Category: Devices

Automating Z-Wave/Zigbee Home Basics

Homey Pro Home Automation Hub

The Homey Pro Hub: A Revolution in Home Automation

Are you tired of the same old clunky home automation hubs? Meet the Homie Pro, a sleek and feature-packed hub that might just be the answer to your smart home dreams. In this review, we’ll dive into its impressive capabilities, the user-friendly mobile app, and the revolutionary “flows” that set it apart from the competition.…
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Govee T2 TV backlight

Elevate Your TV Experience with Govee Envisal Backlight T2

If you’re tired of the mundane TV experience and want to add a touch of magic to your entertainment setup, the Govee Envisal Backlight T2 might be the answer to your prayers. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the features, setup process, and how you can take your TV enjoyment to the next level with…
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Kwikset Home Connect 620

Kwikset Home Connect 620 Smart Lock: A Utilitarian Gem

Welcome, smart homeowners! Today, we’re diving into the world of smart locks, focusing on the Kwikset Home Connect 620. Join me, John, as we explore the various aspects of this lock, from styles and pricing to features and testing results. Let’s unlock the potential of the Home Connect 620 and see if it’s the right…
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Zooz Zen34 Remote Switch

Zen 34 Remote Switch: Revolutionizing Smart Home Controls

Greetings, smart homeowners! John Stone, the DIY smart home guy, is back with an exciting introduction to the Zen 34 Remote Switch by Zooz. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the features that make this smart switch a game-changer for your home automation setup. Spoiler alert: It’s not just another smart switch – it’s…
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Hubitat C-8

Exploring the Hubitat Elevation C8 – A Smarter Hub for Your Smart Home

In the ever-evolving world of home automation, finding the right smart home hub is crucial for a seamless and connected experience. Hubitat, a key player in the smart home hub market, has recently unveiled its latest offering – the Hubitat Elevation C8. Whether you’re new to home automation, a current Hubitat owner, or contemplating a…
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Alfred DB1 Z-Wave + Bluetooth Smart Lock

Alfred is a relative newcomer to the smart lock market. I first learned about them at CES 2020 when I passed what I thought were some of the most interesting locks I’ve ever seen. Very sexy in my opinion. Currently Alfred makes an entry-level line (DB1) and a professional line (DB2). This article discusses the…
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Inovelli 4 in 1 sensor

Inovelli 4-in-1 Sensor Review

The Inovelli 4-in-1 Sensor model LZW60 is Inovelli’s first venture into the sensor world. I find the decision to go after the 4-in-1 market to be a good idea. The sensor offers Motion, Temperature, Humidity and Light detection. What else would you need? In true Inovelli form, this is a highly configurable device and requires…
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bring old alarm wires back to life

Convert Your Old Wired Home Alarm System into a DIY Smart Home Security System

Homes with existing alarm system wiring can provide your home automation system with a multitude of sensors. The problem to date is that there have not been really good options to take advantage of the wired sensors. Until today that is. In late 2018, Fibaro released the Smart Implant which is a Z-Wave plus device…
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Yale YRD256-CBA / ZW2 / iM1 Smart Deadbolt Review

The Yale YRD256 line provides options for all home automation enthusiasts regardless of your platform. There are options for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee and Z-Wave Plus which aligns it with Apple HomeKit, SmartThings, Hubitat, Connected by August and other popular platforms. You can even use it with an app or no automation at all.  Connected by…
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Smart Home Lock Comparison

This page is a work in progress. As I test more locks, they will be added here. Thank you for your patience. Make/Model  Protocol Install Complexity Proximity Unlock Motor Noise Power-fail Backup Hub Command Reliability Lock Status Report Reliability User Report to Hub Reliability Alfred / DB1 Bluetooth Z-Wave Low Yes Low USB High High…
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