Did you know? The Indian home automation market size was valued at $1,790.9 million in 2018, and is expected to reach at $13,574.1 million by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 29.8% during the forecast period 2019-2026. Source
Source: The Economic Times
Automation; a word that’s all too familiar for anyone living in the 21st century.
Building automation is an upcoming trend in today’s marketplace.
The self-sufficiency of various functions and sectors has allowed homeowners and businesses to increase efficiency and track the usage patterns of enclosed spaces.
In this day and age, the possibilities are limitless. Home automation has expanded, from residential and commercial to retail and hospitality sectors.
Still, for most, setting up a fully automated smart home can seem like a daunting task.
How do you get started?
How expensive is it?
Is smart home automation even worth it?
In this extensive smart home guide, we answer these and many more questions on how you can transform your home into an intelligent one.
Home Automation & Smart Home Basics
What Is a Smart Home?
Source: Legrand
In simple terms, a smart home consists of devices, systems and appliances connected to the internet. These devices can be controlled remotely via a smartphone, tablet or laptop.
For example, sending a voice command to a smart speaker like Amazon Alexa to switch on your light bulbs is just one aspect of a smart home.
Typically, a comprehensive smart home has an intelligent climate system or a home security system, plus two additional smart devices.
But, unless you’re planning to sell, your smart home can be as simple as a few smart devices connected to Wi-Fi or as integrated as a whole-house system that automates several menial tasks in your home.
What Is Home Automation?
For the longest time, “home automation” was used as a blanket term to describe any device that could eliminate the repetitive nature of household tasks.
Simply put, home automation makes living easy.
Due to recent developments, a more holistic definition has come forth:
According to smart home experts, “Home automation is the fusing together of next-generation hardware and software solutions to provide users with full control and flexibility to manage every aspect of their home in a way that best suits them”.
On a higher level, true smart home automation refers to the seamless integration of all things – connected, smart and self-operating devices that put total control of the entire home environment at the user’s fingertips.
This is referred to as “thoughtful” home automation and is the ultimate dream solution. For “thoughtful” home automation that works the way you want it to, custom installation is the only option. While off-the-shelf solutions offer pre-set options, custom installations allow homeowners to choose precisely which smart technologies they would like to install.
What Are the Benefits of a Smart Home? / Why Are People in India Switching to Home Automation?
Smart home automation allows users to tap into high-tech functionality and luxury that wasn’t possible in the past. As technology development continues to expand, so will the possibilities for consumer home automation to make life easier and more enjoyable.
If you ever decide to upgrade your lifestyle & invest in smart devices, here are a few benefits you can expect:
- Automation & Convenience: Specific tasks can be triggered to occur routinely such as switching on lights, vacuuming the floor, setting the desired room temperature or preheating the oven.
- Energy Saving: A smart home ensures utilities like water and electricity are used more efficiently. For example, a smart thermostat only warms your home when it senses there are people around. Similarly, smart lights only turn on when they sense user motion.
- Better Home Security: A smart security system offers better home security. For example, smart wireless cameras allow users to monitor their home from anywhere. Motion sensors, automated lights and smart doorbells also offer higher security standards and fewer chances of break-ins.
- High Resale Value: In case you’re contemplating flipping your home sometime in the future, adding smart devices (especially security and climate control) can significantly increase its value and ensure a better lifestyle.
What Are Some Popular Examples of Smart Home Devices?
Given below are various examples of automated devices at home:
- Window blinds that can be opened or closed at the push of a button, or when internal temperatures reach a certain point
- Concealed drop-down televisions that can swivel to preset positions and then move out of the way when not needed
- Intelligent lighting control systems which ensure energy efficiency
- CCTV cameras, smart switches and intelligent entertainment systems
The actual technology installed varies from home to home and is dependent on individual needs.
For some, these needs may be as simple as a smart thermostat to reduce electricity usage at home. For others, it might mean an integrated whole-home multi-media solution.
Legrand allows every user to upgrade their home exactly as they please. Thanks to our holistic range of wiring and home automation systems, turning a home into an intelligent one has never been easier.
From a stand-alone solution to a fully networked home system, the complete spectrum of functions for every desired application can be covered within a single design, making sure you don’t have to compromise either on technical or on aesthetic criteria.
Our comprehensive brochure has all the details: Legrand Home Automation – Brochure
How Do I Get Started With My Smart Home?
Look around your house and consider all the inconveniences and annoyances you’d like to automate.
