Contents
- What is meant by the concept of a smart home?
- How smart plugs work
- What is the use of a smart socket, its functions
- Management
- Device Features
- Types of devices
- SMS, GSM sockets without and with temperature sensor
- Smart Wi-Fi sockets
- radio controlled sockets
- How to choose a smart socket?
- Main producers
- What to look for when choosing a GSM socket?
- Z-Wave technology
- The technology is Zigbee
- How to assemble a smart socket with your own hands?
Modern intelligent systems provide comfort and reliably protect against unforeseen situations. One of the elements of such systems are smart sockets.
In this article, we will consider only important and interesting questions:
- What are the features of the smart home concept?
- What is a smart plug, how is it useful, and how does it work?
- How to manage the device, and what elements does it consist of?
- What types of smart sockets are there, and what are their features?
- How to choose and connect their various types?
What is meant by the concept of a smart home?
The intelligent system “Smart Home” is not a novelty in the market of modern technologies for a long time. Its peculiarity lies in the automation of processes inside an apartment or house. Of course, there are still many discoveries ahead, but much of what was planned has been implemented and is successfully working today.
The “Smart Home” system integrates all the electrics of the home, which allows the owner to control various equipment, be it air conditioning, TV, security system devices and much more.
A constituent element of a modern home is a smart socket – a device designed in one of the scientific institutes in Germany.
The electrical equipment of a house or apartment connected to it becomes controlled by the owner. The user can control the device while sitting in his favorite chair or being thousands of miles away from home.
But in Italy they developed their solution on the Arduino platform. The system has an open source, which means it is more flexible in terms of designing electronic devices.
Partially, wireless switches also belong to this concept of a smart home.
How smart plugs work
The first smart sockets were controlled only by sending SMS messages or making a call from a mobile phone. A GPS module was installed inside the product, as well as a SIM card.
In addition, to control the device on a smartphone, a special application was installed that allows you to interact with smart sockets and electrical equipment connected to them.
Now more modern devices are controlled via the Internet, and some models additionally provide a USB adapter that connects to the router and monitors commands given from a computer or phone. The signals are fed into the hardware of the device, after which they are transmitted to the technology.
The average distance at which external commands are received is about 30 meters. Each product has an individual IP address, which ensures the security and encryption of transmitted information.
Thus, a smart socket consists of two main elements:
- A controller that receives external signals, and then transmits them to an electromagnetic relay.
- A relay is a device that, after receiving a signal from the controller, closes or opens the circuit.
Applying a signal to a smart socket is done in one of the following ways:
- Through the Internet;
- On call;
- By sending SMS.
What is the use of a smart socket, its functions
Initially, smart sockets were developed for private houses, where there is a local area that needs regular maintenance. It’s easy to explain.
Home owners need to turn on watering plants, additional lighting or electrical equipment from time to time. It is not always possible to come home to solve the tasks. What can we say about the need to open the gate in cold weather.
In such cases, “smart” equipment is actively used to provide additional comfort.
In relation to our everyday life, the benefits of smart sockets are indispensable:
- The ability to remotely turn on the kettle or coffee maker while lying on the bed in the morning. The freed few minutes can be used for other tasks.
- Programming sockets to turn on an electrical appliance at a certain time.
- Turning on heaters shortly before the owner arrives from work, if during this period the housing remains empty. This approach saves energy.
Smart sockets are reliable helpers for absent-minded people who constantly forget to turn off this or that device.
Now there is no need to return home to make sure the iron is turned off. It is enough to go to a special application on your phone or send an SMS message to a specific number.
Special sockets allow you to automate the operation of home equipment – computers, routers, TVs, security systems. In addition, the use of such products is the ability to protect a house or apartment from the penetration of strangers.
By sending a short message or pressing a button in the application, you can turn on the light in the apartment, the music center or other electrical devices that will indicate the presence of a person in the apartment.
