If there’s one thing all smart homes have in common, it’s a system to manage them – usually with the help of one or multiple control devices. An array of stylish devices makes it easier, even enjoyable, to adjust settings and create the perfect home environment for any occasion. The home might have a minimalistic wall hub with just a few prompts, a handheld device like a remote, or a touch screen display that connects to every room in the home.
If you’re thinking about designing the smart home of your dreams, you will eventually choose from a wide variety of centralized systems. When thinking about upgrading their lighting or security, consumers should also envision their preferred ways of interacting with that system from different areas within the home.
What Can Be Controlled? (Hint: Anything That’s Automated)
From smart locks to automated shades to kitchen appliances, just about any electronic can be managed using a smart home control system. It’s no longer just the thermostat or television that people want to control from the touch of a button. More and more, it’s also the smaller things. People are adding automated shades, shower controls and coffeemakers to save time in the morning. They’re also including home security and car door locks so they can keep an eye on things while they’re away.
The controls available in the marketplace provide a vast array of home automation options, from complete smart home systems to the smart switches and latest devices that run them. However, you will need a reliable operating system that connects your devices to the internet, with the strength and bandwidth to handle whatever it is you plan to run throughout your home.
Different Types of Control Systems for Managing Your Smart Home
Smart home operating systems – both of the present and the future – are designed to connect virtually to the same system hosting the other technology in your home. Take Control4 OS 3 – an advanced virtual system that seamlessly connects all of the technology in a home. The best products on the market today allow homeowners to select the most user-friendly way to control their lighting, audio, security and indoor environment using the device of their choosing.
As for the devices themselves, here’s what you might end up using, depending on your needs:
Touchscreen
An attractive interface containing a keypad can be mounted on a wall where it will be operated with ease. They come in varying types, sizes and appearances. The location should be convenient for the users while also providing optimal functionality. A smart home expert can examine the premises to ensure they are installed properly in the best location for the home.
Smart Phone or Other Smart Device
Whether through an app on your smartphone or a separate handheld device, you can connect quickly to the appliances, switches, and smart systems. Devices will be connected to a central hub so they can also communicate with one another.
Voice Activation
How about using your voice to control your system with simple commands? Incorporating voice control into your home automation system can provide even more flexibility and is quickly becoming a popular feature. While appealing for its ease of use, keep in mind that this newer technology may require microphones to be activated 24/7.
App Accessibility
Apps are always being improved, and they too have the flexibility of use on different types of equipment and devices. From a single app on multiple devices throughout the home, you can check the locks, cameras, and garage doors, receive alerts when someone enters your home, or have your lights automatically come on at night for extra safety and comfort.
Managing HVAC Systems: Controlling Your Indoor Climate – and Costs
Want to ensure your home is as eco-friendly as it is intelligent? Don’t overlook one of the biggest smart control features: getting your indoor climate just right before you step through the front door. Imagine automating the climate control for multiple temperature zones in different parts of the house. Your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems can be controlled using any of the above methods, potentially enabling the family to save on energy costs.
Contact MediaTech for a free consultation to learn more about our diverse systems and the different options for controlling them. Our systems are backed by a one‐year warranty, extended maintenance agreements and 24/7 emergency service. Contact us online here or give us a call at 630-444-0011 to discuss what we can do for you.
