Home Automation

[Jape]

I've had a request to install a home automation system in a (big!) new build property, and was wondering whether anyone here could recommend a particular system/manufacturer?

I've looked at a few online, but there are loads out there, and some that are very out of date.

Bearing in mind that I'm looking to go down the route of fitting these systems in a few other properties, I'm also hoping to find a manufacturer/distributor that provides training/trade price systems etc etc

Any advice would be much appreciated.

John

 

[dragon-av]

What sort of automation? Lights, heating, CCTV, Music? Video? or mechanised automation? Opening doors? controlling physical operations? Home Automation is a highly specialised area requiring specialised training and knowledge to spec and especially commission the system.

What do you consider to be out of date?

ALmost all systems are US/Far east designed and built, almost all UK/Euro distributors require you to be a Custom Installer of electronics before you can take the training which you have to do before you can sell/install the systems. Depending on what level of control is required depends on what systems are suitable.

 

[Spudmiester]

The wise old dragon speaks the truth ! Some of this stuff is bloody complicated and takes a bit of getting your head round, plus you have to get someone to program it all, and that is effing exspensive. (think £1000 a day expensive).

 

[Jape]

What sort of automation? Lights, heating, CCTV, Music? Video? or mechanised automation? Opening doors? controlling physical operations? Home Automation is a highly specialised area requiring specialised training and knowledge to spec and especially commission the system.

Pretty much all of the above! But not so much opening doors etc.

I realise that (like all automation/computerised systems) specialist training is required, which is why I asked about training Out of interest, how do you become a 'custom installer of electronics' without first gaining training on the systems you are going to install - catch 22?

I do have experience of complex automation systems (lets just say it is my other day job ) but admittedly not ground based UK systems. I also have a lot of programming experience, so feel that Automation programming should not present too many problems with the right training.