Smart Home & Home Automation discussion thread

[Kaido]

Hunter SIMPLEconnect fan controller:

http://www.hunterfan.com/SIMPLEconnect

* Supports single & groups of fans
* Schedule ability (calendar, sleep timer, vacation mode for security)
* Fan light control (including dimming)
* Works with all major brands of pull-chain fans
* Bluetooth receiver with smartphone apps (iPhone & Android)
* Handheld remote control

Product marketing video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9h8EZODpUM

Installation tutorial videos:

https://www.youtube.com/user/HunterFanCo/videos

$90 on Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Hunter-Fan-Company-99107-SimpleConnect/dp/B00UQOP2JO/

Upcoming $35 fan controller: (one base can control multiple fans, within an 80' range)

http://www.hunterfan.com/Accessories/Controls/Hunter-3-spd-Receiver

Unfortunately, the system appears to have zero integration, so you're pretty much stuck with using it standalone (or with the handheld remote control). Seems like the perfect candidate for Wink integration with the built-in Bluetooth!

 

[Kaido]

I saw a neat new product at Home Depot the other day: Kidde finally released their own wifi hub for smoke & CO2 alarms. What's interesting is that it doesn't require a smart alarm to work, or even a Kidde-branded version - it has a microphone that listens to any UL-listed smoke & carbon monoxide alarm and then relays that to your iOS or Android-based phone or tablet, which is really cool because you can use your existing alarms instead of a $49 Kidde "smart" version (like the one that works with Wink). $99 at Home Depot:

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Kidde-RemoteLync-Home-Monitoring-Device-21026465/205843011

Press release:

http://www.kidde.com/home-safety/en...rs_homeowners_simple__smart_connectivity.aspx

Official website:

https://remotelync.kidde.com/

It's called RemoteLync & plugs into a standard 120V outlet. Hooks up via Wifi. Design looks like it's from the 80's, but hey, it's all about functionality right? I do like that it works with pretty much any alarm out there...you can get models that have a sealed 10-year battery, or ones with emergency lights or nightlights, or ones that have a loud voice that speaks the alerts. Kidde themselves sells a 6-pack of hardwired alarms with battery backups for like $55, which is only like five bucks more than I paid for a single smart alarm from them that integrated with my Wink Hub, so that's pretty cool! Also from their FAQ:

https://remotelync.kidde.com/setup.php

When an alarm triggers the device, RemoteLync app can notify an entire network, including neighbors and family, or call 911 directly.

 

[Kaido]

New Dropcam:

http://www.engadget.com/2015/06/17/nest-cam/

It borrows heavily from Dropcam, a recent Nest acquisition, but has a thinner profile. The new camera shoots 1080p video, is slimmer than the Dropcam and has a new magnetic base with a tripod mount. It also sports better night vision with eight built-in infrared LEDs and improved algorithms. Like its predecessor, the Nest Cam and companion service includes live video streams to mobile devices and a CDR (Cloud video Recording) service that records up to 30 days of footage via Nest Aware. The camera is available for order today for $199. It will ship next week. The Nest Aware subscription will cost $10 a month.

New Nest Protect:

http://www.engadget.com/2015/06/17/nest-second-gen-protect/

Nest has just announced a brand new Nest Protect, with improvements in both the hardware and software department. For starters, it's loaded with what Nest call a "split-spectrum sensor," which is said to be better at detecting both fast-burning and slow-spreading fires than the photoelectric smoke detector the first-gen Protect uses. Also, you can now test the device's speaker and horn from within the companion app, as well as silence the smart smoke detector's screams from your smartphone when you burn your dinner.

Furthermore, the new Protect has a longer lifespan than the previous generation: Nest says it'll last ten years as opposed to the predecessor's seven. In terms of aesthetics, the new Protect is 11 percent smaller, curvier and allegedly easier to mount on walls and ceilings. It also has a brighter "Pathlight," an LED ring that lights up when the Protect detects you passing by. Like the first-gen Protect, the refreshed version is launching with a $99 price tag (£89 in the UK). It's available to order from today, with shipping starting next month.

