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Crestron Custom Programming Home Automation Programmer IPAD Theater Lights $999.00 |
Home Automation for Apartment?
I have a new project coming up where a client wants to get some home automation that can be controlled through ipad/iphone AND over the internet. Keep in Mind this is for a two bed-room apartment
The functions needed are:
1. Want to be able to control curtains in the apartment
2. Want to be able to control the lights (dimm, turn on/off)
3. Want to be able to control their A/V (want a receiver that will have a BOSE system with Surround Sound)
any suggestions on systems for this, please do not advise if you are not familiar with the products youre suggesting and do not have experience with installations
This would not be a simplistic endeavor for a home and will be more difficult and most likely not probable for an apartment. Here’ what it requires and some consideration of each item.
Internet access to a control system in not difficult. A control system processor ( we will discuss that later ) needs connectivity to the internet. This is easily done through a router. Port forwarding rules within the router will allow outside world access to the processor. It’s best to purchase a static IP address so you will always know your IP but I have found most ISP provided IP address’s do not change. I’ve had the same one for years. That’s the easy part.
Control system processors have ports that will offer IR, Relay, RS-232 and input sensing ports that will connect to devices to control them. For example, one would control a DVD player through a IR port that will emit the IR codes to perform function upon demand. So one must program the control system to actuate the correct port and command upon demand.
Controlling devices such as a TV or DVD than is rather simplistic. Unfortunately your quest to control high voltage motors such as drapes and lights require electronic-mechanical interface that would be problematic in a rented space.
To control drapes, one must use a low voltage relay in the control system processor that would in turn actuate an high external voltage relay that in turn would actuate a motor that in turn would raise or lower drapes.
To control lighting, one must have a controllable lighting system in place. In most cases such devices would connect via RS-232 for control. The control system processor would send a RS-232 command to the controllable dimmer system that in turn would raise or lower voltage to the light itself. And of course the lights must be able to dim.
So, is such a thing possible? Sure. Is it cost effective? That’s all relative to what your client is willing to spend. Is it probable an apartment owner would allow such a thing to be implemented? I’d think not.
Good luck. If you happen to be in Kansas City, my company ( Custom home control systems ) can help. www.chcs-kc.com