Central Nebraska | I've yet to find a "Home Automation System" that does all the necessary thing very good. I prefer to use several different systems to get it all working. For the the bulk of the automation stuff I'd look into a z-wave system. There are various controllers but I like the MicasaVerde Vera line of products. A small controller connects to your network and then your connected z-wave devices connect to that. Light switches, outlets, thermostats, door locks, etc. I believe they can do garage doors now too and some manufacturers may have it built in now as well. For thermostats nearly all major manufacturers offer a connected type thermostat that can connect to a z-wave network. They can also do security type setups with motion and door/window sensors.
For cameras I prefer a stand alone system (Ubiquiti) that operates over a wired ethernet network. That way the processing power isn't on a device doing something else. |