First a quick discussion about requirements. For any automation that is controlled from outside the home you MUST have an internet connection in the home you want to control. This can be cable or DSL service but this is a hard requirement. A high speed connection is not required but basic service is a must. You will also need a router. We suggest a 4 port wireless router and we also suggest either a Cisco/Linksys or Dlink router as they are easy to configure for remote access. These units are very inexpensive and a good unit will cost around $50. Wireless is not required unless you plan to use wireless cameras or other devices that may require WiFi, but a minimum 4 port router is required. The additional cost of WiFi is minimal and certainly renters or guests will appreciate that service. We also suggest (but not required) that you have a small UPS to supply stable and continuous power to your cable or DSL modem, router and home control unit. You can now get a small UPS that will backup your systems for 8 hours for under $80.
The heart of our home control system is a Universal Devices home controller. These units control your home through existing electrical wiring and do not use WiFi or other radio frequencies. The advantage is a very stable system free of interference from other devices. The home controller connects to a free port on your router or wireless router to allow for remote access. A second port on the router is needed if you want to add remotely controlled locks. The home controller allows you to create custom programs that control lights, thermostats and other devices based on time of day, or to control each device directly. The home controller and remote switches, thermostats etc. are the basic building blocks of the system. Only one main controller is needed and then you can add as many devices as you want to control.