logo elektroda
logo elektroda
X
logo elektroda

Smart home infrastructure plan for a new home - please give your opinion

Mavannkas 504 31
ADVERTISEMENT
Treść zostaÅ‚a przetÅ‚umaczona polish » english Zobacz oryginalnÄ… wersjÄ™ tematu
  • #1 21440268
    Mavannkas
    Level 4  
    Hi, I'm building a single-storey house with an attic (160-170 m² and a Faraday cage in the form of underfloor heating) and I want to do a fully DIY automation. I would appreciate an evaluation of my idea and all the heebie-jeebies on its silliness, as I am totally green on the subject :D .

    Assumptions:

    Automation definitely not over WIFI. I'm thinking zigbee/matter/partially wired

    12 V DC circuits: I will run 2-3 separate 12 V lines to each switch/socket for sensors and ESP32 modules.

    About 100 ESP32 modules: At each ESP32 point with Zigbee/Matter. Applications: dimmers, temp/humidity sensors, flood detection, current measurement, security system (noise opening sensors).

    Redundancy for security: Critical ESP32s (security sensors) will have PoE (Cat 6A) 12 V DC emergency power bank.

    Home Assistant server: On a virtual machine (Proxmox) in a rack. Hardware: 16 GB RAM 4 CPU cores. Is this enough for around 100 devices?
    Questions:

    Zigbee vs Matter: I'm leaning towards Zigbee (mature), but Matter offers versatility. Is it possible to make DIY sensors on ESP32 with Matter? Because with Zigbee I've seen such wonders Link
    Zigbee coordinator: one Sonoff ZBDongle-P (Zigbee 3.0) in a rack - will it handle 100 devices on two floors?
    ESP32 programming: ESPHome doesn't support Zigbee, so I'll be patching code probably from scratch. Anything worth considering here?
    Server: Is 16 GB of RAM not excessive for a HA Node-RED Zigbee2MQTT?

    Next steps:
    I will buy 2x ESP32-C6 for prototyping (learning Zigbee/HA) sensors. Anything worth considering? Will the Sonoff ZBDongle-P be of any use to me right now? HA I want to host on VB on the comp for now.

    Thanks for all the comments!
  • ADVERTISEMENT
  • #2 21440299
    lopr_pol
    Level 32  
    Why have ESP32 everywhere at once when you can get most of the coverage with ESP01. You need to have good wifi in the house, in esp the power is high but the receiver on the original antenna is weak, sometimes two brick walls and the signal on reception ~-90dB and on the router ~-75dB.
  • ADVERTISEMENT
  • #3 21440302
    Mavannkas
    Level 4  
    >>21440299 .
    Exactly my aim is not to use WIFI for automation, just zigbee/matter. And as for home WIFI, I want to have 2 APs fairly centrally on the ceiling
  • #4 21440307
    lopr_pol
    Level 32  
    Ok, now I have checked that these C6's supposedly have Zigbee but a bit expensive for my taste.
  • #5 21440322
    Mavannkas
    Level 4  
    >>21440307 .
    Well I am looking for a reasonably reasonable cost/time solution. These esp32s seemingly cost a bit, but further a fraction of the price of the finished stuff, for me it's acceptable, especially as it doesn't have to be bought all at once. But I'll look for it, smaller tiles. But all in all, isn't it worth paying the extra few zloty for flexibility?
  • #7 21440357
    Mavannkas
    Level 4  
    >>21440328 .
    What does normal mean? Something from somfy, for example?
    And in general why Domoticz instead of HA? Any personal experience?
  • #9 21440918
    Mavannkas
    Level 4  
    I'm generally worried about the power supply for this, I care about cost efficiency, hence the 12/24 V line, but I'm wondering if it's pointless, if it's not better to add a bit more and make a classic star with PoE + PoE splitters or PoE devices. Of course, switches cost a bit, but probably under automation I don't need an unknown powerful one.

    Added after 1 [minute]: .

