Tips for beginners
Technologies " smart home" allow you to control almost everything today. Some things, such as, for example, devices for turning lights on/off on command, are simple and inexpensive, others, for example, video surveillance systems, require more significant investments. Until recently, systems Smart Home attracted exclusively rich eccentrics, today it is, as they say, mainstream, i.e. devices familiar to many. And the development of these technologies, which received a powerful impetus due to the widespread use of broadband mobile Internet, is moving very quickly, it is not for nothing that electronic giants such as Apple, Google and Samsung entered this market one after another.
Naturally, complex and extensive systems that control everything in and around the house, which you access through a smartphone or tablet, are on sale and, if you have enough money, you can install them yourself. At the same time, today almost every company involved in home devices and systems, or security systems, wants a piece of the market pie home automation and begin to produce remotely controlled products. But so far, unfortunately, there are no systems that could unite all devices, regardless of who produces them and on what principle they work. Maybe Apple or Google will make us happy?
However, let's look at what can already be used. And first of all, we will understand why this is necessary.
Why do I need a smart home?
Automation makes your life easier and better in your home or apartment, moreover, it saves time and money. Here are a few reasons to start creating your smart home.
- Automation improves efficiency. This applies to efficiency individual systems in your home and to the efficiency of the entire household. For example, because your automation system can control multiple devices, you can turn off your thermostats and turn off your lights with the touch of a button when you decide to go on vacation. You won't have to worry about forgetting to do something.
- Automation saves you money. Only smart control lighting, heating, ventilation or air conditioning can reduce energy costs by 15-20%, according to automation system developers. For owners of their own homes, this also includes the opportunity to use non-standard heating or cooling systems, which also dramatically reduces electricity costs and allows them to quickly recoup their investments in a smart home.
- Automation is convenient. Ability to control many electronic devices(lights, heating, audio/video, curtains and doors, locks, security systems, etc.) using one touch device on the wall or just a smartphone - this alone makes you think about home automation.
- Automation creates comfort. The ability to actively control the various electronic elements of your home provides comfort in which the environment around you - from installing lighting to turning on the stereo - begins to obey you.
- Automation provides peace of mind. A home device control system allows you to avoid problems that may arise due to forgetfulness or inability. From anywhere you can check whether everything is normal in your home and, if necessary, make corrections using your smartphone.
Smart home technologies
Before you start buying smart home devices, let's understand a little about the technologies that are used in these devices. There are several different communication standards or protocols that these devices use to communicate with each other and the management controllers. Some devices are connected by wire, some by wireless, and some use both. Be sure to check what protocol the device uses before purchasing it so that all your purchases are compatible with each other.
X10. This is the oldest of the home automation protocols, which appeared back in the 70s of the last century (sounds terrible, but this is only about 40 years ago, and not during the time of Sherlock Holmes and the activities of the People's Will). Now it is used for both wired and wireless communications. X10 is not characterized by insane speed or ultra-reliable communication between devices in a home automation network, however, this standard has long been debugged and many still prefer to use X10.
ZigBee. This is another name for the IEEE 802.15.4 wireless standard, which is used by a group of manufacturers that make up the ZigBee Alliance. The main advantage of this standard is that it creates a mesh network in which most devices have equal rights and communicate with each other on equal terms. A mesh network offers increased reliability and resilience. When one of the nodes stops functioning, the other nodes continue to work, connecting to each other directly or through other intermediate nodes. In addition, this connection consumes very little power.
Z-Wave. Another wireless protocol belonging to one company - a chip manufacturer, including for smart home systems Sigma Design.
Insteon. This is perhaps the best protocol that combines a power line communication protocol with a wireless protocol. Both work as a mesh network. All nodes in the Insteon network are equal and can communicate with each other. If one node fails, communication goes through others. The protocol developer is Smartlabs. The protocol is compatible with X10.
WiFi. This network protocol is now used not only by computer systems. Very fast, works well. And it is not surprising that some manufacturers began to make products for the “smart home” that take advantage of the advantages of this protocol. Other protocols consume less power and use less bandwidth, but WiFi's capabilities are much greater.
HAI. This is the protocol used for professional installations worth more than $50 thousand. We will leave it aside for now.
Planning a smart home
Before you rush out to buy those interesting devices which we will describe below, you need to plan everything in advance and decide on your goals. To do this you need to create short list of your actions.
