Where do I start with a home automation setup

Here are a few basic categories of tasks that you can pursue:

1. Automate your lights to turn on and off on a schedule, remotely, or when certain conditions are triggered.
2. Set your thermostat to keep the house temperate when you're home and save energy while you're away.
3. Open your blinds during the day and shut them at night (or when it's particularly hot or cold).
4. Feed your pets on a schedule and with pre-determined amounts of food.
5. Open your garage door with voice commands.
6. Set your coffee maker to have a fresh pot ready as soon as you wake up.
7. Let a relative or friend into your home remotely with a smart doorlock

The most dead-simple way to get started with simple home automation tasks is to buy products  that are specialized for certain tasks. For some things, you can use simple timers and sensors to turn the ordinary devices you already have into smart robots from the future.

In the same vein, there are very simple remote control outlet units that allow you to press a single button anywhere in the house and turn anything connected to a power outlet on and off. Smart thermostats are a similar category of dedicated units that function a single automation purpose, rather than attempting to be a complete solution. They can be used to remotely control temperature, learn your preferences, and even intelligently disable your heat/AC while you're out and reactivate it before you get home so it never feels uncomfortable. In addition to being convenient, these can help save a lot of money on your utility bills, depending on your situation.

There are a number of standards out there that you can choose for your devices, and if you decide to go this route, the bulk of your time will probably be spent deciding which one to go with. Z-Wave for example  is world standard. 

• Software: Whether you'll be controlling your system via your desktop, smartphone, or tablet, you'll need software to run the system. You can get much of this for free either by buying dedicated devices (A Hub) or using open source software. Some solutions offer subscription packages that can range up to $99/year.
• A Hub:  Your commands are useless if your master control software can't talk to your peripherals. A hub is the brain, a box (or set of devices) that issues wireless commands to your network. More common devices are simple, self-contained units that even come with some software. You can scrape the cost of the coordinator down to $40-50 if you need to, but be careful as many cheaper, USB devices don't come with software or require that dreaded subscription.
• Sensors, switches, and peripherals: Something has to carry out your commands. Depending on what you want to automate, you may need to install wall switches, replace a door lock, or do other light maintenance. Peripheral devices can be as cheap as $40-50 per unit, but can get as pricey as a few hundred bucks.

You don't have to stick with the basic software, either. While you have one device that acts as the master control program for your network, there are always neat ways to extend your setup.

SMART HOMES KEEP SENIORS SAFE

Governments are more and more encouraging seniors to live more independently, therefore staying in their own homes. While this is a good thing for government budgets and lessens the financial load on seniors and their families (retirement care facilities are not cheap), it does increase the risk of an accident or a medical emergency going unnoticed.  

The advent of Smart Home technology helps mitigate many risks involved with a senior couple or senior person living alone. With today's technology and a Smart Phone app, it is easy to set up a system that monitors a senior's movement but also respects privacy therefore the placement of cameras (for example) a's in the home should be be discussed by the family.

The following is a list of products and their use that can be used by a family to keep their seniors members safe.

• Smart Door Locks: Family members can use a code to enter in an emergency. 
• Closed Circuit Cameras; One or two strategically placed (kitchen, stairs) can be useful in monitoring high accident areas.
• Motion Sensors:  Scenarios can be created where if there is not motion at certain times, a warning is issued.
• Motorized Drape and Curtain Motors: Allows the senior to control these from a smart phone or smart switch.
• Smart sensors to detect water or gas leaks.
• SOS button can be worn around a seniors neck. A press of the SOS in an emergency sends a signal to a family members smart phone or that of a care giver. SOS buttons now come with a number of functions such as lighting control and smart lock opener.
• Smart Mattress: Sends a warning if the seniors falls out of bed or if there is a wetting incident.

For more products, please review the product list a www.tecus.ca

 

A home is broken into in Canada every 90 seconds.