Nice! I use these in budget server room installs...check the cam & fire alarms from your phone. Personally not sold on using cloud cameras for home use (security concerns...thanks Snowden :awe.

 

[Kaido]

Lenovo Think Mirror:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfDIAlu3-oI

Smart mirror with gestures & other goodies (camera, air sensors, fitness stats tracker, etc.). I need some of these in my house!

 

[Kaido]

Nest now works with Sen.se:

http://www.digitaltrends.com/home/sense-works-with-nest/

Basically smart, automatic temperature adjustments based on your routine & movements.

 

[Binky]

Crazy awesome thread! I've peeked in here a few times and it's always amazing how much you've accumulated in one spot.

As if you don't have enough, I have a few suggestions for additions.

Garage door automation and monitoring: Linear GD00Z-4 Z-Wave Garage Door Opener - this includes both a tilt sensor the open/close functionality. I haven't been able to get wife-approval yet myself, but the amazon reviews are good. I'm hesitant to spend $30+ on a tilt sensor, when you can get the full automation package for <$90.

Sprinklers - I think opensprinkler should be in the list. They have a pre-built version for $150, or you can get the Raspberry pi version and assemble it yourself for a little less (I have the Pi version). Software is all open source and they are improving it all the time. The current system includes a very good phone app, automatic weather adjustments, automatic rain delays, and it can even enforce the "California rules" where I'm not legally allowed to water within 48 hours of rainfall. It's a solid system that costs less than the full commercial systems and the community is very active. If you're a tinkerer, the developers also seem willing to help with other adaptations of the unit for other irrigation or automation tasks.

Gadget heaven - mysensors.org. This is a DIY system based on arduino micro-controllers. Want temperature monitoring, or water/flood warnings, or humidity monitoring, or...any sensor really, you can build it with this system and connect it to your existing home automation system (e.g. Vera, OpenHAB, Homeseer, etc.). The real usefulness of this system, in my opinion, is using the sensor data to do other things. Want to monitor temps in various rooms to open close AC vents based on temp differences? No problem, and each sensor will only cost you ~$12, but you have to assemble them yourself. Want to monitor basement or bathroom humidity to automatically flip a fan switch - no problem, and again it will only cost you ~$12 for the sensor parts.

 

[Kaido]

Freescale unveils tiny Single Chip Modules for Internet of Things:

http://liliputing.com/2015/06/freescale-unveils-tiny-single-chip-modules-for-internet-of-things.html

The first product in the lineup is the i.MX 6Dual SCM which features a dual-core Freescale i.MX6 processor, an integrated power management circuit, flash memory, and embedded firmware as well as security tech for cryptography and tamper prevention.

Freescale says the i.MX 6Dual will be available in August with additional products to follow. The platform supports Android and Linux operating systems.

Doesn't sound like networking is included, so this could probably be slapped into everything from Zwave to Zigbee products. Also: Freescale gives Kinetis MCU IoT connectivity:

http://www.electronicsweekly.com/ne...e-gives-kinetis-mcu-iot-connectivity-2015-06/

The BLE stack is planned to support the upcoming Bluetooth Smart Mesh networking protocol.

The KW40Z MCU family also includes an 802.15.4 MAC layer as the foundation for ZigBee 3.0 and the highly anticipated Thread IP-based mesh networking protocol.

All stacks support over-the-air firmware updates

Nice!!

 

[Kaido]

Another neat home energy monitor is being crowdfunded:

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/curb-power-your-life-smarter/#/story

It's called Curb:

http://energycurb.com/

Some more info:

http://www.eetimes.com/document.asp?doc_id=1326939

Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPgM-BU_Rhs

 

[Kaido]

Nice article on some current communication standards over at Tom's Hardware: ZigBee, Z-Wave, Thread and WeMo: What's the Difference?

http://www.tomsguide.com/us/smart-home-wireless-network-primer,news-21085.html

More new standards are coming out all the time:

http://www.eetimes.com/author.asp?section_id=36&doc_id=1326911

Including one from Google called Brillo:

http://www.theregister.co.uk/2015/05/28/google_iot_platform/

Good article on it here:

http://www.fiercewireless.com/tech/...t-another-fragment-internet-things/2015-06-01

 

[Kaido]

Crazy awesome thread! I've peeked in here a few times and it's always amazing how much you've accumulated in one spot.

