Smart home Xiaomi Smart Home, review, equipment, connection and configuration with your own hands, scenarios

The “Smart Home” system, which implies the integration of electrical appliances into a single network and the management of their work, is difficult to surprise anyone today. But for many, this system will seem complicated and impossible.

But technology does not stand still. Manufacturers are emerging, ready to challenge established dogmas and bring newer and better systems to the market.

One such company is Xiaomi, which has expanded the capabilities of the smart home, making it even more functional and simple.

What is “Smart Home”?

“Smart Home” is a system for controlling equipment in a person’s place of residence, which provides comfort, safety and energy saving with limited participation of the owner.

Over the years, once unique technologies have been widely used. If earlier motion sensors were used only in security systems, today they are even installed in entrances (to turn on the light).

The modern Smart Home system should detect and respond to force majeure situations in time. So, if a leak occurs, a command is given to shut off the water. Has an intruder entered your apartment? The alarm goes off and the police are called. Is there a smell of gas? The system gives a command to close the gas cock.

This list can be continued for a long time. The bottom line is that the main decisions are made automatically, without human intervention.

The design of the “Smart Home” system takes place during the construction process or during the overhaul of the building. The cost of equipment is solid, so the cost of arranging the system is appropriate.

But there are solutions that can reduce the cost of solving the problem, for example, a smart home on Arduino or the system described below.

What is a Xiaomi smart home?

The main plus of the smart home of the Xiaomi Smart Home series is that it is controlled using a smartphone. This is due to the presence of communication with the head unit via Wi-Fi.

Moreover, during the setup process, the system is “linked” to the user’s account, which allows remote control – from anywhere where there is Internet.

The second advantage is the ability to add a group of devices that are implemented separately from each other. As an example, a surveillance camera, lamps, a smart socket and other equipment.

The Xiaomi Smart Home kit includes the group’s master device (gateway), which, using sensors, controls the following aspects:

• Movement;
• Door position;
• Switch positions and so on.

Packages

In the process of assembling the Smart Home system, it is worth considering that there are three configuration options:

• Basic;
• Smart Home;
• Individual, with additional controls.

Consider the main options.

The basic package includes:

• Main controller;
• Sensor for opening and closing doors, as well as movement;
• Universal button.

The manufacturer positions the kit as a home alarm kit.

The Xiaomi Smart Home Kit includes the following items:

• A multifunctional gateway that can additionally be used as an online radio or night light. Even with an unstable Wi-Fi connection, the device performs its functions.
• Door and window sensor – a product that reacts online to opening or closing;
• Wireless switch;
• Smart socket (ZigBee version).
• Motion Sensor.

If desired, the user has the right to supplement the existing devices with additional controlling bodies and devices. To expand the functionality, you can purchase the following items:

• Temperature and humidity sensor;
• wireless button;
• Smart curtains and so on.

Overview and features of the main gateway (controller) Xiaomi Smart Home Gateway 2

The controller combines the elements of the “Smart Home” system into a single whole. Its functions are to connect sensors, set control programs, issue commands to connected devices, work as a night light or radio.

The kit comes with an instruction manual, the controller itself and a special clip. The latter is necessary to bind the controlling bodies to the device.

Already in appearance, you can judge the quality and reliability of the controller. But keep in mind that its plug is only suitable for Chinese sockets, so you will have to purchase an adapter.

Gateway versions

The Xiaomi Smart Home controller provides a gateway of the second version. The first version does not have a radio, and the second version has a radio.

The advantage of the latter option is that the device works in developer mode and copes well with tasks in alternative control systems.

The controller is about 8 cm in diameter and 3,5 cm thick. The product has a button that, when pressed, activates additional functions.

A speaker is installed on the front. It is required to work in radio, alarm or alarm mode.

Zig Bee Interface Features

The task of the controller, in addition to the functions already considered, is to combine two interfaces – Wi-Fi and ZigBee.

The ZigBee interface has much in common with a wireless network and blue tooth, but it has a feature – it consumes a minimum of electricity, which ensures a battery life of up to a year or more.

To receive signals, a gateway and the ZigBee protocol are used. As soon as a signal arrives at the device, the controller communicates with a special “cloud” using the interface, after which certain commands are executed.

If the gateway is disabled, all sensors that are connected to it are also deactivated.

How is a grid built using the ZigBee protocol?

Xiaomi Smart Home network setup is as follows:

READ ON TOPIC: CLAP smart home – inside view.

To manage the controller, log in to it through the app on your phone. The user can turn on the backlight, change the color and brightness of the glow.

When you go to the Device tab, you can add new sensors. To do this, click “Add device”, select the device and click the confirmation button (located at the top).

Capabilities, characteristics and principle of operation of a smart socket

In combination with the multifunctional gateway described above, the smart socket allows you to check the status of a particular device even when the owner is not at home.

Through a special application, you can set the on and off times for each outlet. To distinguish connected devices, it is allowed to install special icons.

