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SMART HOME STARTER TIPS 5

TECH FEATURE

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Joining the smart home revolution can begin with something as basic as a smart light bulb

Building a smart home is both an exciting and rewarding process, provided you set off on the right foot. Here are some simple tips to start you on the journey to automated and intuitive living. 1. Get what you need Plan what you want to achieve by making your home smart, and stick to it! It’s tempting to invest in a swag of devices you may not ultimately need, so set a goal and a budget, and stay on target. 2. Smarten up existing devices Older or ‘dumb’ devices can be automated by the simple addition of smart plugs and switches, but always check their compatibility first. 3. Locate dead zones Most smart home devices rely on a strong Wi-Fi connection, and barriers like thick walls and certain construction materials can impede signal strength. To locate these dead zones, simply pick up your smartphone and observe the signal as you walk around the house – although chances are you already know exactly where they are.

Some devices may not require a hub, however. For example, some smart bulbs have inbuilt Wi-Fi and, depending on the ecosystem, many devices can be controlled directly from a phone app. Set the scene In the smart home lexicon, a ‘scene’ is basically a sequence of commands that manages devices and can be set up via your chosen platform’s smartphone app. Creating scenes is analogous to programming a computer, albeit more straightforward and dummy-proof. For example, set a scene that will unlock the front door and turn on the lights when you arrive home, or one that shuts everything down for the night when it’s bedtime. You can also create the impression that someone’s at home while you’re away on holiday by programming indoor and exterior lights to turn on and off at predetermined times. Scenes can be as simple or complex as you choose, and are easily customisable and expandable to include additional commands.

4. Make a mesh Setting up a mesh network is an easy way the eliminate those aforementioned dead zones. A router is served by ‘satellite’ units, which link up to create consistently

strong overall Wi-Fi coverage throughout the entire home. 5. Learn to geofence

Think of geofencing as a virtual blanket across the home that’s linked to the GPS on your smartphone. Connect smart lights, security cameras, and locks, and when you depart in the morning, once the GPS on your phone is out of range, lights will switch off, cameras will activate, and the front door will automatically lock. The reverse will happen upon your return.

DID YOU KNOW? Smart home device uptake continues to increase exponentially, with technology analyst firmTelsyte forecasting the market will grow to $5.3 billion in 2023, and the average Australian home will have an estimated 33 connected devices by 2026.

jbhifi.com.au

10 MARCH 2023