Inwion home automation system
As we have repeatedly written, software plays a significant role in home automation systems. From a technical point of view, to create a network based on sensors and executive devices today is easy. But when it comes to practical use on real tasks, and not demonstrations on the stand, this parameter comes first. It includes both system customization options and supported automation scenarios, remote management options, and other popular features. It is all the more pleasant when Russian programmers and engineers take part in the development.
Today we will get acquainted with the implementation of a home automation system offered on the local market under the Inwion brand. Its creator, the domestic company Wellink Technologies, is part of the Wellink group, which has been dealing with the subject of software and hardware systems in the field of quality management of infocommunication services for a wide range of customers for about four years. Solution " Smart House Inwion" is positioned as a ready-made "boxed" product aimed at the mass market, with simple setup and management, as well as low cost. Among the interesting features, the manufacturer notes the implementation of a cloud service for remote access, the presence mobile applications and support for email and SMS notifications. The Z-Wave protocol already known to us was chosen as the main network medium, which ensures compatibility and ease of installation.
The company offers both separate devices for creating individual automation systems, as well as ready-made kits for implementing certain scenarios, such as security or video surveillance, as well as basic kits for installation in apartments. The second option is interesting in that the user can start with it, and then expand the system as needed, acquiring additional sensors and actuators.
For testing, we were given a controller and several wireless devices. In addition to the models described below, the system is compatible with various sensors (temperature, humidity, light), remotes and other devices. In total, the company's online store catalog contains about two dozen model names. At the moment, the system does not support work with thermostats and energy consumption control devices, but work in this direction is underway.
In general, when considering the product, it is worth considering that the system software is being actively developed and many of the shortcomings and limitations noted are planned to be corrected.
Controller Inwion Home Center INW-HC1
First of all, we note that a device sample was provided for the test. In the official sales channels, the model will have a more decent appearance than in our photos. The body of the device is made of white glossy plastic and has overall dimensions of 70×110×48 mm without connections. To ensure comfortable temperature regime it has grilles for a passive cooling system. The maximum power consumption is stated at 15 watts. Note that the model has a built-in 220 V power supply, so on the one hand it simplifies installation, but on the other hand it is more demanding on environmental parameters.
On the opposite end from the power cable input are USB 2.0 ports and an RJ-45 network port (100 Mbps, with built-in indicators). The device does not support wireless connection to the network. On one of the sides there are service system connectors used only in the service when servicing the device. There are two LEDs on the top panel to indicate the current status.
The controller performs the functions of local management and maintenance of scenarios, and is also a bridge between local devices and the company's cloud service. At the moment, basic tasks can be performed without a network connection, but connection to the company's cloud is required to configure the system, serve notifications, and some other functions. According to the information from the manufacturer, the service provides for the possibility of increasing server capacity with an increase in the number of clients.
Z-Wave Adapter Aeon Labs Z-Stick Series 2
The controller unit does not have a built-in Z-Wave adapter. To implement the wireless network, the Aeon Labs Z-Stick Series 2 model is used, which is connected to a USB 2.0 port. The adapter is interesting in the presence of a built-in battery and a button on the case. These elements make it easy to connect new devices to the network - just disconnect the stick from the controller, place it next to the new device, switched to networking mode and press the button. After the adapter is installed back into the controller port, the new devices recorded in it will appear in the system management web interface.
Note that the tests involved samples operating at the European frequency, but, according to the manufacturer, it is possible to complete the devices supporting the Russian frequency range.
Socket switch Everspring AN157
Most of the devices that we will talk about in this material are produced by the Taiwanese company Everspring. Recall that we have already met with its products in previous publications on Z-Wave technology. The AN-157 is a traditional design feed-through switch. Its body is made of strong plastic. The main part is matte white, the back cover is light gray and also matte. Overall dimensions without fork are 59×36×188 mm.
On the front there is a button with a built-in red indicator. It can be used to manually control load switching and to add/exclude a device from a Z-Wave network. The maximum load switched by the relay is 3500 W (1500 W for incandescent lamps, 15×40 W for fluorescent lamps). The device does not have any additional functions (in particular, consumption measurement).
Everspring SM103 door/window sensor
The design of this sensor is also quite standard - the main unit with electronics and batteries and an external magnet. Only the dimensions are somewhat surprising - 27 × 20 × 120 mm for the main module and 14 × 15 × 45 for the magnet. Perhaps the point here is that the power is provided by three elements of the AAA format. The model is designed for indoor use.
