Now that I’ve set up and configured a Raspberry Pi to run the open-source Home Assistant software, I decided to take a closer look at the device integrations and remote access of the system. Since this is a DIY solution, you don’t just get remote … [Read more...]
Home Assistant smart home setup: Easy for techies, less so for “normals”
This past weekend, we switched over to Daylight Savings Time and all of my smart devices followed suit. Well, one didn’t: My Samsung SmartThings Hub took an extra 24 hours to adjust, so routines for lights to turn on 15 minutes prior to sunset lit up … [Read more...]
A second look at Samsung SmartThings was worth it
After reviewing the $279.99 Samsung SmartThings WiFi gear last month, I noted that I planned to also use the integrated SmartThings Hub functionality. I’ve done that, having removed all of my smart devices from my old Wink Hub 2, mainly because I’ve … [Read more...]
What’s a good bedside table button for controlling lights as well as for other devices?
On our most recent podcast episode, Jason called in because he's considering the IKEA Tradfri lights for his bedroom and wants a button nearby to control them. There's a catch though: Jason may end up repurposing that button for controlling other … [Read more...]
Hi, my name is Kevin and I don’t like smart home scenes
Quick show of hands: How many of you smart home owners actively use scenes in your house? This might surprise you but, my hand is not raised. Scenes are arguably one of the most useful features of a smart home for many people. These are customized … [Read more...]
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