Represents a smart home. How to make a smart home with your own hands arduino, knx. Centralized and decentralized home management - number of modules and their operation

Represents a smart home.  How to make a smart home with your own hands arduino, knx.  Centralized and decentralized home management - number of modules and their operation
Represents a smart home. How to make a smart home with your own hands arduino, knx. Centralized and decentralized home management - number of modules and their operation

Build smart House with your own hands can be difficult for a person who does not have special education. Of course, everything can be made much easier by purchasing ready-made modules smart home. However, it is better to create the system yourself.

What is a “smart home”

Before starting work on self-creation various amenities, you need to understand what a smart home system is and what it is capable of.

A smart home cannot be characterized by two or three functions. For a shorter definition, it should be said that in such a system all communications are connected to a computer and controlled with its help. The system carefully monitors the temperature in the rooms of the house, observes and records images from video cameras. By using computer technology you can adjust the light, floor or radiator temperature, turn on various electrical appliances and much more.

The degree to which the house is equipped with various modules is determined by the connected equipment or the imagination and creative skills of the master.

Why is it better to start installing such a system in your home yourself? Because in this case, the owner himself will be able to regulate various modules, complicate and modify them. He will have in his hands the open source code of the system, which he will be able to correct at his own discretion. Ready-made modules and kits do not provide such freedom of action. They are completely dependent on the development company.

Another advantage of independent development is that the specialist will not spend a lot of money either on installing modules or on repairs. If it is delivered ready set, then any modification will be quite expensive. In addition, the kit itself will also be a significant expense.

What a smart home system can do depends largely on the imagination of its creator.

Where to start

You need to start arranging a smart home with the most basic things.

  1. You will need a computer.
  2. You will have to create a website for your home, where various functions will be reflected.
  3. You will need to install special software (programs). To do this, you will need to clarify the compatibility of the software with your computer.”
  4. Make a diagram.
  5. The first functions to be connected may be the simplest ones. You can start with a home monitoring system and indoor temperature control.

Arrangement details

  1. Installing a local server on Linux.
  2. Apache server settings.
  3. Using Linux you can organize a video surveillance system. This requires ZoneMinder.
  4. You need to create a website for a smart home using Apache.
  5. For surveillance, you can install various alarms and USB cameras. You also need to install temperature sensors and install the appropriate software.

This minimum set, from which the arrangement of a smart home can begin. Having understood the details of such operations, you can move on to more difficult things. In order to inexpensively create a full-fledged control system for various communications and equipment functions in the premises of the house, there is no need to invent anything. On the Internet you can find a lot of solutions to create comfort and coziness.

Some masters have been posting their developments for a long time and inviting users to try them out.

Creating a website for your home can seem like one of the most difficult parts. In fact ready module site can be found on the Internet today. For those who want to start developing on their own, you need to do the following.

  1. Understand PHP and learn to work with MySQL.
  2. The control system for smart home functions will be based on various scripts. They do not need to be developed, most of them are available to users. You just need to understand the installation sequence.
  3. The scripts will run regularly and update information about the system state.
  4. The JQuery library will also come in handy. With its help you can even create an excellent appearance site without studying cascading style sheets.
  5. Working with databases can be made easier if you use an engine to manage the site.

Smart home functions

The functions and possibilities of a smart home are almost limitless. Therefore, only a few of them will have to be considered.

The light can be adjusted using several devices. For example, dimmers can be installed to regulate light levels. Such devices, however, will only work in certain cases. They will not work in fluorescent lamps.

The disadvantage of dimmers is a constant light background noise.

Switches are installed in the place where light switches are usually located. With their help, the light can be turned on and off.

Appliances

Household appliances can be turned on and off using the same switches as in the case of light control.

There is no need to make all systems at home completely automatic. It's better to leave the possibility of the usual manual control. Otherwise, in case of problems, you will have to work hard.

Observation

The surveillance system can be equipped so that cameras located in the house can be monitored even from the workplace. This is not very difficult; a video camera system can be installed as the first function of a future smart home. The essence of this technology is that the signal from the cameras is transmitted to specific computer. Data from sensors and cameras can even be received on portable devices.

Along with video cameras, you can also install motion sensors. They will work on the same principle. To set up software on your computer, you just need to download the appropriate modules from open source. In order to be able to regulate and modify the code in the future, you will have to understand a little about the structure of such systems. It's easier than learning programming.

Desire and work will help you overcome obstacles in mastering the fascinating science of creating a smart home. You just need to not be afraid of the new, and over time you will even become passionate about the process.

