What Exactly is Home Automation and Integration?
Integration is the process of connecting multiple devices that perform different functions so that they may control each other. With integrated devices, your home security system can talk to your heating and air system, or your lighting system to control those systems based on certain events, such as arming or disarming the security system, times of day, or even alarms.
Automation is the process of controlling that equipment based on certain events or times of day. Automation and integration go hand-in-hand to control your audio and video systems, security system, lighting, heating and air, pool controls, and much more.
So why integrate your home? Imagine turning off all the lights in your home at night without walking to every room - you can do so right from the Master Bedroom keypad or touchpanel. Better yet, set a night "scene" that turns all the lights off except the hallway light, which gets set to 25 percent. Or, maybe you want to change the thermostats in your home to 67 degrees when you leave the house for the day. With Integration you can do so, automatically. Imagine the energy savings. Energy savings means money in your pocket.
With remote access to your home, you can also control these devices from any internet-connected PC or laptop. Log in to the house to view cameras remotely, or adjust the heating and air systems, or make sure the security system was armed before you left for the day. Many systems can also be accessed through iPhones, Google Android Phones or Windows Mobile Phones.
It is also important to select a qualified, certified integration company to perform your installation. CEDIA (the Consumer Electronics Design and Installation Association) is a great resource for finding certified local installers. CEDIA technicians are educated in audio/video systems, security and automation systems, as well as home networking and computer systems - all key systems in a completely integrated home. Be sure to consult with your integrator prior to installing any new systems, as some systems are easily integratable while others are simply not compatible with automation systems. The last thing you want to do is replace a perfectly good security system because it is not compatible with your new automation system.
There are also security systems that have automation of lighting and thermostats built-in, such as HAI's Omni Control Systems and Elk Products M1 and M1 Gold systems.
In today's world, with technology changing every day, keeping these systems connected and accessible is becoming more and more important, and less expensive.
About the Author:
Owner of a Home Theater and Automation business in Atlanta, GA established in January of 2000. Bearer of multiple manufacturer and association certifications, including CEDIA EST II.
Atlanta Digital Homes - Home Theater and Home Automation in Atlanta, GA
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