Smart Homes and Electronics

[Iceman90]

Originally Posted by TorqueDog

I have all the hardware, just need to actually do it.

That's the story of my life. My basement is full of all sorts of hardware I've never implemented.

[DeluxeMoustache]

Originally Posted by Enoch Root

Control4 for audio/video zones (including outside), lights, doorbells, drapes, etc - basically, everything is smart now

Works great, but there are a few frustrations with the app

I bought a house which has Control4. Only the audio was really used, for multiple wired zones. The main controller failed, and I learned that basically you need to involve a dealer to do any work.

Finding a dealer who was even interested in servicing an existing system was the frustration for me.

I ripped it out, replaced with a different multi zone audio system.

[Enoch Root]

Originally Posted by DeluxeMoustache

I bought a house which has Control4. Only the audio was really used, for multiple wired zones. The main controller failed, and I learned that basically you need to involve a dealer to do any work.

Finding a dealer who was even interested in servicing an existing system was the frustration for me.

I ripped it out, replaced with a different multi zone audio system.

Yeah, I had it installed by a dealer, so the support has been great.

[Snuffleupagus]

I only have an Alexa show 8, I only bought it originally for background music and my favourite radio stations across Canada where I have lived, (awesome for listening in to CHED after an Oiler loss &#128539 It's probably the best $90.00 item I ever bought.

I recently hooked up two little $50 blink cameras with it for the front and back doors and they work great, I also love that it notify's you when an amazon package arrives.

[Jay's Beagle]

We recently bought a new house in April so my set up is:

- Alexa echo 5
- Ring doorbell, camera and security system
- Ecobee thermostat
- MyQ garage door

I like the idea of the auto blinds but don't really have it in the budget at the moment. Outside of getting another camera or two I think we have the house where we want it.
for now.

The Ring system was cheaper than anything else we could get installed and pay for. We love it. MyQ has been a blessing as my wife often forgets to close the garage so I am able to close the door from work when she is half way across the city.

[Iceman90]

Originally Posted by Jay's Beagle

I like the idea of the auto blinds but don't really have it in the budget at the moment. Outside of getting another camera or two I think we have the house where we want it.

I think IKEA has an affordable smart blind set you might want to look at if you're shopping around.

[sparky69]

Originally Posted by Jay's Beagle

We recently bought a new house in April so my set up is:

- Alexa echo 5
- Ring doorbell, camera and security system
- Ecobee thermostat
- MyQ garage door

I like the idea of the auto blinds but don't really have it in the budget at the moment. Outside of getting another camera or two I think we have the house where we want it.
for now.

The Ring system was cheaper than anything else we could get installed and pay for. We love it. MyQ has been a blessing as my wife often forgets to close the garage so I am able to close the door from work when she is half way across the city.

If you down load IFTTT then setup geofencing with MyQ you can set up your garage door to close after driving a certain distance

[Boblobla]

This thread makes me feel dumb.