Video

We bring to your attention the following videos on the topic of creating a smart home:

Lately, the phrase " smart House” is found more and more often, but not everyone understands what is hidden behind these words. It is quite difficult to characterize such a system, since various companies provide kits aimed at different areas. But in general, a smart home implies increased comfort, high safety and practicality. Despite high cost installation and maintenance of systems, you don’t need to be a very rich person to equip your apartment or house with everything you need.

Smart home design

First of all, you need to decide necessary functions. Companies that install such systems offer complete kits, which are usually equipped not only with everything necessary, but also with a lot of additional (and often completely useless) things. IN self-assembly The system has a certain advantage - you can install only those functions that you need. Most often, people are interested in light and heating control, door locking and alarms, and fire safety. The second one is very important point- a way to control these functions. If previously access to them was possible only through the control panel, now it is possible to remotely configure and adjust them.

Based on the requirements, you need to calculate the quantity necessary materials. This includes not only the server itself, but also controllers, wires, wi-fi. Purchasing all these important elements will certainly require investment. But the amount you spend will be much less than the cost of the finished option.

Smart home: server or computer

This question will definitely arise in front of you during the planning process. The fact is that the server will certainly require large investments than usual Personal Computer with the corresponding program. But it also has more functionality. In addition, the PC at least sometimes needs to be rebooted, which will cause a system failure. A constantly running computer fails faster, but this does not threaten the server.

Whatever you choose, you should also take care of special software for creating a smart home. You can put together several systems or use just one - it depends entirely on your needs and willingness to deal with new programs that are constantly emerging.

Security systems

Very often, the creation of such a system begins with the desire of the owner of an apartment or house to control what is happening around him. IN in the right places Video cameras are installed, the signal from which is transmitted directly to the computer. In this way, all information can be stored on the hard drive and rewritten, for example, after ten days. If you have such a desire, you can connect remote access. So, while at work, you will know exactly what is happening near your home.

Another very convenient thing- lock control. You can configure it to open or close from the control panel or smartphone. This function is very convenient, but it also has its pitfalls. Examine the lock carefully; it must be mechanically accessible. Otherwise, in the event of a power outage, you will not be able to get in or out of the house.

DIY smart home: comfort

How many times have you encountered the fact that the switch is located in an inconvenient place? I really don’t want to get out of bed to turn off the light. The smart home system solves this problem very simply. All switches in the rooms are installed special devices, allowing you to remotely control the light. If you want to change the light level, then you can’t do without dimmers. You can also smoothly regulate the operation of the lamps from the remote control or smartphone.

Professionals recommend taking care of the humidity level in your home. This function does not seem necessary to everyone, however, a correctly selected humidity level will provide you with not only healthy deep sleep, but also less dust. In addition, in rooms whose windows overlook sunny side, as well as throughout the house during operation of the heating system, the air is significantly drier than the recommended minimum.

Is it profitable?

Spending considerable amounts of money on the ability to remotely monitor the house and switch the lights may seem unjustified. But it's not just about convenience. The smart home system even allows you to control all the outlets. Forgot to turn off the iron or electric stove? No problem. You can do this remotely.

In addition, through the control panel you can set up a special schedule for some devices. For example, turning on the coffee maker at seven in the morning. Of course, you will have to add all the necessary ingredients yourself in the evening. You can also create a schedule for the air conditioner.

Such moments allow you to save electricity. The amount may seem small to you at first, but gradually it will accumulate.

The adjustment of the heating system deserves special attention. Of course, to install it you will need special temperature sensors in each room. But you can set the exact temperature for the bedroom, bathroom or living room. Plus, you won't have to waste heat. A smart home can turn off the heating immediately after you leave the house, and turn it on one to two hours before you return.

Simple amenities

If you understand that you have no desire, need or ability to create such a system, then pay attention to individual elements. For example, a controlled lock syncs directly with your smartphone. By choosing the right application, you can not only open the door with one touch of your finger, but also send special invitations to your friends. They will calmly open the door at the specified time using a message, without distracting you from cooking.

There are also special “smart” lamps that can also receive messages from your smartphone. They are not only durable, but also easy to operate, however, the cost is quite high.

Is it possible to equip a house or apartment with a full-fledged automation system, or at least make a simplified Smart Home with your own hands, without entrusting this work to specialized companies?

