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SmartPlug Innovation?

Everything that can be Invented has been Invented Attributed to Charles H. Duell, the Commissioner of US patent office in 1899, this apocryphal quote seems apropos to the ubiquitous smart plug. Every introductory blog, video, or online article about starting a smart...

Can You Solve SmartHome Automation Challenges With A Proxy?

Proxy-Powered Home Automation The dictionary defines the word proxy as “the authority to represent someone else” which is close to what it means in software programming too. In a nutshell, a proxy is when one thing stands in for another. You manipulate one thing, and...

Gift Idea: DIY Smart Picture Frame For Grandparents

Gifting Your SmartHome SkillsHopefully if you’ve been reading this Home Automation Secrets Newsletter, you’ve developed some Ninja Powers implementing or upgrading your smart home. But have no fear, even home automation newbies might appreciate the quick tip I have...

Is the smart home hub dead now?

“The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated” Mark Twain   It’s a bad time to be a smart home hub, because if you believe the trade press and media, you’re dead! I wrote about this previously ( Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Hub? ) but I guess the editors didn’t...

Secrets Of Voice Controlled Lighting

The Challenge with Big Lighting Systems Having recently completed a major project for a client (installing a lighting automation system with a large number of dimmers and switches), I was confronted with figuring out an optimal configuration for voice control options....

“We Had To Destroy It To Save It”

Back The Truck Up Before specializing in smart homes and home automation systems, I started my business providing technology consulting to individuals and medium sized companies.  You can see the details at rsdevelopmentgroup.com, my corporate parent. My early...