In my YouTube studio, I often found myself manually adjusting the blinds on my four windows. It was a tedious task that I wanted to simplify. Inspired by a video from the "Hook Up" YouTube channel, I embarked on a home automation project to make my studio blinds smarter.
The Components:
- Zigbee Smart Roller Shade Controllers: These were the heart of the project. I needed four motors for my four windows, and these controllers were perfect for the job. Â
- I also needed a Zigbee controller to bridge between my phone (or home control device) and the motors. I sourced the Zigbee motors from AliExpress and the controller from Amazon.
- Installation: Installing the motors was straightforward. The process involved Sean unscrewing the old aligner, marking the spot for the new unit, securing the base plate to the wall, and then mounting the motor. Once set up, the blinds could be easily adjusted with the push of a button.
Setting Up the Software:
After the physical installation, I jumped into the software setup on my phone. Using the Tuya smart app, I paired the motors with the gateway, which acts as the central control. Setting the motor limits (top and bottom) was a breeze, ensuring the blinds moved to the desired positions.
Notable Features:
- USB Charging: The devices are USB chargeable. After several weeks of use, the battery was still at 90%. There's also an optional USB solar array for continuous charging.
- Speed: While not super-fast, adjusting all four blinds simultaneously is quicker than doing it manually.
- Cost-Effective: Traditional automated blinds can cost upwards of $200 per window. My entire project, covering four windows, cost roughly $250. That's significant savings!
- Integration with Home Automation: The best part? These blinds can be voice-controlled using Amazon Alexa or Google Home. They can also be set on timers, respond to temperature changes, or even adjust based on your location. For instance, they can open when you're home and close when you leave.
In conclusion, this home automation project not only added convenience to my studio but also proved to be a cost-effective solution. A big shoutout to the "Hook Up" YouTube channel for the inspiration. If you're keen on home automation, I highly recommend subscribing to their channel.
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