2019 Issue-2
There are a number of articles in the past issues of Nuts & Volts for a variety of ways to control devices in a home using a variety of control devices and schemes. However, none seem to have the combination of characteristics that I want. I would like to control a pair of simple low current AC sockets (ON/OFF) from my cell phone. I would like to use a combination of an existing app, a PIC style device (Ardunio or whatever), and a Wi-Fi module to connect it to my existing Wi-Fi. I do not see why a $100 hub should be needed. My present cell phone uses the Windows operating system, but I know that apps for it are scarce and I am willing to get an Android device. I’m stuck on finding the cell phone app and the Wi-Fi module. I would assume that I would have to write the appropriate code for the PIC device. I can interface the PIC with a relay, probably a solid state one. Any suggestions?
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If all you want to do is to be able to remotely control an AC outlet via a mobile device from anywhere, then simply buy a WEMO Mini Smart Plug. These are sold in Home Depot for about $25. They connect to your home WIFI, are very easy to install and have APP’s for both Android and Apple IOS devices.
These Smart Plugs have a switched AC outlet capable of carrying up to a 15A load. No code to write, nothing to build, just download the APP, plug the WEMO Smart plug into any AC outlet, follow the APP instructions and you’re up and running in five minutes. Install as many devices as you need remotely switched outlets.
The easiest way to do this would be to buy some TP-Link KASA modules. No hub required — just plug them in, load the app and in a couple of minutes you’re done. AND, they work with Alexa/Google Home.
Sonoff makes a bunch of home automation wifi devices. I have several of their products which I got off Ebay and AliExpress. Just type “Sonoff” on the search line. They do a lot more than just switch devices on or off. I paid about $6 for a single channel and about $15 for a 4 channel. Rated 10A @120VAC.
Simple to setup, the device just needs to be within range of your router. The free app is only available for Andriod/Apple phone, although they say you can use a PC if you run it thru an “Android Emulator” program. Never tried this though.
