Step 4: Install

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Now comes the real question: to DIY, or not to DIY?

If you can follow instructions and consider yourself a bit of a handyman, you may be able to install your home automation system yourself – depending on how complex the system is. If you plan on creating a system with plenty of bells and whistles, you’ll need to have a basic understanding of electronics or programming in addition to your soldering and general DIY construction skills.

When installing your home automation system, there are three steps you need to follow:

1. Software

To begin with, you need to give your home automation system a “brain”. There are several options available to you, depending on your budget from simple, less expensive versions, to comprehensive, fully-supported programs. (Here you could link to software providers?)

2. Hardware

There are plenty of plug-in timers and controllers on the market if you wish to avoid the use of software, but to have a truly integrated and powerful system, you need control software and a computer that is connected to the internet. Depending on the complexity of your home automation system, you may want to invest in a dedicated computer to use as the control base.

3. Modules

The modules you install will depend on the protocol you’re using. Essentially, most home automation modules work like remote controls: a button or switch sends a signal, and they respond by turning on or off, dimming, closing, etc. For more information, click here (link: 25_Intro to home control devices).

Be careful

The main benefit of self-installation is obviously the cost savings, as you won’t need to pay an exorbitant hourly rate to a technician. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that mistakes can be costly. For instance, if you install a lighting control system and make a calculation error, you could overload the switches and burn them out.

So, don’t attempt a DIY install if you’re not confident of your domestic prowess!