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

Mavannkas 2100 31
Best answers

How should I design a reliable DIY smart-home infrastructure for a new house, especially for security, wiring, and integration between Zigbee/Matter, Home Assistant, and alarm hardware?

The most practical approach is to use a classic Satel Integra alarm as the security backbone and integrate the smart-home layer around it, rather than building critical security from dozens of DIY ESP32 nodes. With the ETHM module, detector states and inputs/outputs can be exposed to Domoticz, and Domoticz can also control outputs on the alarm side [#21441844][#21442111] For power, one reply describes moving toward 12V buffer power supplies with converters for 5V devices because it is more stable than relying on the main supply [#21441416] For lighting and shutters, it is better to put modules in the switchboard where there is room to service and replace them, and several options were suggested: Dingtian, ASTRA, SmartBOB, plus Satel modules such as INT-IORS and INT-SCR [#21441844][#21441897] The replies also lean toward learning the alarm side properly from documentation, YouTube, or training before designing it yourself [#21442551][#21442057]
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  • #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!
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  • #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.
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  • #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?
  • #6 21440328
    sosarek

    Level 43  
    Install a normal alarm system and the rest will be "opted out" on Domoticz and integrate both systems.
    Company Account:
    Z
    Pka, Poznań, 60-850
    Helpful post? Buy me a coffee.
  • #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
  • Helpful post
    #11 21441416
    Daro1003
    Level 34  
    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?
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  • #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 34  
    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/
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  • #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 34  
    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 34  
    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:
    https://system-alarmowy.online/product/satel-integra-krok-po-kroku/#
    .
    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.
    Company Account:
    Z
    Pka, Poznań, 60-850
    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 34  
    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.
  • #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.
    Company Account:
    Z
    Pka, Poznań, 60-850
    Helpful post? Buy me a coffee.
  • #23 21442143
    roman106
    Level 27  
    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 34  
    @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
  • #26 21442551
    sosarek

    Level 43  
    Give yourself such a source, really.
    The Monters have a channel on YT, so does Satel, plus some pretty good documentation....
    Company Account:
    Z
    Pka, Poznań, 60-850
    Helpful post? Buy me a coffee.
  • #27 21442597
    Daro1003
    Level 34  
    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 20  
    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 34  
    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 ?
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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.
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FAQ

TL;DR: For a new 160–170 m² house with about 100 devices, the thread’s practical consensus is: “install a normal alarm system,” use wired infrastructure first, and treat Zigbee plus Home Assistant or Domoticz as automation layers, not the security core. This FAQ helps DIY builders choose coordinator, power, alarm, and software architecture without defaulting to Wi‑Fi. [#21440328]

Why it matters: A new build is the cheapest moment to decide cabling, backup power, coordinator placement, and whether alarm logic should live outside your DIY automation stack.

Option Main strength in the thread Main drawback in the thread Best fit
Zigbee + coordinator Mature ecosystem, non-Wi‑Fi automation, cheap modules Needs good coordinator placement and mains-powered routing devices Most DIY room automation
Matter on ESP32-C6 Flexible direction for new DIY builds Less proven in the thread, more code work Experimental DIY endpoints
Satel + automation platform Stable alarm layer, detector states can be reused Separate design effort, extra modules like ETHM Security-critical functions
PoE star topology One UPS, centralized backup, CAT 6a reuse Higher switch/injector cost New builds prioritizing resilience

Key insight: The thread does not reject DIY. It separates roles: use DIY automation for convenience, but keep alarm and life-safety functions on dedicated hardware whenever failure costs are high.

Quick Facts

  • The planned house is 160–170 m², single-storey with an attic, and the initial DIY target was about 100 ESP32-based endpoints for sensors, dimming, flood detection, current measurement, and security signals. [#21440268]
  • The first server idea was a Proxmox VM with 16 GB RAM and 4 CPU cores for Home Assistant, Zigbee2MQTT, and Node-RED; later discussion framed that as generous rather than minimal. [#21440268]
  • The power plan shifted from 2–3 separate 12 V DC lines per switch or socket toward CAT 6a with PoE, plus injectors, splitters, and one larger UPS for centralized backup. [#21441772]
  • One experienced installer described a working stack using Satel Integra 128, later 256, Domoticz on Raspberry Pi 3B+, and a Raspberry Pi 4 with a 14-inch touchscreen as a wall panel. [#21441416]
  • For stable low-voltage supply, the thread recommends 12 V buffer power supplies plus 5 V converters for some devices, because snapshot power loss from small supplies can disrupt automation hardware. [#21441416]

Zigbee vs Matter for a DIY smart home in a new house — which is the better choice when I want to avoid Wi‑Fi and build around ESP32 modules?

