Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Welcome to the Make it Cognitive FAQ page! Here you'll find answers to common questions about smart home automation for beginners. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your smart home setup, we've got you covered.
Yes, all our products are compliant with Australian standards and authorised for installation and operation in Australia.
We recommend Tuya because it is free, budget-friendly, and supports a wide range of devices at lower prices. However, it also has its limitations, such as fewer advanced features compared to some other platforms.
We recommend Zigbee because it is fast, offers better connectivity, and has high battery durability due to its low power consumption. Additionally, Zigbee devices work as a mesh network, meaning each device can relay information to others, improving reliability and range.
Smart home automation involves using internet-connected devices to control and automate household functions, such as lighting, security, and climate control.
A smart home system typically includes:
- Sensors/Triggers: Motion sensors, door/window sensors, etc.
- Smart Devices: Smart lights, plugs, thermostats, etc.
- Bridges/Gateways/Hubs: Devices that connect various smart devices to a central system.
- Zigbee: A low-power, wireless mesh network standard.
- Wi-Fi: Uses your home network; good for high data-rate applications.
- Bluetooth: Short-range wireless technology.
- Z-Wave: A low-power wireless technology for home automation.
- Matter: A unified IP-based connectivity protocol that simplifies integration of different smart home devices.
- Thread: A low-power, secure, and scalable mesh networking protocol for connecting smart home devices.
Some devices require a hub (like Zigbee and Z-Wave devices), while others (like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices) can connect directly to your home network.
Choose a controller that supports the devices and protocols you plan to use, such as Tuya, Google Home, Alexa, or SmartThings.
Yes, you can mix devices with different protocols, but you may need multiple hubs or a unified controller that supports all protocols.
Each device will have specific instructions, but generally, you:
- Install the device according to the manual.
- Connect it to your home network or hub.
- Configure it using the manufacturer’s app or a smart home platform.
Smart lighting allows you to control lights remotely, set schedules, and create automation based on triggers like motion or time of day.
Use smart locks, cameras, and motion sensors to monitor and control access to your home remotely.
A smart thermostat allows you to control your home’s heating and cooling remotely, and it can learn your preferences to optimize energy use.
Our website has a dedicated section for DIY projects with step-by-step guides, required materials, and estimated setup times.
Most smart home devices have built-in security features, but it's important to use strong passwords, keep firmware updated, and secure your home network.
Voice control allows you to control devices using voice commands through assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri. Many smart devices support voice control.
Yes, you can use motorized blinds and curtain controllers to automate their movement based on schedules or triggers like sunlight or time.
Many smart devices can still operate locally or through a hub, but remote control and some automations may be affected.
Check the device specifications for compatibility with your smart home controller and the protocols it supports.
Geofencing uses your phone’s location to trigger automations, such as turning on lights when you arrive home.
Yes, smart thermostats, plugs, and lights can help reduce energy consumption by optimizing usage and turning off devices when not needed.