Today, most homes are adopting smart home innovations, which not only make your home technologically equipped but also give you many benefits. However, when you hear the word ‘Controller,’ many possibilities and questions come to your mind. So, to give you a more vivid image of a smart home controller, we will be reviewing the Linux smart home controller. It is just like a remote control for other gear. So, keep reading the article till the end as we give you a brief understanding of the smart home controller.
What is a Smart Home Controller?
Before we give you a detailed review of the Linux smart home controller. Let me tell you about what it is actually. A smart home controller is a remote-like device that will enable you to control other devices. The Linux smart home controller is priced at $100. It is a smart button shaped like a hockey puck. Along with an iPod like four button click wheel which surrounds an e-paper display. You will be able to scroll through upto 13 screens. Each of the four icons (one for each button) will give control over multiple gadgets in your home, and you will be able to do that with just one device. It’s amazing, isn’t it?
The Linux smart home controller is a great solution and a very modern solution for homes. It is the common solution for smart homes. They are very reliabel and intuitive physical controls. Not only that, it will not be requiring a proprietary bridge or a hub. This is usually seen in other smart home controller. However, the Linux smart home controller works with Wi-Fi.
Now that you all have got a good understanding about a smart home controller. Head to the next section of the article as we reveal in detail more specifications about the smart home controller.
Smart Home Controller- Specifications:
Folks, in this section of the article, we will be covering in detail the specifications of Linux’s smart home controller. So, keep reading to know more:
Design:
The design of the Linux smart home controller is definitely an impressive one along with it gives modern look to the device too. There is a thick disk which is placed just three inches across and has got an intriguing one inch e-paper that is displayed in the center. On the top of the device you will be finding a spinnable click wheel that can be used for a number of functions. You can picture it as the 2001 iPod.
With the Linux controller, you will be able to control four smart home devices, with each compass pointing to the controller that will be assigned to a different device. For each one of these devices, you will find the Linux controller that performs up to four different commands. This includes four points: single-click, double-click, clockwise rotation, and counterclockwise rotation. You will find that the Linux smart home controller comes with a pack of a maximum of 16 possible smart functions in the device
As of now, it takes some time for the smart home controller to get activated, but the Linux controller does not directly get connected to other devices. However, it uses third-party systems to do everything. But the best news about this is that the Linux controller will be offering you your favorite third-party platforms. This includes Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT, LiFX Cloud, Philips Hue, and Sonos. But make sure to use the buttons on the Linux controller, and you can do it with any of these platforms that the controller offers. Also, the buttons are independent, and you can use them to switch to different platforms hassle-free
Programming:
One of the things that one must do is that the Linux controller has to be programmed. After you have registered with the Linux app, you will need to program each device and also each button individually. The Linux app does not really do some heavy work. However, you can use third-party systems to complete almost all the programming. You can take the example of first connecting to a button on the Alexa-controlled device. You will first need to add the device type in the Linux app and also connect to many things, such as security cameras, smart light bulbs, shade controllers, etc. It will really help you to create the appropriate name and icon on the Linux screen. You will then have to choose the platform to which it is connected
Pros and Cons:
Folks, in the previous section of the article, we have discussed the features of the controller. In this section of the article, we will be listing down some of the pros and cons. So, keep reading to know more.
Pros:
- Satisfying clicky buttons and scroll wheel
- Attractive industrial design
- Quickly responds to click commands
- No hub needed
- The E-paper screen shows what you’re controlling
- Portable and easy to hold
Cons:
- Crash bugs surfaced when rotating its wheel
- No local control
- Laggy volume and brightness control
- Short battery life
- A slog to set up and program
- Limited integrations
- Expensive
Is Buying the Linux Smart Home Controller Worth it?
Now that you all have got a good understanding about the Linux controller and the features which the controller has got. You might have still have the question whether it is worth it or not? So, read this section of the article to know more.
You will find the controller available in three colors, which cost $100. You can also mount the controller with the help of an optional mounted magnet that costs $15. Although it is not cheap, the controller has a lot of features that are worth the shot. It comes with the ability to control four different devices, which might be worthwhile when it comes to complex environments where using the voice controls is not possible. Not only that, apart from the controller, Linux has lined up a lot of things ahead in the year. All its competitors, such as Apple’s HomeKit, Nest, Rachio, and many more platforms, are all set to drop throughout the year. You will find that the Linux Pro is also said to be released in Q4. However, its features are not yet clear.
Should you Buy the Smart Home Controller?
So, if you are still thinking about whether you must get the Linux controller or not? Then, let me tell you that this controller will be an ideal piece for your home in the preset scenario. The controller is a really effective device and will help you to keep your home sorted and safe. You can probably use it as an emergency item which you can keep beside your bedside table. Well, do not worry, you will not fumble on it as the controller also offers a lot of late-night functions. Although the controller requires local controls and integration, it is definitely not a buy in this budget.
Common Asked Questions:
How Many Linux Smart Home Controllers Are Available?
It is available in three colors which are black, white, and silver
How Much Does Linux Smart Home Controller Cost?
You can buy the smart home controller at $100
Are there Local Controls for this Smart Home Controller?
No, there are no local controls in it. Although it offers different functions and controls, upto four devices
Conclusion:
Smart home controllers are great ways to switch to smart homes. They offer various functions which can be performed at the tip of our fingers. You can do a lot of things with this controller. So, if you are still in doubt whether you want this controller or not, then just go for it. You will definitely be getting to have a glimpse of the new style of digital homes. That’s all, folks. I hope the article will help you to get all the information you need.
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