Zigbee is the safer choice for this build. The thread starts from a clear non-Wi‑Fi requirement and repeatedly treats Zigbee as the mature path, while Matter on ESP32-C6 appears as an interesting but less proven DIY direction. The plan also moved from a Sonoff USB coordinator idea to a dedicated SMLIGHT SLZB-06M, which reinforces a Zigbee-first architecture. If you want fast deployment in a 160–170 m² new house, Zigbee reduces experimentation risk and keeps Matter as a later option for selected endpoints. [#21441772]

How do I build DIY sensors on ESP32-C6 for Zigbee or Matter and integrate them with Home Assistant or Domoticz?

Build them as small, isolated test nodes first, then scale. 1. Buy 2 ESP32-C6 boards and prototype one sensor class, such as temperature or flood detection. 2. Pair them with your chosen coordinator and expose entities in Home Assistant or Domoticz. 3. Only after stable tests, repeat the design across rooms. The thread explicitly starts with 2 prototype boards before committing to roughly 100 endpoints. That sequence limits costly rework if code, radio range, or power design fails. [#21440268]

What is a Zigbee coordinator, and how does a device like the Sonoff ZBDongle-P or SMLIGHT SLZB-06M fit into a smart home setup?

“Zigbee coordinator” is a network controller that creates and manages the Zigbee mesh, stores device joins, and connects the radio network to automation software such as Home Assistant or Domoticz. In this thread, the first idea was one Sonoff ZBDongle-P in the rack, then the design shifted to the SMLIGHT SLZB-06M as the chosen coordinator. That puts one dedicated device in charge of pairing, routing visibility, and integration with the wider automation stack. [#21441772]

What is PoE and how does it compare with running separate 12 V or 24 V DC lines for home automation devices and sensors?

PoE became the preferred direction because it centralizes power and backup. The initial idea used 2–3 separate 12 V DC lines to each switch or socket, but later the plan changed to CAT 6a with PoE almost everywhere, using injectors and splitters at first. The stated reason was better network stability and one stronger UPS instead of many separate supplies. Separate 12 V or 24 V lines can still work, but the thread treats them as less clean operationally in a new build. [#21441772]

How many Zigbee devices can one coordinator realistically handle in a two-floor house, and what affects stability with around 100 endpoints?

In this thread, one coordinator is treated as plausible for about 100 endpoints, but only with good infrastructure choices. The house is 160–170 m² with an attic, and the original question asks whether one coordinator can cover both levels. The practical stability factors discussed are coordinator placement in the rack, avoiding Wi‑Fi dependency, and using mains-powered modules for fixed automation. A failure case is implicit: if too many endpoints are battery-only or poorly placed, the mesh has fewer strong routing points and becomes harder to trust. [#21440268]

What hardware do I actually need to run Home Assistant, Zigbee2MQTT, and Node-RED for about 100 devices — is a Proxmox VM with 16 GB RAM and 4 CPU cores overkill?

Yes, 16 GB RAM and 4 CPU cores looks generous for the stack described here. The thread proposes that VM size for Home Assistant, Zigbee2MQTT, and Node-RED, then later shows a real installation running Domoticz on a Raspberry Pi 3B+ and a separate Raspberry Pi 4 for a 14-inch control screen. That contrast suggests your Proxmox VM is not a bottleneck risk for around 100 devices. It gives headroom for dashboards, integrations, and testing without being the first part to fail. [#21441416]

Why do some people recommend a dedicated Satel alarm system instead of building security sensors entirely on ESP32 and cheap Zigbee modules?

They recommend Satel because alarm stability matters more than DIY flexibility. The clearest advice in the thread is to install a “normal alarm system,” specifically brands like Satel, Genovo, or DSC, and then integrate it with the smart-home layer. Later posts praise Satel integration as extremely stable and suitable for reusing detector signals in automation. Cheap DIY modules may be fine for convenience tasks, but the thread treats intrusion and safety logic as a separate class of problem with lower tolerance for failure. [#21440366]

How do I integrate Satel Integra with Domoticz or Home Assistant so I can read detector states and control outputs from one dashboard?