    @Daro1003 They asked to call you out :D
  • ADVERTISEMENT
  • Helpful post
    #11 21441416
    Daro1003
    Level 33  
    For the past three years it has used:
    1. Satel Integra 128 replaced this year with 256
    2. a Domoticz on a Raspberry 3B+ and SSD drive
    Raspbrery because it uses GPIO and audio output there is a tutorial on the web on how to make a cool radio on Raspberry
    Internet radio in domoticz it works nicely.
    3. the Rasbbery 4 plus a 14 inch screen in the living room to control the whole thing on the Dashticz screen
    4. for lighting a Sonoff 4CG module with AFE software
    5. for roller shutters schelly 2.5 unfortunately a little unreliable
    6. other sensors on ESP8266 temp, pressure, voltage, power, energy

    As I started building automation where in 2019 Domoticz was very popular and all the info I found on it everyone said it was easier to use and it is. Due to the fact that I have a lot done on it I will not switch to HA which is also supposedly more difficult. The creators of domoticz claim that no system is intuitive and does not have such a possibility of automation as Domoticz via blockly and dzVents or LUA scripts.
    In addition, there is integration with the Satel alarm system, which, it must be said, is extremely stable in operation.

    I read a post on the elektroda forum that one of the users also keeps Domoticz precisely because of its good integration with Satel.

    As far as power supply is concerned, I am currently switching, as time permits, to 12V buffer power supplies plus converters for 5V to support some devices at the snapshot power supply from the power supply, which likes to mess things up.
    Unfortunately the sonoff 4ch module requires 230V so it must be changed to another which will be connected to the buffer power supply.

    What modules @Mavannkas are you planning to use for basic circuits such as lighting or roller shutters?
  • #12 21441772
    Mavannkas
    Level 4  
    >>21441416 .
    Hello, my schedule is constantly changing :D

    After a ton of searching, I decided that
    I'll use Domoticz as the main tool for Zigbee integration and automation, and HA for dashboards and remote control (I'm reading that this can be nicely integrated, and HA has a flexible UI).

    Physically I'll pull the infrastructure though, CAT 6a with PoE probably everywhere, plus to start I'll just use PoE injectors and splitters, because much more stable network though, one more powerful UPS instead of several always in props.

    Some of the simple automation, such as lights, power consumption etc. I would use switches like https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/TYSH-Z...e-Smart-Switch-Module-With_1600998462036.html, they are cheap (I will buy a few in reserve and probably replace them with more stable ones over time if they do not work). For roller blinds and other things I'll probably be looking for such wonders (definitely only mains powered ones, I can't imagine flying around with a battery). And if I can't find one, I'll be making the ESP32-C6 myself.

    For the Zigbee coordinator, I've chosen the SMLIGHT SLZB-06M.

    I was also thinking of tablets as the main controllers in the house, phone of course, as I want remote access though, only over VPN of course, plus some git firewall I'll embrace. I don't want someone to be able to hack into my network without a problem.

    Regarding alarms, you convince me strongly to this Satel :D however, it is probably better here not to rely on cheap modules from Ali. But the question of what exactly I want to have etc. I haven't thought through yet. Definitely window opening/window breaking sensors, probably motion detectors as a basis.
  • Helpful post
    #13 21441844
    Daro1003
    Level 33  
    Mavannkas wrote:
    For alarms, you convince me strongly of this Satel


    Thanks to integration with satell it will be able to use signals from e.g. detectors to control lighting or the DHW pump or other automation.

    Only Satel Integra has integration with Domoticz, but you need to use the ETHM module.

    As for the lighting modules, I would rather not try to put them behind contacts in boxes, but in a switchboard with sufficient space, it is always possible to replace them and generally test other modules, e.g. for lighting:

    Dingtian https://www.dingtian-tech.com/en_us/index.html they work on LAN, integration with Domoticz and HA.

    ASTRA: https://templates.blakadder.com/rocket_R4A4.html
    https://pl.aliexpress.com/item/1005004464526242.html

    Added after 15 [minutes]:

    SmartBOB drivers are also worth looking into: https://smartbob.pl/pl/
  • #14 21441881
    Mavannkas
    Level 4  
    >>21441844 .

    As for that main switchgear, I've given up on that idea, and at most I'll just charge more for Cat 6a. Unfortunately we don't have a good place for the extra switchgear. So I'll buy deep boxes and somehow live with it. I'm thinking that a combo of off-the-shelf modules + ESP32 + strung twisted pair cable in the plenum with room to spare will give me quite a bit of flexibility. However, can I bounce back from something?

    Regarding Satel, do you think it makes sense to consult them? Or is it better to get the knowledge on my own?

    Generally from Satel would you take mainly alarm systems? And used Dimicz/HA as a command centre? Because I see that in general Satel has everything.
  • Helpful post
    #15 21441897
    Daro1003
    Level 33  
    There are boxes with pockets and you can pack a lot in there, but I pull everything into the switchboard so that I have room to manoeuvre.

