Abstract: A surface-mount touch panel cradle is disclosed for use in electrically controlling remote components. The surface-mount touch panel cradle comprises a surface mounted receptacle. A cradle frame can be coupled to the receptacle. A frame biasing mechanism can be configured to move the cradle frame away from the information mount to enable the touch panel to be inserted and removed from the receptacle. An electrical connection can be located within the receptacle. The electrical connection can be configured to be electrically coupled to the touch panel.

Abstract: A system and method for security monitoring by a trusted neighbor is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system allows a security monitor in a first building to communicate with a building automation network in a second building to enable monitoring of a security sensor in the second building.

Abstract: A switching device is provided having an air-gap switch for an electrical load. The switching device can include a switch keycap configured for controlling the switching of the electrical load. A faceplate can be configured to surround the switch keycap. In addition, an air-gap actuator can be contained substantially within the switch keycap. The air-gap actuator can be pulled from the switch keycap to short out an electrical connection to the electrical load.

Abstract: A system for remotely controlling an electrical switching device is disclosed. The system includes a mounting fixture configured to be mounted in a wall. An electrical switching device is supported by the mounting fixture. The system also includes a cover configured to cover at least a portion of the mounting fixture. The system further includes a shielding plate configured to have a high electrical conductivity. The shielding plate is mounted proximate to the mounting fixture between the cover and the electrical switching device. The system also includes a directional, non-isotropic radio frequency (RF) antenna sized to fit within the cover and configured to transmit RF frequency signals. The RF antenna is located between the shielding plate and the cover at a predetermined distance from the shielding plate. The predetermined distance is selected to increase the capability of the RF antenna to send and receive the RF signals.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for mounting a faceplate. The system includes a sub-plate configured to be coupled to a junction box. The sub-plate can have an interference-fit socket extending through the sub-plate. The interference-fit socket includes one or more interference fingers located adjacent to a post opening. A post extending from the faceplate can be positioned and sized such that, as the faceplate is coupled to the sub-plate, the post will be received into the post opening in the interference-fit socket and engaged by the one or more interference fingers, enabling the faceplate to be securely mounted to the sub-plate.