Help finding an outlet?

dimecoin

New Member
I'm looking for something like the Belkin WeMo (not able to post links yet)..  It is nice (wifi, fairly low cost, low profile); but I don't have an iPhone.  Ideal it should have an OS agnostic interface (maybe web interface or open api).
 
There is also Web Power Switch 6 from digital logger which is is also nice (fairly open, scriptable, etc):  - but bulky, has high price point and requires hard cable.
 
Basically I'm looking for something between the two.  Wifi, cost effective and open api or web interface.  Low profile (single outlet) would be a plus, but a power strip would work too if it meat the other 3 requirements.
 
Any ideas?  I'm new at home automation. I basically want to automate/schedule all my outlets from my server (freebsd, linux or windows) to help reduce engery usage.
 
If you aren't planning on automating anything else, then the Digital Loggers Web Power Switch is the best bang for the buck option IMO.  If you are considering automating lights and other devices, then a Mi Casa Verde Vera 3 Lite with some Z-Wave modules would be my recommended approach.
 
Welcome to CocoonTech!
 
The Belkin WeMo (and Belkin itself IMO) is the anti-Christ of home automation.  We FINALLY have an IP based automated in-wall switch, and they lock down the protocol so you HAVE to use their servers in order to use it!
 
That's right, if you have a WeMo IP switch installed in your home (that has WiFi) and you want to switch that from your iPhone in your home (connected to WiFi) you NEED to have communication with the 'cloud' in order to communicate with that switch!  :o Amazing!
 
They have other peripherals such as motion sensors and plug in units, but they all work the same.
 
They will have very simple rules using "IFTTT" (if this, then that) but these again are going to be VERY simple (such as texting if you have someone switch something on or turn something on if motion is sensed).  These rules will also be stored on THEIR servers.
 
It appears that Belkin just wants to provide a product for the iYuppies that think it's cool to switch something on and off via their iDevice.
 
I hope this changes but based on the Belkin reps statement (when I asked if they intended this product to be used as an integrated source for home automation systems) at this year's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas and I quote:
 
"Home automation doesn't mean anything to the real consumer"
 
I would not hold my breath. :(
 
 
 
BraveSirRobbin said:
It appears that Belkin just wants to provide a product for the iYuppies that think it's cool to switch something on and off via their iDevice.
 That's hilarious!
 
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