On the Internet you can find a great many articles on this topic: people talk about their experience of installing both the simplest combinations of the category “light by motion sensors depending on the time of day”, and more complex ones, controlled via a computer or with mobile device(for example, from an iPad). Many of these solutions are really interesting and useful in everyday life.

What do you need to build a Smart Home yourself?

  1. Electrical knowledge. Understanding of the principles of control of various electrical appliances, experience in assembling electrical panels, knowledge of safety precautions when working with electric shock. Skills reliable connection cable.
  2. Knowledge of the principles of building automation systems: types of controllers, inputs and outputs of controllers, types of signals.
  3. Programming skills for desktop or mobile operating system to create a control interface.
  4. Clear understanding of operating algorithms.
  5. Good knowledge of the equipment used.

Often a Smart Home can be found in the form of a fairly simple, but limited system, for example, monitoring water leaks, SMS notification or controlling lamps from a remote control. Such equipment exists in the form of ready-made “boxed” solutions intended for self-assembly.

We invite you to familiarize yourself with the range of ready-made solutions - “Smart Home in a Box” equipment sets that will allow you to implement the Smart Home system yourself.

The real Smart Home system is comprehensive solution, connecting all subsystems into a single network, allowing you to control the entire house from one control panel or tablet computer.

To create a system that is reliable, convenient and easy to learn, allowing owners to feel completely safe, it takes years of work in this area: competent selection of equipment, careful software development, experienced engineers and designers. A worthy alternative This battalion of specialists will receive ready-made Smart Home solutions.

The most complex work involves interfacing with third-party equipment: air conditioning, ventilation, home theater, etc.

In any case, we can always prepare a system design. The project will be completed in full accordance with the wishes and all building codes. It will include cable installation diagrams, panel diagrams and explanatory note with complete equipment specifications.

The cost of the project is low, but it will make it possible to produce everything yourself necessary work related to cable installation and assembly switchboard equipment without the risk of shorting the “phase to zero”.

Ready-made project examples can also help you with the question of how to make a smart home with your own hands.

Since our systems are built on a freely programmable industrial controller (Beckhoff, ARIES, Siemens), having knowledge in this area, a person will be able to independently perform programming, configuration and adjustment in accordance with his own wishes.

The assembly we offer based on an industrial controller and Easy Home control software for Windows, Android or iOS leaves quite a lot of room for self-configuration, as it allows you to easily change the interface, add new elements, change scenarios and associations of switches to light groups, using already established principles.

A self-implemented Smart Home system for an apartment or private residential building will certainly give the owner a huge amount of knowledge and experience, but we recommend that before building a system on a residential property, discuss with our specialist the possibilities of a future smart building, ways of their implementation and possible difficulties implementation in order to be completely confident in your abilities.

Having a house outside the city is everyone's dream. Therefore, every family, having financial capabilities, tries to purchase or build housing that would meet modern living standards. Recently, smart home projects have become extremely popular. They not only allow you to properly plan the space, but also guarantee the owners maximum comfort and convenience.

General characteristics

A “smart home” is the housing of the future, in which the operation and control of all systems is carried out automatically, providing the premises with a high level of security and all necessary conditions for accommodation. In such houses, labor costs for management are completely eliminated, since the installation temperature regime, lighting and other things are not done manually. In addition, the building is equipped with special monitors with sensors that can identify in advance potential threats to both its own systems and the residents themselves.

In the event of power outages, heating malfunctions, smoke or unauthorized entry, the unit instantly notifies the owners and independently corrects the problems.

The main advantage of a smart home is that it flexible systems controls allow you to significantly save energy costs, since in the absence of residents all devices are turned on economy mode. Thanks to the built-in programs, such an installation will regularly carry out all the instructions of the owners, often predicting them independently. Therefore, we can say that after installing such an innovation, a “non-staff butler” appears in the home. The only downside to the installation is high price, but it justifies itself over time.

Kinds

To make a country house as comfortable as possible, many owners install a “smart home” system, which helps not only save energy resources, but also precious time by automatically managing all communications and entertainment centers. Depending on what functions and capabilities are available in the installation, it is divided into several types.

Wired

Consists of switches, sensors and climate control devices. All equipment is controlled using a wired panel, which receives signals. It is located in the main panel and cables are supplied to it. The advantages of a wired installation include high reliability, as well as high click speed. After pressing the button, the program starts without delay, which saves residents from long waits, scenarios when correct installation do not “freeze”. In addition, the control elements are characterized beautiful design. They are usually equipped with smart switches and a variety of integration systems.