Smart socket features:

• WiFi support;
• Нагрузка — 2,2 kW;
• Voltage – up to 250 Volts;
• The body is square;
• White color;
• Weight – 63,5 grams;
• Dimensions – 5,5 * 4,4 * 3,1 cm;
• Operating temperature – from 0 to 40 degrees Celsius.

• Remote control from a smartphone. The user can set any scenario for the outlet. For example, at a certain time, the water heater, the light in the corridor or the multicooker turn on.
• Automatic shutdown at an overheat (the temperature sensor is provided). If the outlet becomes too hot, the user receives a notification, and the current supply stops.
• Remote status check. Now you don’t have to worry about unplugged devices.
• Timer function. With this option, it is possible to reduce energy consumption and extend the life of various devices. For example, you can set the water heater to turn on and off before waking up or coming home from work.
• The use of complex technologies in production. In the manufacture of the device, a fire-resistant material is used that can withstand temperatures up to 750 degrees Celsius. The quality of the product complies with CQC standards.
• Compatible with Android and iOS operating systems.

Connecting the smart socket of the Xiaomi Smart Home kit takes place in three steps:

• As soon as the indicator starts flashing yellow with increased frequency, you need to launch the application, then click on the “+” to add a device.
• Select a wireless network, enter a username and password.
• If the indicator lights up blue, the device is ready for use.

Possibilities of sensors for opening windows and doors

Xiaomi Smart Home window and door sensors are special devices that make life comfortable. The kit includes two elements with special notches.

When the elements are next to each other, the reed switch (a special relay that reacts to a magnetic field) is activated.

With their help, it is possible to determine the fact of closing or opening windows (doors) or other shutters. Often used with air purifiers and air conditioners. When the windows are opened, the devices turn off, when they are closed, they turn on.

Also included is an adhesive tape for mounting.

Principle of operation:

• Connect the device to a door or window;
• Using the app on your smartphone, combine it with, for example, an air purifier;
• Make the necessary settings.

To set an algorithm with the inclusion of a melody, do the following:

• Put the sensor on the door;
• Connect it to a smart outlet;
• Make settings.

To set security modes:

• Install sensors;
• Turn on the security mode;
• Receive an alert on your phone when strangers break into your home.

Features:

• Switching to standby mode when opening a window when airing;
• Automatic switching on of lighting;
• Turning on video recording if strangers are found in the house;
• Can be used not only on doors and windows, but also on a mailbox or cabinet;
• Use of high quality materials that are resistant to moisture and fire;
• The response time of the device is only 15 seconds;
• Ease of connection and synchronization with sensors that are installed in the house;
• Ability to connect up to 20 devices to one switch.

Features:

• Input voltage – 3V;
• White color;
• Dimensions – 3 * 2,6 * 1,5 cm;
• Weight – 0,1 kg;
• Android version — version 4.0;
• The period of operation is from 5 years;
• Permissible temperature – from -10 to +50 degrees Celsius.

Scope of application – control of air humidification or cooling elements (for example, when a window is opened, the devices are turned off), to track the position of the front door to turn on the light or start the security alarm.

The configuration uses the following scenarios – open, closed, or open for more than 60 seconds. For example, when the sash opens or closes quickly (up to a minute), the scripts are not executed.

Wireless Switch Capabilities

The Xiaomi Smart Home Wireless Switch is a special device with which you can quickly wake up your child for school or turn off the power of connected equipment with one click.

The device does not require special installation, it is mounted in any convenient place and has local control.

Externally, the wireless switch looks like a small “washer” that is attached with double-sided tape. The front surface of the button is pressed. Its diameter is 5 cm and its thickness is 1,3 cm.

Motion Sensor Capabilities

The motion sensor is a key element of the system.

Its capabilities:

• Timely detection of movement (animals and people).
• Application of a group of sensors installed in each room. As a result, it is possible to control the entire house or apartment. Installation is carried out near the bed, doors and TV.
• Has an on and off timer. If during a certain period the device does not detect movement in the room, the TV and air conditioner are turned off.
• At nightfall, the night light turns on, which can be set using the application on your smartphone.
• Automatic shutdown.
• Controlling the movement of pets.
• Ease of installation. No tools are required for installation – just lay or glue the sensor to the surface.
• High quality. In the manufacturing process, powerful IR sensors are used, and the recognition accuracy is ensured by the presence of an optical lens. The case is made of a material that is resistant to UV rays and retains its appearance for a long time. In addition, the product is made using a special technology, which allows it to be used in wet rooms.
• High response speed – up to 15 ms.
• Small energy consumption. The batteries in the product will last for two years.

The connection is made in two stages. First, add motion sensors using the application, then insert the key into the device to configure it.

Features:

• Compatible with iOS7 and Android 4.0;
• Weight – 20 g;
• White color;
• Dimensions – 6,5 * 7 * 3,5 cm.

How does a temperature and humidity sensor work?

The main options for the temperature and humidity sensor of the Xiaomi Smart Home system include:

• Monitor changes in humidity and temperature online. If the parameter is out of range, the owner receives a notification. With the help of such a product, it is possible to control the microclimate in an apartment or house.
• The ability to synchronize the sensor with other network elements to improve the climate in the room.
• Accuracy of measurements. The device is based on a professional sensor, which is produced by the world-famous company Sensirion. The device measures temperature with an error of 0,3 degrees Celsius, and humidity up to 3%.
• The case is made of high-quality material, which does not fade, is water resistant and stable.

