Smart homes and automation are two interlinked and popular topics at the moment, promoting the notion of connected devices and easier living.
With all the excitement around the development of new technology and the wonderful things it can do for us, many people aren't placing enough forethought on the wider picture before installing new devices in their home.
Let's take a quick look at automation and smart devices, and what this might mean for the future of homes and switchboards.
Increases in home automation and smart products will require many to evaluate the demands of their installed switchboard.
Are smart devices the wisest decision?
A smart home – or building for that matter – is one equipped with devices that are connected together and able to be controlled by a computer, mobile phone or tablet. These can cover any number of items in the home; from toasters to fridges, gas fire places, security, air conditioning and anything else you can imagine.
This is largely due to an increase in computing technology and processing power, making the development of smart devices a lot more cost-efficient than ever before.
Take a toaster, for example, which works on a basic set of functions pre-defined by the manufacturer. With a smart toaster, not only could the device detect the optimum level of heat and power needed, but relay this information to the home owner. Technology such as this has more than just one benefit; you'll never burn your toast again and you'll only use the exact amount of energy you need.
How will this affect my home or business?
The toaster example is good for another reason; it shows that even the most inconspicuous of devices can and will be automated and connected together. Increases in home automation and smart products will require many to evaluate the current and future demands of their installed switchboard, however.
One exciting potential for the future is that smart devices will help reduce the total use of energy needed in a home or business, thereby signalling to building managers when a power cut may occur or if there is a sudden spike in electricity usage.
By addressing the vital importance of a switchboard to assist in powering these devices, both technologies stand to benefit.
We at DaRa Switchboards specialise in creating custom-built switchboards to suit the needs of the Australian and overseas markets. Delivering the highest-quality products tailored to suit the specific needs of your organisation, now is the perfect time to get in touch with our team.