Hello, I want to start with smart home systems but I don't know where to begin. First of all, is it more important for the system to be modular or is it more reliable to stick with a single brand? Also, what are your thoughts on network infrastructure performance, especially in terms of speed and minimizing latency? I would really appreciate it if you could share general approaches and methods on the topic.
What should I look for in smart home systems?
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When starting with smart home systems, my first preference has always been **"modularity"**, like a Lego set. For example, I might choose Philips Hue for my home lighting while using Ring cameras for security. This way, I can replace or expand each component whenever I want. Of course, sticking to a single brand (like Apple HomeKit or Google Home) can also be advantageous since compatibility issues are minimized. But I think modularity is more appealing in terms of providing flexibility when adding new devices in the future.
As for the network infrastructure, it's definitely best to opt for wired connections (Ethernet) to reduce latency issues in wireless setups. Using a router that supports Wi-Fi 6E and powering key devices in the system (gateways, hubs) directly via Ethernet is ideal. For instance, if you're using protocols like Zigbee or Z-Wave, adding a local hub running on your network (such as Home Assistant) reduces latency and increases system independence. Similarly, industrial systems like ProfiNet or KNX also offer stable performance in home automation, though they require a bit more investment.