The body of the main unit is made of white matte plastic and has a cover under which the battery compartment is located. Two holes on this cover are used to mount the device. Due to the relatively large weight, it is better to use screws or screws rather than double-sided tape. Yes, and the magnet should also be fixed more securely, especially when it comes to a frequently used door. A red indicator LED is installed in the center of the main unit.
Also under the cover you can find a block for connecting an external sensor and an internal connector of unknown purpose. The documentation mentions that you can use either a regular or external reed switch, although such a scheme seems a bit strange. We also note the presence of a dismantling sensor, which is also used to connect to the Z-Wave network. There are no additional functions in the device.
Everspring SP814 Motion Sensor
Motion sensors are also frequent guests in home automation systems. Model SP814 is interesting with the ability to change the type of lens to choose the installation location - on the wall or on the ceiling. The second option can be used with special shutters to limit the trigger zone by sectors. In addition to the device itself and two lenses, the kit includes batteries (three AA batteries), a double-sided adhesive plate and two screws with dowels.
The case is made of white glossy plastic. The overall dimensions, taking into account the lens, are approximately 85×85×48 mm. Under the lens, in addition to the main sensor, there is a light sensor and an indicator LED. On the back, under the wall mount, there is a link button. Sound indication of some events is also provided.
For wall mounting, a motion detection zone with an angle of 110 degrees and a range of 10 meters is declared. When mounted on the ceiling, you can count on a pie chart with a range of 5 meters.
Water leakage sensor Everspring ST812
In some situations, a water leak sensor may be useful. Especially if the object involves long-term autonomous operation. The kit includes batteries (2 × AA), mounts for the main unit and cable, and instructions. Model ST812 has a design with a remote sensor located on a three-meter long wire.
The main unit has overall dimensions similar to the motion sensor discussed above - 85 × 85 × 40 mm. A non-removable cable departs from it, at the end of which there is a contact group.
As in the motion sensor, an LED and a built-in tweeter are used for indication. Using a remote sensor has both pros and cons, so here you need to look at the specific requirements of the customer.
Siren Everspring SE812
Most often, sirens are installed in alarm systems (security, fire, and others). Of course, one can argue whether it is really necessary to use the wireless option, but if the installation is based on Z-Wave, then it is quite logical to have a siren with this type of connection. Model SE812 is designed for indoor installation. In addition to the sound signal, it is also equipped with a red stroboscopic indicator light.
The body is made of plastic, overall dimensions are 90×155×52 mm. Power is supplied from four elements of the LR14 format or an external DC source 6 V 600 mA. The scope of delivery includes screws and dowels for wall mounting. As with other models described above, first we put the bottom cover, and then we install the main unit on it and fix it with a screw. A pickup sensor is provided inside the housing, which can also trigger an alarm.
There is also one jumper to select the signal volume (100 or 90 dB). To connect to the Z-Wave network, there is a separate internal button. You can control the work with the network by the red LED on the front panel. Note that when using the siren for notification, the time of its actual operation is three minutes.
D-Link DCS-931L Video Camera
The system also used a D-Link DCS-931L IP camera. The device is a low cost indoor model with built-in wireless controller, VGA resolution, H.264 codec, microphone, motion and sound detection. In addition, it supports wireless repeater mode and D-Link cloud service, which allows you to access the broadcast from mobile devices. The camera package includes a power supply (5V 1A), mounting bracket and screws, flat network patch cord, documentation and software.
The camera pleases with its compact size and almost weightless. The case is made of white glossy plastic. The rear panel houses the power input, network port, reset and WPS buttons, and a couple of indicators. The easiest way to connect to a wireless network is to use WPS technology. Device settings do not differ from most similar models (except for the cloud service). Considering that this is one of the most affordable devices on the market, you should certainly not expect high quality pictures. But for home-office video surveillance with good lighting the device fits perfectly.
Installation and basic system setup
After connecting the controller to the network, you will need to create an account on a special cloud portal and register a new controller in it. You will need to provide a valid email address and other details. The service provides for the operation of several controllers under one account. In addition to the convenience of centralized management and control, the possibility of interaction between controllers for implementing complex scenarios or servicing large objects is declared. Note that the web interface of the portal is presented in Russian and English, and has a simple and fairly user-friendly design.
The second step is to add the required devices to the system. In the case of Z-Wave, the following algorithm is used - the stick is disconnected from the controller (it provides autonomous power), for convenience, you can place it next to the connected device, after which a button is pressed on it to start the process of turning on the network and similar actions are carried out with the device. By the operation of the built-in indicator, you can determine the success of the connection. Disabling Z-Wave devices is carried out in a similar way.
