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Why I’m a Mac

I see much of my technology as a ubiquitous, symbiotic system, and believe Apple provides the best ecosystem for me.

My mobile devices; iPhones (yes, my family and I have multiple), iPads (yes, multiple of those as well), Apple Watch, and MacBooks (multiple of those too) are all connected by iCloud. Rather than each being a separate device, they are all really just connected user interfaces in a greater system.

I can pick up my work on any device from anywhere at anytime, and it is automatically synced and kept up-to-date. Photos are automatically synced to my main Photo library where they are saved and ‘pushed’ to my other devices. I can easily and quickly move larger files between devices with AirDrop. Messages can be sent and received with attachments to and from any device. These are just some examples of the many benefits that work for me.

My non-Apple electronic products are selected for their ability to seamlessly fit into my expanding symbiotic system to provide an encompassing total solution.

I appreciate and value good design – Apple cares about design. Apple will challenge the status quo to provide a better way, a more efficient way. Design is much more than what a product looks and feels like, it’s how it works, and the experience it provides.

“Most people make the mistake of thinking design is what it looks like. People think it’s this veneer – that the designers are handed this box and told, “Make it look good!” That’s not what we think design is. It’s not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.” – Steve Jobs

Many consumers get tied up with features and specifications, and look to products that have the most features and the highest specifications, rather than understanding and considering the total user experience.

For me, everything just works – like it has for many years, and provides a seamless and satisfying user experience.

* I’m a Mac refers to Apple’s Get a Mac campaign that featured the infamous “Hello, I’m a Mac” television advertisements from 2006-2009.

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Designing integrated future-ready homes

As the demand for home technology continues to grow, one consideration is becoming increasingly important: homeowners should be looking to merge home technology systems into the design of their homes. This may include electronic and technology system such as; electrical, lighting control, safety, access control, heating and cooling, entertainment, and more.

I specialise in the design and specification of home technology systems, and facilitate the installation, and commissioning of them. I take a fresh, client first approach an independent advisor. I work solely for the homeowner and designers to help them navigate through every step of the technology integration process, including the appointment of the right solution provider. I make sure everything is done to achieve the best possible outcome, and user experience.

I am a proud member of the Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (CEDIA), and as a CEDIA Certified Outreach Instructor, I would like to extend the opportunity for local architects to learn more about how collaborating with a home technology partner at the beginning of your project can help you meet your client’s needs for home technology. I can meet with you and/or your team and deliver a 1-hour presentation titled ‘Designing Integrated Future-Ready Homes’.

This presentation is accredited with the Australian Institute of Architects for 1.0 Formal CPD Point as part of the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program of the Australian Institute of Architects.

Contact Simon Lakey to arrange your presentation by calling 0418 100 469, by email, or using my contact form.

 

CEDIA is the leading global authority in the $14 billion home technology industry. CEDIA represents 3,700 member companies worldwide and serves more than 30,000 industry professionals that manufacture, design, and integrate goods and services for the connected home. – CEDIA.org

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My notebook

I have always found note taking a challenge. I have so many notebooks that have been started with a handful of entries, and then not used again. They were misplaced, or never at hand when needed. Notebooks take up space, and then what do you do with them, how long do you keep them?

I relished the idea of the new Apple iPad Pro as soon as it was announced in September 2015, and jumped at it as soon as it was available. I original started with the 12.9″ iPad Pro, and have since settled with the latest 10.5″ model.

The Apple iPad Pro and Apple Pencil combination is my notebook. I have tried and used many notebook applications, and have landed with using Notability. Handwriting is very responsive, without any input lag.

I have multiple notebooks (or Subjects as Notability call them); for work, home, school, projects etc. A single note can be filed within a notebook. I can import a PDF, photo and other documents into a note, and mark it up however I need to. I can easily edit and move any object within the note.

My solution is almost perfect for me. All my notebooks are organised in one place, and are searchable. I have been using an iPad Pro and Pencil combination for more than two years, and love it.

As with any technology, a digital solution is only a benefit if it solves a problem.

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Why I am CEDIA

After more than twent-six years in the consumer electronics and relating industries, I have joined CEDIA (Custom Electronics Design and Installation Association), and can now call myself a CEDIA Member.

“CEDIA is the leading global authority in the $14 billion home technology industry. CEDIA represents 3,700 member companies worldwide and serves more than 30,000 industry professionals that manufacture, design, and integrate goods and services for the connected home.” – CEDIA.org

I have previously been involved with CEDIA Asia Pacific for many years. I am a CEDIA Certified Instructor (CCI) Presenter, a certified CEDIA Outreach Instructor (COI), and have attended and instructed at local CEDIA exhibitions. In the past, I was a CEDIA member by affiliation with larger companies, representing them in sales, design, and consultancy roles.

