SmartHomeUSA.com Home Automation

[TAckhouse1]

Hey guys,

I had a question regarding Smart Home systems. I am taking a Network Security class, and was given the topic of "securing smart homes" as a topic to research.

So I am trying to do some research and found this site. I thinking of focusing on wireless protocols that are used by various smart home appliances.

Could any one offer some direction on systems I could investigate? I was thinking of wireless home cameras. Other ideas? Manufactures? Anything is appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

Nick

[Ralph]

Hi Nick,

Wireless home cameras for the most part are basic 2.4ghz systems. Perhaps a little more interesting are WiFi cameras which are IP addressable and have a WiFi connection to your router.

For other interesting wireless devices, the Z-Wave devices available now use what's called a MESH technnology. Using a 2.4ghz wireless signal they transmit commands to the receiver switches. Those switches in turn repeat the signal if it is not for them, creating a network which increases in strength as you increase the number of devices (similar to expanding a wireless home network for internet connectivity).

The most interesting would be Zigbee, although it is sort of like Elvis. Many people love it, some claim to have seen it, but...they're nowhere to be found.

Using an IP addressable wireless network as it's protocol, Zigbee could be the answer to all home automation questions. Imagine if every light bulb in your house, your thermostat, all of your alarm sensors, every appliance and your TV were all able to be controlled by a PDA, accessable over the internet and the local area network, and it was virtually limitless in the terms of expansion.

If you have more questions, feel free to contact me directly.

[penguinman]

I don't like the idea of changing the batteries in all my lightswitches.
Nor, having my home communication and control being broadcast over the air-ways.

Are these two valid apprehensions about zigbee ?