Thanks to a wired smart home, it is much easier to adjust the temperature in the rooms, as well as control the video and audio rooms. He serves long term, since the devices do not contain batteries that require constant replacement. In this case, fireproof and low-current switches are used. In order for the system to work reliably, before installing it, it is necessary to select the location of the panel in advance and route the cables there.

If a country house is built of wood, then the owners need to first coordinate the project and prepare a place for electrical wiring.

It is also recommended to install a wired device during home renovation, when the wiring has not yet been done according to the classical scheme. This will be difficult to do in a finished building. For installation, they usually use a large shield measuring up to 60 cm in width and up to 150 cm in height. Installation work is best carried out using experienced specialists, since the equipment is expensive and the slightest mistake can lead to whole line troubles.

Wireless

Unlike the previous version, in this system the actuator signal is transmitted to operating devices not via wiring, but via a dedicated radio channel. This allows you to significantly save on electrical wiring and installation. Such installations can be placed in houses with completed renovation and the usual scheme wiring. Due to the fact that each switch is “wireless”, it becomes possible to set different lighting effects, pre-programming the function keys. Installation of these systems does not require project preparation, therefore they are ideal for wooden buildings, and its price is quite affordable.

A wireless “smart home” powered by a radio channel directly depends on the quality of communication, so various interference from phones and electrical appliances can negatively affect its functionality. In addition, the quality of radio communication also depends on building material walls, and if the wiring is too scattered along the walls, the signal level will be minimal. In the case when the system is controlled by batteries, they should be changed regularly, otherwise at the most inopportune moment something may not work.

Some wireless systems consist of radio equipment that is powered by alternating electricity, so they need to be laid neutral wire. To avoid problems with the installation of such an installation, it is recommended to immediately lay an additional neutral wire under the switch. They put it in a box. The disadvantage of the device is that it is difficult to establish stable functionality in it, since in the house you will have to manage not only floor heating and lighting. In addition, the security of the installation is low and “hackers”, using an external communication signal, can quickly disable it.

Centralized

Its operating principle is based on programming modes that come from a single logic module. As a rule, the device is represented by a controller having many outputs. The controller is preloaded unique program, responsible for managing communication systems and actuators. Thanks to such technologies, it is possible to use a huge selection of complex scenarios and any equipment. The advantages of the device include the ability to control in one window, create complex tasks, taking into account the condition of the home owners, the time of day and the lunar cycle. In addition, it is possible to connect any type of equipment to the system.

As for the shortcomings, they also exist. First of all, such a centralized “smart home” completely depends on the human factor, because it works according to a program written by a programmer, and if contact with him is lost, then the entire system will need to be completely reprogrammed. Secondly, during installation you should install a high-quality controller, otherwise if it fails it can stop the entire system. Thirdly, it is high cost.

Decentralized

The operation of a “smart home” in this case is based on the use of a microprocessor with a non-volatile board. Therefore, these systems are considered the most reliable and if even one equipment malfunctions, the entire system will fully continue to function. The installation is easy to maintain, and if there is a need to create a new script, then an additional logical block is simply used for this. Today, you can find many decentralized systems on sale that differ in functionality and design.

Unlike previous versions, when installing the installation, many devices are placed in the panel, so it is recommended to give preference to well-tested manufacturers, otherwise in the future you may encounter their failure.

Necessary equipment

Before installing a smart home system in your country home, you need to create correct project and purchase all the necessary devices.

Depending on personal preferences, the equipment set may vary, but the minimum set should consist of:

  • sensory system;
  • adjustments with which equipment and lighting will be turned on and off;
  • monitors where video surveillance will take place;
  • alarms;
  • controller;
  • application programs for smartphones containing the necessary gadgets;
  • cloud network channels that simplify connecting and managing devices.

How to install and configure?

Installing a “smart home” is quite accessible with your own hands, but since installation and technology require proper execution, it is best to seek help from specialists. The contractor will begin by determining the features of the object, then propose the most suitable project. After the design, an estimate will be drawn up, which will include control devices and a system diagram.

If the owner of the house is confident in his abilities and can do the installation himself, then he needs to complete the following steps.

  • Before the beginning repair work a network of cables should be laid in the housing and installed server cabinet, stands under it and close everything mounting boxes. IN technical room you need to place electrical supply equipment, a switch, and connect the automation to the modules.
  • After the renovation of the premises is completed, you can install acoustic speakers and a control system by connecting touch panels. Next, you should perform a test setup of the system.
  • The final stage will be the final setup of the equipment and testing, after which the installation is put into operation. At correct execution design and installation, the “smart home” system will begin to function effectively and fill the interior of the home with harmony and comfort. In order to reliably hide it from prying eyes, even at the stage of finishing the room you will need to skillfully hide auxiliary equipment and wiring.

