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In this project we look at how to control a Ceiling Fan that allows for standard rotary switch control and doesn't require an automation controller to coordinate multiple Z-wave switches through scenes. One of the principles I apply to any project is that your device should continue to be operable in an intuitive way that doesn't require a smartphone. In other words the automation should enhance, not replace, familiar control schemes that can be used by visitors, kids or the people you eventually sell your house to. For ceiling fans, this means being able to use the common rotary switch interface...

I get asked a lot about how to "Future Proof" a new home. The answer isn't smart wiring, running wires you don't know if you'll ever use or up front installation of the latest gadgets and home automation technologies. It's simple plastic tube - conduit.

If you don't want to install conduit, I have a simple oath you can take so you're prepared for whatever the future holds.

This was the first major Raspberry Pi (rPi) automation project I embarked on and learnt many things along the way. This project was initially born out of a need to have an outdoor waterproof doorbell. There weren’t many on the market at the time and those that existed: Couldn’t be integrated into my existing Z-wave home automation system; Weren’t weather/waterproof Only had one function (doorbell only) and no other functions like camera; and If camera existed, it has a very low resolution. The below figure shows the internal side of my external fence that houses the Raspberry Pi, doorbell and...

Google Home and Vera - Jeremy Goodchild, January 2018 Home automation via voice control is getting more popular these days with the Apple’s Home, Amazon’s Alexa and Google’s Home entering the market. I was inspired by this article and so I wanted to get on-board. I ended up opting for the Google option because of: Apparently it’s voice control was superior than others to some degree (Siri) I use Google Calendar and wanted to integrate to this; Google Home Mini wasn’t a significant investment (around $54); There seemed to be 3rd party integrations already performed (Vera Concierge) This article was my own...