There are dozens of sensors and actuators in a smart home ecosystem that are responsible for security, automation of household appliances, lighting and climate maintenance. New users are tempted to hang sensors on their home, like a Christmas tree with toys. Still, you need to highlight the “main composition” and consider the aspects of its application in the UK.
What kind of sensors are there?
Sensors are designed to convert a physical quantity into an electrical signal. As a result, you can measure this quantity numerically (temperature, humidity) or record its change (recognize movement).
Find below sensors controlling:
- movement/presence;
- opening windows/doors;
- illumination;
- environmental parameters;
- leaks;
- smoke;
- glass breaking;
- gas leaks;
- air quality monitoring;
- video cameras.
What are the actuators?
Actuators generate signals to affect other elements of a smart home. It can be a direct effect either by a signal (button) or by means of an actuator (electronic valve). The actuating device can also be a household appliance controlled from a smartphone, for example, a smart air conditioner. At the same time, you can control an ordinary air conditioner, but with the help of a smart remote control, which will become an intermediary between the device and the smartphone. The task in this case is one, and the solutions are different. A separate class of devices consists of intelligent lighting devices.
You can use a starter kit that covers the basic needs of a smart home, being more focused on either security or convenience. You can assemble a kit that satisfies both tasks.
Smart Home Team
Let’s summarize in the selection of the minimum set of smart devices:
- motion sensor;
- door opening sensor;
- water leak sensor;
- power socket;
- switch;
- button;
- IR remote control;
- lamp;
- gateway;
- column.
If there is not yet a clear understanding, which scenarios will be used, you can take all the devices in one instance. One of the advantages of the system is scalability. Most sensors are powered by batteries and are attached by special tape, so it will not be difficult to add such elements. Do not forget to read about the compatibility of the equipment and the application or the voice assistant beforehand. If you are planning installation at the repair stage, consider options with smart relays and determine the power terminals for smart home devices in advance.
Adding sensors and actuators to the system from all manufacturers is simplified as much as possible and consists of several steps:
- Connect the device to the power supply (if required).
- Initiate adding the device in the app. Then proceed in accordance with the instructions of the application. Usually it is enough to press the button on the device several times.
- After pairing with the device, a list of available functions will appear in the application. They can be used independently or included in automation scenarios together with other elements of a smart home.
A smart house is a separate engineering system that deserves a thoughtful design approach. In this case, smart devices will become your reliable helpers around the house.
Photo by BENCE BOROS on Unsplash
