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0 points_pmf_8y ago0 comments

> But I would wager 99% of home automation consumers won't, don't, or can't do DIY software solutions.

It's more about hardware. Good luck getting your fire insurance cover damages when your Alibaba sourced board that you operate on the mains (via Alibaba source AC/DC converter) fries your living room.

The issues with DIY here are not hard issues in themselves (grounding, heat protection/ventilation), but they require a custom casing solution which is kind of hard if you don't want to end up with weird looking industrial cases on your wall and ceiling.

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3 comments · 2 top-level

dmm8y ago· 1 in thread

You can build a system that simply controls commercially sourced, UL listed, mains equipment. That top level comment mentioned using IR but you can also control cheap 433Mhz outlets with simple transmitters and a library like rc-switch for arduino[0].

Home assistant also integrates well with openzwave so you can use most zwave devices including a variety of switches.

[0] https://github.com/sui77/rc-switch

emilburzo8y ago

Yep, that's exactly how I automate a room fan to turn on over the winter, when the humidity is too high.

A respectable 433MHz controlled plug, an arduino, 433MHz TX and a humidity sensor.

lorenzhs8y ago

The first rule of AliExpress is you don't buy anything that comes into contact with >12V on AliExpress unless you want to start a fire. The logic board probably isn't going to set your living room ablaze.

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