iPhone and iPod touch for Home Automation with INSTEON

The SmartLinc is a very intriguing controller for do-it-yourself home automators. It's a lot like a standard controller, but connects to your home network so you can send it commands from over the web.

And the latest version has a web-interface that's optimized for Safari on iPhone and iPod touch. In fact, you can even get a free iPod touch when you buy an INSTEON starter kit that includes a SmartLinc. (Limited time offer, as noted on this page.)

Now, a couple of words about the SmartLinc. First, I haven't tried one. (But I'd like to soon.) Secondly, it's a standalone controller so you don't need a computer connected to it. You set up timers and so on using its web interface, then leave it alone (plugged-in, course) to just do its thing. This is an attractive alternative for people who don't want to dedicate an always-on computer to running their house. Finally, it doesn't work with X10-based modules, it only works with INSTEON. Again, this can be an advantage for people who don't have a slew of ancient X10 boxes already installed.

Update: August 13, 2008. The NetLinc has been renamed to "SmartLinc" so I've updated this post.

Comments

[Scott Newman]

Looks awesome! Am I right in assuming it's a Wifi-enabled web server built into an Insteon module?

If so, this could open up awesome opportunities for home hackers who don't know the in-and-outs of USB programming. Let's hope they provide a developer's API, lest we have to sniff the HTTP requests/responses from the device.

[Dennis]

its not WiFi enabled exactly, it plugs into your router via a network cable. If your router has wifi you can access it via wifi or any place on the internet for that matter.

[Alias Node]

Actually, according to the manual, it does support sending X10 signals manually via the web interface, but it doesn't seem to allow X10 devices to be part of scene setups.

[Helmut Paffrath]

Hi I would need to set-up my Mac with smartlinc. can someone help me.
Thanks, Helmut