Average Tech Blog | Home Automation with Samsung SmartThings

Once you've built your initial home automation network, you need to be able to control it! The default (and simplest) way to control Z-Wave and Zigbee devices is with a Samsung SmartThings hub. The SmartThings mobile app offers all...

Motion sensors are valuable when it's important to know when people enter or exit a room. There are many options available, but when it comes to SmartThings, the simplicity and native compatibility of the Ecolink Z-Wave Plus pet-immune motion...

Before you buy a Schlage door lock for yourself, it’s important to determine which of the three types you need: Schlage Touch, Schlage Connect, or Schlage Sense. If you're shopping for a smart door lock from Schlage, you've likely seen...

The basic operation is to toggle power on and off using the SmartThings mobile app, but you can also dim the brightness of the plugged-in device using a fully customizable sliding scale. This feature enables homeowners to achieve the perfect dimmer level for table and floor lamps, and other lighting applications.

Automating lamps and other plug-in appliances in a smart home has never been easier than the SYLVANIA SMART+ 'Lightify' Zigbee power outlet. Natively compatible with Samsung SmartThings, simple design, and 30-second installation and pairing make this outlet out #1 pick for SmartThings wall plug control.

After reviewing over 25 smart buttons for SmartThings and other smart home hubs, we thought it'd be helpful to single-out the top 3 buttons to date. The buttons we link to below are natively compatible with SmartThings, and utilize Z-wave, Zigbee, and sometimes both.

The Logi Pop smart button is, by far, the most aesthetically pleasing IoT push button. However, this beautifully designed smart button requires an additional hub for basic remote operation. To achieve an experience comparable to a native SmartThings device, you'll need to use a custom device handler & smart app, on top of IFTTT web hooks.

Zooz Z-Wave Plus Indoor Appliance Controller The Zooz Z-Wave Plus appliance controller (available on Amazon) is our top choice for all appliances application of Z-wave controllers. Use this switch to toggle power for portable air conditioners, temporary lighting, and more. This...

Why You Need Infrared Illuminators Both digital and analog security cameras rely on infrared LEDs to illuminate the image when there’s no sunlight or external light source – it’s completely dark outside. Many cameras have infrared light to illuminate in...

This compact siren and strobe plugs directly into the wall outlet. It extends up about 3 inches, but, the device can be plugged-in upside down if necessary. It boasts a 105dB audio siren, with 5 different alert tones available to choose from. The bright LED strobe is a white light that can flash when triggered. No other customization can be done to the strobe light functionality.