- By: Zeno Hawkins
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Advantages And Disadvantages Of Smart Homes
Smart homes have appliances and other electronics that may be monitored and controlled remotely. These may include refrigerators, washers, dryers, dishwashers, televisions, computers, HVAC systems, security and even pet feeders. Since some of the technology is relatively new, there are pros and cons of smart devices. Each device is connected to a “gateway,” or a central hub and is controlled through a transmitter, which could be your cell phone, wall-mounted terminal or an interface on the internet.
Disadvantages of Home Automation System
One of the biggest disadvantages of the home automation system is that there are no global industry standards. The protocols used in smart electronics are proprietary and include X10, RS-485, Ethernet, Bluetooth LE, 6LoWPAN, Z-Wave and ZigBee. The protocols are not compatible with each other, thus you will need to purchase appliances and electronics that use the same protocol if you want them to communicate with each other.
Another disadvantage is that you might invest in electronics that use the system of a company that fails. Once the servers are taken down, your smart technology is useless. It will work, but you won't have any of the smart features. There are also disadvantages of home automation using Bluetooth as you still need to have the cloud that sends the proper signals to the appropriate appliances or electronics. And, Bluetooth is not 100 percent reliable. It could disconnect itself when you need it most.
Benefits of Smart Home Automation
In learning all about smart homes, you need to know the disadvantages and the advantages of wireless home automation. The benefits of smart home automation often outweigh the disadvantages, especially if you are energy and safety conscious. Advantages include the ability to:
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Receive packages inside your home, even when you are not home;
Lock and unlock your doors – this comes in handy if you have a family member that always forgets to lock the door;
Feed pets a select amount on a schedule when you are not home;
Install a better security system;
Save energy since smart appliances are designed to be energy saving;
Know when maintenance is required on appliances, including minor maintenance such as cleaning the lint filter on a smart dryer; and
Several more advantages, depending on the type of appliance or electronic device.
Advantages of Wireless Home Automation
The advantages of wireless home automation include the ability to monitor and control certain appliances, your security system and other electronics even while you are not home. Wireless technology uses WiFi signals, just like your computer. As long as WiFi is working your wireless connections will work. Components of your home's automation may communicate with each other as long as they use the same protocol.
Pros and Cons of Smart Appliances
Smart appliances add convenience to your life. They have the ability to be programed to your specific needs. A refrigerator allows you to see inside without opening the door. The touchscreen allows you to leave messages for family members. The dryer will let you know when the lint screen needs to be cleaned. Appliances may be controlled when you are not home so you may change the temperature of the house, turn the coffee maker on, start a load of laundry or turn the dishwasher on.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Smart Speakers
Smart speakers are great for convenience, such as looking up movies, playing certain songs, asking questions about the weather or asking about anything you want to find out that could be found on the internet. However, smart speakers are also listening and recording all of your conversations. You may put yourself in a situation where a private conversation may become available to someone you may not want to hear that conversation.
All in all, a smart home does save you water and energy, make your home more secure and gives you a lot of conveniences.
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