Can someone give me the lowdown on the current state of home automation?

[veiovis]

I did some research and came across products like smartthings which seems to be great but also pretty limited and almost nothing compatible is available in my area (asia).

What decent alternatives are out there right now? I build a house and would love to have a basic security system and home automation system in one. Best if I can control it via an Android app...

I guess I ask for too much right now?

 

[vi edit]

Z Wave is the current rage. You can buy Z wave controllers and then start converting switches/outlets over to compatible devices. It's an open standard so they are supposed to be universally supported. It will do cameras, switches, window sensors, ect and all appear to be fairly easy to install/program.

 

[Midwayman]

Look up micasaverde viera 3 //lite. Its a zwave/ insteon(with plug in) controller with no monthly fee. Most branded automation systems you see in HD/Lowe are either built on zwave or insteon. Zwave being the most common. You can get a standard home security system and interface it to a viera. (specific system, check their forum). Most people who want door/window contract sensors and motion sensors go this route as the sensors are far cheaper and more reliable than the zwave specific ones. And yes, there are a bunch of apps that allow you to control it remotely. I have my front door setup with an automated lock that can take a pic when its accessed and text me a notification so I know when the dog walker etc stops by. Also can remotely unlock if the wife locks herself out, etc.

 

[vbuggy]

I guess it depends on budget, how hands on you want to get and what you want to control. I just wanted it to work so I brought the integrators in, and my home's entirely Crestron. Pretty much everything that is worth controlling is done through an iPad app that they customised for me (I hired the graphic designer to do it though, their guy was not great).

Control4's another system I considered which may be more within the reach of your average guy who doesn't want to fiddle with everything - it's again integrator-installed and there is only limited scope for the user to futz with stuff, but again it's pretty hands off and 'just works'.