TEN TIPS ON HOW TO SAFEGUARD YOUR HOME AND FAMILY

1. Get a Smart Home Automation System
2. A dog can certainly add another level of protection to your home, whether you want one in addition to or in lieu of a security system.
3. Make it harder for robbers to break into your home at night undetected with strategic lighting.
4. Because your home is likelier to be broken into when you're away or at night, set indoor lights on a timer to make it look like you're home. this is where a SMART HOME SYSTEM plays an important part.
5. Whether you have a lock set, dead bolt or security chain, it's even more important to be mindful of who has access to your keys and home. HINT!! Get a SMART DOOR LOCK.
6. Knowing your neighbors is a cheap form of home security. Well-acquainted neighbors are more likely to call you or the police when they see something fishy.
7. Almost two-thirds of burglaries involve forced entry, which is partly due to weak door locks and mounting hardware. Don't go cheap in this area.
8. Windows pose a unique security challenge. All an intruder has to do is break a window, reach inside, and unlock it to gain access. Get a SMART HOME DOOR AND WINDOW SENSOR ON EACH DOOR AND WINDOW.
9. Window coverings should block onlookers from seeing inside your home. If you have sheer or transparent curtains, just make sure they're paired with another kind of window treatment that protects your privacy. A SMART HOME system can include remote control of your drapes and curtains from your smart phone.
10. The home garage is a potentially dangerous area. Tools should be secured. It's a good idea to just keep the garage shut and off-limits when possible. Explain to your kids that it's not a play area.

19 MOST WEIRD HOMES

CLICK HERE FOR WEIRD HOMES

And speaking of homes, is your home a smart home or a dumb home? Smart people make their homes smart. Why?

• Energy savings
• Safety for seniors
• Safety for children
• Never get locked out again
• Water, gas and smoke sensors warn you on your smart phone
• Monitors your home while on vacation or at work

Want to know more? Contact us at www.tecus.ca

SMART HOME AUTOMATION FOR SECURITY & SAFTEY

During the recent hotter than normal summer in British Columbia, there were many evacuation orders for communities and residences across the province due to forest fires. At the peak of the fires, a total of 45,000 people were evacuated leaving many homes and businesses at risk for break-ins and vandalism.

With police resources stretched to maximum in many areas, there was little policing of these homes and businesses to ensure their security from those members of society who take advantage of the misfortunes of others.

There is a simple, cost effective system now on the market for people who, for whatever reason need to protect their homes of businesses when unattended. It is called a home or business security / automation system and is available through a BC company, Tecus. www.tecus.ca
Tecus Automation / Security protection is very simple to install; a virtual plug and play system requiring no hard wiring. Any home or small business owner who can screw-in a light bulb or plug in an appliance can install most components of the Tecus system. Basic protection includes closed circuit video cameras, motion detectors, an alarm, door sensors and for the more adventuress, a smart door lock. Tecus also includes an “app” for smart phones, either Android or I-Phone that allows the home or business owner to monitor the premises from anywhere where there is WIFI or 3G cellular coverage. The app allows the owner to record video, take photos and hear sound through the camera and to also point the camera remotely. This allows video and photographs to be taken that can provide police with visual images of the intruder. The owner can also talk to the intruder to advise police or security is on the way. The app also notifies the owner of any unusual movement in the premises and/or if a door or window has been opened.

Other add-ons include moisture detectors, smart door locks that permit doors to be opened remotely, drape and curtain motors that permit can create the impression of occupancy, smart appliance and lighting switches, video door security and much more.

SMART HOME AUTOMATION CONFUSING?

Tecus has developed the line of home automation products that includes the central “brain” (TecusHUB®), the control centre that operates on a world recognized, standardized technology interface protocol for communication among devices used for home automation. It uses RF for signaling and control. Zwave was developed by Zensys, Inc. a start-up company based in Denmark. Z-Wave is a standard in wireless technology that allows smart devices talk to one another. Household products like lights, door locks and thermostats are made “smart” when Z-Wave connectivity is added inside the product’s design, giving them the capability to communicate and perform the desired functions. Z-Wave operates wirelessly and securely and devices can be easily accessed and controlled on the owner’s smart phone, tablet, laptop computer or any other common usage mobile device.

