Recently I found a nice article about home automation using open source software and OS Linux. It covers all aspects of smarthome - appliance control, media recording and streaming, security and surveillance system, telephony. Actually this is a brief overview. So, don’t expect to find there detailed instructions how to automate your home. But as a start point is really helpful.
P. S. LinuxMCE basically offers all features described in that article and much more.
Recently I wrote about adding X10 automation functionality into MythTV interface. Now I’d like to introduce a way to integrate a modern wireless technology Z-Wave in your MythTV box. It’s called HACKmyth. It isn’t free: the basic unit costs $799 and extended version - $999. But you’ll able to control your lighting system and PVR from one user interface and using only one remote control of course.
I’d like to tell any bad words about HACKmyth. moreover, is good that Linux software is used in production systems. But IMHO it’d be better to buy FiireEngine with configured LinuxMCE which supports Z-Wave, X10, INSTEON (soon), includes MythTV, VDR, Asterisk and covers all areas of home for $799. In that case you’ll able to control almost all devices in your house.
This article from the Linux Journal explains how to build budget home automation and security system using chip hardware and Python programming. The system contains Serial I/O Kit, Mier DriveAlert, Water Alarm and Webcam. The author gives a few examples of Python code and many ideas. So, you can expand it by yourself to get working system according to your desires. And who knows maybe it’ll grow to some well-known system like MisterHouse or Plutohome.
Here is a Domia Lite starter kit RRP for home automation just for £29.99. It contains three appliance switches and one remote control. It’s an ideal way to get yourself started.
The appliance modules simply plug into any wall socket to control any appliance (up to 1000W). Appliances connected to the modules can still be controlled manually. The modules respond to On/Off commands, however they can also be controlled as part of a group of devices by using the Group Switch on their side.
[via eHomeUpgrade]
HomeSeer, the well-known producer software and hardware for home automation, announced its new product - HSPRO. HSPRO is an advanced home automation and remote access software package.
HSPRO allows to control and monitor lighting, appliances, security, HVAC, telephone and home theater all from one central point. You can do so by computer, remote control, touchscreen, PDA, telephone, the internet or by voice.
Unlike HS2, HSPRO includes all HomeSeer brand plug-ins and a new “HSSentry” function continuously monitors the software to ensure uninterrupted operation.
HSPRO is available now and may be purchased from any authorized HomeSeer PRO-Series dealer or distributor. Trial version can be downloaded here.
[via eHomeUpgrade]