Devices written to the stick appear in the "Environment" section of the control system some time after it is returned to the controller port. In the future, the user can change the name of the equipment displayed in the list. There are no options for managing the parameters of Z-Wave devices (for example, changing the wake-up frequency) in the system under consideration. Note that in the support section on the company's website, you can find instructions translated into Russian for connecting various device models.
All devices are presented in a general list indicating the manufacturer, status, battery level and other information. Note that the system also provides a brief description for the equipment.
In addition to models with the Z-Wave protocol, the system allows you to work with two more types of devices - network cameras and network drives. As for the former, the manufacturer talks about the possibility of using any models with video broadcasting with MJPEG or H.264 codecs. In the list of recommended ones that the system can independently detect on the local network and offer the required settings, several D-Link models are currently listed. The camera parameters specify the name, address, links to streaming broadcasts, user name and password, location for recording the archive, and sensitivity of the motion detector. The latter in the current version of the software works on the controller, the capabilities of video cameras are not used for this function.
If we talk about the maximum number of cameras supported, the manufacturer claims support for up to 12 simultaneous recordings and broadcasts, as well as up to two cameras when using image analysis to determine motion. In this case, it is recommended to use medium video stream settings in the camera and the MJPEG codec. The image quality settings of the camera itself do not affect the format of the videos in the archive, since it is transcoded into a simpler stream with the MPEG4 (H.263) codec, reduced frames per second, a bit rate of about 512 Kbps, highlighting the motion area and overlaying the date and time . True, the latter is taken from the cloud server, so it may differ from the local one. Preview images are also recorded in the archive. The built-in motion detection system is generally not bad, but it does not have the ability to flexibly configure zones and other parameters.
When working with the camera, the user can choose the storage location for the video archive. There are certain advantages in using the company's cloud servers, for example, the archive is protected from theft, but it is required to guarantee the operability of the Internet channel.
Alternatively, you can set up a local network storage using the standard SMB protocol. The parameters specify the name, network address, shared folder, user name and password. There are no special settings for processing the video archive, only a limitation of its total volume, specified in the camera options, is provided. There can be several storages in the network, they are configured individually for each camera. There is no possibility to change this setting, you will have to delete and add the camera again. Currently, the service uses automatic deletion of records older than two weeks. There is no limit on the amount of data storage.
Using the system
Let's now look at the additional features of the portal related to the general configuration and control of the system. First of all, it is worth noting the possibility of programming several accounts in the system. Note that it is required to ensure the uniqueness of the name in the cloud service. All users are tied to the main (identified by a unique number account in the system), but in the current version of the software they are completely equal.
The profile contains a password, full name, gender, date of birth, phone number and time zone. Other than the password, all other fields are optional. Here you can also change the interface language to English, but in fact not all fields are currently translated.
The "Event Log" page contains records related to the system itself - the availability of the controller, adding and removing devices, user login to the portal. Several filters are provided for the convenience of analyzing and searching for information in the log. In addition, here you can quickly view the accompanying event photo or video files.
Note that in the upper right corner of the screen there is a special icon indicating the presence of unviewed important messages. To correctly display the time in the log, you must specify the correct time zone in the user parameters.
The video archive works in the same way. It allows you to search for records from the last week using different filters and selection criteria.
The programming of the system operation algorithms is based on the use of predefined scenarios developed by the manufacturer. The following options are supported in the current version:
- A simple scenario: transfer of executive devices to a user-defined state when a button is pressed;
- Protection against burglary / flooding / fire: sending alerts and turning on the siren when sensors are triggered;
- Surveillance scenario: send a message and record video from cameras when motion is detected or a button is pressed;
- Panic button: send alerts and record video from cameras when the button is pressed
- Lighting in the room: switching on sockets for a specified time when a signal is received from a motion sensor;
- Light dimming by brightness: adjust the brightness of the light depending on the readings of the light sensor.
When setting up scenarios, the user selects the devices that participate in it. At the same time, automatic filtering by their type is carried out. For example, for “Protection against burglary”, motion and door or window opening sensors are listed in the list of candidates.
It is allowed to use one device in several scenarios. Alerts are sent via email and SMS. Specific addresses and phone numbers are specified in the script properties, and not through the selection of user profiles. Currently, sending SMS is free of charge, from the beginning of next year it is planned to introduce payment for this operation. Once again, note that in order to send messages, the controller needs to be connected to the cloud service. Note that when the connection is lost, the corresponding messages are sent to the coordinates specified in the account properties.
