Dos and don’ts of designing a Smart Home
A Smart Home is one wherein all appliances are connected to the internet
in order to enable remote monitoring and management of appliances and systems
such as air conditioning lighting, security systems and audio-video systems.
Smart home technology provides
homeowners comfort, security and convenience by allowing them to control smart
devices by means of a smart home app on their smartphones or on other network
connected devices.
Setting up a Smart Home can become
an easier task if one takes informed decisions and keeps certain key factors in
mind. From seemingly simple lighting systems to complicated entertainment
options, one wrong move can end up blowing fuses- your own and the ones in your
home. Hence, we have come up with a list of few Dos and Don’ts of designing your Smart Homes.
Do’s
1. Do your homework: Put in some thoughts as to what you want your smart home to be like and what is the kind
of automation you will need. A clear plan with specifics marked out can help get
the best results.
2. Check for compatibility: If you
want a system on the “Smart” network, the system should allow communication
between itself and the Smart controller. For example, not all LED lights can be
dimmed or controlled. Similarly, a standalone HVAC system that does not talk to
a 3rd party control system can’t be part of a common user interface
that controls all devices in a home.
3. Identify the control systems OEM: Keep in
mind that controls are the most important aspect of home automation. The
complete process of smart homes is
intended to make lives simpler;if one has to open 10 apps just to switch on/off
the lights, then the entire process is a waste. Hence, make sure all controls
are handy and easy to use, and that it is not a tedious task. More importantly,
ask the question -is the control system company having a product portfolio that
is reliable and known as “good quality”? Remember- a cheaper system may not
always be “value for money”.
4. Choose a Smart Home System
Integrator (SI) based on their record of performance in the industry: Always ask for reference of similar work done
for other homeowners. An SI who is new to the industry (less than 3-4 years of
experience) or one who has just tied up
with a OEM recently is a risk and you do not want to be the “Test case”
5. Pick one major hub: Choose
your default user interface for the Smart Home. Is it going to be a smart
keypad? Is it going to be your phone? Is it going to be a wired touch panel on
wall? Or is it going to be a voice control system (Google or Alexa, etc.) that
you prefer? While it doesn’t have to be one or the other (it can be combination
of all), choice upfront for every room would help define the board contours of
what your smart control system would look like.
6. Factor in the Wi-Fi network: Most of the
devices of your Smart Home will make use of the Wi-Fi network, its connectivity
and speed will have considerable effect on usage and often clutter your network,
unless you have made provisions for enough bandwidth.
7. Spend on a
capable Firewall: A Firewall can harden the home network against external
threats such as malware and hacks. These days, one can buy a special device,
like a dedicated firewall, to enhance effective security for you home Wi-Fi.
Smart devices don't come with built-in anti-virus or firewalls; adding an extra
device can provide that extra bit of protection.
Don'ts
1. Don’t buy
products blindly: In the domain of home automation, the devices are generally connected
and communicate with each other. Some devices may use different communication
technologies. Hence, always check product features and choose products that are
compatible with your home system.
2. Don’t hesitate
to call in experts: This is the golden age of DIY philosophy and most
consumer-grade home automation products these days come with easy installation
techniques. But if you are not well versed in any of the aspects, especially
when dealing with networking or electrical circuits, do seek expert help. Look
for qualified professionals, as this is a relatively new field and a badly
executed automation system is worse than having no automation.
3. Don’t use your
default Password: If you want the flexibility of
control of your home network from anywhere in the world, you need to observe
some basic common sense rules. Making sure your control processor doesn’t have
default password. Not using a simple password (such as your/ your wife’s name)
could help against mischief makers.
4. Don’t skimp on
devices: Cheaper devices and routers may also have weaker security
protocols- Known, Trusted brands are much better in this aspect. They may be
pricier, but one can get better security and performance with these. Past cyber-attacks
have focused heavily on devices manufactured by mid or low-tier brands.
Remember these guidelines and pointers when you
plan your home automation upgrades - They may help save you money and a lot of
grief.