If vacuuming the floor is time-consuming, it’s time to add a smart vacuum to your wishlist.
If adjusting the temperature of a thermostat is a chore, consider switching to a smart one. This will definitely make your home more comfortable while ensuring energy saving and efficiency.
If you live in an area where burglars are rampant, or have several visitors day in and day out, a smart security system or video door phone should be your priority.
With the Legrand Classe 300, users can control access to their homes, on-site or remotely, via their smartphone, tablet or car. This video door entry system is part of our interoperability strategy and is compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Amazon Alexa and Google Home; enabling users to enjoy the benefits of comfort and security.
In the end, there’s no official guide to setting up a smart home. The way you want to go about it depends on your needs and situation.
What Are the Ideal Smart Home Devices to Get Started With?
As stated earlier, the ideal smart home devices for you depends on your needs. But, just in case you’re unsure about what you need to embark on your home automation journey, here is a list of the most common smart home devices you can start with:
- Smart Lighting: By adding a few smart switches to your home, you’ll be able to control them remotely using an app on your phone or through voice command. You can also set them to switch on and off at a particular time. (e.g. when there’s movement in your house, when you’re on your way home or when the sun sets).
- Smart Thermostat: A smart thermostat can help you automate your home’s climate control and set the ideal temperature depending on the time of day and weather forecast.
- Smart Security: A smart security system usually includes an array of smart devices, including a smart camera, smart outdoor lighting, motion sensors, video doorbells and smart locks.
- Smart Entertainment: This consists of smart TVs, smart music systems and smart speakers.
Nuvo is an award-winning product line of Legrand which specialises in advanced whole-home audio systems, smart speakers and solutions that deliver a truly unparalleled listening experience. Using a specific free smartphone app and tablet; it is possible to access music playlists in local networks and the best online music streaming services.
- Smart Home Hub: A smart home hub allows users to control multiple devices. The most popular smart home hubs include voice-controlled smart speakers such as Amazon Echo and Google Home.
What Wiring Do I Require for a Smart Home?
Modern smart home systems are usually wire-free. Most smart home devices are ready to be used, as long as you have a router and a smartphone.
But, in some cases, specific smart devices require wiring for power to communicate with non-smart systems such as air conditioning, TVs or sprinkler systems. Smart devices that require a certain degree of wiring include smart thermostats, smart light switches, smoke alarms and smart doorbells.
Luckily, with Legrand, installation and set-up of smart home devices is hassle-free and painless. Get in touch with us to know more: <email id>
Do I Have to Automate My Home From Top to Bottom?
No, to convert your home into a smart one, you can start with certain aspects only.
Most users worry about cost the most, so they opt to do it piece by piece, or device by device.
First, identify your needs. What do you need a smart device for?
- If it’s security, start with smart security devices
- If it’s for convenience, opt for smart switches and smart lighting
- If it’s for entertainment, go for a home sound system
In case you’d prefer to upgrade your entire home and reap the benefits of smart home automation in one go, then it’s best to look for a reliable home automation company, like Legrand, to do it for you.
Looking for a user-friendly, cost-effective entry point into home automation and IoT? Why not consider investing in our connected devices program – Eliot? Millions of users are experiencing a connected life every day, and you can too!
How Do I Know Which Devices Are Compatible?
To know if home automation systems or devices are compatible with automation hubs; manufacturer specifications can be checked on the product label.
For instance, if you own an Amazon Echo, look for smart products that are compatible and can be controlled with Amazon Alexa. Similarly, if you own a Google Home Speaker, look for products that are compatible with Google Assistant.
At Legrand, our products are compatible with an array of devices. To know more, check out our compatibility chart below:
Is Home Automation Expensive?
Contrary to popular belief that all smart homes are expensive, in reality, they are as costly as you want them to be. For example, if a person is looking for a custom-built design with only connected devices, then the cost would undoubtedly be a little steeper than expected.
However, upgrading step by step will cause the value to vary. So if you are starting out and are looking to step into the world of home automation, then purchasing a smart switch from Legrand would be an ideal starting point.
Arteor Smart Switches are a new way to connect your home. These switches can be controlled via a smartphone, tablet or voice control and allow you to manage individual lights, curtains, electrical appliances and more, improving user experience and providing comfort every day.
From here on out, simply install additional devices as and when it fits your budget. When it comes to the installation process, home automation products with sleek and flexible designs are effortless and can be integrated with your home quickly and efficiently.
