New to Home automation Hi all

[maddogmick]

Hi everyone
I guess this would be the place to start.
 
I want like everyone else to start to automate my home.
I would like to control the lights, heating, and cooling via my galaxy phone and pad.
 
I have 3 dual core dell servers that came out of a company that my friend upgraded and they work great.
 
I am looking at open source automation software, has anyone used or are using this?
If so is it a good start to build on.
I ask as maybe late I would get into a software like homeseer but dont want to pay $400-500 for a 30 day trial.
 
I am quiet good with computers and can always finally work it out so learning the software wouldnt be a problem, ill read read and read some more.
 
I am asking really is anyone using this software and would you recomend it to stat with and add to in the future?
 
thanks
all
 
Mick

 

[pete_c]

Welcome to the Cocoontech forum Mick.  You have come to the right place. 
 
There are owners / vendors / users of purchased  and open source automation software here.
 
Have a look see.  Ask your questions. 
 
You will get the whole gamut of answers relating to your questions from users, vendors, authors of said automation software.
 
BTW relating to Homeseer; the trial is free.  (much like other software you will see mentioned here).