Home Automation. What to use?

[Rick Sanchez]

Hi Guys,

Now that my convert to VoIP project is coming to an end, home automation is next on my list!

I need something simple to integrate and use, something that isn't going to disappear within the next five years and is cost effective. Also has to be easy install/dismantle for when I move from my flat to somewhere else.

I really like Smart things as it seems to integrate into just about everything but of course it is not available in the United Kingdom.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects...-world-smarter

I want to automate everything, I'd love the flat to be voice controlled with voice responses. I also want to integrate energy efficiency into the home automation system.

It would be great if I could automate locking/unlocking anopening/closing my doors and windows as well.

Any and all feedback is greatly appreciated. I'm aiming to have most of my project completed by the end of March.

[DJ OD]

I'm very much part of the tinfoil hat crew, so I would advise that you get and use a decent firewall (hardware?) first to protect your home network and thus automation.

Things can be hacked quite easily these days, wifi included if not secured properly. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-25780908

Putting your faith in automated and remote door locking in my mind poses a risk. One that is greatly reduced if you nail the windows shut manually...


DJ OD

[Rick Sanchez]

Bearing in mind that I have VM internet only, what hardware firewall would you all advise?

[Mr.James]

You're really worried someone could hack the door/window locks to your house to gain entry?

If someone wants to break in, they're not gonna invest the time and effort trying to hack the locks when any house brick will open a window far quicker.


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[Rick Sanchez]

Worried? No, not really although I'd rather prevent some bloke watching me bash one out lol

[Geko]

although I'd rather prevent some bloke watching me bash one out

Not for free anyway.

[wadgey]

Take a look at automatedhome.co.uk. I'm prepping for z-wave integrated/controlled using a Comfort alarm system.

If you want the voice stuff, look out for Homeseer.

[Fon]

Your need something running on a server, and most cost money..

I use Fhem, its mostly in german so takes a bit of learning, but its free.

After you have found what you want to use as a server, then find out what hardware it supports and go buy that shit,

Fon

[Rick Sanchez]

I've been a member of automated home since 2008 I think, I have a few posts/topics over there

Do you think the Smart things platform is based on Z-wave but has a smoother main hub and software.

[Rick Sanchez]

After a lot research I am certain that the Smart Things system is based on Z wave with a fancy GUI. So I have decided to go with Z wave.

Any suggestion on the best place to purchase a kit?

[wadgey]

I was looking at some z-wave switches but have now decided to go for the fibaro modules so I can use my own nicer looking switches. I'm looking at buying from Vesternet.

[Rick Sanchez]

fibaro uses z-wave doesn't?

[wadgey]

fibaro uses z-wave doesn't?

Yes, it's z-wave based.

[Rick Sanchez]

OK. Where is the best place to buy Z-wave ?

[pete252]

Vesternet are a good supplier - can't fault them so far. Bought a few things from them and the tech advice was superb.

Not into z-wave yet but it seems like the way to go. Just a bit too expensive for me at the mo and I am having fun using lightwave RF and domoticz for my home automation .

Pete

[Rick Sanchez]

Thanks Pete I'll check it out. I am trying to work out how to control vertical blinds and then the ordering begins!

[darthpaul]

I have been looking into Z-Wave for a little while too and now Fibaro have launched a Home Center Lite I am very tempted to take the plunge. http://www.automatedhome.co.uk/hardw...ontroller.html

[Rick Sanchez]

I am looking at using my Raspberry Pi with either the RazBerry addon (Can custom build a GUI interface) or Z wave, Aeon Labs Z-Wave Z-Stick Series 2 USB Dongle (extremely easy to add devices).

Price difference is around a fiver

[Rick Sanchez]

What did you guys use in the end?

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[Rick Sanchez]

I'm probably going to create a Bluetooth system

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