We all have heard about automation. It has been around for several years in industrial environments. Robots usually perform industrial tasks that would be dangerous or physically impossible for humans. Devices known as linear actuators are crucial components of industrial robots.

Industrial automation soon found application in other areas like aeronautical and maritime vessels. For instance, a marine linear actuator 12v can be used to adjust antennas and radars, position engines and thrusters, and many more tasks on a boat or ship.

The good news for most people is that automation technology is available for homes too. An automated home (also known as a smart home) is more comfortable, safer, and looks futuristic. However, most people think that home automation is a luxury that only the rich can afford. This idea could not be farther from the truth. Home automation is not so expensive if you make it (at least partly) as DIY projects.

If you want to give home automation a try, we share nine secrets to implement your ideas. You don’t need any previous experience to implement basic home automation projects. After you gain more skills, you will be able to automate any part of your home. Let’s begin!

1. Select a Beginner’s Project

Before dealing with actuators, most people choose simpler automation projects. That’s a good idea to develop skills while having some parts of your home already automated. Here you have a list of simple home automation projects you can choose from:

• Smart lighting. This project is possibly the easiest to start automating your home. Depending on the implementation, you can control the lights in different ways (schedule, voice, every time a door opens or closes).
• Smart lock. Automating your door lock will allow you to en secure your home without keys. You can use your smartphone, a code, or fingerprint to gain access. You can also allow visitors by sharing the code, which you can revoke at any time.
• Smart heating. By installing a smart thermostat at home, you can adjust the temperature of your house automatically. The thermostat can sense the presence of people, consequently increasing or decreasing the room temperature.

There are other automation projects suitable for beginners. Choose one according to the skills you possess.

2. Select an Automation Platform

The next step consists of selecting your ecosystem. Before you buy any automation devices, select the platform that is best for you. Amazon Alexa, Google Nest, and Apple HomeKit are the most common platforms. Using a specific platform allows you to control all your automation devices from a single unit.

3. Select a Control Hub

In most cases, you’ll be able to control your automation devices with your smartphone. Some platforms allow you to use voice commands. However, it is recommendable to have a control hub also. The control hub can work as a repeater for your voice commands such that you don’t shout at home. More importantly, the control hub is the interface between your devices and your smartphone when you are not at home.

4. Ensure Proper Wireless Connectivity

For most home automation projects, you need a reliable Wi-Fi connection. Most hubs operate at 2.4 GHz, but most recent ones may operate at 5 GHz. Verify the specifications to ensure you have the correct Wi-Fi access point. Other hubs may work with Bluetooth or a different wireless interface.

5. Ensure the Support for Third-Party Products

As you add more automation devices, you will likely want to buy a device manufactured by a vendor different from your ecosystem’s manufacturer. Check carefully whether the said device is compatible with your automation platform. You can connect the said device to your control hub with a basic level of support.

6. Become Familiar with Smart-Home Standards

The interconnection of automation devices takes place with a standardized wireless interface. The two most popular are ZigBee and Z-Wave. A new standard called Thread is popular with Apple and Google devices. You don’t really have to be an expert in all these standards. However, knowing the basics can be helpful.

7. Place Your Automation Devices Conveniently

You need to place each automation device at a convenient spot. Most devices need a good level of Wi-Fi signal and a power outlet nearby. In case the device is battery-operated, then you should choose an accessible spot to place it.

8. Mind Privacy and Security

Some home automation devices are equipped with microphones or cameras. Since they connect wirelessly to the Internet, they represent a potential breach of privacy. Therefore, read the privacy policy of each of your devices before you connect them. Ensure your WI-Fi connection is well-protected against any security breach.

9.  Use Linear Actuators

After completing some basic automation projects, you can start using actuators for more elaborated projects. For example, you can automate your desk, window shades, kitchen, and more. Most manufacturers offer actuators suitable for home automation.