As if you don't have enough, I have a few suggestions for additions.

Garage door automation and monitoring: Linear GD00Z-4 Z-Wave Garage Door Opener - this includes both a tilt sensor the open/close functionality. I haven't been able to get wife-approval yet myself, but the amazon reviews are good. I'm hesitant to spend $30+ on a tilt sensor, when you can get the full automation package for <$90.

Sprinklers - I think opensprinkler should be in the list. They have a pre-built version for $150, or you can get the Raspberry pi version and assemble it yourself for a little less (I have the Pi version). Software is all open source and they are improving it all the time. The current system includes a very good phone app, automatic weather adjustments, automatic rain delays, and it can even enforce the "California rules" where I'm not legally allowed to water within 48 hours of rainfall. It's a solid system that costs less than the full commercial systems and the community is very active. If you're a tinkerer, the developers also seem willing to help with other adaptations of the unit for other irrigation or automation tasks.

Gadget heaven - mysensors.org. This is a DIY system based on arduino micro-controllers. Want temperature monitoring, or water/flood warnings, or humidity monitoring, or...any sensor really, you can build it with this system and connect it to your existing home automation system (e.g. Vera, OpenHAB, Homeseer, etc.). The real usefulness of this system, in my opinion, is using the sensor data to do other things. Want to monitor temps in various rooms to open close AC vents based on temp differences? No problem, and each sensor will only cost you ~$12, but you have to assemble them yourself. Want to monitor basement or bathroom humidity to automatically flip a fan switch - no problem, and again it will only cost you ~$12 for the sensor parts.

Thanks! I am working on porting the OP data over to my wiki, as it is easier to manage in the WYSIWYG editor on PBworks. Lots of standards & equipment being rolled out & finalized this year & next year, so we're going to see a lot of growth over the next few years in terms of what's available and what you can do. Great time to get into it!

 

[aruncheela]

Nest now works with Sen.se:

http://www.digitaltrends.com/home/sense-works-with-nest/

Basically smart, automatic temperature adjustments based on your routine & movements.

I am using SmartSense Temp/Humidity Sensor from smarthings to monitor temperature in all my rooms.Also, other household items like electronics,clothes,furniture which are vulnerable to extreme humidity levels from temperature,can be controlled with SmartSence temp from SmartThings.

 

[Kaido]

Roost Battery:

http://www.smartroost.net/

Available for pre-order on Amazon: (ships September 1st)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ZWQHVP4/

It's basically a smart 9V battery that connects to wifi, so it can turn a regular smoke alarm into a smart one. You can put it in a hardwired or battery-only alarm, and if the alarm is battery-only, you can also remotely silence it via the smartphone app. It alerts you when the battery is low as well, so it doesn't just chirp endlessly. It can also send you (and family & neighbors) alerts when the alarm goes off. Works on iPhone & Android. This is the easiest & cheapest solution to adding some smarts to your alarm. They say the battery lasts 5 years; not sure if that's how long the battery lasts or the overall usable life of the battery. A bit more reading:

http://liliputing.com/2015/06/roost-less-permanent-solution-smart-smoke-alarm.html

Pricing:

* Single 9V battery for $35
* 2-pack discounted to $65
* Replacement lithium batteries are $15

 

[lazybedone]

thanks for the information.. I totally agree... very nice.

