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Joined 3 years ago
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Cake day: June 17th, 2023

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  • It’s worth noting that I think both should exist.

    No software dependence at all if possible, just a basic microcontroller and firmware.

    Agreed, I just want a ZigBee endpoint as well.

    As for the smart home stuff, I already have it in place, so it’s no additional expense.

    Control wise, your method would be fine for someone techie and motivated. It would annoy the hell out of some non techies, particularly if they had vision issues (think OAP). It would also close down the option of relatives helping out by monitoring it remotely.

    As I said, different target audiences. Both have their places. I just wish the smart option did its job properly, rather than the half baked options we keep getting.




  • The ability to play with it, without having to fiddle with tiny switches is a big feature to many. Often these are used by people with mobility issues. The ability to add an extra feed, due to exercise, or adjust the timings to account for changes in life plans are a godsend to many.

    Smart home devices are a balancing act. The extra control means more can also go wrong. Minimising that is a big part. The most critical is making it behave sanely when it suddenly goes offline. E.g. smart light switches become dumb ones, when the central hub goes down.