An apparatus for providing an interface between a home-network and a external network and remotely managing the home-device connected to the home-network. The probe includes a sensor unit with two fixed electrodes, preferably a large outer electrode surrounding a small inner electrode which are approximately co-planar, thereby protecting the small inner electrode from an uneven topography. In use, the lamp standard can be installed within a heating, ventilation, or air conditioning system to minimize airborne andor surface microorganism contaminants. A lock can be locked to prevent, or unlocked to enable, separation of the portions.