You can expose detector states and outputs from Satel to both platforms. In Domoticz, the thread states you can see detector states, all other inputs and outputs, and also switch Satel outputs from the dashboard. In Home Assistant, the thread later points to an official Satel Integra integration, which makes a unified dashboard approach realistic. The practical model is simple: let Satel own security logic, then let Domoticz or Home Assistant read states and trigger non-critical automations such as lighting or pumps. [#21442111]

What exactly do I need to connect Satel Integra to Domoticz — which panels support it and what role does the ETHM module play?

You need a Satel Integra panel with the ETHM module, and the thread states that only Integra supports this Domoticz path. One post says directly that only Satel Integra has integration with Domoticz and that you need to use the ETHM module. In practical terms, ETHM is the network interface that lets the automation layer communicate with the alarm panel. Without it, the thread gives no supported route for the Domoticz integration being discussed. [#21441844]

Is it better to place lighting and shutter automation modules in wall boxes or centrally in a switchboard, and what are the maintenance trade-offs?

A central switchboard is easier to service, but deep wall boxes may be the only realistic compromise. One experienced installer strongly preferred pulling everything to the switchboard because it leaves room to maneuver, replace modules, and test alternatives later. The original poster then abandoned that idea due to lack of space and chose deep boxes plus extra CAT 6a for future flexibility. The trade-off is clear: switchboard placement improves maintenance, while wall boxes reduce installation footprint but make replacement and troubleshooting harder. [#21441881]

Which modules are worth considering for lighting and roller shutters in a DIY system: Zigbee modules from AliExpress, Shelly 2.5, Dingtian LAN relays, ASTRA, or SmartBOB?

The thread treats them as different risk levels, not equals. Cheap Zigbee switch modules from AliExpress are attractive for price, and the plan was to buy spares in case reliability proved weak. Shelly 2.5 was called “a little unreliable.” Dingtian LAN relays, ASTRA modules, and SmartBOB drivers were suggested as alternatives worth checking, especially when serviceability matters. For shutters and lighting in a new build, the safer reading is: test cheap modules first, but keep replacement paths open and avoid burying unproven hardware where access is difficult. [#21441844]

How should I design backup power for smart home and alarm devices — one UPS with PoE injectors and splitters, or 12 V buffer power supplies with 5 V converters?

Use one UPS with PoE where you want centralized resilience, and use 12 V buffer supplies where local low-voltage stability matters most. The thread’s architecture moved toward CAT 6a, PoE injectors, splitters, and one stronger UPS because it simplifies backup across the house. A second practitioner also reported moving to 12 V buffer supplies plus 5 V converters because some devices misbehaved during brief power disturbances. That gives you a practical split: centralized backup for infrastructure, buffered low-voltage rails for sensitive endpoints. [#21441416]

What is Dashticz, and how is it used with Domoticz and a Raspberry Pi touchscreen as a wall control panel?

“Dashticz” is a dashboard interface that displays Domoticz controls and status on a dedicated screen, usually as a simple wall panel for whole-home control. In the thread, it runs on a Raspberry Pi 4 with a 14-inch screen in the living room and serves as the main visual control point. That setup separates automation logic from display hardware: Domoticz handles devices, while the touchscreen gives a permanent household interface. [#21441416]

Why do some users still choose Domoticz in 2025 instead of Home Assistant, OpenHAB, Fibaro, KNX, Grenton, or Tuya?

They choose it because they already run stable systems on it and find the automation tools easier. One user had used Domoticz for three years and argued that its Blockly, dzVents, and LUA options remain powerful. Another user challenged that choice in 2025, but the defense was practical, not ideological: existing integrations, Raspberry Pi deployment, and no need for a full-time programmer to get useful results. In this thread, Domoticz survives because it solves real installed-home problems, especially with Satel integration and simple dashboard workflows. [#21442914]

How should a beginner approach the design of a home alarm system for a new build — learn it independently, buy training, or pay someone for the project and equipment list?

Pay for the design, then decide whether to install it yourself. The strongest beginner advice in the thread is: if you have no alarm experience, have someone prepare the project and equipment list, then use the forum, documentation, and selective training to build competence. One comparison even cites a house ventilation design done for about 200 PLN as a model for outsourcing the plan but keeping control of implementation. That approach cuts design errors without forcing you to outsource every future change. [#21442057]
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