To get started, it’s worth taking a few steps – launch the application and connect the Xiaomi Smart Home gateway, select the add option, then press the button and hold it for five seconds.

The gateway page should display a connection establishment message.

How do you differentiate between devices that need a gateway and those that can do without it?

If the sensor does not have a wired power supply, and it is powered by a battery, the product will not be able to work without a gateway. In addition, the gateway is required for a smart socket and all switches operating on the ZigBee protocol, as well as smart curtains.

The rest of the devices (lamps, water purifiers, multicookers, and so on) that operate via the “blue tooth” or Bluetooth, work without a gateway.

connection

Connecting the “Smart Home” Xiaomi Smart Home is as follows:

Once the preliminary work is done, you can start connecting the sensors.

Here the algorithm of actions is similar:

• Click on the “plus” in the application, and then on the button for adding a device.
• Select an element connection. To simplify the setup procedure, there is a block of the most used modules at the top, and after the part where the rest of the devices are indicated. The main difference between the connection is the installation of a paper clip in the hole provided by the manufacturer and pressing for a few seconds.
• All connected Xiaomi Smart Home equipment is displayed on the screen if you click on the My devices tab. Devices can be grouped, sorted, and so on. Renaming is allowed (Russian names can be given).

The principle of connecting all sensors follows an identical algorithm.

Script examples

One of the most interesting moments in learning Xiaomi Smart Home is the task of scenarios. It is worth noting that the configuration of the latter is limited only by the imagination of the owner of the house, as well as the number of connected elements.

For example, on weekdays, you can set the alarm to turn on after leaving for work and turn it off 3-5 minutes before returning. If within a certain time no movement is detected on the protected object, the alarm is activated again.

For convenience, you should configure the buttons for quick access, and then use them to control Xiaomi Smart Home without entering the application.

For example, when approaching an apartment, you can activate a predetermined mode, which means turning off the alarm, turning on the lights and activating the main appliances. For convenience, it is worth providing access to other residents of the apartment.

Pros

The advantages of the Xiaomi Smart Home system include:

• Benefit for the price. Essentially, the smart button is provided as a gift;
• The presence of the necessary devices in the kit;
• Ease of installation;
• Large selection of scenarios;
• Convenience;
• Reliability.

The main drawback is the lack of translation of the application, which leads to difficulties when setting up scripts. In addition, when you buy Xiaomi Smart Home, you get a closed system that works only with Xiaomi.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

In conclusion, we will give a block of questions that users ask and give answers to them.

QUESTION 1: “I plan to use Xiaomi Smart Home in the country. They use the Internet from Tele2, a router with a wireless network is installed to connect devices. Tell me, is the connection between the “Smart Home” and the application carried out directly with each other or through the “cloud” of Xiaomi?

ОТВЕТ: the second option is correct. Switching occurs through the cloud, so control is available via the mobile Internet on the phone or using another wireless network (for example, in a cafe).

QUESTION 2: How many temperature sensors are recommended to be connected to Xiaomi Smart Home? The official website indicates that the operating protocol is a Wi-Fi wireless network, but this is hard to believe given the battery life of up to five years. I came across information that Xiaomi Smart Home Gateway 2 works with regulatory authorities via ZigBee, and this confirms the theory of less energy consumption. What protocol is actually used?

ОТВЕТ: the main control unit of the Smart Home system is connected via a wireless network, and its elements are connected via the ZigBee protocol. The maximum number of such elements is up to 20.

QUESTION 3: which application to download from PlayMarket to set up a smart home?

ОТВЕТ: Requires the MiHome app. Today the program is also available in the Russian version.

QUESTION 4: a lot of smart home equipment is made in version 1 or 2, like the controller. How compatible are these products?

ОТВЕТ: application practice has shown that there are no compatibility problems.

QUESTION 5: what is the difference between 1st and 2nd generation?

ОТВЕТ: Added internet radio option in 2nd generation.

QUESTION 6: I plan to purchase temperature, smoke, door / window and motion sensors, as well as a Xiaomi router. Which controller is required to work through the application – Mijia Honeywell or Cube?

ОТВЕТ: to control a smart home using the application, the main unit and a router (any) are enough. Using a Xiaomi router allows you to combine all the elements and set scenarios. The task of the Cube controller is to control using the movements of the controller, and the smartphone acts as an intermediary. As for Honeywell, this is a regular smoke detector.

QUESTION 7: Is it possible to control the elements of the Xiaomi Smart Home using IR rays or by radio signal, or only by Wi-Fi?

ОТВЕТ: the unit works through a router and via Wi-Fi. To work through infrared ports, additional equipment is required – Xiaomi universal-ir-remote-controller.

QUESTION 8: Will Xiaomi Smart Home work with routers from other companies?

ОТВЕТ: yes.

If you have other information on this topic or you have any questions, write them in the comments, we will try to answer them.