I am in a fortunate position to have experienced the consumer electronic industry from multiple perspectives; supply, integration, design, project management, consultation, and as an end-user. From my experiences, I recognise and understand the challenges of building smart homes, and have developed an approach to make the process more simple, and more rewarding for homeowners and consumers.

I believe there is a better way to implement technology into a home than some current and past processes. A way that cuts through misinformation and empty promises, and protects the inexperienced technology consumer from making costly mistakes. A way that avoids the experiences of complex, over-burdened and underwhelming electronic systems that do little to enhance a homeowner’s lifestyle.

As an independent advisor, I help architects, designers and homeowners to navigate their way through every step of the smart home and technology integration process, and make sure everything is done to achieve the best possible outcome.

CEDIA represents like-minded companies and businesses, who I partner with, to supply and implement fantastic products and systems to homeowners. CEDIA also has a world renowned education program that not only educates its own industry, but also to partnering industries such as design and construction.

In joining CEDIA, my objectives are to provide my experience, knowledge, ideas, thoughts and opinions to anyone who is willing to listen, and to give back to the industry that I learned so much from.

I am pleased and proud to be a CEDIA member – I am CEDIA.

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Wired vs Wireless home

The modern home requires a technology infrastructure that uses a combination of wired and wireless networks.

Wireless technologies and products are very convenient. Being wireless allow us to be mobile, without being tethered to a wired data socket.

As convenient as being wireless is, it is not without problems, that a wired network does not have. Wireless systems can frustratingly have connectivity issues, be susceptible to interference, and can be quite slow at times.

A wired infrastructure is not only preferred, it’s a prerequisite. Each home system (power, lighting, lighting control, security, entertainment etc.) should be installed on it’s own wired network, and be integrated with each other systems as part of a wider, wired network.

The potential ramifications of not implementing a quality wired infrastructure are wide, and can greatly affect other technology systems throughout a modern home. A well designed wired network infrastructure will very rarely be a cause of potential problems.

A wireless network compliments the wired network, and should only be used for system control, by mobile devices, remote controls etc., and for wireless internet browsing.

Also consider, a quality wireless system requires a decent wired infrastructure to ensure adequate performance and coverage of the necessary wireless access points.

Wireless products themselves are typically not truely wireless. They still require a connection to a power outlet, unless the device is mobile, and powered by a battery.

Never underestimate the importance of a wired infrastructure. With reliability and performance being primary objectives for a modern home, you should always look to minimise risk – a wired infrastructure almost always ensures this.

There is no excuse or reason for a wired network infrastructure to be installed in new builds.

For consumers looking to cut costs, consider, that given the relatively inexpensive cost of cabling, the wired infrastructure will be the least expensive technology system in a home.

As a general rule, it a device is fixed, and can be wired; wire it into a wired network.

 

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Be aware of digital-analogues

When presenting and discussing smart homes, I often talk about pseudo-smart homes – smart homes that are not actually smart. Most ‘smart homes’ are really electronic homes or connected homes.

Most homes have multiple standalone electronic systems (e.g. lighting control, security, access control, heating and cooling, music, television, data network etc.) that have varying levels of control, connectivity and integration with each other.

Modern homes implement are range of user interfaces, typically electronic switches, remote controls, touchscreens, mobile applications, and perhaps voice control. These user interfaces are mostly what I describe as ‘digital-analogue‘ user interfaces – analogue control that has been replaced by digital control.

Unless a digital-analogue user interfaces provide a solution to an identified problem, they will have little benefit in the design of a smart home, other than providing short term convenience.

Analogue control

Think of a traditional electric light switch – a switch that has a basic on or off state. Now think of a traditional dimmer light switch – a switch that has a rotary dimming pot next to it. The traditional switch is hard-wired to a lighting circuit, and doesn’t provide much flexibility.

Analogue user interfaces are very simple and easy to use, but can become very cumbersome and unsightful when controlling multiple inputs or devices. This is where electronic systems provide many advantages. Traditional analogue interfaces such as light switches, can be replaced with digital interfaces.

Digital control

Typical electronic light switches have push buttons – press a button once to turn on, press it again to turn off. An electronic dimming system operates similarly but with the addition of dimming – press and hold the button to ramp up (make brighter), press and hold the button again to dim (make less bright).

Digital control can provide a higher level of convenience if functionality and usability is carefully considered, but they are not necessarily smart or intelligent. Many electronic control systems merely replicate analogue functionality by providing a digital interface.

Often, electronic control systems with their digital user interfaces (e.g. electronic switches, touch screens, mobile apps voice control etc.), provide a new level of complexity that can be counter intuitive, more difficult to use, and much more costly.

Better control

Homes needs to be designed and built with functionality and usability as a primary consideration. Electronic systems need to be integrated with the form and function of the building, rather than as an afterthought.