How Much Does Home Automation Cost?
This entirely depends on how far you want to go.
You can spend a small amount on home automation hub starter kits or a more considerable amount for complete home automation.
Most people prefer taking it slow and buying individual smart devices as and when they need them. It’s usually more reasonable that way, and you can choose a pace that fits your budget.
But complete home automation is not always costly.
The advantage of this is that you don’t have to keep buying individual devices and worrying about compatibility.
But do keep in mind, sometimes, complete home automation services could have a monthly maintenance fee, so this should be included in the budget.
Will Home Automation Add Value to My Home?
Source: Legrand – India Mart
Yes, home automation increases the value of your home.
Smart homes attract a larger number of buyers who are willing to pay more for smart features.
Make sure to install the most useful kind of automation. Smart security and climate control systems are currently the most popular among potential buyers. Adding smart entertainment systems and other smart gadgets can also help make homes more attractive.
Is a Smart Home Expensive to Maintain?
A standard smart home doesn’t have any maintenance fees. Additionally, most smart devices don’t have a subscription cost, and you don’t have to pay an organisation to maintain them.
However, some smart systems, such as security, may require a monthly payment. Additionally, you might have to pay ongoing costs if you opted for professional whole-home automation.
Will a Smart Home Save Me Money?
Yes, some smart devices, such as smart thermostats and smart lights, can save you money by reducing your energy consumption.
To live the advantage, we, at Legrand, believe that continuous upgradation is crucial. We constantly anticipate our customers’ needs with technologically advanced products and have, therefore developed a range of wired and wireless home automation solutions that are entirely customisable and match the most demanding aesthetic standards.
We hope our guide will help you take your first steps towards smart home automation.
Feel free to browse through an array of such products on our website, readily available for purchase: Modular Switches | Home Automation | Video Door Phone | IoT Devices
FAQs
What are IoT solutions for home automation? ›
An IoT automation system has a complex architecture that includes remote servers with sensors. The servers are located on the cloud and can manage many sensors at the same time. IoT sensors can use Bluetooth, ZigBee, Wi-Fi, and Z-Wave for communication.
What is the best way to do home automation? ›- SmartThings. Best home automation system overall. ...
- Home Assistant. Best home automation system without a hub. ...
- Apple HomeKit. Best home automation system for Apple users. ...
- Amazon Alexa. Best home automation system for voice control. ...
- Google Home.
The most common applications of home automation are lighting control, HVAC, outdoor lawn irrigation, kitchen appliances, and security systems.
What are 5 applications of IoT home devices? ›- Lighting.
- Safety Sensors.
- Security System.
- Temperature Control.
- Doors.
- Kitchen.
- Windows.
- Home Routines.
Dishwashers, refrigerators, smart TVs, smart watches, cars and trucks, heating and cooling systems, fitness machines and trackers are examples of IoT-enabled products with which you may have personal experience!
What are examples of a home automation system? ›- Automatic lights. You can use sensors to turn on lights when someone enters a room. ...
- Automatic door locks. ...
- Smart security cameras. ...
- Automatic blinds. ...
- Automatic heating and cooling.
In general, Python is the 'best' language to learn for beginners, with Node. js and then Java close behind. C is then popular for serious smart home development, however the best language to learn can quickly change.
What are the four 4 types of automation? ›There are four types of automation systems: fixed automation, programmable automation, flexible automation and integrated automation. Let's take a look at each type and their differences and advantages. Then you can try to determine which type of automation system is best for you.
What are 4 examples of automation? ›Common examples include household thermostats controlling boilers, the earliest automatic telephone switchboards, electronic navigation systems, or the most advanced algorithms behind self-driving cars.
Is a smart TV an IoT device? ›Examples of consumer, enterprise and industrial IoT devices include smart TVs and smart sensors outfitted to conference rooms and assembly line machines.
Is Alexa an IoT? ›
Examples of IoT devices are digital personal assistants like Alexa, Siri, and Cortana.
What is a common IoT device in the home? ›Smart Mobiles, smart refrigerators, smartwatches, smart fire alarms, smart door locks, smart bicycles, medical sensors, fitness trackers, smart security system, etc., are few examples of IoT products.
What is the difference between IoT and smart home? ›IoT is the interconnection of devices via the internet, allowing them all to send and receive data, without the need for human interaction. Smart home is a significant part of IoT, where internet-connected appliances and devices are automatically controlled, often with a mobile phone.
