Smart-Homes Internet-Based Home Automation Technology Milan Brandon Rebman ITMG 100, Section April 2010

What is HA Tech? Internet-based home automation technology allows a homeowner to control household appliances remotely via the internet. Systems have the capability to control anything from security systems and climate control to plumbing fixtures.

What is HA Tech? (Continued) Began with the introduction of the television remote in First widespread use of computers to control household appliances occurred in the 1980s with the introduction of X-10. Late 1999; Universal Powerline Bus

Technologies X-10INSTEONEthernetUPB  Earliest & most widely used technology. Uses home’s existing wiring  Requires installation of unsightly modules  Reliability of %  Complimentary to X-10.  Utilizes radio frequency bands to control light switches.  Limited compatibility with computer software.  Connects directly to internet. Each unit receives an IP Address.  Expensive power- over-Ethernet supplies required  Currently available for HVAC and Webcam.  Most advanced of widely-used HA technologies.  Integrates separate appliances to create “scenes.”  Reliability of 99+%

Installing a System Home Automation Inc. ▫Promises to install a whole-house system for $3-5 a square foot (not including labor). Total cost between $15,000 and $100,000 depending on the system Owner-Builder ▫Research available technologies. Choose hardware and software that meets your needs.

Why is this Important? Home Automation can: ▫Save energy ▫Enhance home security ▫Manage rental properties remotely Disadvantages: ▫Decreased sense of privacy ▫Software and Hardware “Bugs”

The Future… The State of California has passed a law that will require all new homes to have internet-controlled HVAC systemsState of California Energy-efficiency standards will require increased energy conservation. Increasingly advanced home robotic technology will require remote access via internet.

Works Cited Barringer, Felicity. "California Seeks Thermostat Control." The New York Times. N.p., 11 Jan Web. 20 Apr Cherry, Neil. "The Possibilities of Home Automation." Linux Smart Homes for Dummies. New York: John Wiley and Sons Inc., Print. Driscoll, Edward B. "A Timeline for Home Automation." Automation History. N.p., Feb Web. 20 Apr "Home Automation - Installation and Consulting." Home Automation Directory. N.p., 1 Mar Web. 20 Apr