How do you all find these apps, Imperihome and Homewave compare to the stock Vera IOS App?
Personally I also use the homebridge from https://github.com/nfarina/homebridge/wiki/Running-HomeBridge-on-a-Raspberry-Pi
to enable HomeKit functionality together with habridge. This enables both "Alexa" and "Hey Siri"
=)
Hi,
rather new to the Home automation scene, but heres some tips to get started.
- Choose a gateway or system you prefer ( Fibaro / Vera / Zipato / Aeonlabs ), based on UI and the smart home integration things you want.
- Plan your strategy, eg. what type of control do you want. Lights only, Dimmers, RGBW LEDs, Shutters etc
- Setup test bed for your home automation. Minimally you should be familiar with some home electrical wiring basics, how to connect wires and dealing with switches.
- Test functionality through the gateway.
For electrical wiring, I recommend reading this link to ensure your home is correctly wired to enable control of the lights
http://www.vesternet.com/resources/application-notes/apnt-23#.WIjXaPl96bg
and
http://www.vesternet.com/resources/application-notes/apnt-17#.WIjXivl96bg
(for detailed wiring assistance)
OR
http://www.domotics.sg/electrical-wiring-guide-for-z-wave-switches/
(From the Domotics team themselves)
For eg, my setup ( currently incomplete but akan datang ) is as follows:
Vera Plus gateway
Fibaro Double Switch ( Gen 5 )
Aeonlabs 6-in-1 Sensor
Good luck!