What is a simple example for IoT? ›One example is the automotive industry, which uses IIoT devices in the manufacturing process. The automotive industry extensively uses industrial robots, and IIoT can help proactively maintain these systems and spot potential problems before they can disrupt production.
What are the new IoT devices in 2023? ›IoT Analytics projected that 2023 will see a growth of IoT devices by 18% to 14.4 billion, and by 2025, this could increase to 27 billion connected IoT devices. One of the trends in 2023 that will enable this growth is the increased replacement of 2G/3G wireless networks with 4G/5G networks.
What is the most common IoT device? ›- Smart mobiles.
- Payment terminals.
- Smartwatches.
- Voice-controlled virtual assistants (AI voice assistants)
- Smart wearables.
- Fitness and activity trackers.
- Remote health monitors.
- Baby monitors.
IoT applications benefit businesses, individual consumers, and the government. A few examples of IoT devices are laptops, smartphones, refrigerators, coffee machines, Apple watches, Google Home, Fitbits, etc. Devices equipped with an Internet connection and sensors can be used for IoT applications.
What skills do you need for home automation? ›Having a background in electrical engineering, programming, design or mechanical engineering helps. Management skills, too, are important. A home automation business owner will need to be a good people person, so as to help clients pick the best system.
Does home automation require WIFI? ›All you need may be a reliable smart home hub. While a few of these hubs may require you to connect to the internet to complete some functions like updating security patches, latest features, and download updates, they work independently of the internet to make a smart home environment.
What are the most common control types in home automation? ›The main system categories controlled by home automation are lighting, security, HVAC and outdoor sprinkler systems. Systems that control lighting often operate on a timer, so that some or all house lighting turns on or off at predetermined times.
What is the future of home automation? ›
The future of home automation is expected to be characterized by the integration of increasingly sophisticated technology and the expansion of the Internet of Things (IoT). One area where we can expect to see significant advancements is in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).
What are the three types of automation system? ›Three types of automation in production can be distinguished: (1) fixed automation, (2) programmable automation, and (3) flexible automation.
What is the best language for home automation? ›Python or java for test automation is probably the popular programming languages you must learn in the subsequent year and improve your existing skills. Python is preferable as it has large libraries for helping the developers to perform the right actions without the need for writing new codes for every task.
How is Python used in home automation? ›Automating Your Home with Python
Some examples include: SUN TRIGGER: activates when the sun sets or rises in your configured geolocation. TIME TRIGGER: activates at a pre-set time. HOMEASSISTANT TRIGGER: activates when the HomeAssistant starts or stops.
The top 3 programming languages for automation testing are Python, Java, and C#. These languages are popular among developers and automation testing companies for their ease of use and wide range of frameworks and libraries available for testing.
What are the 3 A's in automation? ›It is made up of three interwoven solutions: Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, and Automation. Together, they form the three As of Applied Intelligence, helping businesses find novel ways to delight customers by using intelligent technology to amplify human ingenuity.
What are the 9 pillars of automation? ›- Big Data And Analytics. ...
- Autonomous Robots. ...
- Simulation/ Digital Twin. ...
- Industrial Internet Of Things (IIoT) ...
- Augmented Reality. ...
- Additive Manufacturing. ...
- Cybersecurity. ...
- Cloud Computing.
1.1 ELEMENTS OF AUTOMATED SYSTEM
An automated system consists of three basic elements: (1) power to accomplish the process and operate the system. (2) a program of instructions to direct the process, and (3) a control system to actuate the instructions.
RPA, or Robotic Process Automation, is one of the simplest forms of automation, allowing you to drive better campaign results, manage unlimited workflows, and save time with just a few clicks.
What is the best example of automation? ›Examples of automation include
Cars which use technology, cameras and artificial intelligence to drive. Though self-driving cars are not without risk of crashing, they can be set up with a higher standard of safety than your average human driver, who will get tired and make mistakes.
What is automation in Python? ›
Python is used for automated file management – creating, deleting, renaming, and other file operations. A handful of Python scripts can perform full-blown file management operations automatically or at a scheduled time.
What are the 10 strategies for automation? ›- Specialization of operations.
- Combined operations.
- Simultaneous operations.
- Integration of operations.
- Increased flexibility.
- Improved material handling and storage.
- Online inspection.
- Process control and optimization.
Automation has become a regular part of daily business operations for many organizations. A substantial 31% of companies have adopted at least one fully automated service. Amazon is among the many businesses and marketplaces that have embraced this trend.
