Smart home system or remotely controlled GSM socket with the ability to control temperature

Smart GSM socket

The use of smart GSM or, as they are also called, SMS sockets, allows you to control the operation of various electrical devices using a phone, tablet or smartphone. This function is very useful if you are not sure whether the iron has been turned off or not, and will also help control the operation of electric pumps or heaters.

What is a Gsm socket with SMS remote control?

SMS or GSM socket is used for remote control of electrical appliances connected to the network. Such devices provide comfortable living conditions for humans. You can set a timer so that the electrical outlet turns itself off, or give a command to the device while outside the house. In addition to turning electronics on and off, the outlet can measure temperature and sound an alarm when the set mode has been reached.

Application:

• home appliance management;
• reboot modems;
• setting up watering for the garden at the dacha;
• control of climatic conditions;
• security function.

Sockets can also be used in other areas.

Advantages of smart plugs:

• high functionality;
• ease of use;
• reliability;
• additional options.

The only disadvantage we can highlight is the high cost.

Purpose

The Megafon socket in the SMS sending mode allows you to control equipment such as an air conditioner, heater, TV, computer, lawn watering system, lighting, coffee maker, etc.

At this time, the same temperature in the room will be maintained thanks to the operation of climate control equipment. As soon as the temperature reaches a preset value (for example, 20 degrees), the supply of power to the outlet (and therefore to the electrical appliance) will stop.

Of interest to owners is also the capacitor, which notifies via SMS that the power in the outlet is turned off or turned on again during problems with the electrical network at home or in the office. The SMS device operates on 900/1800 MHz standards with a maximum permissible load of 16 A (no more than 3 kW).

Ways to use a smart plug

What does the device consist of?

The device itself looks like an adapter. Inside the socket there is a board, sensors and a built-in GSM module, thanks to which control occurs. The electronic board is equipped with SIM card slots and a battery holder. There is a plug and a European socket on the case. There are also LED indicators and buttons, the number of which depends on the model used. Additionally, temperature sensors, batteries, timers and other important components that expand functionality can be built into the outlet.

Advantages and disadvantages

The main advantage is that thanks to such a smart device you can control electrical appliances from a distance. The disadvantages include the following:

1. If the power goes out, all settings are reset and must be set again.
2. There are models that are not compatible with the router. To fix this, you need to call a specialist, since only his experience and knowledge will help correct the situation.
3. The Wi-Fi outlet has its own time zone, which may not coincide with the real one. This is due to the fact that the device is set to the time zone that the manufacturing company has. This leads to self-adjustment of the system.
4. If an emergency failure occurs in the electrical network, the devices are automatically turned off.
5. Changing the operation and functions of the device is possible only if there is one wireless network. If they are different, it will lead to negative results.
6. If there is no Internet connection, the device will not connect at the time specified in the settings. This is explained by the fact that all settings and changes are saved on servers that do not work without the Internet. But there is no special microchip that will include a memory block.

Finally, we recommend watching the video, which provides a detailed overview of the Wi-Fi outlet, as well as a review of this type of design:

So we looked at what a Wi-Fi socket is, how this version works and what its advantages are. We hope the information provided was useful and interesting for you!

We also recommend reading:

• Remote lighting control
• How to choose sockets and switches
• How to make an automatic garage door

Types of SMS controlled devices

Smart electrical outlets come in various types. They differ in functionality, appearance, number of controlled connectors, power, and type of control.

Ways to control SMS sockets:

• manual;
• via SMS messages and calls;
• with a WiFi control channel.

There are models that have all types of controls.

Kinds:

• network extender, in which each connector is controlled separately;
• gsm socket with 3, 6 or more lines for control via SMS;
• adapter socket for one device;
• unit for controlling three or more devices.

Functionality depends on the sensors that are installed in the electrical outlet. There are models with a door opening sensor, a gas leak indicator, a smoke sensor, and fire safety systems.

How does it work

Smart sockets, in the absence of a wireless connection, automatically turn into regular ones, but the main principle of their operation is synchronization via a Wi-Fi network and display in Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings and others applications. This helps provide remote control of lamps, electronic devices, heaters, fans and more. You only need to download the application and control your gadgets directly from it.