    Mavannkas wrote:
    For Satel, do you think it makes sense to consult them?
    .

    eee rather none as far as integration is concerned of course as the plugin for Domoticz was written by a user of this forum @szczukot - respect and appreciation.

    Satel also have and controllers with 10A INT-IORS relays myself I am considering whether to use them for lighting but to make it work as the logic wants it takes a lot of inputs and outputs in satel probably 12 or 14 for one point controlled from a detector and switch.

    What I use from satel, however, is INT-SCR door locks with a bell - the bell is realised by the satel output.

    Satel has many useful modules.
  • #16 21441915
    Mavannkas
    Level 4  
    >>21441897 .
    The issue of security system design and implementation you recommend on your own too? I don't have any experience with that, hah. And yet automation of blinds/lights is a slightly different matter than security or fire sensors etc.

    Added after 17 [minutes]:

    I'm thinking of getting myself such a training https://system-alarmowy.online/product/satel-integra-krok-po-kroku/# by the way I'll figure out how to do it `good` :D


    All in all, with the alarm/security systems from satel. So I can buy this as standard with a keypad for arming etc. and then I can integrate it with a dimic and e.g. with its help make remote control and dashboards? Or do I have to do it differently if I want to have non-Satel equipment? Like integrating something else with satel? Can these things exist side by side?
  • #17 21442057
    Daro1003
    Level 33  
    Mavannkas wrote:
    Security system design and implementation issues you would also recommend on your own?
    .

    Daro1003 wrote:
    Preferably none as far as integration is concerned of course
    .

    As for the design of the security system, I don't know if Satel provides a service to carry out such a design.

    If as you write yourself
    Mavannkas wrote:
    I have no experience with this
    .

    then it probably suits to have someone do such a project.

    You can always get advice from colleagues on the forum.

    When I was building a house and I had no idea how to make a recuperation system, a company that sells equipment offered to make a project for about 200PLN and they made a project of installation with the selection of all elements.

    If you want to get into the subject yourself and do installations and installation of the alarm system, then the course I can recommend to actually learn how to do it is the course at www.montersi.pl I think that I am not the only one who can recommend courses at montersi.pl on the forum.

    Added after 4 [minutes]:

    As for Satel integration it still integrates with Fibaro even there were courses on www.montersi.pl on how to do it unfortunately I didn't manage to attend them.
  • #18 21442079
    Mavannkas
    Level 4  
    Daro1003 wrote:
    What about Satel integration, it still integrates with Fibaro, there were even courses on www.montersi.pl on how to do it. Unfortunately I didn't manage to attend them.

    With integration, I was referring to how it works with this Domoticz. If I can use the detector states from Satel in it, then I'm set, because the rest of the integrations I want I'll have already figured out on my own.
  • #19 21442085
    sosarek

    Level 43  
    Mavannkas wrote:
    .
    Let it go, it's not worth it.
    Daro1003 wrote:
    What about Satel integration, it still integrates with Fibaro even there were courses at www.montersi.pl on how to do it unfortunately I didn't manage to attend them.

    Now it's Nice and for me - they've broken some things.
    Helpful post? Buy me a coffee.
  • #20 21442103
    Mavannkas
    Level 4  
    And why is it not worth it? Simple, that it's a waste of money etc., or some other reason?
  • #21 21442111
    Daro1003
    Level 33  
    It's normal to see the statuses of the detectors and all other inputs and outputs. You can control the outputs, i.e. switch something on in the satellites from Domoticz.

    Satel will not tell you anything about integration with Domoticz because the author of the plugin for integration Satel - Domoticz is colleague @szczukot and you should ask him.

    I was supposed to buy a Fibaro control panel once, but I've already read unflattering reviews @sosarek you mentioned about it working poorly. So probably not worth buying.
  • ADVERTISEMENT
  • #22 21442120
    sosarek

    Level 43  
    Mavannkas wrote:
    And why not worth it? Simply that it is a waste of money etc., or some other reason?
    .
    Because this user was brought down to earth a bit by most experienced people at one time after those "publications" and videos of his on YT....
    Also, https://www.elektroda.pl/rtvforum/topic3658552.html
    Take a listen to him from 4:30 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYnzDxTWbF0
    Here it flows from the beginning https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zptJF3KWCnc

