Smart socket - what is it and what is it for? Why bother with Wi-Fi in an outlet? How does everything connect and work? I decided to talk about all this in this short article. We will also try to find out whether it is worth buying a smart socket, and what use it might be.
To begin with, Wi-Fi is now being crammed wherever possible: washing machines, televisions, kettles, multicooker, and even light bulbs. We've already got to the sockets. The very concept, like the Smart Socket device, appeared not so long ago. But now many manufacturers have released several models of such sockets. And these outlets are even sold a little.
Let's first find out what kind of device it is. I will explain in simple words.
Smart socket - a device that plugs into a regular outlet (if it is an overlay outlet, there are simply still built-in ones), and other electrical appliances are already connected to it. As a simple adapter. The socket connects to your home Wi-Fi network. The socket can be controlled through a special application for a smartphone or tablet. From a distance, turn it off and on (even via the Internet, far from home). Turn on / off by timer, work statistics, and even view statistics of electricity consumption by a connected device (only in some models). The functionality depends on the manufacturer and model of the device.
I have experience in setting up and using only TP-Link smart plugs. This manufacturer has two models: HS100 and HS110. I have already written about them in more detail in separate articles:
- Smart sockets TP-Link HS110 and TP-Link HS100. What is it and how does it work?
- Configuring smart plugs TP-Link HS110 and HS100
There are also other manufacturers. For example, Xiaomi has Mi Smart socket. There is REDMOND SKYPLUG 100S. I'm not even talking about some Chinese, nameless models.
What tasks can a smart plug be used for?
To be honest, I don't use my outlet. I have an HS110, which is pictured above. I set it up, played for a couple of days and that's it. I never found a use for it.
But if you think about it, you can find many different options where you can use a wall outlet with Wi-Fi. For instance:
- Turn off and on lighting. For example, in the children's room.
- In advance, before coming home, you can turn on the heater, or some other device.
- Set up a schedule for a specific device.
- When you go on vacation, you can turn on the lights remotely. As if you are at home.
- And of course, connect the iron through a smart outlet and not think if you forgot to turn it off. Since you can always check it from your smartphone.
You can think of a lot of options. It is clear that each user will find their own application.
How do you feel about all these smart sockets, etc. For what purposes do you use, or would you like to use these devices? Write in the comments.
