You don’t need me to tell you that we are all more connected now than ever before. And, I’m sure we’ve all observed how this increased connectivity has created a sort of human disconnect. But, what about connecting to your home? I know the technology that allows remote connection to your home hasn’t escaped your notice. Unlike the person-to-person disconnect the other forms of connectivity may be causing, the technology available to home owners seems to be all positive and increasing in availability and affordability.

More Than Just Convenience
Fine Homebuilding contributing writer Scott Gibson recently wrote about monitoring air quality via Wi-Fi-enabled devices. There is some pretty amazing technology on the near horizon and some already available. Air quality concerns? Yes, there’s indeed an App for that. You can read Scott Gibson’s post here. While we can all appreciate the benefits, this technology can greatly improve the quality of life for people you suffer from ailments such as asthma.

The three most common and obvious uses of connected home technology are thermostats, lighting and home security systems. It’s hard to argue against the usefulness of having control of these home functions literally at your fingertips no matter where you are.

Bluetooth vs. Wi-Fi
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are data exchange protocols that have a lot in common and a few key differences. Bluetooth was invented by Ericsson and uses short-wavelength UHF radio waves, 2.4 GHz, and typically functions best for fairly short distances of about 100 feet. Wi-Fi also transmits data via radio waves, but uses multiple frequencies. Wi-Fi typically delivers longer ranges of well over 300 feet, faster data transmission rates and boasts better security-all at the cost of energy consumption. That long range with Wi-Fi also requires addition antennas and specific versions of the protocol.

The Future is Now
Debra Silber, Fine Homebuilding design editor, reported a different type of wireless technology for the home when she detailed the LG Hausys TechTop countertop that can charge digital devices simply by placing said device on the counter. That’s some pretty interesting home technology. The post on this tech can be found here.

If you want to learn more about the connected home, you need to check out the March 2015 issue of Fine Homebuilding. Click here to learn more about this issue.

If you have the Fine Homebuilding Online Membership, you can read the cover story, Smart-Home Revolution, right now by clicking here.

Not a member? You can learn more about Fine Homebuilding Online Membership here. There is even a two-week free trial available.

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