    @Daro1003 At the moment until there is a new HomeCenter I wouldn't buy.
    Helpful post? Buy me a coffee.
  • #23 21442143
    roman106
    Level 25  
    Daro1003 wrote:
    Unfortunately the sonoff 4ch module requires 230V therefore needs to be changed
    .
    Sonoff 4ch Pro - 5V to 24V power supply.
  • #24 21442222
    Daro1003
    Level 33  
    @roman106 I'm letting go of the sonoff 4ch due to lack of inputs for local connectors. Unless there is a version what has such inputs.
  • #25 21442369
    Mavannkas
    Level 4  
    sosarek wrote:
    Because this user has been brought down to earth a bit by most experienced people at one time or another after his "publications" and videos on YT...
    .
    Hmm... I don't plan to ever become an installer and I wonder if this won't be a git source of know-how though. Because when installing, however, a guide like this might come in handy. On fitters, unfortunately I don't see an option to have an entry to their materials without a company. Do you associate maybe something else worth looking at?

    Right now I'm thinking I'll pretty much embrace someone for the design and equipment list, and implement it myself and learn on the fly.... I guess that'll have to do, hah. Alternatively, the question is, is there any point in doing something like this myself? Maybe I'm pointlessly planning something I shouldn't/can't do? I've seen that insurance companies give slight discounts on insurance, but imo they are insignificant
  • #27 21442597
    Daro1003
    Level 33  
    Good training is always useful when it comes to home automation: if you change something all the time, if you do it yourself, it will be financially worthwhile. If you call an alarm system fitter for every change, you will have to pay for each visit.

    As far as the alarm system is concerned, you need to learn a bit about the subject, but it will certainly come in handy.

    The forum will also help you with the topic, but it is good to have some basics.
  • #28 21442904
    tesla97
    Level 18  
    sosarek wrote:
    on Domoticz
    .

    Domoticz in 2025? Seriously? Maybe still use PLCs with ladder programming which was developed for electricians who didn't really know how to program but knew how to draw connectors like on walls.

    Fibaro, Grenton, Tuya, KNX, HA, Openhab,
  • #29 21442914
    Daro1003
    Level 33  
    tesla97 wrote:
    Domoticz in 2025? Seriously?
    .

    Well, seriously: https://forum.domoticz.com/viewtopic.php?t=43095

    E.g. such a radio on a 14 inch touchscreen:

    Touchscreen displaying the Domoticz app with radio station and volume control. .

    can it be easily integrated into Domoticz and raspberry ?

    Added after 2 [minutes]:

    Do you need a full-time programmer to slap together the code ?

Topic summary

The discussion centers on planning a DIY smart home automation system for a new single-storey house with an attic, emphasizing non-WiFi communication protocols such as Zigbee and Matter, combined with partially wired infrastructure using CAT 6a cables and PoE for power and data. The user plans to deploy around 100 ESP32 modules for various sensors and actuators, including dimmers, temperature/humidity sensors, flood detection, current measurement, and security sensors, with critical security nodes powered redundantly via PoE and emergency power banks. The Home Assistant server is proposed to run on a Proxmox virtual machine with 16 GB RAM and 4 CPU cores, considered sufficient for managing about 100 devices.

Key points include the preference for Zigbee/Matter over WiFi for automation, the use of 12 V DC lines to switches/sockets for powering sensors and ESP32 modules, and the integration of alarm/security systems, particularly Satel Integra panels (128 and 256 models) with Domoticz for automation and Home Assistant for dashboards and remote control. The integration between Satel alarm systems and Domoticz is facilitated by an ETHM module and community-developed plugins. The discussion also covers alternatives for lighting control modules such as Sonoff 4CG with AFE firmware, Shelly 2.5 (noted as somewhat unreliable), Dingtian LAN-based modules, Astra modules, and SmartBOB drivers. The user considers a hybrid approach combining off-the-shelf modules and custom ESP32 devices connected via twisted pair cables in the ceiling plenum for flexibility.

Security system design and implementation are highlighted as complex, with recommendations to pursue professional design or training courses (e.g., Satel Integra step-by-step, montersi.pl) to gain necessary expertise. The conversation advises against certain control panels like Fibaro Home Center due to reliability concerns and suggests Domoticz remains a viable automation platform, especially for those familiar with it, despite some opinions favoring newer platforms like Home Assistant, OpenHAB, or KNX. Node-RED is mentioned as a powerful but initially complex automation tool. The overall consensus supports a mixed infrastructure with wired PoE lines, Zigbee/Matter wireless protocols, integration of professional alarm systems, and flexible software solutions combining Domoticz and Home Assistant for comprehensive smart home control.
Summary generated by the language model.
ADVERTISEMENT