Make: Arduino Bots and Gadgets

Chapter 7. Remote for a Smart Home

IN THIS CHAPTER

What You’ll Learn

Tools and Parts

The Relay: A Controllable Switch

Hacking the Remote Control

Controlling the Arduino from the Computer

Creating a Graphical User Interface

The Finished Remote Control Interface

Creating an Enclosure

In this project, you will build a computer-based remote to control AC-powered devices. Using the techniques you’ll learn here, you can go on to develop control systems all over the home, such as cell phone—controlled lighting or curtains that open or close on a timer.

You’ll begin this project with relays, electromechanical switches you can use to replace manual buttons with ones controlled from the Arduino. Next, you’ll disassemble a standard remote control ...