Thus, the functions of a smart socket include:
- Obtaining remote access to control (turn on and off) household appliances – air conditioners, convectors, ovens and other appliances.
- Control of temperature, gas pollution, humidity and other important parameters in the apartment.
- Notifying the owner of a power outage, as well as a power outage of electrical equipment. Thanks to this feature, it is possible to quickly identify and eliminate the breakdown.
- Reboot office equipment as needed or scheduled. The possibilities of a smart socket allow you to program the device for various modes.
- Measurement of consumed energy.
Also read what are sockets with a timer and how to set them up.
Management
The control process is simple and accessible even to a novice user. All that is required is the presence of a connected network or mobile connection.
The control principle is as follows:
- Removal of the product from the box, installation of a SIM card of any of the operators.
- Connecting the device to household voltage of 220 Volts at home.
- Installing the plug of one or more controlled devices into a smart socket.
To control the device via a smartphone, you need to enter the number of the smart device in the book with phone numbers. It is advisable to save basic SMS commands in a mobile phone and use them if necessary.
They can be sent not only by SMS, but also using a special application on Android or iOS.
The smart socket accepts commands at a distance of up to five numbers, which is additional protection against outside interference or malfunctions. In addition, only those telephones from which you plan to control the device can be added to the list of numbers.
If an outlet capable of operating via the Internet is installed in an apartment or house, the management principles here are even simpler.
To issue a command, it is enough to install a special application or go to a web page from a computer and see the real state of the device – disabled or enabled.
In addition, parameters such as a graph of changes in temperature and humidity are stored in the user’s personal account.
By clicking on the link you can learn more about GSM sockets for smart home.
Device Features
The main feature of smart sockets is the fact that they fit the connectors of most modern technology. It is worth considering that the power limit is 3 kW. This is usually enough to connect a powerful receiver such as a heating radiator, boiler or split system.
There are many options for smart plugs. The simplest ones are products with a single connector, and the more advanced ones are several sockets (up to 3-4), made in the form of a surge protector.
In addition, it is possible to combine a group of sockets into one network for interaction between them via radio communication.
A power outage does not cause the smart plug to malfunction, because it has a spare power supply inside. It is enough to send an SMS message and warn the owner about a decrease or a power outage.
If the device is capable of operating over the Internet, an “alarm” letter is sent to the owner’s mailbox with information about the loss of power.
If a security system is provided in the apartment or house, it also continues to work for a certain time.
The new versions of smart sockets have a timer that allows you to set the operating time of a particular device or program it to turn on or off.
As an additional function, a special thermometer can be provided to control the temperature regime.
Types of devices
With the growing popularity of smart plugs, the number of offers that are available to customers has also increased.
It is difficult for a novice user to decide on a suitable design, because they all differ in the installation method and control option. Consider the main types of products in detail.
According to the type of installation, smart sockets are:
See also:
According to the control method, smart sockets are:
- With SMS control;
- radio-controlled;
- With the possibility of submitting commands via the Internet.
By design features are divided into types:
- Single devices – with remote control.
- One outlet with multiple control outputs. Each of them is capable of receiving commands to turn the device on or off.
- Several sockets, where one of them acts as the main one, while the others depend on it, while the main one can control a group of other sockets.
- Extension cord (mains filter). The peculiarity of the product is that commands are given simultaneously to all outputs or for each separately.
Overhead – pros and cons
The advantages of overhead smart sockets include:
- Wide range of models. You can choose a device that suits the design and type of control. Modern models are controlled via telephone or the Internet.
- Ease of installation without complex installation work.
- Ease of setup that even a novice user can handle.
Disadvantages:
- During operation, interruptions in communication are possible due to the poor quality of the GSM signal. Within the city, problems rarely arise, but outside the territory of the settlement there may be interruptions in communication. This is confirmed by the reviews of people who use such products in everyday life.
- The ability to control the smart plug is subject to availability of phone and/or Internet charges. These points are important to take into account.