Control systems need to consider the applications of a space, and provide user interfaces that provide an optimal user experience that is simple and intuitive. This however, is easier said than done, but can be achieved with the right process.

Be aware of digital-analogue user interfaces – they may not be very smart, and may not be required.

 

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How I stopped misplacing things, with Tile

I used to regularly misplace things – specifically my keys and wallet. I came across Tile about year ago, and have not misplaced my keys or wallet since.

Tile have a range of Bluetooth tracker devices that when paired with the Tile app, makes it easier to find things. I use the Tile Mate on my keyring, and the Tile Slim in my wallet.

In the past, I would stress out having misplaced my keys or wallet, that were ultimately located in a jacket pocket, my bag, down the side of the couch, or under a car seat.

With Tile, I can simply open the app to see when and where the last place my phone and Tile were paired together – my phone, keys, and wallet are generally in the same location with me.

If my misplaced item is still within bluetooth range, the app will tell me its proximity, and I can make them play a sound to audibly locate it.

Check out Tile for that extra piece of mind to help you locate your stuff.

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A smarter bathroom

In this series of articles, I discuss and review how rooms and areas of a home can benefit from currently available technologies that are key elements of a smart home.

 

Your sanctuary

It is well known that bathrooms and ensuites are one of the most renovated rooms of a home. These spaces are the heart of the home and greatly enhance lifestyles. Realtors will often advise that a quality bathroom will provide one of the best returns on investment when selling.

With busy lives, homeowners and residents value opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Time spent in the bathroom should be pleasurable rather than stressful. It’s great to start day with positive experiences.

Of all the rooms and spaces within a home, the bathroom is possibly one of the most functionally demanding, and is mostly underrated and overlooked for technology.

Smart lighting

Lighting and lighting control systems can be very functional allowing us to have the best light, whenever, wherever, and however we want. With bathroom applications being so personal, so too can the lighting.

The right type of light needs to illuminate the space for the required application. For detailed tasks of applying make-up, hair, and shaving in front of a mirror, light needs to be even and indirect, without glare or casting shadows. Similarly, for the application of dressing, lighting can be adjusted to provide the most flattering light for the right time of the day or night.

With the lighting application in mind, careful consideration needs to be provided to ensure the appropriate light fixture, with the best type of lumenaire, producing the best quality of light is specified and installed in the right location.

Human centric lighting systems use special light fittings that can change colour – from warm to cool white, optimising light to maximise the intended task for specific times of the day and night. Based on personal preferences and requirements, makeup can be applied to suit a specific environment. Lighting can be automatically or manually changed to suit the intended application.

For general use, ambient lighting should be mostly automatic by using motion and light level sensors to automatically switch lights on and off, and dim when required – automated lighting in a bathroom is extremely useful when implemented correctly. Personalised task lighting will manually override automated functionality when and how it is required.

Functionality can be provided for specific applications – a midnight bathroom visit can be more effectively illuminated, providing just the right type and amount of light without disturbing your night vision, and partner.

 


Photos sourced from the internet

 

Smart fittings

A benefit of a smart home is the ability to automate regular routines. Water taps can be electronically controlled to personalise water temperature and water pressure with a press of a button to provide the perfect shower every time.

Exhaust and extraction fans can be integrated with the toilet, to extract odours directly from the toilet bowl rather than filling the room. Similar extraction fans can automatically remove steam when bath and shower hot water taps are run.

Motorised shades and blinds can raise and lower for privacy at the press of a button, or be automated to counter exterior glare from direct sunlight. Electronic switchable glass can magically change from clear to opaque to provide the ultimate level of privacy for shower screens, partition walls and windows.

Heating, including floor heating, can be automated to warm up the bathroom to a cozy temperature during the winter before you step foot into the room, and switch off when you exit the room. Heated towel rails and towel warming drawers can be automated to provide the perfect towel.

Smart power

Devices such as hair curlers and hair straighteners that plug into power outlets can be automatically switched off after being used, to provide peace of mind that they are actually turned off when you leave home.

Info-tainment

Splashproof televisions provide functional entertainment. There are even special television displays that are mirrors – when switched off are indistinguishable from a normal mirror, but when switched on, an image magically appears from behind the mirror. Displays can also provide notification and alerts of news, weather, stocks etc.

Music and radio keeps you up-to-date with the latest news and tunes, switching to your favourite program when you enter the room to shower, and fades out when you leave.

A smarter bathroom

The bathroom should not only look beautiful but also needs to be functional for each person that uses it. Bathroom technologies don’t need to be extravagant, and should meet the needs and requirements of the user. Technology can help to seamlessly transform your sanctuary to provide a lifestyle changing user experience.

For the ultimate bathroom experience, let me show you how.

Other articles in this series: 
Smarter front door

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Connected home vs Smart home

 

The terms Connected Home and Smart Home are often confused as being the same thing to describe a home with electronics and technology. However, they are very different – the connected home vs the smart home.

