Hey everyone, I wanted to share a fun project I’ve been working on. I’ve always loved the idea of repurposing old technology, and when I stumbled upon some old smartphones lying around, I thought, why not turn them into something useful?
So, I decided to create a DIY smart home control panel using these old devices. The result? It’s been a game-changer for how I interact with my smart home setup. Here’s how I did it:
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Setup Process: I used a Raspberry Pi as my web server and installed a PHP script called PHPDevice. This script allows me to simulate HomeMatic buttons on any web browser. I set up different buttons for various functions like turning lights on/off, adjusting thermostats, and even controlling my smart speaker.
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Customization: The best part is how customizable this setup is. I was able to configure buttons for both simple toggles and more complex functions. For example, one button triggers a series of actions—like turning on the lights, adjusting the thermostat, and starting the coffee maker—all with a single press.
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Integration with CCU: I integrated this system with my existing CCU setup. The PHPDevice script communicates with my CCU through HTTP requests, allowing seamless control over all my smart devices. It’s been incredibly reliable, and I’ve even set it up to automatically adjust based on the time of day.
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Energy Efficiency: One thing I was worried about was energy consumption, but using old smartphones with their screens off has been surprisingly efficient. Plus, it’s a great way to give these devices a new life instead of letting them collect dust.
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Tips for Others: If you’re thinking of trying something similar, here are a few tips:
- Screen Orientation: Some browsers reserve space for a scrollbar, which can throw off the layout. I adjusted the X-correction settings in the PHPDevice setup to ensure everything aligns perfectly.
- Password Protection: I set up a password during the initial setup to secure my configurations. It’s a small step but adds an extra layer of security.
- Regular Updates: I’ve been keeping an eye on the PHPDevice GitHub page for updates and improvements. The community is pretty active, and there are always new features being added.
Overall, this project has been a fantastic way to repurpose old tech and enhance my smart home setup. It’s not only functional but also a fun way to experiment with different configurations. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to add more control to your home, I highly recommend giving this a try!
Cheers, and happy tinkering! 