- Bulky is not always a plus for the appearance of the interior.
Embedded smart sockets
Embedded products are mounted in the wall according to the same principle as conventional sockets. When choosing, the buyer has two ways – to redo the wiring or leave everything as it was.
In the first case, the specialist plans the placement of devices that are installed in certain parts of the house or apartment, after which the wiring is done, and further control takes place using the SMS controller.
The second option is to leave the wiring unchanged. In this case, the SMS controller is mounted on an electrical panel, which eliminates the possibility of controlling only one outlet.
For example, the user will not be able to turn off the router and not turn off the table lamp installed in the same room. This is due to the fact that several sockets, as a rule, are included in one group.
See also:
SMS, GSM sockets without and with temperature sensor
Smart GSM sockets are special products that can be controlled using a mobile phone. For their full-fledged work, several components are required – a phone with a working SIM card, a smart socket itself, as well as another card for SMS messages.
On the back of the device there is a special slot into which a SIM card is installed.
On the other hand, a connector is provided, which includes electrical appliances. The presence of power can be judged by a special indicator.
GSM sockets can be controlled remotely, the main condition is the presence of a stable cellular network in the place where it is installed.
Some models send a message to the owner when there is a power outage or power outage. These sockets can be controlled using a special application. It must be downloaded and put on a smartphone or tablet.
Depending on the model, the list of functions and features of the device may vary. For example, in some models, a temperature sensor, a door opening indicator or humidity indicator are mounted.
In more modern devices, it is possible to program – turn the device on and off at a certain time (day, week).
The control is made using a customizable timer and an external microphone.
Advanced GSM sockets have their own battery, which ensures operation for 12 hours even when the electricity is turned off, informing the owner about what happened.
Let’s highlight the most interesting models.
SIMPAL-T4 GSM SOCKET
It has a temperature sensor, has the ability to remote control from your phone. It is used to connect devices with a power of up to 3,5 kW.
The features of the model include the presence of a function for measuring air temperature, the ability to control according to a schedule and according to information from a temperature sensor, and the presence of manual control.
For ease of use, you can install the application on your smartphone and control the product by pressing the necessary buttons.
The measured temperature range is from -10 to +50 degrees Celsius, the presence of a built-in battery and small overall dimensions – 11 * 5,5 * 3,3 cm.
See also:
Floor sockets – purpose, types, installation rules, overview of legrand sockets
SAPSAN PRO 10
Device with the ability to control by sending SMS commands. Supports the installation of SIM-cards of various operators.
A smart socket is capable of performing the functions of a thermostat, thanks to the presence of a temperature sensor. Switching on / off takes place taking into account the specified settings.
Of the main functions, it is worth highlighting a remote reboot or turning the device on / off, as well as notification of a power loss. Control is possible by timer, by SMS, by call or manually.
The maximum connected load is 3,5 kW, there are alarm outputs. Overall dimensions – 8,4 * 132 * 71 cm.
SENSEIT GS1
Model with the possibility of remote control using a mobile phone. Designed to connect devices with a total load of up to 3 kW.
The device can work automatically according to the schedule and temperature sensor. The SMS message contains information on the temperature in degrees Celsius.
The features include the presence of mobile software, a wide temperature range (from 0 to 40 degrees), the presence of alarm outputs and small dimensions – 8,4 * 13,2 * 7,1 cm. The kit includes an instruction that describes in detail the principle of operation and model settings.
SENSEIT GS2 M
Smart socket with a SIM card, which is controlled by SMS. The functions of the device allow you to turn on and off electrical equipment in a house or apartment, as well as control the outlet itself.
This model is suitable for connecting the air conditioning system, power supply, water supply, computer, charger and other equipment. The maximum load is 3,5 kW.
Distinctive features – the presence of a temperature sensor, a large range, the ability to work through an application for Android and iOS.
The possibility of scheduling work according to the schedule and by manual activation is available. The maximum distance for optimal device operation is up to 100 meters.