- Determine the phases of system installation. Smart home devices make life better, but if you decide to immediately install large-scale devices, then after a while you may decide that you were in vain. Break the process down into stages, make sure all the devices you have installed on at this stage, work, and only then proceed to the next stage. The more detailed you draw the installation diagram, the easier your life will be when carrying out the work.
- Select a control system. For example, Activehome for X10 is an easy-to-use solution, but with somewhat limited functionality. Or Powerhome is good choice, but difficult to master. Some systems allow you to use voice control, but they are not very friendly with the Russian language. Selected solutions allow remote access to control.
- Install the computer that controls the system. This computer needs to run 24/7, so choose a location where it won't disturb anyone. Install the software, connect the X10 controller (or other standard of your choice).
- Install home automation devices and modules. The number and list of devices and control modules depends on your plan. There are many of them, we will not dwell on specific devices here, for example, if you use X10, then to control, say, garage doors can be used universal module. There are modules for lamps, or wall switches, most of them are very easy to connect. We will talk about some devices below.
Define your goals. Do you want to control your home by phone and check the bathroom temperature from anywhere on the planet, or are you a little more modest in your desires? Write in detail what you ideally want to receive. The right approach- starting small, but knowing what you want to get in the end is a key factor in the successful completion of the project. Try to figure out what will be most useful to you. Start with the security system, for example. Or here are a few other examples.
Vacation system. Press one button on the keyboard and the heating will be turned off, the security system will be in the “On” mode, and the lights will turn on in the evening in a certain order to simulate the presence of people at home. Or a mode in which, in the event of a call front door, an image of the caller is sent to your phone, and you get the opportunity to have a two-way conversation with him. And you can decide whether to remotely open the door for him (and then lock it after he leaves).
Choose a standard for home automation. In principle, you can use any one. The main thing is to decide in order to select necessary devices. X10 and Insteon dominate now. Both are uncomplicated, the X10 is somewhat cheaper, and the Insteon can handle a lot of data.
And a couple of comments.
- To save electricity, use additional sensors, which will allow, for example, the system to automatically turn off the lights when you leave the room.
- Where possible, use wired switch-type modules rather than plug-in modules. This will allow you to control lights and devices without using a smart home control system if, God forbid, something in it breaks.
- Keep in mind that automation requires understanding what you're doing, especially when you're dealing with electricity. Wrong actions may be dangerous for you.
Devices for "smart home"
Statistics say that the most popular home automation project is creating a security system. The creation of home theaters and home music control systems is in second place, followed by light and energy management. Then comes the integration of several systems with each other.
Nest Learning Thermostat
The Nest thermostat (owned by Google) not only controls the temperature in your home, but also decorates it. Its design was created by the man who developed Apple's iPod. He works in WiFi networks and you can control the temperature remotely using your smartphone or computer. It is not very cheap, but it will not be superfluous in any “smart home”. In addition, Nest has an open interface, which will allow new devices to be connected to it in the future, as Google promises.
Honeywell Wireless Thermostat
Honeywell wireless thermostat
This is another WiFi thermostat from Honeywell, which has been making home devices for decades and its line of thermostats offers a variety of connectivity options.
The thermostat has a color touch screen And software, capable of learning user habits, and can also monitor internal and external conditions to optimize the performance of heating and cooling systems. Thermostat settings can be preset on a schedule, or entered directly via touch screen, computer or mobile device. The screen displays room and outside temperature, humidity value, as well as local weather forecast. In addition, several versions of this device can be controlled by voice.
Insteon
Insteon home automation system
Insteon is having a lot good reviews a home automation system that uses both electrical wiring and a wireless channel for communications. Insteon combines dual-lane and mesh technologies to create a fast, reliable network that's compatible with everything from thermostats to home theater systems.
The Insteon Starter Kit includes a hub and one module - a dimmer for adjusting the light. The hub connects the entire system to the Internet (via a home router) and works with a mobile application that allows you to control the system from anywhere, program timers and your own “scripts,” and also monitor the system status. The hub can also send email and text messages when sensors in the home are triggered. According to the manufacturers, Insteon offers everything from light switches and motion sensors to garage door openers, night vision cameras, water leak sensors and more.
Kevo Smart Deadbolt
If you can open your car without keys, why can't you do the same with your house or apartment? One option is Kwikset's Kevo Smart Deadbolt. deadbolt lock with a touch ring on the outside and a smart mechanism based on Bluetooth 4.0 on the inside. Kevo uses several methods to open: key fob, iPhone with the Kevo app, touching said ring with your finger, and a password word to open. However, according to user reviews, the application does not work very well yet.