Protection scenarios allow you to specify a delay in the start of monitoring sensors after the start of the scenario and a delay in sending messages after the sensors are triggered (up to two minutes with an interval of 30 seconds). It also provides for checking the status of the sensors before starting. If they are not ready (for example, the door remains open), a message is sent and the script does not start.
Programmed scenarios can be stopped or in running state. There is no interaction between scenarios. An active script cannot be deleted or edited. The ability to run a script on external events or schedule is not available in the current version of the software. So for the security functions to work, you will have to use a computer or smartphone. In addition, disabling the alarm is available to all users of the system and does not require additional passwords or PIN code.
General management of the system is carried out from the "My Home" page. Here, each user can individually customize the appearance of the control panel.
Several sections are provided for convenient grouping of tiles. In each of them, the user displays the required devices (for example, switches or sensors) and scripts. A separate group is a page with images from video cameras, where you can also select only the necessary devices.
For standalone models, the icon displays the battery status. For scenarios, there is access to the log of events associated with it and the transition to editing parameters.
In general, the scripting implementation option chosen by the developer ensures the implementation of the most popular home automation options with a focus on security, protection and alerts. Given that the manufacturer is working intensively on software development, we can expect new features and improvements to existing features. In particular, I would like more flexible scenario settings, support for schedules, user access rights and similar services familiar from other home automation products.
Remote access from mobile devices
For operational control of the system, the manufacturer suggests using proprietary software for mobile devices based on iOS and Android. When connecting, you must specify the username and password of the service user. In the iOS version of the program, a demo mode is available that allows you to familiarize yourself with the application before purchasing the product.
The smartphone screen displays the main categories from the web interface, including devices and cameras, scenarios, log and video archive. Display settings made from a computer are not used. It is worth noting that modifications for different mobile operating systems differ markedly not only in appearance, but also in functions. In particular, access to the magazine and video archive is available only on iOS, and on Android, you can change the composition of the icons displayed in groups. In addition, in the second case, we were unable to view the image from the camera.
The size of device icons and scenarios is the same, the change in the status of sensors is displayed, on iOS it is possible to view information about devices, including battery power. Scenarios include start and stop operations, as well as trigger indication various options protection
Conclusion
The attention of domestic developers and manufacturers to the segment of home and office automation can only be welcomed. Using the features of the local market allows them to create more efficient solutions for housing and communal services and other areas where hardware and software compatibility with existing equipment is required. In addition, they can take into account the wishes of Russian users and provide appropriate support. On the other hand, it would not be entirely correct to demand that the first such products comply with the world level in terms of a set of functions and capabilities.
The Inwion home automation system discussed in the article uses cloud technology, which makes it possible to simplify some elements of the system, in particular, the implementation of notification delivery and data storage. Support for the Z-wave standard helps ensure compatibility with a wide range of sensors and actuators. However, it should be noted that the current version of the software may not allow you to use some of the functions of the equipment.
The programmed scenarios provided by the developer were selected from the options most in demand in the budget segment and there are no technical difficulties in expanding their set in the product, but the user cannot do it on his own. The limited possibilities for setting script parameters are more likely due to the desire to simplify the configuration as much as possible and the young age of development, rather than the specifics of the service implementation.
During testing, we encountered some flaws in the design of the web interface and a not very clear situation with the use of the exact time in different elements of the system. There are comments on the process of setting up and configuring the system. However, with the assistance of the manufacturer's support service, all controversial issues were successfully resolved, and during subsequent operation the product proved to be quite good.
The scripts worked according to the algorithms described in the documentation. If there was no connection with the server, local actions were performed correctly (in particular, turning on the siren when a flood sensor was triggered, turning on the lamp from the motion sensor, and recording video from cameras to the network drive). When the connection was restored, events that fell into the unavailable interval were also recorded in the log. Notifications also came, but it was inconvenient that there were no timestamps in the text itself.
Note that the manufacturer currently offers instructions for the equipment on its website, as well as assistance by e-mail and phone.
The products are already on the retail market. You can buy them both in the company's online store and from partners of the company. At the time of writing, the cost of the controller was 8100 rubles, the Z-Wave adapter was offered for 3100 rubles, and the price of the main sensors and actuators was in the range of 2000-3000 rubles.
