I’ve been to the site, and I’ve checked out the blog. I keep reading the words “home automation” in conjunction with details on its many promised features, but I’m still not seeing how Windows Home Server (WHS) is going to have an impact on the automated home. I respect what it’s trying to do for home media – make it available via a remotely-accessed, Internet-connected computer, zing music and files around the home to various media devices, back-up files, etc.—but I’m not seeing the automated home connection, yet. If it just becomes a base to any of the other PC-based home-control applications that are out there (HAL, HomeZIX, and so on), well, I’ll feel like I might as well stick with what I’ve got, and others probably will, too.
The closest any of the Windows Home Server Software and Hardware Partners comes to the world of home automation is Embedded Automation Inc., whose “mControl” will integrate with WHS to “help consumers manage home lighting, security systems, security cameras, climate control, and audio and visual components.” Okay, a good start, but it still doesn’t seem to be replacing many of today’s existing software solutions. Other products are promised, but not many are yet to be announced or available.
Another one of those time will tell scenarios? Sure looks it to me ...
Between watching re-runs of the “The Jetsons” and convincing his Insteon and Z-Wave controls to get along, Ben Hardy is immersed in the world of home automation, home control, and home networking.
I agree with the first poster. I need a networked PC for centralized storage and WHS would work, but so would so many other things. Doesn’t add anything for home automation either.
Can use Avennu and a ethernet hard drive and you have most of what WHS can do.
i think this product will be more attractive to those just getting into the home automation scene, and have only a pc. as you mentioned, no compelling benefit of switching to whs if you already have the gear.
hopefully, home automation will gain more time in the sun as energy conservation gets traction. that’s when the afore mentioned noobs will be motivated to jump in and go with the easiest solution - whs or other.
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The core for Windows Home Server is around data protection and consolidation. Bringing together all those separate data stores that you have when running multiple computers in the home.
If you look at the Microsoft website for the product the only reference to home automation is a future possible add product and service.
Do more with your home server now and in the future - Windows Home Server was designed with new products and services in mind, and it will keep growing and getting better. Software and hardware developers are already working on innovative add-ons, such as home Web cameras, family information management software, home automation, and home security solutions that work with your home server.
Lets not try and over hype a product that for once looks very good for the home user.