Navigating Home Automation: The Millimeter Wave Revolution and Real-World Challenges

In today's episode Alex and AJ are discussing presence detection versus motion detection in their home automation setups.

Takeaways:

• mmWave Technology as an alternative to PIR for detecting presence, even if the person is not moving significantly.
• mmWave response slower than PIR, but the combination is good
• Automations are annoying when it is not working properly
• Home automation can be expensive, with numerous small costs accumulating over time

🔗 Gear Up with Our Top Tips:

3D Printing Magnets Tip:

When starting 3D printing and incorporating magnets, AJ suggests printing a specific tool that helps in orienting the magnets correctly. This tool ensures the magnets are inserted in your prints with the right orientation, preventing issues with alignment and adhesion.

Embedded Magnet Dispenser Tool for 3D Prints

Mini Greenhouse Project:

Alex mentions a project involving 3D printing a mini greenhouse called "Herbus," designed by Hands On Katie. It’s a comprehensive project that includes sections for planting herbs for the kitchen or small plants for a vegetable garden. Alex highlights adding technology and automation to the greenhouse, such as full spectrum LED lights for growing plants and potentially including an automated watering system.

Herbus Mini Greenhouse

® Brands or solutions mentioned (not in order):

1. Homey
2. Home Assistant
3. Aqara
4. Gardena
5. Husqvarna
6. Hands On Katie
7. Herbus