Review

March 23, 2024
While I enjoy the DIY thing, building a business requires a different mindset. I don’t want to cut out the creativity, but I also can’t afford to waste time. You’ll hear business types discuss the …
April 5, 2019
When I think of Home Automation, IKEA never enters my thought process – until now. Some time ago they began producing the TRÄDFRI line of home automation products. Surprisingly enough, they make some pretty interesting stuff. It’s …
February 25, 2018
Built on a similar platform as the HS-WD100+, the HS-WD200+ is a Z-Wave Dimmer that once more earns the “best in class” designation. It offers all the features of the 100+, but with additional enhancements, such as the addition of …
April 17, 2017
openHAB is a Java-based platform (developed in parallel with Eclipse Smarthome, on which it is based) that provides interface, control, and automation functionality for your home. It supports many devices and networks through …
April 12, 2017
The HS-WS100+ or HS-WD100+ HomeSeer switches both support multi-way configurations. This will not work with standard three-way switches, however; instead, you need the HS-WA100+. Note that this switch is not a Z-Wave device, does …
April 8, 2017
The HomeSeer HS-WS100+ is a best-in-class Z-Wave wall switch. It uses a mechanical relay, which means you can switch almost any load within reason. It even supports three-way operation with the HS-WA100+ companion switch. And like …
March 4, 2017
Sensative Strips are thin devices that you can install on a door or window to detect the open or closed state. They’re small, they’re functional, and amazingly enough, they speak Z-Wave. Install one on the frame of your door, and …
March 4, 2017
If you can’t get your hands on a HomeSeer HS-WD100+, the GE 12724 is a nice alternative. It doesn’t have a visual indication of the dim level, and it doesn’t support multi-tap scene control, but it’s comparable in most other ways. …
February 19, 2017
The HomeSeer HS-WD100+ In-Wall Dimmer is widely recognized as one of the best Z-Wave dimmers currently available. It has the functionality one would expect of a dimmer, plus additional scene control abilities via double- and …
February 8, 2017
The Leviton DZR15 outlet provides a convenient method of controlling loads without having a separate module cluttering things up. This unit installs in place of a standard wall outlet and provides two sockets: one switched, and …
February 5, 2017
The Leviton DZS-15 is a Z-Wave switch designed for on/off control of 15 Amp 120VAC loads. It supports a wide range of loads, and supports 3-Way operation with the addition of a remote companion switch. Pairing with the Wink (and …
January 25, 2017
I’ve always been interested in home automation. In the olden days, this meant X10 – which meant bulky, slow, and unreliable. Modern technologies have changed this, however; From Apple HomeKit to Z-Wave, the choices are endless. …