Belkin WeMo
Belkin WeMo. Smart plug
This is an easy-to-install device that can be a great start to creating a smart home and can start working within minutes of installation. Belkin WiFi powered outlets allow you to remotely turn on or off your connected appliances. electrical network through them. Belkin has released several more very convenient devices- this is, for example, a WeMo Home Light Switch, a motion sensor that allows you to activate devices plugged into a WeMo socket, and a video nanny with WiFi access. All this is controlled through mobile application based on iOS or Android.
Philips Hue lighting system
Philips Hue lighting system
Hue is a lighting system consisting of lamps, light strips and a wireless bridge that are controlled via an iOS app. According to the company, "each HUE lamp has 600 lumens luminous flux and can produce all variants white light, from warm to cold, as well as various options colored light. Each lamp uses 80% less energy than a traditional lamp." The light can be infinitely dimmed, faded in and out, and its color can be adjusted, all from anywhere you can access the Internet. Plus, the app contains a number of "recipes" from experts to help you concentrate or relax better. Hue is compatible with a range of other smart home devices, including Belkin MeMo switches.
How much can you trust a smart home?
An important question: what is the reliability of such systems that combine many “smart” devices, how confident can you be that after you command it through your smartphone to close the front door, the lock will actually lock? Does such a system have “fool protection”?
All systems in the house, such as light, heating and security, are subsystems of a single automation system. The advantage of this system is that it provides very reliable control and integration of all subsystems. Moreover, almost always when the automation system fails, the subsystems continue to work. This will only create some inconvenience for you. For example, you won't be able to turn off 20 lights at once with the press of a button, but you can still do it individually and in the normal way.
Note that the smart home system uses feedback with its subsystems and receives a signal if something goes wrong. At the same time, a message is sent to the user’s phone and he can decide what to do in this case.
Automation is increasingly being introduced into daily life modern people. And if earlier the pinnacle of progress could be considered automated production, then now even everyday life, an apartment or private house, you can quite simply radically improve it by introducing the “smart home” concept there. After all, today “smart home” systems are designed not only to optimize energy costs, but, first of all, to make a person’s life more comfortable. The capabilities of modern smart home systems will be discussed in our article.
To combine home cinema, lighting control, water supply, video surveillance system, climate control, power supply and access control, gas supply and multiroom into one system - this is the task that the smart home system solves today. Let's go through each of the points sequentially, consider what they can do modern systems automation in relation to our everyday life.
Climate control
The microclimate of public and residential premises greatly affects our performance, and our health in general. Indoor air conditions vary depending on operating modes climate control technology. Heating and ventilation equipment, lighting equipment, and other devices - all of this together has a certain overall effect on human body, for well-being, for health in the end. And the technology is becoming more and more complex.
Automated systems not only allow us to quickly monitor and manage all this equipment, but ultimately take care of our health. Using sensors, the current state of air in the room is monitored, and control panels adjust the operating modes of air conditioners and supply ventilation, and heating. That is, the climate is adjusted automatically to the person’s requirements, which are specified by preliminary settings.
So climate control allows the following. Air quality control depending on the weather outside and the time of day. Timely ventilation of rooms by controlling heating and opening windows.
Control of heated floor operation. Maintenance optimal temperatures and humidity individually in each room. For example, a food storage room requires its own special climate, which differs from the climate in the living room or kitchen, etc.
Control of temperature, humidity, inflow intensity fresh air, air purification system and ozonation. In each room, the conditions should be different, most suitable for each family member, taking into account the place in the house where this room is located: some to the north, some to the south - and the control in each case will be individual.
Drafts are not allowed in the nursery, the bedroom should be warmer, the floor in the bathroom should be heated on time, and there is no need to keep it warm all the time. That is, the control is optimal so that the energy saving effect also takes place.
The setting varies according to the lifestyle of the family or group. On weekends, the heat supply to work areas is reduced or turned off.
Autonomous heating system country house— on the contrary, it turns on on weekends. The boiler is turned on remotely or switched to economy mode, etc. Everything is rationalized to combine efficiency and comfort of life. This especially applies to water supply, electricity supply and heat supply.
Entertainment
It’s been a long time since you’ve surprised anyone with a home theater. But manage from different places sound and video, as well as stereo systems located throughout the apartment - these functions are implemented using the “smart home” system.