Z-Wave is a very efficient, low-energy technology. Many Z-Wave devices work on battery power alone, often for a year or more before needing new batteries. Others plug into the wall, and there are even Z-Wave controllable AC outlets, that allow an entire home's electrical system to be 'smart' and energy-efficient by controlling and optionally monitoring energy usage. Z-Wave will not interfere with an existing Wi-Fi network. Z-Wave works on a different frequency, so there will be no interfering with Wi-Fi or other common household device signals. Z-Wave runs on type of network called a "mesh network.” One Z-Wave product will pass the signal along to another (“hop”) until the final destination is reached. Every connected device in a home acts as a messenger; the more devices, the more powerful and strong the network is.

Home automation systems usually include the following components and functions.
• Control Centre (The Brain) with a choice of WiFi  or WiFi + 3G, the latter being a mobile communications standard that allows cell phones, computers, and other portable electronic devices to access the Internet wirelessly.
• Smart Door Locks.
• Door Sensors.
• Smoke Detectors.
• Siren Alarm.
• Motion Sensors.
• Water Leak / Dampness Sensor.
• Backup Battery Unit
• Gas Sensor.
• Video Cameras
• Microphone
• Speaker
• Monitoring
• A Personal Health Alarm Device
• Connectivity to local Police and Fire Departments

Tecus system is not hard-wired, therefore it does not require an electrician or technician to install. All components are plugged in and can be installed by a home or business owner with a little bit of technical knowledge and the installation guide. A control application or “app” is downloadable from the company website for smart phones or tablets. The app can be scanned using a QR reader to scan the code on the company website or it can be downloaded onto the mobile device through Google Play Store. The app is free and provides fingertip control of the Tecus home system from anywhere in the world. Incorporated is a 24/7 monitoring system that alerts the homeowner of any incidents that occur when one of the sensors is activated. If an alarm indicates a break-in or a fire, the local police and fire department are also alerted.

SMART HOMES - HOME AUTOMATION

Smart Home - Home Automation. What do these terms mean?  Very simply, both mean the same thing; installing devices in your home that allow you to control appliances such as air conditioners, thermostats, drapes, lighting, a smart door lock and closed circuit video-cams, to name a few, from an application on your smart phone.

In other words, you can be vacationing in Hawaii or travelling through Europe with the ability to monitor your home for security reasons along with having control of your drapes, curtains, heating and cooling and many other actions at your fingertips. The TECUS system is available in in either just a WIFI mode or a combination of WIFI and 3G, the latter being cell phone compatible. 

Years ago, when the first home security systems were introduced into the home market, the devices were very limited in scope and hard wired. Today's products are for the most "plug and play" and fully transportable. Therefore, if you sell your home and buy another, your system is easily removed and installed in the new location.

The TECUS system operates through Z-Wave, a universal technology that has become the standard in smart home automation. 

SAFE HOMES - THE WAVE OF THE FUTURE

Nearly every parent has had that moment where they realize their child is NOT in their room or where they thought the child should be and experienced the accompanying sheer panic when the child cannot be found. 

No doubt about it; parenting takes an eagle eye, a sixth sense and more to keep children safe. Today, a home automation and security system can be the “more” in the parenting equation, and become a parental ESP. (Extra Safe Precautions)

We are talking about smart parenting that incorporates smart home security technologies that provide safer homes and peace of mind when it comes to your children.

What makes a safe home?  The following list will give you an overview on what is required to keep you, your children and your home safe and secure.

Smart Door locks

CCTV Cameras

Door Sensors

Motion Sensors

Siren Alarms

Smoke Sensors

Gas Sensors

Smart Intercom

Water / Moisture Sensors

Battery Backup

Blind and Drape Control

Smart Plugs for all Appliances

TO LEARN MORE ON PROTECTING YOUR FAMILY, PLEASE VISIT US AT

WWW.TECUS.CA

HOME AUTOMATION IS MADE FOR THE TECHNO CHALLENGED.