Most of the models have a small form factor and can fit in the palm of your hand. But despite this, even with its small size, it is an impressive design that includes:

1. Housing: Contains mounted LEDs, touch protection, and a control panel with or without buttons that together form the exterior of the smart plug.
2. Relay and microcontroller board (MCU). The main part of the electrical circuit is located on the MCU board. Inside the case is a low-power Wi-Fi-compatible module (we mean other wireless standards) for connecting to the microcontroller, sensors, relay controls and timers. The control panel, relay and MCU board are connected through multiple connections.
3. A power board that contains the power socket and power measurement circuits to calculate power consumption.

The appearance and internal filling will differ for different models, but the basic principle of operation is that a Wi-Fi-compatible module receives a signal from the user from the application he has installed, sends it to a microcontroller, which, in turn, controls a relay that turns on or turning off power to connected devices.

Possible use in everyday life:

• Turning off electrical appliances if the network is overloaded and monitoring the distribution of electricity. Once power consumption limits are manually set, you will no longer pay extra for extra kilowatts if you forget to turn off any electrical appliances.
• Turn on and off from your smartphone. You just need to press one button, regardless of your current location. Thus, you won’t have to worry about whether you forgot to turn off the iron before leaving the house, and you’ll return home to a cool room in the hot summer or a well-warmed room in the winter if the climate control equipment is connected to a smart socket and turned on right before returning home from your smartphone. Some people like to boil a kettle in advance before coming home or make coffee in a coffee maker using the same principle.
• Scheduled switching on and off. This is especially useful if you need to regularly warm up the room, for example if you have a heat-loving pet.
• Automatic shutdown of faulty electrical appliances to avoid short circuits.
• Device status monitoring. For example, any unexpected temperature increase or fire will be immediately detected as you will receive a notification about it on your smartphone.

Operating principle of a GSM controlled device

When a SIM card is installed in the gsm device, the outlet must be connected to the electrical network.
You can install any device that will be controlled in it. It is important to ensure that the electrical outlet is designed for the power of the equipment being connected. If control will be carried out via SMS, you should write the number in the phone book and create a message template with commands. When working through the application, you need to install the appropriate program on your smartphone. A link to it should be in the user manual or written on the box. After installing the program, you can start setting up.

Telemetrics

Telemetrics is a company known for the development of security systems, control and remote control of various equipment. Additionally, the manufacturer produces equipment for security systems, including wireless security sensors, GSM alarms and other devices.

The company's products allow you to solve the following problems:

1. Ensuring security: monitoring objects along the perimeter, informing premises owners and security companies about the penetration of strangers, the appearance of smoke, gas and liquid leaks.
2. Saving electricity: remote control of thermal equipment by changing their parameters.
3. Telemetry: monitoring of environmental characteristics, for example, pressure, humidity, etc.
4. Telecontrol: control the position/status of various equipment using a program on a smartphone.

One of the manufacturer’s popular models is the Telemetrics T40 GSM socket. Externally, it looks like a regular adapter with a socket for connecting one device. The package includes the socket itself, a temperature sensor and instructions.

Technical specifications:

• GSM networks - 900/1800 MHz;
• control of up to four sockets;
• control using a smartphone;
• informing about the appearance/disconnection of 220 V;
• automatic operating mode taking into account temperature;
• enable/disable according to schedule/timer;
• rated current up to 16 A;
• informing when the temperature changes above / below the planned parameter;
• temperature measurement range from -10 to +50 degrees Celsius;
• size - 6x12.5x7.5 cm;
• weight - 180 g.

Control is available via software, so access to an outlet and direct line of sight are not required. In addition, there is no need for separate data receivers, because information comes and goes in text form from a mobile device.

The setup is done using the Telemetrics program, available on Google Play and the App Store.

If you have a simple smartphone at hand, you can use special codes for setup. After logging into the application, you must enter the phone numbers of people who will have access to remote control. The main number belongs to the administrator, and the others belong to ordinary users.

For the device to operate, you must insert a SIM card into a special slot. In the future, the GSM socket can respond to calls or SMS messages. To implement the last method, you need to set the appropriate settings.

Additional options:

1. Input power control. Allows you to control the availability of electricity. This is an important point for cooling and heating devices, alarms, fire protection and other systems.
2. Changing the timer/schedule operating mode. The option is useful for running regular processes. Examples: turning on the boiler / boiler, starting irrigation, activating an alarm, etc.
3. Working by temperature. The sensor in the device monitors this indicator and reacts based on the settings. Most often, the owner is informed of a deviation from the regime.