Home theater connected to automated system, and the entire complex of multimedia equipment, together with auxiliary devices, is harmoniously integrated into the apartment. There can be several audio and video sources, and they can be multi-channel: speaker systems, receivers, plasma panels, projectors - everything is controlled directly or remotely from anywhere in the room.
You can watch movies and shows, listen to music in all rooms or just a few, program a scenario and activate it with one button touchpad or from the remote control. The script program can be entered into individual conditions: blinds close, light goes out or becomes less intense, turns on plasma panel, the projector extends, the player starts.
Script programs can be edited, adjusted in time for automatic start, set related settings for watching movies, for example, turn on the air conditioner near the place where the home theater is installed if the weather is hot.
The “multiroom” function is exactly the function that allows you to hear sound or watch video in several independent areas of the apartment. It becomes possible to adjust the volume from any room, each of which has push-button or touch, wall or tabletop control panels, and also has remote controls.
What could be a more expressive sign of the intelligence of a smart home system than smart lighting control? Lighting in a smart home is truly smart and therefore economical. Electricity resources in an apartment, house or office are used as economically as possible, without unnecessary waste.
The advantage of an automated lighting control system is that, based on data from external and external lighting sensors, as well as timers, it allows you to turn on and off the light of the desired brightness and only where it is really necessary. In addition, they open up wide scope for creativity. In addition, the option to simulate the presence of hosts is available.
The modern “smart home” system is a complex of technologies for comfort, safety and efficiency. Stability is ensured by integration in the event of a centralized power supply failure, so that the electronics remain operational at all times.
Batteries and inverters, chargers and liquid fuel generators are installed in the system and software integrated. In the event of a power outage, the system will automatically switch to a backup source; in extreme cases, the batteries will remain powered by security systems and the most important equipment.
Automated security system
The smart home system includes, as part, security and fire alarm and video surveillance, so that both the owners’ stay in the house and their absence would be safe for both the house and the owners themselves. A video intercom and a perimeter security system can be installed here to protect against uninvited guests.
As for security in general, the “smart home” system can provide: protection from short circuits in electrical wiring, protection against water leaks, protection against gas leaks, by triggering a smoke sensor and turning on an autonomous fire extinguishing system, autonomous power supply, alarm, automatic call to rescue service.
Thus, a “smart home” will protect itself and its owners from any dangerous situations, because the system can include: automated gates and doors, automatic security shutters, a video surveillance system, security alarm, presence sensors, smoke sensors, gas leaks, etc.
Controlling access to the premises, video surveillance of adjacent areas, turning on floodlights when penetrating the perimeter are three more pluses in the treasury of advantages. Through the Internet, the owner will be able to remotely receive a picture from any of the cameras of the video surveillance system, this also includes the video baby monitor function.
Video surveillance as such
Intelligent video surveillance is one of the main components modern "smart houses". Video cameras connect to the Internet and allow you to access them from anywhere globe.
The owner can be abroad, while quickly monitoring any of the zones, and the video cameras here can be controlled. For example, controllable cameras are usually equipped with gates, courtyards, nearby buildings, and areas near apartment doors. The operation of the video camera can be interfaced with a motion sensor, and signals can be sent to the control center.
The Internet and satellite television networks, as the main sources of information, are conveniently integrated into smart home systems today. While inside the house, the owner can receive information and send it to various rooms, on TVs and monitors. This also applies to the transmission of information received from video surveillance systems. Thanks to the multiroom function, all these possibilities open up. Of course, it is possible to set up remote control via the Internet if desired.
Control with mobile phone via direct voice commands and SMS is available today for owners of smart home systems. You can also set up phone call forwarding to your mobile phone if you are away from home, even if you are in another country.
If necessary, you can let guests into the house by simply sending the appropriate command from your mobile phone to your automated system. Similar opportunities can be conveniently implemented via the Internet; all you need to do is find Wi-Fi for your smartphone or laptop.
Andrey Povny
Tips for beginners
Smart home technologies make it possible to control almost everything today. Some things, such as devices for turning lights on/off on command, are simple and inexpensive, others, such as video surveillance systems, require a more significant investment. Until recently, Smart Home systems attracted exclusively rich eccentrics; today it is, as they say, mainstream, i.e. devices familiar to many. And the development of these technologies, which received a powerful impetus due to the widespread use of broadband mobile Internet, is proceeding very quickly; it is not for nothing that electronic giants such as Apple, Google and Samsung entered this market one after another.