See also:
T4 TELEMETRIC
A device that allows you to control various equipment in a house or apartment via SMS.
The product comes with a temperature sensor that allows you to set the function to turn on and off when a certain temperature is reached.
A smart socket is able to turn on and off according to a schedule, by SMS command and when a certain temperature is reached.
In addition, the model notifies the owner about the temperature regime exceeding the established limits, about a decrease in voltage or deterioration of the GSM signal.
The maximum power of connected devices is 3,5 kW. In addition to this smart socket model, there are other options – T20 and T40.
How to connect and set up
A feature of smart GSM sockets is the ease of connection and subsequent configuration. This can be easily handled by a person who does not have experience in electrical work or does not know the rules for using a special tool.
The algorithm is as follows:
- Ensure the availability and stability of mobile communications where Smart Home technology will be applied.
- Buy a SIM card from Megafon, MTS, Beeline or another operator and a suitable GSM socket model.
- Check that according to the tariff plan it is possible to send and receive SMS messages.
- Top up the account of the purchased card and turn off the PIN-code (password) request during login.
- Carefully read the instructions that come with the smart plug with remote control.
- Install the SIM card in the appropriate slot for this.
- Plug the product into a fixed outlet to which the equipment will be connected.
- This completes the connection.
Now you need to configure the equipment for correct work in the future. Start by checking the functionality of the module, for which pay attention to the special indicator – it should glow.
Now you need to “bind” the SIM card number to the product, following the instructions in the kit.
Programming principles may differ depending on the features of the model. Here, a lot depends on the manufacturer, as well as the type of smart socket.
To correctly set all the parameters, carefully study the instruction manual. Please note that the configuration of products from different manufacturers is different.
When installing and operating smart GSM sockets, the following rules should be taken into account:
- Do not exceed the maximum load rating set by the manufacturer.
- Do not connect sockets of this type outdoors, near a washbasin or stove, high temperature, dust and moisture can adversely affect their operation.
- When programming numbers, remember that their number is individual for different models. Some devices provide protection against mailings or calls from other numbers.
- Consider the minimum and maximum distances between devices during installation.
- Having a good GSM coverage is a prerequisite for the stable operation of the device.
Video on connection and settings on the example of the Telemetric 4 model.
Smart Wi-Fi sockets
Products that work over a wireless network are in great demand. Consider their features and popular models in detail.
How the device works
The popularity of smart Wi-Fi sockets is due to the presence of additional options in many models, namely, a built-in camera, various indicators (temperature, humidity and movement), customizable timers and other features.
Some manufacturers offer smart plugs with several control options available – via the Internet and SMS.
For example, in the absence of the Internet, you can send a message, and the device will perform its task. An important plus is the ability to control through special applications on iPhones and smartphones (for example, through the Ready for Sky application).
On models with Wi-Fi, there is: an on/off button, a work indicator, a ground connection, and a spare battery (on some models). The presence of the latter ensures that the command is sent to the owner even in the event of a power loss.
The device operates on the basis of a Wi-Fi network – 802.11 b / g / n. The frequency is 2,4 GHz. After connecting to the router, the smart plug receives a unique IP address. Management, as noted above, can be performed from any mobile device on which a suitable application is installed.
Up to 50 dependent products can be connected to the control outlet and then combined into a common network. Such installation provides automation of equipment in the office or home.
Models overview
A brief overview of popular Wi-Fi smart sockets that are worthy of attention is given below.
REDMOND SKYPLUG 100S
A unique model that provides the ability to control any equipment in a house or apartment.
Any devices with power up to 2,2 kW are connected to the product. It can be a PC, washing machine, air conditioner, TV or other equipment.
The features of the model include the use of heat-resistant plastic in the basis, protection against electric shock (class 1), the possibility of manual and remote control, switching via Bluetooth v4.0.
The model has surge protection. Dimensions – 4,5 * 4,5 * 7,1 cm. The product itself and instructions for installation and configuration are included in the kit.