How is IoT used in smart homes? ›IoT has revamped home automation and security by interconnecting devices like cameras, alarms, and locks, so you can check and control them using a hub or your phone. Thanks to their cloud-based system, you can watch your house even on vacation.
Where is IoT mostly used? ›Generally, IoT is most abundant in manufacturing, transportation and utility organizations, making use of sensors and other IoT devices; however, it has also found use cases for organizations within the agriculture, infrastructure and home automation industries, leading some organizations toward digital transformation.
Can IoT work without Internet? ›The internet of things (IoT) is a network of physical devices, vehicles, home appliances and other items embedded with electronics, software, sensors, actuators and connectivity that enables them to collect and communicate information. This network ability or exchange of data doesn't require the internet.
Is my phone an IoT device? ›If a device can connect to the internet and has sensors that transmit data, it can be considered an IoT device.
Is Roku an IoT device? ›Xbox, Roku, Apple TV, and similar devices can be registered for Internet of Things (IoT) service. Follow the directions on this guide to connect these devices.
Are IoT devices wired or wireless? ›2.3 Wireless IoT Technologies. A wireless network can have many advantages as compared to the wired networks. The main advantage is that the nodes of this network can be mobile. Wireless technology is the only option for mobile IoT devices.
Is a Firestick an IoT device? ›Simply put, the firestick becomes a part of the connected devices that together let you watch your desired content with the help of just a click or a swipe. That is the power of IoT.
Is Netflix an IoT? ›
However, Netflix, Inc. didn't start off as a living testimony to IoT, it was actually the brain child of two tech entrepreneurs, Reed Hastings and Marc Randolph. The original idea of Netflix was to rent DVDs using the mail system eliminating the use of brick and mortar stores.
Is coding required for IoT? ›IoT devices are built with software that contains instructions for them and is coded using programming languages. They might seem like devices, but they're essentially computers, and every computer needs to be instructed, and programming language is the way to do it.
What are IoT solutions? ›IoT solutions help build massive networks of IoT devices, reducing the complexity, ensuring device efficiency, and driving innovation across industries looking for growth opportunities and operational efficiencies.
What are the two common IoT or home automation standards? ›The primary operating standards for home automation technology are Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, Zigbee, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), and Thread.
What types of IoT devices are typically connected to a home automation hub? ›Smart home hubs are able to control many smart home and IoT-enabled devices and systems, including smart sensors on thermostats, lightbulbs, outlets and switches, door locks and sensors, doorbells, garage door openers, energy monitors, and window treatments/coverings and sensors.
What level of IoT is home automation an example of? ›IoT Level-1 Example
An app is used to monitor in-home automation, a few home appliances, and lights.
Examples of things in IoT
In addition to these devices, the list of potential things is almost unlimited. It could be a home thermostat, an internet-connected car, a smart refrigerator, a drone, farming equipment, a freight container or many more things.
Wireless Communication Wireless communication is one of the most common ways that IoT devices communicate with each other. This type of communication uses radio waves to transmit data between devices. Popular wireless communication protocols include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Zigbee.
What is the difference between IoT and home automation? ›Home automation and IoT also differ in the degree of data protection: a home automation system is closed, i.e. all the connected systems communicate only with each other and store the data in a more protected and difficult to violate environment, while the Internet of Things devices, by their nature, must communicate ...
Is there an app to control all smart home devices? ›The Google Home app is probably the best app to control all smart home devices. This includes Google Nest, Google Wi-Fi, Google Home devices, Chromecast, and so on. It's also for managing smart products from Nest, Philips Hue, and other compatible brands.
Is Alexa an IoT device? ›
Examples of IoT devices are digital personal assistants like Alexa, Siri, and Cortana.
What are two devices that can be connected to an IoT? ›In short, the Internet of Things refers to the rapidly growing network of connected objects that are able to collect and exchange data in real time using embedded sensors. Thermostats, cars, lights, refrigerators, and more appliances can all be connected to the IoT.
What is a real life example on home automation? ›On a hot day in summer, your blinds can close automatically, or on a sunny day in winter, they can open automatically to make the most of the sun and reduce the amount of heating you need.
How big data can be used in IoT? ›You may be wondering how the IoT and Big Data are connected. Well, the data produced by IoT devices is valuable data, as far as Big Data is concerned. This is because it is attached to a physical device, which means businesses can access more detailed information about their devices and how they are used.