From the above we can conclude that installing a “smart home” is labor-intensive, since most of the time is spent on creating a project and installing equipment. In this case, the speed of work depends on the number of installations, wall material and housing area. Typically the entire process takes up to two weeks, including script programming.

Control systems

Typically, modern city apartments and houses outside the city use purification systems, air conditioning, lighting, and also install a security alarm and video audio equipment. Therefore, by equipping their home as a “smart home”, its owners have a unique opportunity to conveniently manage this entire “orchestra”. In order for automation to occur quickly and without failures, such an installation is divided into subsystems: security, climate control, lighting, multiroom and home theater. Each of them is characterized by its own type of management.

Lighting

Groups or individual lamps can work in different mode, for this purpose they are given their own level of illumination. Control is carried out using remote controls; it is possible to remotely set illusory scenarios for the owners being in the apartment. All lighting sources are controlled by a single remote control, and you can additionally set the date, time or a specific event. The brightness of devices and automatic switching off of lamps when leaving the room are adjusted in the same way.

Climate control

This system controls devices that provide heating, air conditioning, air purification and ventilation. Thanks to the configured settings, the equipment works smoothly in the specified mode. In addition, some projects also provide remote control climate, thanks to which comfortable temperature installed before the home owners arrive. All equipment is controlled from a single remote control, where you can control the heating depending on the date, time and season. The rooms are also additionally equipped with humidity and temperature sensors, which are triggered at a certain time and regulate the climate.

Home cinema and multiroom

This system includes not only players and TVs, but also related equipment: curtains, blinds and lighting. Thanks to well-organized work, the room creates a special atmosphere for watching films. Control can be either voice or automated by pressing buttons on the remote control.

Safety system

It is a unique multifunctional device that is remotely controlled and quickly responds to various alarm situations, including fire safety, alarms and disruption of communications. Fire and security alarm work automatically and turn on immediately after the owners of the house leave. It can be controlled using either cell phone, and the remote control. You can remotely receive signals about gas leaks, water leaks and burglaries. Information is instantly sent to your mobile phone or computer.

The smart home device is ideal for both country house, dachas, and for apartments. Since the system is expensive and its installation is not easy, homeowners who want to install it themselves will be helped by expert recommendations to avoid mistakes.

  • You cannot use equipment that does not match the style of the room. Equipment of different designs will spoil the interior of the room, because it is ugly when the panels in the room are arranged in a chaotic order and differ in color from decorative finishing walls For example, a plastic white intercom is inappropriate on a wall with a dark surface. Therefore, even at the design stage, it is necessary to pay attention to such points Special attention and purchase suitable keypads and panels. In addition, the devices must be additionally masked with special plates or frames that blend harmoniously with the rest of the interior elements.
  • Installation is also not considered a very good idea. large quantity control panels on one wall. For example, floor heating thermostat, climate control, installed simultaneously, remote multiroom and a switch will not only complicate the control of the equipment, but will also look cumbersome. As a result, a “smart home,” on the contrary, will complicate life and will not make it comfortable. Therefore, to prevent this, you should try to place a minimum of devices on the walls, giving preference only to sockets, switches and touch panels. As for setting the temperature in the rooms, it is usually done once per season, so control panels can only be installed in important rooms.
  • Many homeowners prefer to install a “smart home” only with wireless control. Certainly, modern life designed in such a way that every person cannot live without a tablet or mobile phone. But if you completely rely on this control method, you may find yourself in a risk zone and lose control over the devices if your smartphone breaks down or the Internet goes out. Therefore, experts advise connecting wireless and wired panels at the same time.

They can be located in the same place, their service life exceeds 30 years. Mobile control is performed using a tablet or phone. In the event of a breakdown or loss of a mobile device, the system can easily be reset to stationary control. It is difficult to break and such panels do not discharge.