REDMOND SKYSOCKET RSP-R2S
Differs in the reliable dust – and moisture-proof case. Thanks to this feature, the model can be installed not only in an apartment or house, but also in a garage, bathroom, country house or warehouse.
The temperature range in which Redmond operates is from 0 to 35 degrees Celsius. The maximum current strength is 16A, which is equivalent to 220 kW for a 3,68V household network.
There is protection against electric shock (class 1) and against voltage drops. Control is carried out remotely or mechanically.
It is possible to connect to other sensors or Ready for Sky Guard equipment.
Works in the temperature range from 0 to 35 degrees Celsius. It has dimensions of 11,5 * 60 * 80 mm.
HS100
A device developed by TP-Link that is capable of scheduling. Provides remote access to control connected electrical equipment, features easy setup and a “away from home” mode that allows you to schedule power at a specific time.
The model works according to the standard protocol IEEE — 802.11 b/g/n. The temperature operating range is from 0 to 40 degrees Celsius.
The product is made of polycarbonate, has dimensions of 10,03 * 6,63 * 7,7 cm. The maximum load is 16A, and the power is 3,68 kW.
HS110
Smart socket from TP-Link. It has the same functions as the model discussed above. Its features include the presence of power consumption monitoring – a function that allows you to view statistics of energy consumption for past periods online.
Data transfer is carried out according to the IEEE protocol – 802.11 b / g / n. The operating temperature and humidity are 0-40 degrees Celsius and 5-90% respectively. Device dimensions – 10,03 * 6,63 * 7,7 cm.
There are two buttons on the case – for settings and power. The maximum load current is 3,68 kW, and the operating voltage is from 100 to 240 V.
BROADLINK SP CONTROS (SP CC)
With provided timer for remote control of electrical appliances.
The features of the model include the ability to set a specific scenario, configuration via a smartphone or tablet using a special application, the presence of 32 programs for settings and six types of timers.
Structurally, the model is equipped with a small flashlight, supports the eco-charging function to protect the power source and is made in a compact body.
The upper limit of the load power is 3 kW. The product is made of plastic, in white color and has an IP44 protection class.
Overall dimensions of the model are 10 * 6 * 7,5 cm. Operating humidity is up to 85%, and the optimum temperature regime is from 0 to +50 degrees Celsius.
How to connect TP-Link HS110 and HS100?
The main manipulations with the smart socket are carried out using a special KASA utility that works with Android 4.1 and higher operating systems, as well as iOS.
To set up the control, just follow the step-by-step instructions that are flashed directly in the utility.
When adding new equipment, KASA offers a choice. Next, you need to name the outlet to make it easier to navigate in the future. For example, if a heater is connected to a smart device, you can write or take a photo like that.
With the help of the program, it is easy to set the time of work, as well as the period of activity (set on the calendar).
A timer option is also provided – the ability to turn the device on or off after a certain time period.
A feature of the HS110 model is the presence of a consumption indicator and analytical information. It shows the consumption from the outlet for various time periods.
This completes the connection and you can use the device. Management is carried out through the program on the phone (remotely) or manually.
For detailed connection instructions, see the video.
How to connect Redmond?
To use a product model from Redmond, you need to synchronize it with a smartphone using the Ready for Sky application.
Next, you need to set the names for the smart devices used, which simplifies the process of working with them in the future.
Remote control of Redmond smart sockets is carried out via Bluetooth, via Wi-Fi or via the Internet.
See the video for detailed instructions.
radio controlled sockets
Another interesting type of smart sockets are radio-controlled, which are controlled using a remote control.
How the device works
Radio-controlled smart sockets consist of two elements – the device itself and the control panel. The kit also comes with instructions for setting up and application features.
Some manufacturers add batteries for the remote control. The device is installed in a fixed socket, after which ordinary electrical equipment can be connected to it.
