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PLC recommendations for smartphone-enabled home automation

lukas198820 1770 14
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  • #1 17777707
    lukas198820
    Level 15  
    Posts: 2052
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    Gentlemen, which PLC would you recommend for home automation via cable?
    With smartphone control and the possibility of future expansion?
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    #2 17777711
    Interval
    Level 32  
    Posts: 1729
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    I would recommend the S7-1200, possibly some from WAGO.
  • #3 17777765
    lukas198820
    Level 15  
    Posts: 2052
    Help: 6
    Rate: 332
    And Omron?
    Which models would you recommend specifically?
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    #4 17777820
    xury
    Automation specialist  
    Posts: 7071
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    Rate: 1486
    Firstly, if a PLC is necessary, it should be one with free software and low-cost accessories. Secondly, one that will be easy for you to program.
  • #5 17777841
    lukas198820
    Level 15  
    Posts: 2052
    Help: 6
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    So what would you recommend for a person who only knows the basics of PLC and wants free software?
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    #6 17797931
    omnixcrs
    Level 11  
    Posts: 397
    Help: 8
    Rate: 60
    if you insist on a PLC (i.e. you have the cash) then go with STERBOX if you want to save microcontainers.
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    #7 17798024
    kSmuk
    Level 21  
    Posts: 401
    Help: 27
    Rate: 99
    I installed a Sterbox with two expansion modules (lighting control) at my home six years ago and am satisfied. Zero problems, easy programming of the controller via a web browser, lots of functions of various kinds. Just remember to use external relays or contactors.
  • #8 17810224
    lukas198820
    Level 15  
    Posts: 2052
    Help: 6
    Rate: 332
    On the sterbox website I cannot find any products for controlling doors, for example, but only controllers for roller shutters ...
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    #9 17810255
    kSmuk
    Level 21  
    Posts: 401
    Help: 27
    Rate: 99
    I only installed the "sterbox" controller itself with two expansion modules from this company, and connected sensors, buttons and relays to it.

    I see you are from Krakow. Some time ago there was a large home automation shop on Rybitwy near Instal. It was about five years ago, but they had a large range of PLCs.
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    #11 17810330
    Interval
    Level 32  
    Posts: 1729
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    PRL wrote:
    I'll pop in with a question. What do you think of the Delta PLC and the Weintek HMI?
    .

    Delta PLC - I am not familiar with, but Weintek HMI - most positively, also works well in an industrial setting.
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  • #13 17810484
    lukas198820
    Level 15  
    Posts: 2052
    Help: 6
    Rate: 332
    kSmuk wrote:
    I assembled only the "sterbox" controller itself with two expansion modules from this company, and connected sensors, buttons and relays to it.

    I see that you are from Krakow. Some time ago there was a large home automation shop on Rybitwy near Instal. It was admittedly about five years ago, but they had a large selection when it came to various types of PLCs.



    I'll have to check it out.And this sterbox has software to control it via tela over wifi?
  • #14 17811066
    kSmuk
    Level 21  
    Posts: 401
    Help: 27
    Rate: 99
    lukas198820 wrote:
    I'll have to check that.And this sterbox has software to control it over a wifi network via phone?
    .
    Yes, it does. I don't know about Android, but for iOS there are three apps available in the AppStore.
  • #15 17812117
    lukas198820
    Level 15  
    Posts: 2052
    Help: 6
    Rate: 332
    What do you think of Sonoff?
    Does their application and control panel support more than 4 devices?
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Topic summary

✨ The discussion centers around recommendations for Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) suitable for smartphone-enabled home automation via cable, with an emphasis on ease of programming and future expansion capabilities. Key suggestions include the Siemens S7-1200 and WAGO PLCs, with a specific mention of the Sterbox PLC, which has been positively reviewed for its user-friendly web-based programming and functionality. Users also inquire about Omron and Delta PLCs, as well as Weintek HMIs, noting their free and intuitive design software. The Sterbox supports control via iOS apps, and there are questions regarding the capabilities of Sonoff devices in managing multiple devices.
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FAQ

TL;DR: Looking for a wired home‑automation PLC? Sterbox shows 6 years in service—"Zero problems, easy programming"—with browser-based setup. Prioritize free software and simple expansion when starting out. [Elektroda, kSmuk, post #17798024]

Why it matters: This FAQ helps homeowners and DIYers choose a wired PLC and smartphone-control path that scales without overspending.