  • Smart home is considered complex system, in which all components must work smoothly and consistently. Therefore, purchasing equipment from different manufacturers, such harmony can be disrupted. As a result, problems with incompatibility of equipment will arise, and the installation will not only become difficult to manage, but also serious malfunctions in its operation are possible. To prevent this, it is necessary to select equipment that has the same technical characteristics and information transfer speed. It is also not recommended to use additional auxiliary software and expansion gateways or installers, they will only complicate settings and control.
  • Professionals usually build a smart home system based on a software platform and equipment from one manufacturer, whose products are well known in the market and have positive reviews. The right decision will also be the acquisition of one integration platform, which is designed for automated control of climate, lighting, security systems and fire safety and audio and video equipment. It is reliable in operation, its warranty service is up to 5 years, and most importantly, the platform ensures compatibility of all devices.
  • During the installation of a “smart home”, it is important to organize the workflow correctly, using special software applications. At the same time, it is not advisable to create separate scenarios for climate, music or light, as they will complicate control. Each brand offers programs of its own design, so if you install them all, it will be difficult to find the necessary bookmark on your desktop. In addition, to configure, you will need to constantly switch from one program to another and regularly update the software.
  • Installing one application designed for a smart home will help simplify the task. Thanks to it, you can check the mode of devices in a matter of seconds, automatically update the version and quickly find the desired section in the lists.
  • To make the installation happy comfortable conditions for living, its design is best entrusted to specialists, since the slightest inaccuracy in the diagrams can disrupt the operation of the system and damage expensive equipment.

Imagine this: you come home, and a warm dinner is already waiting for you in the kitchen, the lights are cozy in the living room, the laundry is washed and ironed, the floors are vacuumed and washed, the flowers are watered, and the pets are fed. And you didn't put any effort into it. Introduced?

This is exactly how a “smart home” works. This is a home management system engineering networks, which takes care of all daily worries and routine. For many people, Smart Home technologies still remain something fantastic and unthinkable. But experts are confident that in 20-30 years everything country cottages and city apartments will become “smart”.

Smart Home and Smart House: what is the difference

First, let's define the terms. Today, two different concepts are often confused: “smart home” and “smart building” (Smart House). And this, although close in meaning, is not quite the same thing.

  • Smart House (Smart Home)- an automated electronics complex that carries out routine household chores. For example, it can make coffee, heat up dinner, turn on the air conditioner, open the door to let a pet out, etc. Smart Home is created in one, individual household and serves the interests of a specific user/family. Let us add that in our country the concept of “smart home” also includes “multiroom” (while in the West these are two different terms). To put it simply, a multiroom system is a centralized control of all multimedia devices in your apartment: TV, computer, laptop, speaker system.
  • Smart building (Smart House) is a technology common in the United States that allows you to automate the management of a large multi-apartment residential complex. Smart House controls the operation of central water, gas, electricity, heating and security. In Russia, such technologies are still a novelty, but over time, there is no doubt, “ smart buildings"will appear in all large and small cities of our country.

So, we figured out what Smart Home is and why it should not be confused with Smart House. Now let's move on to the question: how does a “smart home” work?


How does the smart home system work?

Principle Smart work Home is built almost like in science fiction films. You give a command (“turn on the heater!”) - the system executes it (the heater is on). How exactly does all this happen? Depending on the Smart Home modification, there are two main options:

  • In the first case, “live” human participation is necessary. You must personally ask the system to perform this or that action using your voice, smartphone or remote control (whichever is more convenient for you). The user command is sent to CPU, which assigns its implementation to a specific device.
  • In the second case, direct human participation is not required. Various sensors and clocks come into play. For example, a computer makes a decision to turn on or off an air conditioner based on the readings of temperature sensors. And when a motion sensor in the apartment is triggered (during your absence), the central processor turns on the alarm. And so on. At a certain point in time, in accordance with the user settings, the system warms up the kettle and prepares coffee; switches the TV to your favorite series; waters flowers. This list can be continued for a very long time.

Thus, the Smart Home system includes three main elements:

  1. sensors that receive signals and information from environment;
  2. a central processor (hub) that processes these signals and makes decisions;
  3. executing devices (actuators) that receive instructions from the hub and directly perform tasks around the house.

Modern smart home systems allow for a wide variety of actuators. These could be smart sockets, video surveillance systems, controlled thermostats, climate control systems, smart door locks, alarm systems, robot vacuum cleaners, etc. We will tell you more about the whole variety of Smart Home devices below.


Communication: wired or wireless

All elements of the system can be connected to each other via wired or wireless communication. The use of wires may seem archaic, but it provides high level reliability. Therefore, even the most advanced industry flagships such as AMX and Evika use cable connection.

On the other hand, wireless communication via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi is much more modern, more convenient and gives more possibilities. Including increased actuator control range. Some Smart Home manufacturers offer combination solutions that combine both wired and wireless communications.