An indicator button is provided on the body of the radio-controlled analogue, by which you can determine whether the product is responding to a command from the remote control.
There is also a physical impact button that allows you to find the remote control if it is lost.
The operating frequency of the device is from 433 to 315 MHz. Detailed information is indicated in the instructions or on the device itself.
High quality plastic is used in the manufacture, which ensures a long service life of the product.
The features of radio-controlled models include the ability to receive a signal even through a wall, and the total control range reaches 30-40 meters. In the absence of an obstacle, this distance will be higher – up to 100 meters. If you plan to use the device in conditions of high humidity, it is required to take models with IP44 protection.
Models overview
Consider a few offers on the market.
APA3-1500 R CoCo/Trust
A set of smart radio-controlled sockets with a remote control. The kit comes with three radio adapters, as well as a control device.
The power of connected devices should be up to 1,5 kW per receiver. Auxiliary sensors are allowed.
The distance at which the remote control operates is up to 30 m indoors and up to 70 m in the absence of obstacles. The product is made in white color from high-quality plastic. The outlet size is 9*5,3*3 cm.
AGDR2-3500R CoCo/Trust
Smart sockets with two radio adapters and a remote control. Designed to control equipment at a distance. Maximum power up to 3,5 kW.
The range of action indoors and outdoors is 30 and 70 meters, respectively. Signals are received by sockets from six different transmitters. In this case, the remote control can be used for 16 different receivers.
The features of the model include IP44 waterproof housing, light weight (0,6 kg) and compact dimensions – 6 * 12,3 * 3,7 cm.
How to connect?
To begin with, a smart socket must be combined with a control remote control, for which you need to press a special button on the remote control and the case itself.
This is enough for both devices to “find” each other and connect via an available radio channel.
If the job is completed successfully, this can be seen by the lighting of the indicator light (located on the case). Then you can use the device.
How to choose a smart socket?
The issue of choosing smart sockets deserves special attention. Here it is worth paying attention to the following aspects:
- Management methods;
- Supported maximum power;
- Plug standard;
- connection type;
- Functionality.
Control method
Smart sockets can be controlled via:
- Remote control;
- Application for Android
- Application on iOS.
- Remote access.
- GSM
Smart plugs with a remote control are suitable for use within the home, but they cannot be controlled from a long distance. In this case, it is better to buy an analogue in which a special GSM module with an operator’s SIM card is installed.
In such devices, remote control using a telephone is possible. The main condition for the stable operation of GSM sockets is the presence of a strong signal.
Recently, several more types of devices are gaining popularity – with control over Wi-Fi (turning on and off using a special application) and Z-Wave sockets.
The latter are based on special chips that are compatible with each other and provide the ability to remotely control the device.
Buying smart Z-Wave sockets is relevant when you need to install a lot of devices, because in combination with these devices you will have to buy a controller, which increases costs.
It is worth noting the smart sockets made using Zigbee technology. They operate at 2,4 GHz and are very similar to Z-Wave systems.
Such models are distinguished by the versatility and complexity of the technology, so it is not advisable to buy a separate device without plans for further expansion of the smart home system.
Maximum power
This is one of the main parameters that you should pay attention to when choosing. The principle is simple – the total power of the connected devices should not exceed the limit set by the manufacturer.
Standard forks
Today, there are 13 different standards on sale, which are indicated by Latin letters from A to M. In most cases, marking is done by the name of the country where the product is used.
In our country, the use of various plugs with the help of an adapter is allowed, but it is better to choose products with a European connector.
Connection type
Here the principle is the same for everyone. The difference is that some models have a universal connector with the ability to connect any equipment.
Functionality
Smart sockets can have many additional features that you need to pay attention to when choosing them. Here are just a few of them:
- Possibility of remote switching on and off.
- Overload protection.
- Accounting for the operating time of electrical equipment and the consumption of electrical energy.
- Sending notifications about network outages.
- Ability to enable/disable according to a specific scenario.
- Protection against moisture and dust, the presence of curtains.
