How does home automation work?
When ordinary household objects like a lightbulb or a thermostat get connected to the internet, they become part of the Internet of Things (IoT) and can be triggered remotely through a home automation system. This is a network that links together the IoT objects, and lets you control them one by one through a voice assistant or app. For example, a home automation system connected to IoT devices lets you turn your heating on and off from the office, monitor your home camera to see if your new kittens are getting into trouble, or set your outdoor lighting to turn on before you arrive – all from an app on your phone. Many of these devices are also equipped with sensors that provide you with information about the surrounding area.
Home automation systems can work in three ways, often at the same time:
- You can monitor your devices remotely through an app (such as viewing a live feed from a security camera, for example)
- You can have any equipment that moves or shuts on and off activated remotely
- You can have devices automated to communicate with one another, like having an alarm go off when a security camera detects movement.
What are examples of home automation systems?
This means we need a home automation system to communicate with our smart gadgets and appliances in a way that is smooth, easy and integrated, and makes our lives more comfortable and easier.
An example of a home automation system is Enel X's Homix, an app that learns your habits, preferences and routines so that it automatically adapts to your way of living and adjusts your lighting, your thermostat and your home security devices accordingly. Homix acts as a portal to all your smart appliances so that you can customize their settings with just one click.
