Tools

These are some common tools used to work on this device. You might not need every tool for every procedure.

Background

Smart home devices serve as hubs and controllers for a home's IoT (Internet of Things) devices. They typically connect to a digital assistant service and can also serve as communication and media playback devices. Smart home devices aim to make daily life easier and, if you’re controlling color-changing lights from your smartphone or telling Alexa what song to play in the shower, more fun. Smart home devices range from thermostats to doorbells to voice-activated assistants.

When various household items are hooked up to the internet, they can be paired with voice-activated assistant technology, like Google Home or Amazon’s Echo. This house-wide connectivity allows you to turn off your lights, turn on your thermostat, etc. with just a voice command or tap on your smartphone.

The options for smart home control are almost endless, and this field of technology is expanding rapidly. For example, the Amazon Smart Plug can give Alexa control over any outlet, meaning you could turn on your printer, coffee maker, etc. from a comfy spot on the couch two rooms away.

Identification

There is a wide range of smart home devices, and they are all different sizes, shapes, brands, and colors. They do all, however, have at least one thing in common: they are all devices that connect to the internet.

A few common categories include:

HVAC: the thermostat, heat pump, etc. might be controlled by voice, motion sensor, or an app on your phone.

Home Security: typically comprised of cameras, mics, speakers, motion sensors, and sometimes door/window locks that can be controlled remotely via a central hub or an app to protect the home.

Voice Control Devices: devices like Alexa or Google Home that are used to relay information, play music, but also control other systems in the home or operate appliances if they are connected and compatible. These devices have speakers, a microphone, and a screen typically.

Additional Information