- The presence of a USB port, as in the Power Cube model for charging external devices.
- Automatic shutdown in case of breakdown of electrical appliances.
- The presence of a built-in dimmer, as in the RUBETEK TZ67G model. With the help of such an outlet, it is possible to smoothly adjust the level of illumination in the room from any place.
Special attention should be paid to the features of the application. If necessary, it is better to choose models with moisture and dust protection. In such devices, special curtains are provided, which are useful from a safety standpoint for children.
Main producers
Smart sockets are manufactured by companies such as Belkin, Everspring, Nodon, TP-Link, Fibaro, Broadlink, Lifesos, Tecsar Alert. Manufacturers such as Redmond and Xiaomi are no less popular in our country.
It is worth noting that most models come from China, but this does not affect the quality. Modern devices are reliable, easy to use and have a long service life.
What to look for when choosing a GSM socket?
When choosing a GSM socket, it is worth deciding where the device will be used, and devices with what load will be connected to it.
If you plan to install the product in a room without insulation, it is better to buy Russian-made models that can perform their functions even in the cold. As for the load, almost all models have a limit of 3,5 kW. It is forbidden to exceed this parameter.
When choosing, it is worth considering the presence of additional options, such as the ability to measure temperature, turn on / off by timer, control via phone (using an application), and so on.
The more options provided by the manufacturer, the higher the cost of the product. So it is recommended to immediately decide which functions are necessary, and which you can do without.
By the way, the ability to measure temperature is very useful. In addition, installing a separate temperature sensor will cost more.
Z-Wave technology
Smart sockets with Z-Wave technology provide remote control of any appliances in the house. Such devices can be turned on and off, change the brightness and volume of connected devices, and perform other tasks.
Z-Wave is based on a special mesh technology in which devices can act as signal transmitters and receivers.
It turns out a network with routing and the possibility of automatic reconfiguration, taking into account external operating conditions. If there is an obstacle on the way, the signal overcomes it and finds the shortest path to the device.
The features of Z-Wave smart sockets include economical power consumption and the absence of radio frequency interference.
By the way, the frequency range of the devices is up to 1 GHz. Z-Wave products are based on special chips that are well compatible with each other.
The main models of such devices include NodOn Z-Wave Plus, Fibaro Wall Plug FGWPF-101, Everspring EVR_AN1572 and LifeSOS XSW-01.
The technology is Zigbee
Smart Zigbee sockets, which are based on a new technology, deserve special attention. In principle, it is similar to the Z-Wave described above.
The technology implies the use of a mesh structure, scalability and the ability to expand the network with new devices.
Devices made using Zigbee technology operate, like a Wi-Fi network, at a frequency of 2,4 GHz. But there is a difference – the possibility of using different channels.
The features include the versatility and complexity of construction, so it makes no sense to use any one device in the house that works according to this principle.
Today, such a socket on Zigbee Xiaomi Mi Smart is popular. Its feature is the ability to control the boiler, which gives additional convenience.
How to assemble a smart socket with your own hands?
It is interesting that it is real to assemble a smart socket with your own hands. To do this, you must have minimal skills, tools and a certain amount to purchase components.
Knowledge of the basics of programming and electrical parts is also required.
To make a smart socket with your own hands, you will need an external socket, a Wi-Fi module, a power supply unit with a stabilizer (U-3,3 V), a soldering iron and a “solid state” relay.
It is worth noting that in the absence of skills for such work, it is better to buy a new device.
One of the ways to implement the idea, see the video.
Smart sockets and switches, as well as other devices that are the constituent elements of a smart home, bring additional comfort to our lives and increase the safety of using various electrical appliances.
They can be installed at work and at home, they are easy to connect and configure, have an affordable price and are presented in a wide range.
The main thing is to carefully approach the choice of such devices. It is important to remember that the quality and reliability of their work largely depends on the stability of the GSM or Wi-Fi network (depending on the model).