version does not specify what type of fitting it will have. Both variants have a brightness of 1100 lumens and a consumption of 11 watts. The color temperature can vary from 2500 to 9000 degrees Kelvin. The ball lamp is only suitable for indoor use, while the reflector lamp can also be installed outdoors.
LIFX’s second new product is the LIFX Z, a two-meter LED strip that is divided into eight different zones. The color of the light, including infrared, can be controlled per zone, with a maximum brightness of 1400 lumens in total, a consumption of 17 watts and the same color temperature range as the LIFX +: 2500 to 9000 degrees Kelvin. The Z can also be extended with additional one meter strips. Each meter can add a brightness of 700 lumens. The Z is for indoor use.
The fact that these are so-called smart lamps means that they can easily be connected to a Wi-Fi network and can then be controlled remotely via an app, which the manufacturer makes available for both iOS and Android. There is also Ifttt support. A good signal strength is therefore required for reliable operation of the lamps. The lights currently only support wireless networks on 2.4GHz frequencies, which can be problematic for users in densely populated areas.
Prices in euros are not yet known. Both LIFX + variants cost $ 79.99 each, converted 72 euros. When packages with several lamps are purchased, this results in a cheaper price per lamp. The LIFX Z costs $89.99, or 81 euros. Extensions for the Z cost 29.99 dollars per meter: 27 euros. According to the website, pre-orders are possible immediately and the first copies will ship in November. The shipping costs are converted to 18 euros, regardless of what is ordered and how much.