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Investors Open Wallets For Chester County 'Smart Home' Software Company

By KYW tech editor Ian Bush

MALVERN, Pa. (CBS) - The 'smart home' is a buzzword that's getting more meat on its bones, as Internet-connected appliances become cheaper and easier to use.

One Malvern company is making a name for itself in the booming market, and investors are taking note.

Don't worry if Zonoff isn't on your radar, says CEO Mike Harris:

"We're a behind-the-scenes company powering big brands."

A software maker for the likes of Staples and its Connect home automation product:

"Everything from connected light switches and light bulbs to thermostats and door locks to sensors and cameras," says Harris. "We're the software that's behind the scenes."

On the hub that manages those devices, and on the phone and tablet apps that give you control.

Investors have just injected nearly $32 million into Zonoff, appreciating that the Chester County company is not in the competitive hardware business.

"Most of that money will go into growing our tremendously talented team here in the Philadelphia area and deliver more products to more partners," Harris says.

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