THERE  ARE LOTS OF REASONS WHY HOME AUTOMATION IS MADE FOR THE TECHNICALLY CHALLENGED. Read on.

As home automation specialists working to educate the public on the benefits of new technologies, we are often told, “I am too technically challenged to use a home automation system.” To be honest, we love to reveal why this statement is one of the biggest myths of the 21st century.

The truth is that home automation systems have the power to simplify everything within your home and life. Homeowners often struggle with technologies that don’t work together. They hate the numerous remote controls cluttering coffee tables, and the wires tangled throughout rooms, but they don't know they have any other options. Today’s home automation technologies eliminate the confusion.

In fact, home automation is made especially for the technologically frustrated. Here are a handful of reasons why:

A home automation system can be controlled via a remote and/or with home computers, iPads, iPhones, tablets and smart phones. Easy!

The technically challenged can even be at ease while on the road. Let’s assume you take a trip to Hawaii and leave your home in the care of a house sitter. You don’t have to fret about unlocked doors, the garage door being left open, lights being left on, and more. All you need is your iPad or Smart Phone to see which doors are locked or unlocked, which lights need to be turned off or on, and whether or not you need to shut the garage door. You have the power to control them all via a touch screen app on your phone or tablet.

Another convenience that home automation provides is the ability to remotely access and adjust your temperature settings. Most people don’t use the programming options on their thermostats, whether because it takes too long or their heating and cooling habits are inconsistent. Home automation provides you the ability to log in from your mobile device or PC and change the temperature to your desired setting. This is especially important while on vacation. Setting your home temperature back to a comfortable setting right from the airport allows you to come home to a comfortable, warm house.

One of the biggest concerns for the technically challenged is system setup and maintenance. Because each household has its own unique needs, TECUS helps to customize individualized solutions to meet those needs, and we ensure that all technologies are installed and working properly. If for any reason there is a problem, we are a phone call away and can fix most issues remotely.

In short, home automation systems are a complete relief for the technologically challenged. We dare you to visit WWW.TECUS.CA, and request a FREE demo.

WHY YOUR HOME SHOULD BE AUTOMATED

Why Automate Your Home

It's So Easy To Automate Your Home

Would you even consider throwing out your TV remote in favor of getting up to change the channel or volume?  That's what home automation is all about: the comfort, convenience and security of little devices like TV remotes. Once you have them, you can't imagine life without them.

Now, imagine extending the simple conveniences you already have, a little at a time, to include control for lighting, appliances, entertainment components, heating and air conditioning, communication, security, draperies and blinds and more – from anywhere and everywhere, automatically and remotely. That's a smart home – and that's Home Controls.

Convenience

An automated home is about the convenience of saving your time and effort by setting up your home to automatically do routine functions – such as watering your lawn, turning lights on and off, setting the thermostat, closing curtains and more.

Security

Home automation offers the security of knowing your home will alert you if anything is amiss, and you can even look in on your home from anywhere in the world. A bit of technology can make for a safer and healthier living environment!

Savings

Enjoy energy savings by giving your home the responsibility of regulating your lights, water heater, HVAC system, entertainment components, appliances and irrigation system, so these devices are on only when needed.

WHAT IS HOME AUTOMATION?

Check us out at www.tecus.ca

Home automation can include the scheduling and automatic operation of water sprinkling, heating and air conditioning, window coverings, security systems, lighting, and food preparation appliances. Home automation may also allow vital home functions to be controlled remotely from anywhere in the world using a computer connected to the Internet. Besides the functions already mentioned, remote control can be extended to telephones and answering machines, fax machines, amateur radios and other communications equipment, and home robot s such as automatic vacuum cleaners.

The fundamental components of a well-designed home automation system include a computer (or computers) with the appropriate programming, the various devices and systems to be controlled, interconnecting cables or wireless links, a high-speed Internet connection, and an emergency backup power source for the computer, its peripherals, and the essential home systems.

THE INTERNET OF THINGS: (IoT) Simply put, this is the concept of basically connecting any device with an on and off switch to the Internet (and/or to each other). This includes everything from cellphones, coffee makers, washing machines, headphones, lamps, wearable devices and almost anything else you can think of. 