Naturally, complex and extensive systems that control everything in and around the house, which you access through a smartphone or tablet, are on sale and, if you have enough money, you can install them yourself. At the same time, today almost every company involved in home devices and systems, or security systems, wants a piece of the home automation market pie and is starting to produce remotely controlled products. But so far, unfortunately, there are no systems that could unite all devices, regardless of who produces them and on what principle they work. Maybe Apple or Google will make us happy?
However, let's look at what can already be used. And first of all, we will understand why this is necessary.
Why do I need a smart home?
Automation makes your life easier and better in your home or apartment, moreover, it saves time and money. Here are a few reasons to start creating your smart home.
- Automation improves efficiency. This applies both to the efficiency of individual systems in your home and to the efficiency of the entire household. For example, because your automation system can control multiple devices, you can turn off your thermostats and turn off your lights with the touch of a button when you decide to go on vacation. You won't have to worry about forgetting to do something.
- Automation saves you money. Only smart control of lighting, heating, ventilation or air conditioning can reduce energy costs by 15-20%, according to automation system developers. For owners of their own homes, this also includes the opportunity to use non-standard heating or cooling systems, which also dramatically reduces electricity costs and allows them to quickly recoup their investments in a smart home.
- Automation is convenient. The ability to control many electronic devices (lights, heating, audio/video, curtains and doors, locks, security systems, etc.) using a single touch device on the wall or just a smartphone - this alone makes you think about home automation.
- Automation creates comfort. The ability to actively control the various electronic elements of your home provides comfort in which the environment around you - from installing lighting to turning on the stereo - begins to obey you.
- Automation provides peace of mind. A home device control system allows you to avoid problems that may arise due to forgetfulness or inability. From anywhere you can check whether everything is normal in your home and, if necessary, make corrections using your smartphone.
Smart home technologies
Before you start buying smart home devices, let's understand a little about the technologies that are used in these devices. There are several different communication standards or protocols that these devices use to communicate with each other and the management controllers. Some devices are connected by wire, some by wireless, and some use both. Be sure to check what protocol the device uses before purchasing it so that all your purchases are compatible with each other.
X10. This is the oldest of the home automation protocols, which appeared back in the 70s of the last century (sounds terrible, but this is only about 40 years ago, and not during the time of Sherlock Holmes and the activities of the People's Will). Now it is used for both wired and wireless communications. X10 is not characterized by insane speed or ultra-reliable communication between devices in a home automation network, however, this standard has long been debugged and many still prefer to use X10.
ZigBee. This is another name for the IEEE 802.15.4 wireless standard, which is used by a group of manufacturers that make up the ZigBee Alliance. The main advantage of this standard is that it creates a mesh network in which most devices have equal rights and communicate with each other on equal terms. A mesh network offers increased reliability and resilience. When one of the nodes stops functioning, the other nodes continue to work, connecting to each other directly or through other intermediate nodes. In addition, this connection consumes very little power.
Z-Wave. Another wireless protocol belonging to one company - a chip manufacturer, including for smart home systems Sigma Design.
Insteon. This is perhaps the best protocol that combines a power line communication protocol with a wireless protocol. Both work as a mesh network. All nodes in the Insteon network are equal and can communicate with each other. If one node fails, communication goes through others. The protocol developer is Smartlabs. The protocol is compatible with X10.
WiFi. This network protocol is now used not only by computer systems. Very fast, works well. And it is not surprising that some manufacturers began to make products for the “smart home” that take advantage of the advantages of this protocol. Other protocols consume less power and use less bandwidth, but WiFi's capabilities are much greater.
HAI. This is the protocol used in professional installations costing more than $50 thousand. We will leave it aside for now.
Planning a smart home
Before you rush to buy those interesting devices that we will describe below, you need to plan everything in advance and decide on your goals. To do this, you need to make a short list of your actions.
- Determine the phases of system installation. Smart home devices make life better, but if you decide to immediately install large-scale devices, then after a while you may decide that you were in vain. Break the process down into stages, make sure all the devices you installed at this stage are working, and only then proceed to the next stage. The more detailed you draw the installation diagram, the easier your life will be when carrying out the work.
- Select a control system. For example, Activehome for X10 is an easy-to-use solution, but with somewhat limited functionality. Or Powerhome is a good choice, but difficult to learn. Some systems allow you to use voice control, but they are not very friendly with the Russian language. Selected solutions allow remote access to control.
- Install the computer that controls the system. This computer needs to run 24/7, so choose a location where it won't disturb anyone. Install the software, connect the X10 controller (or other standard of your choice).
