Home automation

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Light control computerized system
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Light control computerized system
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Remote surveillance system

Home automation is a field within building automation, specializing in the specific automation requirements of private homes and in the application of automation techniques for the comfort and security of its residents. Although many techniques used in building automation (such as light and climate control, control of doors and window shutters, security and surveillance systems, etc.) are also used in home automation, additional functions in home automation include the control of multi-media home entertainment systems, automatic plant watering and pet feeding, and automatic scenes for dinners and parties.

The main difference between building automation and home automation is, however, the human interface. In home automation, ergonomics is of particular importance: the control should be largely image-based and self-explanatory.

When home automation is installed during construction of a new home, usually control wires are added before the drywall is installed. These control wires run to a controller, which will then control the environment.

In a retrofit situation, or when installing control wiring is too expensive or simply not possible, there are wireless and powerline protocols such as X10, Universal powerline bus, INSTEON, ZigBee and Z-Wave that will allow for control of most applications.

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[edit] Effects

In extreme installations, rooms can sense not only the presence of a person but know who that person is and perhaps set appropriate lighting, temperature and music/TV taking into account day of week, time of day and other factors.

Other automated tasks may include setting the air conditioning to an energy saving setting when the house is unoccupied, and restoring the normal setting when an occupant is about to return. More sophisticated systems can maintain an inventory of products, recording their usage through an RFID tag, and prepare a shopping list or even automatically order replacements.

Some practical implementations of home automation are for example when an alarm detects a fire or smoke condition, then all lights in the house will blink to alert occupants. If the house is equipped with a home theater, a home automation system can shut down all audio and video components to alert the user to a possible fire or a burglar.

[edit] Tasks

[edit] Audio

This category includes audio switching and distribution. Audio switching determines the selection of an audio source. Audio distribution allows an audio source to be heard in one or more rooms. This feature is often referred to as 'multi-zone' audio.

[edit] HVAC

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) solutions include temperature and humidity control.

[edit] Intercoms

An intercom system allows communication via a microphone and loud speaker between multiple rooms.

[edit] Lighting

Lighting control systems involves aspects related to controlling electric lights. This category also typically includes control of exhaust and ceiling fans.

[edit] Natural lighting

Natural lighting control involves controlling electric window shades and drapery.

[edit] Security

Control and integration of security systems. This category also includes control and distribution of security cameras. See Surveillance.

[edit] Video

This includes video switching and distribution, allowing a video source to be viewed on multiple TVs. This feature is often referred to as 'multi-zone' video.

[edit] Other systems

Using special hardware almost any device electric or electronic can be controlled automatically or remotely. Including:

An automated mail box opener in an intelligent home in Falun, Sweden.
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An automated mail box opener in an intelligent home in Falun, Sweden.
  • Pool pump(s) and heater
  • Hot tub
  • Spa
  • Coffee pot
  • Pet feeder(s)
  • Garage Door(s)
  • Sprinkler System

[edit] See also

[edit] External links

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