Page 27 - THE EGO Ivy Informer Volume 3 Issue 3

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THE EGO Ivy Informer

TECHNOLOGY TUTOR

Submitted by Soror Lorraine Lacy

Creating a Smart Home

The concept of a smart home can be
overwhelming enough that it may seem that the
trouble outweighs the benefits. But, if you’ve
ever shied away from home automation because
you weren’t sure exactly what it was, be sure to
read this article. It will answer some basic
questions you may have been too afraid to ask
about smart homes.

What is it? Simply put, a smart home is one
where an array of important household
components — such as HVAC, lighting,
security and appliances — speak to one another and provide a programmable, customizable experience. These
are controlled by a single device — usually an app on your smart phone — that can be accessed from anywhere
you are.

What makes it smart? Truly smart automation learns your routines and behaviors. For example, a smart
thermostat that learns your routine and determines how often you use different areas of your home can
automatically adjust itself accordingly to ensure maximum energy conservation and savings.

Picture yourself on vacation miles from home when your app alerts you to a water leak back home. Remote
monitoring provides you with valuable information that can save you from the cost and headache of an
unpleasant surprise when you return.

What can it do for me? A significant home automation benefit is it allows for a customized approach that
can boost security, save costs and provide convenience and time-savings to your family. Whether you need to
unlock the door remotely for your child who forgot their key or shut off the iron you left on from your desk at
work, having the ability to control your home from anywhere can provide that peace of mind.

Smart home technology isn’t strictly about monitoring your home in a robotic fashion; it’s about living your
life to the fullest with the confidence that your home is running smoothly at all times.

Is it confusing to operate? Any person who can operate a microwave can operate a smart home. Because
smart homes are controlled by a single source, there’s only one control center to worry about, whether it’s a
hardwired control panel in your home or a mobile app. The best part is many smart home apps are user-
friendly by design.

Need more information? Go to: http://www.dummies.com/computers/computer-networking/smart-homes-
for-dummies-cheat-sheet/

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC.
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