- Install home automation devices and modules. The number and list of devices and control modules depends on your plan. There are many of them, we will not dwell on specific devices here, for example, if you use X10, then to control, say, a garage door, you can use a universal module. There are modules for lamps, or wall switches, most of them are very easy to connect. We will talk about some devices below.
Define your goals. Do you want to control your home by phone and check the bathroom temperature from anywhere on the planet, or are you a little more modest in your desires? Write in detail what you ideally want to receive. The right approach is to start small, but knowing what you want to achieve in the end is the key to successfully completing the project. Try to figure out what will be most useful to you. Start with the security system, for example. Or here are a few other examples.
Vacation system. Press one button on the keyboard and the heating will be turned off, the security system will be in the “On” mode, and the lights will turn on in the evening in a certain order to simulate the presence of people at home. Or a mode in which, if the front door rings, an image of the caller is sent to your phone, and you get the opportunity to have a two-way conversation with him. And you can decide whether to remotely open the door for him (and then lock it after he leaves).
Choose a standard for home automation. In principle, you can use any one. The main thing is to decide in order to select the right devices. X10 and Insteon dominate now. Both are uncomplicated, the X10 is somewhat cheaper, and the Insteon can handle a lot of data.
And a couple of comments.
- To save electricity, use additional sensors that will allow, for example, the system to automatically turn off the lights when you leave the room.
- Where possible, use wired switch-type modules rather than plug-in modules. This will allow you to control lights and devices without using a smart home control system if, God forbid, something in it breaks.
- Keep in mind that automation requires understanding what you're doing, especially when you're dealing with electricity. Wrong actions can be dangerous for you.
Devices for "smart home"
Statistics say that the most popular home automation project is creating a security system. The creation of home theaters and home music control systems is in second place, followed by light and energy management. Then comes the integration of several systems with each other.
Nest Learning Thermostat
The Nest thermostat (owned by Google) not only controls the temperature in your home, but also decorates it. Its design was created by the man who developed Apple's iPod. It works over WiFi and you can control the temperature remotely using your smartphone or computer. It is not very cheap, but it will not be superfluous in any “smart home”. In addition, Nest has an open interface, which will allow new devices to be connected to it in the future, as Google promises.
Honeywell Wireless Thermostat
Honeywell wireless thermostat
This is another WiFi thermostat from Honeywell, which has been making home devices for decades and its line of thermostats offers a variety of connectivity options.
The thermostat has a color touch screen and software that can learn user habits and can monitor indoor and outdoor conditions to optimize the performance of heating and cooling systems. Thermostat settings can be preset on a schedule, or entered directly through a touch screen, computer or mobile device. The screen displays indoor and outdoor temperatures, humidity values, as well as the local weather forecast. In addition, several versions of this device can be controlled by voice.
Insteon
Insteon home automation system
Insteon is a well-reviewed home automation system that uses both wired and wireless communications. Insteon combines dual-lane and mesh technologies to create a fast, reliable network that's compatible with everything from thermostats to home theater systems.
The Insteon Starter Kit includes a hub and one module - a dimmer for adjusting the light. The hub connects the entire system to the Internet (via a home router) and works with a mobile application that allows you to control the system from anywhere, program timers and your own “scripts,” and also monitor the system status. The hub can also send email and text messages when sensors in the home are triggered. According to the manufacturers, Insteon offers everything from light switches and motion sensors to garage door openers, night vision cameras, water leak sensors and more.
Kevo Smart Deadbolt
If you can open your car without keys, why can't you do the same with your house or apartment? One option is Kwikset's Kevo Smart Deadbolt, a deadbolt lock with a touch-sensitive ring on the outside and a Bluetooth 4.0-powered smart mechanism on the inside. Kevo uses several methods to open: key fob, iPhone with the Kevo app, touching said ring with your finger, and a password word to open. However, according to user reviews, the application does not work very well yet.
Belkin WeMo
Belkin WeMo. Smart plug
This is an easy-to-install device that can be a great start to creating a smart home and can start working within minutes of installation. Belkin WiFi outlets allow you to remotely turn on or off appliances connected to the electrical network through them. Belkin has released several other very convenient devices - for example, the WeMo Home Light Switch, a motion sensor that allows you to activate devices plugged into a WeMo outlet, and a video nanny with WiFi access. All this is controlled through a mobile application based on iOS or Android.