In general, the Telemetrics T40 socket stands out for its versatility, small dimensions, ability to carry a large load and convenient control program. At the same time, the manufacturer guarantees support and assistance if difficulties arise. The only downside is the high price.

Correct installation of SMS device

After initialization, you need to configure the gsm device. You can do this yourself by following the instructions.

How to set up controls yourself

First of all, the numbers from which control occurs are established. You can add up to 5 master numbers in total. You can enable them in two ways – via SMS and through settings.

The commands required to set the number may vary depending on the model. In most cases, the phone number is added as #number#. A message is sent to the SIM card installed in the socket. The response will come in the form: “The number was successfully entered.” Passwords are set and commands are issued in the same way.

Phones can be added in the same way through the web interface. You just need to go to the appropriate section and enter the required numbers.

Basic faults

If the power indicator is off, it means there is no external power supply. In this case, the device automatically switches to manual mode. Other common problems include:

• The GSM indicator blinks frequently for a long time. No signal can occur because the SIM card inserted into the network is not detected or there is simply no signal.
• Functions are blocked. Make sure AOH mode is disabled or reboot your SIM account.
• The socket does not respond to SMS commands. To do this, turn the outlet on or off. If necessary, you can simply reset the settings.

Gsm device: features of choice

To choose the right smart plug, you should use the following tips:

• You need to pay attention to the manufacturer. It is better to buy products from well-known brands that have been tested by many users. Little-known Chinese products will not perform their functions fully and will last a shorter period of time.
• Look at the functionality. If a person only needs to turn an electrical outlet on and off on demand, it makes no sense to buy a model with many additional functions.
• Number of connectors. It is first necessary to decide which devices the user will control. Based on this number, a GSM socket with a suitable number of connectors is selected.
• Power. You should find out the total power of the connected devices and, taking into account the resulting load, select an outlet. The power reserve must be at least 30% of the rated value.
• Software You need to pay attention to the ability to set an operating schedule and select the temperature mode.
• You need to buy the device only in specialized stores that have licenses and warranty service.
• You should pay attention to the degree of security. For the kitchen you need to select models with a high IP level.
• The box should contain Russian-language instructions for use. If it is not there, the device was produced by an unreliable manufacturer, and it is not recommended to buy it.

Most modern models are equipped with a temperature sensor and timer.

Smart with SIM card and temperature sensor

Sockets with a temperature sensor can measure the microclimatic features of the room and send them to the user.
Using the device, you can prepare optimal conditions in advance - for example, turn on the heating or air conditioning. When the temperature value increases, a message will be sent to the user. When buying a socket with a temperature sensor, you need to visually inspect the device. It is advisable that the sensor is located outside the device body. Its location directly on the board threatens inaccurate measurements due to overheating during operation.

With timer

Recommendations for choosing an outlet with a timer:

1. You need to decide on your purpose. For example, for short-term automation (watering plants), you can purchase a model with mechanical control. For long-term automation with an accurate schedule, you need an electrical outlet with a timer.
2. When purchasing, you need to pay attention to the number of on-off cycles. Models from the mid-price category with electronic control can be turned on and off 5-7 times a day.
3. You can purchase a device with the additional ability to generate random numbers. This option is used to simulate the presence of residents in the apartment by turning electrical appliances on and off. This helps protect your home from attempts by scammers.

A socket with a timer is not only a convenient device for controlling electrical appliances, but also an element of a security system.
The GSM power socket is designed to make the life of users easier and more comfortable. It makes it possible to remotely control equipment, work according to a given schedule, and control the temperature in the room. The smart socket can be controlled via SMS and via an application on a mobile phone. The controls are simple, anyone can use it.

Conclusions:

The author of the article identified two leaders - this is the T4 socket produced by the Telemetrics company and the socket produced by the Senseit company.

The votes for the GSM socket Telemetrics T4 were given due to one of the most attractive prices (as of December 2015), complete Russification of the device, the presence of warranty service centers in Moscow and St. Petersburg, as well as the presence of its own application for controlling the device with support for the two most popular platforms – iOS and Android. In addition, the EAC certificate of conformity means that the socket has been tested by official certification bodies and complies with technical requirements and GOST.

Second place was given to Senseit for its good design and the presence of additional slave sockets, which may also be relevant for some. However, the lack of control via SMS, in the opinion of the author of the article, is a rather serious drawback for suburban use, since it creates dependence on the operation of the manufacturer’s server infrastructure and the reliability of the mobile Internet connection.