On a broader scale, the IoT can be applied to things like transportation networks: "smart cities" which can help us reduce waste and improve efficiency for things such as energy use; this helping us understand and improve how we work and live. Take a look at the visual below to see what something like that can look like.

The reality is that the IoT allows for virtually endless opportunities and connections to take place, many of which we can't even think of or fully understand the impact of today. It's not hard to see how and why the IoT is such a hot topic today; it certainly opens the door to a lot of opportunities but also to many challenges. Security is a big issue that is oftentimes brought up. With billions of devices being connected together, what can people do to make sure that their information stays secure? Will someone be able to hack into your toaster and thereby get access to your entire network? The IoT also opens up companies all over the world to more security threats. Then we have the issue of privacy and data sharing. This is a hot-button topic even today, so one can only imagine how the conversation and concerns will escalate when we are talking about many billions of devices being connected in the years to come.

NEW TECUS WEBSITE COMING

There will be a new Tecus website soon. Meanwhile, connect with us on  Twitter https://twitter.com/TecusAutomation or Facebook ttps://www.facebook.com/TecusAutomation

Why Home Automation?

Reason Number 1.

Tired of messing around with the keys when you’re hauling in groceries? No problem. With smart locks, you can unlock the door from your phone or a keyfob remote, before you even leave the car. You can also set up sensors that turn the lights on when you open the door, for added safety and security.

What is Home Automation?

Home automation  refers to the automatic and electronic control of household features, activity, and appliances. Various control systems are utilized in this residential extension of building automation. Some components of an automated home may include the centralized control of security locks on doors and gates, appliances, windows, lighting, surveillance cameras and HVAC systems (heating, ventilation and air conditioning).

The Advantages of an Automated Home

Home automation has greatly increased in popularity over the past several years. One of the greatest advantages of an automated home is the ease with which functionality can be managed on an array of devices: desktop, laptop, tablet or smartphone. Before determining which home automation package is right for you and your family, it is important to become better informed of the features and settings associated with home safety and security systems.

How Does Home Automation Work?

Tecus Home Automation systems are composed of hardware, communication and electronic interfaces that work to integrate electrical devices with one another. Domestic activities can then be regulated with the touch of a button. From any remote location, users can adjust the controls on home entertainment systems, limit the amount of sunlight given to houseplants, or change the temperatures in certain rooms. Home automation software is often connected through computer networks so that users can adjust settings on their personal devices.

The three main elements of a home security system are sensors, controllers and actuators. Sensors can monitor changes in daylight, temperature or motion detection; home automation systems can then adjust settings to the preferred levels of a user. Controllers refer to the devices—personal computers, tablets or smartphones—used to send and receive messages about the status of automated features in users’ homes. Actuators may be light switches, motors or motorized valves that control a mechanism or function of a home automation system.

What Features are Available Through Home Automation Systems?

Different home automation systems offer a variety of services and functions. Some of the common features available through these platforms may include fire and carbon monoxide monitoring, remote lighting control, thermostat control, appliance control, live video surveillance, security cameras, alarm systems and real-time text and email alerts. Homeowners can save on energy bills by reducing the length of time that lights stay on or lowering temperatures when they have left a room.

What are the Benefits of Home Automation?

One of the greatest advantages of home automation systems is that users can protect against break-ins and fires, while enjoying automations for lights, temperature, and more. The automation of features in one’s home helps to promote security, comfort, energy efficiency, and convenience. Another benefit of home automation systems is the amount of labor, time, energy and materials that is saved.

Home automation systems are becoming more and more affordable. Not only are prices decreasing, but operating systems are also become less complex so that users can readily master all the controls associated with their safety and security devices. Home automation commands can now be given through smartphones, tablets, and televisions, in addition to computers.

Whether you have a large family or are a household of one, home automation is an attainable solution to your safety and security concerns. After the professional installation of a home automation system, you can begin to enjoy the benefits of leaving or returning to a safer and smarter home.