Technology has provided us with many gadgets and devices to simplify our lives. As yet, there may not be robots to perform the daily chores of cooking and washing, but home automation makes it easier to perform these tasks and in general makes life a bit simpler. It is possible to remotely switch on air conditioners or the washing machine to perform its tasks or even to record your favorite television program in your absence, with home automation. This technology enables the user to control the electronic devices in the home from wherever they are.
The basic requirements for this system are an interface in the form of a switch or a remote control, an interface card for your network and a router for the computer LAN setups. Different types of devices require different hubs for connections. Distribution panels, multi-zone controls and video modulators are also used in the system.
Home automation systems are basically made up of three components, namely, structured wiring, the micro-processor and the connection center. The connection center is deemed to be the core of the home automation system. The structured wiring is installed all through the house to the hubs located in the connection center. The micro-processor can be likened to the brain of the system, and is housed in the connection center. You can program the commands in the microprocessor. The microprocessor allows you to control the different electronic equipment in the house such as electronic appliances and lights. Touch screens, remote controls and keypads will be the interface.
The home automation system allows you manage your tasks easily. For instance, before leaving the office, you can preset many things, by registering into your home automation account. You can simply click the icons designated for a particular device in your home. You can determine the status of some of the tasks by checking out the security camera monitor. You can start these tasks if you have forgotten to do so just by the click of the icon, and the chores will be completed by the time you reach home.
While traveling, you can access the home automation system through your PDA or personal digital assistant. You can simply switch a button to turn on the garage lights or the front porch lights to welcome you home. You may also start the air conditioner or the coffee machine in the same manner if you so wish. The wireless remote can be used once you are in the neighborhood of you house to open the garage doors or disarm the security system.
The home automation system can perform security tasks. You can make your home look inhabited by putting up a user timer on the lights or the television, when you are not in the house. This will give you the peace of mind as the home automation system provides the security to your home. The wireless or hardwired security systems can be utilized for the safety and security of the house. The hardwired security system is cheaper but the installation is time consuming; it is difficult to conceal the wiring for a neat look. The hardwired security system can be installed in new construction systems and is more reliable than the wireless system.
The wireless security system however, is easier to install and has flexibility of control. The use of wireless receivers, transmitters and controllers makes it very convenient to operate. The sensors can thus be put in areas out of the way or those which are difficult to access, without installing new wirings. Wireless systems do away with confusing wiring and are thus becoming quite popular.
The home automation system is tool to control the devices in the home and easing the tedious day to day tasks. It makes life more comforting and relaxing. In future, these innovations will cater to the more complex requirements of the modern world.
