What is a Smart Home? Everything you need to know

Modern technology keeps changing the ways we communicate, work, and live. More and more people want to make their homes “smart” – but what does that actually mean? How do intelligent buildings support us in our daily routines? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at those questions.

Blinds go down automatically at dawn, the heating stops at your preferred temperature, and your oven sends a notification once the pizza’s ready: welcome to the Smart Home. What may have sounded like science fiction a couple of decades ago has now become matter-of-course in many households.

Still, there are just as many people who don’t yet understand what a Smart Home is, exactly. If you want to learn more about intelligent building technology, here’s an overview of the most important features, systems, and benefits.

When we call a house “smart”, it means that you can automate a lot of processes. On the basis of one integrated network, different functions work together to facilitate your everyday life. You’ve probably heard the term “Internet of Things“ (short IoT) before: it describes the possibility of linking a variety of digital devices, even across large distances. This complex web of interconnections is what a Smart Home uses to coordinate and perform designated tasks at the right time – so it almost feels like it can “think for itself”.

Essentially, every Smart Home system has two main components: sensors to give commands and actors to carry out commands.

Essentially, every Smart Home system has two main components: sensors to give commands and actors to carry out commands.

Sensors can be devices such as motion detectors, temperature controllers, utility meters for gas, water, and electricity, or even weather stations. They collect data and then send information to the actors via telegram.

This happens with a digital (and invisible) network in the background, commonly referred to as “bus system”. All technological components and linked devices need one central interface (a server or “hub”) to connect and synchronise their data.

Depending on what type of Smart Home is installed, the communication works via WiFi, radio signal, Bluetooth, or cable. Various operating elements enable you to configure, monitor, and control the processes within this network: smart switches, touch panels such as the Gira G1, voice assistants, and apps.

If you’re planning a new build or a modernisation, you can integrate intelligent technology in many different ways. To figure out which option fits your individual needs, you should start with the question: wired or wireless?

• Wireless systems communicate via radio transmission (based on standards such as Bluetooth, ZigBee, Z-Wave, or EnOcean).

• Wired systems rely on special cabling networks to collect and process information.

Some of the most well-known wireless solutions are Philips Hue for smart lighting and Bosch Home Connect for smart household appliances – among many others.

Now, how do you know what Smart Home system is the best choice for you? The answer always depends on your specific living situation. That’s why Gira offers a wide range of options – from basic starter kits to highly complex installations.

Generally speaking, any type of building technology should offer three main benefits: comfort, efficiency, and security. How this plays out in reality can vary considerably, according to individual circumstances and requirements. By way of example, the option of dimming the lights via app may prove very convenient during cosy evenings on your couch.

Thermostats and room temperature controllers, on the other hand, help you save energy – while smoke alarm devices or motion detectors keep your home safe around the clock. Even your entrance area can be upgraded with special technology. Did you know what a smart lock is, for example? Gira Keyless In allows you to open the door via code or fingerprint – so you’ll never have to worry about losing your keys or locking yourself out.

In KNX Smart Homes, personal data remain protected on the basis of KNX Secure – the first independent security standard for modern building technology. It ensures that all connections between operating units, devices, and servers are safely encrypted.

As you can see, there are many answers to the question “What is a Smart Home?” From pushbutton sensors on the wall to voice assistants – it always depends on how and where you want to make your life more convenient. Once you’ve started, there are virtually endless possibilities to explore.