In addition to individual components, the manufacturer also offers ready-made equipment kits for solving private problems, such as security, video surveillance or a set for a one-room apartment. It is interesting that in the last version, built-in relays manufactured by Fibaro are included, which once again confirms the good compatibility of Z-Wave equipment from different manufacturers.
I would like to wish the Inwion developers success on their difficult path, as well as the implementation of unique features and services that are in demand in our market.
I already wrote here about smart houses according to the KNX standard. I will repeat here, because I think that it is necessary to study all aspects of this topic and KNX Smart Homes, although expensive, are not just the same.
There are two ways to develop smart homes
- Entertainer
- energy efficiency
In Europe, the KNX (formerly EIB) standard has received the widest distribution, today it is already 26 years old. It is supported by about 400 manufacturers of electrical installation products, almost all European manufacturers of sockets and switches. KNX is a bus technology, that is, all devices communicate with each other via cable / wire (of course, there are also radio variations, but all the value and reliability is in the wire).
It is very important that KNX is not controlled by a central server, all devices have their own microcomputer (RAM, ROM, I/O controller, etc.). However, there are also central servers, but this is not an important part of KNX, but more for information processing and super-advanced system management.
I recommend: just look at the booklets of European manufacturers with a search by title - KNX, and you will definitely see that this is a large mass of manufacturers. This is an important advantage when choosing KNX, since you are not tied to one manufacturer and you get a wide choice in design, functionality and price.
It is often not necessary to talk about the reliability of KNX devices, since KNX devices are from the category of industrial and capital ones. We build a house, install KNX and everything works until the next overhaul.
Basically, a KNX smart home consists of two main groups of devices:
- Sensors (sensors) - Inputs
- Actuators - Outputs
How inputs and outputs work. The outputs are basically relays (relay modules) and dimmers (dimmers) - they turn on the load (lamps, motors, etc.). Inputs are what create an event - buttons, switches, motion sensors, temperature sensors, air quality sensors, humidity sensors, etc.
KNX smart home can be extended with third-party visualization systems and logic modules. There is a very interesting OpenHAB project.
KNX is, however, very expensive and not many people can afford it. Perhaps this is from the category of elite. However, for those who need a smart home, and not deal with element base(similar to Arduino) they choose KNX installation. Those who are fond of KNX have been building their own houses for years. Yes, and it can be a hobby.
Here is an example of how a person built a smart home for himself according to the KNX standard. It brings comfort and efficiency. For example, climate control in buildings brings significant economic benefits and a decrease in the temperature in a building by one degree Celsius gives 6% savings in energy costs for heating.
Therefore, the KNX standard must be chosen. He is over a quarter of a century old. All electrical companies in Europe make their equipment according to this standard (from A to Z / from ABB to Zennio).
All equipment from different manufacturers is interchangeable. It will not disappear if some company goes bankrupt, there are more than 400 of them around the world. All of Europe has long been on KNX. The Germans cannot build a house without it at all.
Look for information on the web about the KNX Smart Home and study the list of manufacturers according to the KNX standard.
Everything else is about automation or semi-automation.
The comfort provided by a smart home is almost incomparable. The main capabilities of UD are the automation of lighting devices, heating complexes, many security systems and even musical equipment. It is also possible to connect various household appliances to the control system.
There are two options for turning your home into a smart home. Option number one is to independently create a project, install, combine and configure certain sensors into one complex. Such a solution has a number of disadvantages, including the need for certain knowledge and special skills, wasting your own time and personal responsibility for the operation of the system. Option two is to allow a professional firm to install equipment based on ready-made solutions.
Decide which one ready solution The following article will help you choose. All systems are ranked from cheapest to most expensive.
BroadLink
- in the presented list has the lowest price tag, but that does not make it worse. On the contrary, it has some advantages. The system is directly a control unit and a set of various sensors connected via a Wi-Fi network. Among the Broadlink control objects are present: temperature control, microclimate, musical equipment. Distinctive feature is to control all parameters via a smartphone app.
Advantages:
- The control app is available for different operating systems smartphone.
- Ease of adding new devices to the network.
- Convenient and clear functionality.
Flaws:
- Not a large number of simultaneously working devices.
- Many management features are missing. Such as video control.
smart bus
This technology was created and developed in Canada. Today it has been implemented at a large number of facilities in different countries. It features high-tech equipment and a relatively low price. In this price range, only this technology has distributed intelligence.
Advantages:
- Design. Finishing materials for panels and sensors are glass and metal.
- There is no need for a central processor, as distributed intelligence technology is used.
- Quickly installed and configured.