Connected home

Connect (verb): (with object) Join together so as to provide access and communication. – Oxford Dictionary

A connected home integrates multiple electronic and technology systems (e.g. lighting control, security, access control, distributed audio, distributed video, heating and cooling etc.) that are connected by a wired and wireless infrastructure, to themselves, and to the internet.

Connected home systems consist of a range of products relevant to that particular system (e.g. Lighting control system – dimmers, relays, switches, sensors etc. Security system – alarm panel, keypads, motion detectors, siren etc.).

Products and systems are connected to each other by way of a hub or gateway to provide a level of automation – Home automation.

Automation (noun): The use or introduction of automatic equipment in a manufacturing or other process or facility. – Oxford Dictionary

Automatic (adjective) 1: (of a device or process) working by itself with little or no direct human control. 2: done or occurring spontaneously, without conscious thought or attention. – Oxford Dictionary

The automation component of a connected home manages all of the electronic systems and consolidates individual functionality with unified user interfaces such as  touch screens, remote controls, voice control and mobile device applications.

Connected systems are programmed to automate functions as defined scenes to provide better convenience of everyday routines. Home automation scenes might include Welcome, Goodbye, Goodnight, Good morning, and Away scenes. Typical functionality of a Welcome scene might be: When I arrive home after work, turn on the porch, entry, hall and kitchen lights, and turn on the ducted heating.

A connected home can provide fantastic convenience and automation, but by definition is not necessarily smart.

Smart home

Smart or Intelligent (adjective): (of a device or building) Able to vary its state or action in response to varying situations and past experience. – Oxford Dictionary

A smart home builds upon foundation systems and technologies of a connected home to provide a more functional, more intuitive, and more simple solution. User experience is the most considered element of a smart home.

As a progression from a connected home with manual electronic control, a smart home can also respond to various inputs such as time, occupancy, presence, ambient light, temperature, weather etc.

In a smart home, technology systems are fully integrated with the architectural form and function of the home, rather than as an add-on. Foundation technology systems (e.g. power, solar, battery storage, lighting) that are integral for a smart home are considered very early in the architectural design process to allow other systems to build upon.

Many smart home concepts and strategies may not even be regarded as typical electronic systems: Ambient, task and feature lighting are designed to blend seamlessly into the architectural form of the home to provide the right type of illumination where, when and how it is needed. A heating and cooling system is designed to compliment passive solar building design to collect, store, and distribute solar energy in the form of heat in the winter and reject solar heat in the summer. They are many other passive concepts and strategies that make a home smart.

Although similar in some ways, a connected home and smart home are very different – A connected home provides an improved level of convenience, whereas a smart home provides the ultimate user experience.

For the homeowner, it is important to understand what a home of today and the future is capable of.

For the ultimate smart home experience, let me show you how.

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Human centric lighting – A better light

Natural light changes colour throughout the day – from a morning sunrise glow, to a bright midday sun, to a rich warm sunset. We have the technology to change the colour of artificial light in our homes – Human centric lighting*.

Clockwise

The human biological clock is closely tied to the day/night cycle of the Earth – circadian rhythm, and is pivotable for our body’s release of various hormones including melatonin that regulates sleep, and cortisol for healing. We know that light has a significant influence on the human biological clock and our health.

As much as technology can benefit us, it can disrupt our natural biological clock. We have too little of the right type of light during the day, and too much of the wrong type of light at night. Exposure to televisions, LED lights, computer screens, and mobile devices that emit blue (cool) light at night can disrupt our biological clock, delaying the natural sleep pattern.

Colour changers

Currently, lights are specified to be a particular colour temperature – typically warm white, or cool white. As a general rule, warm light is more suitable for a home because it is best for the worst case scenario. Up until now we have had limited control of light – we switch on/off, and dim.

LED lights are now available that can reproduce a range of colour temperatures (tuneable white light), and even the whole colour spectrum. Together with a compatible lighting control system we can automatically regulate light to achieve specific objectives.

With a human centric lighting system, artificial light can automatically mimic natural light. As natural light changes throughout the day and night, so too can the colour and intensity of artificial light – re-aligning our circadian rhythm to our biological clock.

A human centric lighting system can also manipulate artificial light. When we require higher levels of concentration and alertness, we can adjust the colour temperature to provide a cool light. When we want to relax or provide a more calm environment, we can adjust the colour temperature to provide a more warm light.

A better light

Lighting and control technologies have evolved to provide better user experiences. With careful consideration and expert consultation, light can be more organic and integrate better in our smart homes to provide greater levels of comfort.

For the ultimate lighting experience, let me show you how.

*Human centric lighting is also known by other names such as circadian lighting, bio-rhythmic lighting, tuneable lighting etc.