Casa Verde Program: Fill & Download for Free

Really depends on the things that you want to automate some things might just be cheaper to do without those programs for example Kwikset makes a lock called kevo that doesn't require any sort of automation software and they're also Wi-Fi lights, all of these can be automated just by purchasing the device itself and not having to buy something like me Casa Verde verde this will be the best bang for your buck.

I personally use Z-Wave, as I began implementation in my own home in 2010. I would love to have a Crestron system, but honestly, with a little programming knowledge, and the right hubs, you can achieve similar results.The only issue I've come across was when one of my hubs died, I lost most of my automation. Since I've replaced most receptacles and light switches with Z-Wave compatible switches and receptacles, I was dead in the water until my replacement came from Mi Casa Verde.I've programmed my system with a lot of rules and exceptions. For example, if I lock the front door after 9pm the alarm sets, ten minutes later, the main house lights that are still on fade to 0% while the bedroom lights are brought to 60%.Your big box store automation system doesn't usually allow for this kind of customization.There are door to door salesmen for Vivant and most cable companies offer home automation.However, there are not many companies that will install and program a wireless system with the rules, exceptions, and permissions I spoke about earlier. I think this is where the home installation market is going in the very near future.

So what you're talking about with the television isn't truly “smart house” technology. You can purchase several types of smart remotes, I.E. harmony by Logitech, these remotes can be programmed by computer or smartphone (some models) to control your entire AV system. It's as easy as pressing a button or tapping a screen to turn on your entire system and it'll do all the input changes for you. This system works by programming the new remote with all the remote codes from the original device, and in most cases you don't need the original remote to program the smart remote. This is the system at my grandmothers home.As far as smart home technology, turning on lights, setting alarms, thermostats, etc… unless you're spending 10–50k on a crestron system, what you'll use is actually very simple and doesn't use the house wiring. In actuality, every device or switch has to be compatible with the type of smart home system you're installing.My personal system is a Vera 3 by mi casa verde and uses the Z Wave platform. This is a two way wireless system, it allows you to have visual confirmation that the command you sent was carried out. You can buy many systems at home improvement stores now, however I don't think that they are as customizable as the Vera 3.The age of the device, if we're speaking of lighting doesn't matter, because you'll use a plug in module or a smart receptical or wall switch. Thermostats will need to be replaced with a smart capable unit, the same goes for door locks, and alarm systems. Although, your alarm company can come change out the “brain” and control panel with a smart compatible system.Bulding a smart house system isn't as daunting of a task as it used to be. Most systems are user installable, however, programming special permissions, rules, and scenes takes a little practice. What I mean by that is, say you lock the front door after nine PM and you want the alarm system to set and the main house lights to dim 10 minutes after you lock the door, you'll have to program all that in the system (scene). I fear I've veered off the course though…Hope my ramblings have helped.