Philips Hue lighting system
Philips Hue lighting system
Hue is a lighting system consisting of lamps, light strips and a wireless bridge that are controlled via an iOS app. According to the company, "Each HUE lamp has 600 lumens of light output and can produce all variations of white light, from warm to cool, as well as a variety of colored light variations. Each lamp uses 80% less energy than a traditional lamp." The light can be smoothly reduced and increased, its color can be adjusted, and all this is possible from any place where you can access the Internet. In addition, the app contains a number of "recipes" from lighting experts to help you concentrate or relax better. Hue is compatible with a range of other smart home devices, including Belkin MeMo switches.
How much can you trust a smart home?
An important question: what is the reliability of such systems that combine many “smart” devices, how confident can you be that after you command it through your smartphone to close the front door, the lock will actually lock? Does such a system have “fool protection”?
All systems in the house, such as light, heating and security, are subsystems of a single automation system. The advantage of this system is that it provides very reliable control and integration of all subsystems. Moreover, almost always when the automation system fails, the subsystems continue to work. This will only create some inconvenience for you. For example, you won't be able to turn off 20 lights at once with the press of a button, but you can still do it individually and in the normal way.
Note that the smart home system uses feedback from its subsystems and receives a signal if something goes wrong. At the same time, a message is sent to the user’s phone and he can decide what to do in this case.
04/13/2010, Tue, 18:04, Moscow time
In modern buildings there are dozens engineering systems, which are integrated into “smart” complexes. But most Russians still live in ordinary houses, whose “intelligence” is hardly a pressing need, but rather seems like a toy. Why might building automation be of interest to such consumers? What can it give, for example, in ordinary apartment, and not in a country mansion or "cool" office building?
Almost everyone is interested in safety, comfort and efficiency permanent place residence. This is important in any apartment, although they can be very different - from economy to elite class. This and different areas, and cost. This means that the requirements for facility automation will vary significantly. Although the cost of complex automation projects is still subjectively high, it is worth remembering how much the first conventional PCs or cell phones, and look at these “miracles” of technology now. Prices have decreased tenfold.
It is important to understand that equipment, even in our high-tech age, without mass production, cannot be cheap. In addition, let's not forget that the main thing in building automation is services for users. Below are four examples of such services.
Switch - "turn everything off"
This function can be considered mandatory business card home automation. It allows, for example, when leaving an apartment (house), to turn off all unnecessary electricity consumers: lamps, electrical sockets, ventilation, etc. In addition to saving electricity, this can significantly increase fire safety dwellings.
Where should I install a button with this function? Where it is convenient for residents. There may be several such buttons. For example, by installing a button at the head of the bed, you can safely “turn everything off” at night.
Of course, you should not unplug the outlet while the refrigerator is on. It is also inadvisable to turn off electronic audio or video equipment with programmable timers, which may lose their settings when the power is turned off. It should only be noted that in modern switches Any key or button can be allocated for such a function, and the rest can be used for conventional functions of controlling lighting, curtains, etc. Note that you can program this function to any button when needed - of course, if the apartment already has an automation system. True, for this you will have to call a specialist. And with some complication of automation, you can control such a function remotely, for example, from a PDA, via the Internet - that is, as marketers like to say, from anywhere in the world. And it’s best to provide for this function from the very beginning of construction.
Leak protection
One can only envy those who did not survive the flood, when they have to throw everything and try to quickly turn off the water, then collect it in a basin or bucket, dry everything for a long time, change the parquet and negotiate with the neighbors living below on “voluntary” compensation for damage. Now there are ways to successfully prevent the consequences of such emergencies. Typically the simplest apartment system to prevent leaks, it consists of water-sensitive sensors, a controller (control unit) and two solenoid valves or ball valves with electric drives to shut off the water supply. Sensors are installed in places where water most likely and quickly accumulates when a leak occurs, and valves are mounted on outlets into the apartment from the risers - for cold and hot water.
The principle of operation of the system is simple: when water gets on the sensor, the valves automatically close and further flow of water stops. At the same time, an emergency beep. There are sensors various types, including wireless (radio). However, they do not know how to determine which water needs to be shut off - cold or hot, so usually everything is shut off. The alarm can be sent not only directly from the accident site, but also to the central panel. Or even to any point - if it is a signal via SMS. You will still have to remove the water manually and only after eliminating the causes of the accident, turn on its supply (open the valves). This is usually done with a special button.
When water enters the sensor, the valves automatically close and further water flow stops
Of course, the valves can also be connected to the “turn everything off” button, then, for example, when leaving for a few days in the country, you can protect the apartment not only from fire, but also from a possible flood.
