CaraControl: the mobile internet of things

Nowadays you can control almost everything that switches remotely. From lighting and heating to the alarm or the contents of the gas bottles. This can increasingly be read and set with an app from the manufacturer. CaraControl adds a lot to this. With this network for campers you avoid a tangle of apps on your phone, everything and more can be centrally controlled or read with a single app, even when you are not near your camper.

CaraControl, which of course has nothing to do with dentistry, is a product of Leisure Telematics. A developer and producer of innovative telematics systems. Mainly aimed at the automotive and maritime industries. In 2008, the first product was a FuelTrack system to remotely monitor data such as engine hours, fuel level or malfunctions. FuelTrack became a commercial success, which led to the CaraControl unit in 2016. A universal smart home solution designed to be used in almost any camper, new or older.

Everything under control

Lighting, heating, air conditioning, hot water, batteries, alarm systems, gas detectors or the contents of the gas bottles, the list is endless. With the CaraControl app you can remotely control and monitor all these systems in a caravan or camper. For example, you can switch the lighting on and off, but also dim it. And set the thermostat of the boiler, heater or air conditioning to the desired setting. It's nice to enter an ideal living environment when you return from a hike.

You can also read information about the status of the solar panels, battery voltage and the level of the tanks on the app. Draining a service battery is therefore not easy. CaraControl itself is not responsible for a battery voltage that is too low. With approximately 50 milliamps of power consumption, the system has minimal impact on the household battery. Nearby, communication takes place via Bluetooth, if you are not near the camper, the connection is established via the LTE-M network.

LTE-M stands for long term evolution for machines. It is one of the technologies that enables long-distance data traffic between devices and the internet at low energy consumption. The advantages of LTE-M are that it is suitable for a variety of mobile and voice applications. It is energy efficient, batteries last more than 5 years. And with a greater range in buildings than standard telephone connections, this network provides better reception than comparable long-distance networks.

Handy extras

CaraControl offers a few useful extras, such as a leveling assistant that shows you whether everything is level. Or an integrated GPS tracker with which the bed for the night can always be found, even after a pleasant evening elsewhere. With the complete package, a security system is also installed, the CaraControl can monitor up to 16 wireless door and window sensors. When the alarm goes off, you will receive a push message. That alarm is also a 120 decibel siren to deter thieves or to wake you up to this disaster. A Keyless-Go card makes it easy to use. This 'Welcome Home function' automatically switches on the security system and lighting when the map detects that you are within a certain radius of the camper. No need to fuss with codes.

Wireless gas measuring system

A gas measuring system is also possible. This provides an accurate content measurement of two gas bottles, the type of gas bottle does not matter. An optional gas measuring path indicates the contents of the bottle. But an unexpected gas leak is also registered. When a gas sensor is installed, the system can automatically detect this and switch on the air extraction.

Compatible with new construction and retro-fit

In the newer caravans and campers, some devices can already be controlled via their own factory app. CaraControl also includes this in the household network so that one clear dashboard is created. The central box communicates via a cable or with infrared, like the TV remote control. It does not affect the operation of the connected devices and, importantly, it does not affect any manufacturer's warranties. As a universal application, CaraControl is suitable for every caravan or camper and for all equipment installed therein.

You can purchase the CaraControl set directly from Leisure Telematics in Rotterdam or from affiliated dealers who can also provide installation. The starter package costs € 665.- Because it is a modular system, you can always expand it further. The CaraControl app is available for free for iOS and Android.

More information, online sales and dealer addresses: Leisure Telematics