Mexico. The smart home concept is neither new nor static. It is an evolutionary idea that has been adapted to the times. While it is true that its implementation is still for a sector of high purchasing power, the new connected house is a set of spaces that privileges connectivity and comfort. This is thanks to the integration of security and entertainment systems, always delivering control of all the technology that makes a house work.
But let's look at some misconceptions that have permeated the collective imagination about the concept of smart homes:
- It's just tricks. In fact there are gadgets whose usefulness is null and that are dazzling in their first use, but soon they cease to be important for the inhabitants of the home. The point is that you have to go beyond the "gadgets" to access equipment that offers comfort, energy savings and that improves your life. The gadget you bought on Amazon won't.
- They are too technical. Here's the crux of the matter. The operation of a smart home should be simple and intuitive and should be understood by children, adults and the elderly. To achieve this, it is possible that the "back end" requires a significant technical effort, which must be executed by professional integrators.
- They are less safe. We're really talking about peace of mind and supervision, not so much security. Let's remember that no smart home security system is foolproof. It is important not to entrust or completely burden the issue of security to electronic systems.
- They have no privacy. It is a thorny issue, with which you have to tread carefully. It is necessary to know where cameras and microphones will have to be installed, as they can be susceptible to invasion or hacking. It is also true that every day more progress is being made on this issue and there are brands very committed to data encryption.
- Amazon and Google are enough. We must recognize that the giants of technology have been responsible for massifying the concept, but they do not have the experience or engineering of dedicated brands such as Crestron and others that offer custom solutions to integrate all the subsystems of a house.
- WiFi is enough. It is very convenient to access services through WiFi, but in home automation Ethernet cabling is still king. Only a wired infrastructure can ensure the reliability, security, speed and bandwidth needed to make all AV, entertainment, CCTV and security, lighting, access control, climate and air conditioning, leak control, sprinkler risk and more systems operate at all times correctly.
- Only geniuses can operate a smart home. If you can use a smartphone, then you can manage a smart home.
- Robots are needed. If we think of automaton humanoid robots, let's make it clear: we are far from those fantasies. On the other hand, if we assume that we live with robots in our computers, that there are robots in the form of a vacuum cleaner or that high-end CCTV cameras offer a robotic movement, we will understand that robotics and mechatronics are present in our lives much more than we imagine.
- It's futuristic. There are still those who imagine a smart home as a house full of screens and controls like Tony Stark's room. In reality, automation systems are designed to integrate into the décor and design of your home.
- Not worth the investment. The implementation of smart systems offer added value to the home, but beyond the economic issue a connected home delivers comfort and control, things that improve your lifestyle, which is priceless.
Text written by the company Multimedia de México.
