Home automation is working its way from Disney’s city of the future into your everyday life. From simple lawn sprinkler timers to holistic systems that learn from your daily life, automation levels span an incredible gamut of choice and cost. What is the best level for you to enter in.
Remote control
Remote Controls provide the easiest entry point into automating your home. Remote control lighting, garage doors, microwave timers…etc. If you directly control when it goes on and off with minimal programming, it’s a remote control. Remote controls are the most simple entry point, but are becoming more sophisticated in what they control every day.
Command level control
Command level control uses macros (simple programs directing actions or other macros) to control the status of a device within your home. The macro could be a touch that turns on lights, opens blinds, starts a hot tub, etc. The program is entered through a computer or a controller. Command level controls only act upon your direct influence. They are incapable of reacting to conditions.
Conditional control
Conditional controls operate on the basis of programmed conditions. An example would be to turn on a sprinkler system if there is no rain for 2 days. These if-then scenarios are programmed via a computer or dedicated controller. You can set these systems to turn the lights off a set time after you leave a room or change a room’s temperature after you leave. The systems range in size from sensors in light switches to motion detection devices connected to computer controlled heating systems.
Interactive control
Interactive controls use web sites or apps for real time, monitored control of home devices. Through apps or online portals you can assess the real time status of your home, make changes, and monitor the changing situation. You can choose from a wide variety of control apps, some specific to devices, some broad ranging monitoring apps. Light bulbs have apps for controlling the color of your room. Baby monitors can be controlled via your phone. The opportunities are as unlimited as the the apps being developed.
Learning Controls
Learning controls monitor your behaviors and make adjustments based on your actions and habits. Lights can be turned on based on your usual arrival times, heat can be turned on ahead of you getting home. The system learns as you live, adjusts to your life, and changes as you change. These are very sophisticated systems that require dedicated programs and controllers. These systems are professionally installed and are part of the design and structure of the home.
Your options are continuing to evolve as rapidly as technology does. From simple to complicated there is a point for you to enter into home automation. As you open your garage door, maybe you already have entered the future.