Quick Facts

What PLCs are recommended for wired home automation with expansion?

Siemens S7‑1200 and WAGO were explicitly recommended in this thread for wired builds. Use them as a safe starting point. [Elektroda, Interval, post #17777711]

Is Sterbox reliable and easy to program for a house?

One user ran Sterbox with two expansion modules for six years. They reported, "Zero problems, easy programming," via a web browser. The controller provides many functions and suits lighting control well. Use external relays or contactors for power circuits. [Elektroda, kSmuk, post #17798024]

Does Sterbox support smartphone control over Wi‑Fi?

Yes. As reported, "Yes, it does... for iOS there are three apps." Android availability was not confirmed in the thread. Plan to verify app support before you buy hardware. [Elektroda, kSmuk, post #17811066]

How do I control a garage door if Sterbox’s site shows only roller shutters?

Treat Sterbox as a general controller. Connect sensors, pushbuttons, and relays to its I/O, then implement door logic. You wire relays to control the motor and handle interlocks. The same pattern works for lighting and other loads. [Elektroda, kSmuk, post #17810255]

I’m a beginner and want free software—what should I pick?

Choose a PLC that offers free programming software and low-cost accessories. Favor platforms that feel easy for you to program. Simpler tooling reduces setup time and errors. This selection strategy helps you scale the system later. [Elektroda, xury, post #17777820]

Do Delta PLCs and Weintek HMIs have free, intuitive software?

Yes. A contributor highlighted that both Delta and Weintek provide free, intuitive design environments. Download the tools first to assess fit. Free tooling lowers initial costs and encourages experimentation. It also reduces licensing friction for small projects. [Elektroda, PRL, post #17810355]

Is a Weintek HMI a good choice for a home project?

Yes. Weintek panels received a strong endorsement and run well in industrial settings. That confidence usually translates to stable home installations. If you need a touch UI, Weintek is a safe pick. "Most positively" was the verdict shared. [Elektroda, Interval, post #17810330]

Should I use a non‑PLC approach to save money?

Consider non‑PLC options if budget is tight. One comment implied PLCs cost more, and suggested Sterbox if you insist on a PLC. Non‑PLC builds demand more DIY work and safeguards. PLCs trade higher cost for integrated robustness. [Elektroda, omnixcrs, post #17797931]

Do I need external relays to switch lights or motors with Sterbox?

Yes. Drive an external relay or contactor from the Sterbox output. This protects the controller and handles bigger loads. The reported installation stressed using external switching hardware. It’s a best practice for reliability and safety. [Elektroda, kSmuk, post #17798024]

How do I wire a load with Sterbox using an external relay?

Do this:
  1. Wire your wall switch or sensor to Sterbox inputs.
  2. Use a Sterbox output to energize an external relay or contactor.
  3. Route the mains load through the relay contacts and test logic.
"Remember to use external relays or contactors." [Elektroda, kSmuk, post #17798024]

Any local Krakow place to see home‑automation PLCs?

A user recalled a large home automation shop on Rybitwy near Instal. This was about five years ago, and they stocked many PLCs. If you are nearby, check whether it still operates. Local suppliers can help with accessories and support. [Elektroda, kSmuk, post #17810255]

Were any Omron PLC models recommended here?

No Omron models were named in the thread. Apply the same selection criteria: free software, low-cost accessories, and ease of programming. Test the environment before committing your design. That reduces risk during early learning. [Elektroda, lukas198820, post #17777765]

Can Sonoff’s app handle more than four devices?

The thread did not confirm any Sonoff device limit. It asked whether the app supports more than four devices. Verify device capacity in the vendor app before planning. Prototype with a few nodes to validate scaling and UI behavior. [Elektroda, lukas198820, post #17812117]
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