Part 4/7:
While the concept of the Clapper is simple, its technical execution has a convoluted history. The initial design struggled with over-sensitivity, leading to frequent false triggers. This created frustrating experiences for users, notably when connected to devices that made their own sounds, such as televisions. The original model often switched itself on and off, risking damage to both itself and the appliances it controlled.
In response to these issues, Joseph Enterprises enlisted engineer Carlile R. Stevens, who improved the Clapper’s technology. The revised version, the Smart Clapper, launched in 1987. With smarter circuitry capable of differentiating between noise durations and distinctly recognizing clap sequences, it provided a more reliable user experience.