 

[Kaido]

Amazon is offering Echo voice tech to other manufacturers:

http://www.engadget.com/2015/06/25/amazon-echo-sdk-alexa-fund/

 

[Eddies]

Hi, I've seen this product. It is a smart plug make you manage your power cost.

http://www.slideshare.net/H3Platform/application-scenarios-of-familyasyst-app

 

[Kaido]

Hi, I've seen this product. It is a smart plug make you manage your power cost.

http://www.slideshare.net/H3Platform/application-scenarios-of-familyasyst-app

Do you know if this is available in America? It appears to be a product from Taiwan. I found their app on the Android Play store:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tisc.aiplug.familyasyst

It also appears to be available on eBay for $55 shipped:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/FamilyAsyst-AiPlug-The-Wi-Fi-Smart-Plug-/161487545702

 

[Eddies]

Do you know if this is available in America? It appears to be a product from Taiwan. I found their app on the Android Play store:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tisc.aiplug.familyasyst

It also appears to be available on eBay for $55 shipped:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/FamilyAsyst-AiPlug-The-Wi-Fi-Smart-Plug-/161487545702

Sorry, I have no idea about whether they will sell this to America. Just feel it's related to this thread and share it here.

BTW, I just found out that they want to combine the function of the smart plug with some appliances, like the air purifier. http://www.slideshare.net/H3Platform/application-case-of-familyasystsmart-air-purifier
https://youtu.be/cI-ggXk6lII

 

[Kaido]

Looks like Target is jumping into selling IoT gear:

http://www.engadget.com/2015/07/11/target-iot-open-house/

Also discovered another seemingly cloud-based service called Yonomi from that article:

http://yonomi.co/

 

[axis.life]

Hello everybody, I just wanted to get some feedback on a new product that I am currently working on. I have been working with a new start-up based in Toronto, Canada that is developing a new Smarthome product that essentially motorizes existing blinds, allowing you to control and schedule your blinds via Bluetooth on your mobile device.

While the product is in development, you can take a look at its concept at http://axis.life/gear/.

I just wanted to share the concept with you and to hear your thoughts/feelings and any suggestions about the product.

All feedback is warmly welcomed!

 

[zebrablinds]

Amoung aluminium blind and wood blind which one is more reliable and cost effective?

 

[zebrablinds]

Wood looks superb and classy but cost compared to aluminium it is more, both are reliable.

 

[Kaido]

Build a simple home security system using Raspberry Pi:

http://liliputing.com/2015/08/build-a-simple-home-security-system-using-raspberry-pi.html

In detail:

http://www.techradar.com/us/news/computing/how-to-guard-your-home-with-the-raspberry-pi-1301336/1

The Liliputing also mentions a couple of inexpensive turnkey DIY home security systems:

Skylink

iSmartAlarm

 

[Kaido]

Hello everybody, I just wanted to get some feedback on a new product that I am currently working on. I have been working with a new start-up based in Toronto, Canada that is developing a new Smarthome product that essentially motorizes existing blinds, allowing you to control and schedule your blinds via Bluetooth on your mobile device.

While the product is in development, you can take a look at its concept at http://axis.life/gear/.

I just wanted to share the concept with you and to hear your thoughts/feelings and any suggestions about the product.

All feedback is warmly welcomed!

Very nice! So you just attach an existing pull-string & go? That's awesome! Do you have an ETA? For anyone interested, they have a video up:

https://vimeo.com/133374894

As far as feedback goes, I'd either (1) make sure the Bluetooth interfaces with a hub like Wink, or (2) either switch to Wifi or go with something like Zwave/Zigbee & a central controller. From what I understand with Somfy RTS, they have their own radios that then talks to a middleman controller for all of the blinds, which can then interface with other systems. Philips has the same deal with their Hue bulbs. That way you wouldn't have to be home for the Bluetooth to work. Or do the devices store scheduling information locally once programmed via Bluetooth?

 

[Kaido]

Amoung aluminium blind and wood blind which one is more reliable and cost effective?

Wood looks superb and classy but cost compared to aluminium it is more, both are reliable.

Depends on the build quality. There are cheap wood blinds & there are $30-per-square-foot wood blinds. From a quick online price scan, it appears that aluminum is the cheaper option. All depends on the product line you go with. The cost is higher if you want them to be motorized & automated, of course.

 

[CAL7]

The outrageous prices Somfy charges (good for them!) because they have no competition has left a huge hole, aka opportunity, for a budget solution. This looks good, and there are some others that give me hope 2016 will bring some affordable solutions.