There are several Russian manufacturers, which successfully promote such systems. But they are not found in every “smart” home. The approximate minimum cost of the set is 8000-10000 rubles. At the same time, the cost of “pure” automation in the form of a controller is 1500-2000 rubles, i.e. about 20%. The rest comes from sensors and taps.
Calling the elevator from the apartment
Probably, everyone at least once in their life had to rush and literally save every second before leaving the apartment, and then get nervous when landing, waiting for the called elevator to arrive. This is still happening even in the most super-elite and modern houses. If you call the elevator directly from the apartment, this will save time spent waiting for it.
Plant watering system
Imagine that on every windowsill where they grow indoor plants, there is automatic and compact system watering them. Thin tubes run from the common reservoir to the ground in pots, which have humidity sensors at the ends. General principle simple and clear. The soil has become dry - the required amount of water is supplied to the pot, then a pause of 2-3 days, then watering again, if required. There may be a simpler option - watering on a weekly schedule. Specialists will be able to calculate and install the required water container, which needs to be refilled once every week or two.
In addition to increasing the level of comfort, this saves time and nerves. As a rule, a woman who is already tired of the endless chores around the house. And just fill the containers with water - you can trust both your husband and son to do this.
Manufacturers do not yet offer such devices as a package. Integrators, of course, can and are ready to assemble such devices, but even at exhibitions they have not yet demonstrated this.
Vladimir Pasekov
A house that fulfills all desires is not a fantasy, but a completely feasible reality using modern intelligent automation systems. They can significantly improve the quality of life, achieve maximum comfort and safety, allowing you to feel the continuous “care” of the house for all its inhabitants.
Managing your personal space with an automation system A Smart Home is not just a set of devices that perform certain functions, but an individually created project that meets all the requirements and wishes of a particular family. At the same time, the system can be easily reprogrammed in accordance with changing conditions and the “mood” of household members, continuing to flexibly adapt to the family as a whole and each person individually.
Home automation allows you to avoid searching for remote controls for various devices, manual switching on and off of appliances, daily opening of blinds, etc. Now, there is no need to get up at night if the house becomes hot or stuffy, Smart Home will avoid this situation by installing functional system climate control. The house itself will reduce or increase the heating intensity when the temperature in the rooms deviates from the desired norm, if necessary, turn on the air conditioning and perform all other actions to maintain the most comfortable conditions.
Who is Smart Home suitable for?
An intelligent home automation system provides many benefits to its owners. Its installation is equally advisable for both active people, and for those who prefer a calm, measured life.
A smart home is perfect for all population groups:
- there are a lot of working, busy people - an automated house will take on most of the worries about its owner, opening windows in a timely manner, turning on the lights, watering the garden area, etc., even if a person lives alone, his life will become as comfortable as possible, without requiring additional time spent;
- families with small children - the intelligent system will ensure maximum safety for small household members, while freeing up a lot of time for their parents;
- people who often go on business trips, travel - home automation will create the complete illusion of the daily presence of a person, which will protect the home from the risk of theft and other similar threats, will monitor the serviceability of devices, and in case of water leaks, smoke and other problems, will send a signal to the appropriate service;
- elderly and people with limited mobility - many have relatives whose health and well-being often causes concern among friends and relatives. The Smart Home automation system will allow you to easily solve this problem. Be it old man or people who, for health reasons, find it difficult to maintain their living space in in full, an intelligent system will help with this. Thanks to various sensors, controllers and alerts, neither a switched-on burner nor a forgotten iron or open window will not become a threat. With proper programming, the House itself will do everything correctly or give a signal, warning about an unfinished action.
Everyone will be able to find their own advantages in the automated Smart Home system and configure it exactly as they see fit and most comfortable.
Features and Benefits
Buy home automation equipment important step in the right direction. Today, many large foreign and Russian manufacturers provide a wide selection of devices responsible for safety, heating, lighting, rational use of energy resources, ventilation, air humidification, etc. A variety of sensors, controllers, valves and other equipment allows you to create and configure a coherent system that will work as a single whole.
In our online store we sell automation devices from the best manufacturers. The products are reliable and have a manufacturer's warranty.
It is possible to customize intelligent system with sound and voice control, as well as with the function of solving problems in accordance with external parameters, for example, with changes in light intensity or air temperature.
The equipment is easily and quickly programmed. In the future, the owner can make his own adjustments.
The price of home automation depends on the project and, directly, on the selected equipment. If necessary, our specialists are always ready to advise you.