- It has preset home settings modes: work, guests, vacation, night.
Flaws:
- The technology appeared on the CIS market quite recently.
- A small number of companies are involved in installation and maintenance.
- Up to 64 devices can be on one network at the same time.
C bus
C-Bus is a premium solution from a major manufacturer with a worldwide reputation. “On board” this system has excellent equipment for controlling lighting devices. Among all users of the system, football stadiums, skyscrapers of world corporations and personal homes of popular people stand out. This is due to high manufacturability and huge opportunities. In expensive control systems such as C-Bus, design and software are already more expensive.
Advantages:
- Compatibility. The manufacturer develops not only software, but also hardware, which eliminates compatibility problems.
- Ability to manage an unlimited number of devices.
- It is possible to set up scene lighting for buildings.
- Availability of saving systems, such as saving electricity, saving water and gas.
- Ease of integration. C-Bus integrates seamlessly into existing building management or administration systems.
Flaws:
- It is unlikely that you will be able to install such a system on your own. In view of the difficulties.
- Expensive service.
- The high price of equipment.
Crestron
Crestron is absolutely new level. If this system is installed in an ordinary residential building, then it will turn to the full and show the full range of its capabilities, it can only be on the most expensive and demanding objects. The system is very flexible, which allows you to always find exactly the configuration that suits you completely. Crestron is a great set of integrated features and the highest performance. The high cost is justified by the capabilities of the system.
Advantages:
- Can be combined into one system various systems home management.
- control display functionality.
- The user interface can be very extensive (touch panels, keypads, consoles).
- Management of external objects in the home environment (security systems, perimeter lighting, opening and closing gates).
Flaws:
- Extremely high price.
- Difficulty in maintenance. In the event of failure of one or more systems, it is necessary to involve a specialist for a solution.
Thus, among all the presented smart home projects, there are both not very expensive, but with wide basic functionality, and systems with a huge number of options for controlling many building parameters. Such systems are characterized by high installation costs. Which one is better is up to you.
“High technologies are the most faithful assistants modern man who will never betray him."
Walter Brown
The modern market for home automation systems offers a wide variety of types of Smart Homes. The search result for the query: "Smart Home systems overview" is guaranteed to be a huge number of links to sites that describe in detail the most high-tech types of systems of our time. In this article you will not find exhaustive reviews of each of their types. Writing such reviews is absolutely meaningless, at least because any Smart Home system is, first of all, a modular system, which implies the possibility of installing any subsystems and technologies, depending on the needs and characteristics of the user's request.
In most cases, the installation of a Smart Home system is preceded by a stage of careful planning, drawing up a list of necessary subsystems and developing a project within which the most effective and rational decisions every task. However, there are a number of types of systems, divided by certain factors. It is about them that will be discussed in this article, where we will consider only the basic options. It should be understood that any of which is formed by many different factors, implies the possibility of integrating completely different subsystems that are constantly updated and improved. That is why in this review we will consider only the main options and types of technologies for home automation.
Overview of the main types of Smart Home systems
All modern Smart Home systems can be divided according to the main feature into the following types:
- Wired.
- Decentralized.
- Wireless.
- Centralized.
The above list is also supplemented by systems using a closed or open protocol. In order to get an exhaustive answer to the question: “what are the Smart Home systems?” should first of all describe wired system automation, the essence of which is to combine all control devices through one information bus. This device usually consists of special cables necessary for transmitting signals to executive devices located in the main switchboard. The main advantages of this type of system are:
- High response speed.
- Unique design of each control element.
- Reliability and practicality.
- Large selection of subsystems with the possibility of integration.
- Long service life.
- Safety.
Types of Smart Home systems: wireless and centralized
Another fairly common type of system is the wireless version of technology. This type of system is distinguished by the use of a radio channel, through which the signal passes from the control devices to the actuators. This feature guarantees significant savings in installation time and eliminates the need for a huge amount of wiring. An additional advantage of using this type of technology is the ability to create unique lighting scenarios, as well as reprogramming the keys. The main advantages of these types of systems include:
- Low cost.
- No wires or additional devices.
- Ability to develop a system without a project.
The last type of system, the description of which we conclude this review, is a centralized automation system. This option differs from others by programming the operation of all components through a single centralized control element. The main advantage of these systems is the ability to create a unique and complex scenario and use a huge amount of equipment to achieve the maximum level of system usability. We hope that in this article you have found the answer to the question: “what are Smart Home systems?”, thanks to which you will be able to make an exceptionally right choice of technology.
