Wink users who have long enjoyed free service, have been given an ultimatum to either start paying a monthly fee as of May 13th or lose access to their smart home system. Understandably this has left many users feeling angry, frustrated or worse. The company stated that this change is necessary to keep the Wink
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of home security or protecting your business from vandalism and theft? For most people it’s an alarm system. Indeed a home or business alarm system plays an important role in enhancing security but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. LANDSCAPING No, we’re not
PROS and CONS of Smart Home Hub vs WiFi and Cloud Automation Smart Home automation is arguably the hottest tech topic of the day. Along with its popularity has come a seemingly endless array of options from a multitude of vendors with technology including WiFi, ZWave, Zigbee, Insteon and UPB. In the early days of
Firmware is the “operating system” of your Foscam camera or NVR and just like Windows or your smart phone needs updates for new features and to ensure optical security, so too does your security camera or NVR. While you may not be worried about the newest features afforded by the latest updates, it is critically
Integrate SmartThings with the Ring Video Doorbell or Ring Doorbell Pro to create automation events when Ring’s motion sensor is activated or someone presses Ring’s doorbell button. As an example you can turn on a light or lights automatically when someone approaches your front door. Let’s talk about SmartThings integration with Ring Video Doorbell. SmartThings
When it comes to setting up a home network or automation system, we often talk more about features and functions, than security. But security should be at the top of everyone’s list as more and more devices are being made available to the Internet. The ‘edge’ of your home’s network and therefore your home’s network
We’ve created a new Smart Home Wiring Guide for new home builds and renos. You can check it out here: https://www.aartech.ca/smart-home-wiring-guide.html
We’re often asked how to automate a fireplace. This article provides guidance on controlling a fireplace with Zwave and assumes you will be using a Vera, Hometroller, Smartthings or similar home automation controller that supports the Zwave products listed. First and foremost, as with any DIY project, care is required and if you are not
We are often asked to integrate a camera feed in to systems like Leviton HAI, Vera, Homeseer and the like to display on a touch screen or iPad interface. The problem is that most cameras today are using ONVIF and RTSP to send video to an NVR or software for recording. But for a simple
In addition to automating and controlling lights and appliances, true whole house automation can also include audio and video systems including your television, stereo receiver, cable box, blu-ray and other AV equipment. All of the above products are traditionally controlled by a hand held infrared remote control. Plus many newer devices are connected to the
