Getting Started with SmartThings Hub and TPLink HS100 Sockets

General
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Hi everyone, I’m new to the world of smart home devices and I’m really excited to start my journey! I recently purchased a SmartThings hub along with three TPLink HS100 smart plugs, and I wanted to share my experience and ask a few questions to help me get started.

First, I’d like to talk about the setup process. I followed the instructions to connect the hub to my Wi-Fi, and it was surprisingly straightforward. The SmartThings app guided me through the process, and I was able to add my first TPLink plug in just a few minutes. It’s amazing how technology has made this so accessible, even for someone like me who’s not very tech-savvy.

However, I have a few questions and thoughts that I’d love to discuss with the community:

  1. Integration with Alexa: I currently use Alexa for voice commands, and I’m wondering how seamless the integration is between SmartThings and Alexa. I’d love to be able to control my TPLink plugs using Alexa commands. Is this something that’s easy to set up, or will it require some extra steps?

  2. Custom Scenarios: I’ve heard about creating custom scenarios or routines using SmartThings. For example, I’d love to create a routine where all my lights turn on when I walk into the room, or set a schedule for my plugs to turn on and off at specific times. Can someone walk me through how to set this up?

  3. Energy Monitoring: One feature I’m particularly interested in is energy monitoring. I’d like to track how much energy my devices are using in real-time. Does SmartThings offer this functionality out of the box, or will I need additional hardware or apps?

  4. Tips for New Users: I’d love to hear any tips or recommendations from more experienced users. What are some common pitfalls to avoid when setting up a smart home system? Are there any must-have devices or apps that I should consider adding to my setup?

I’m really looking forward to exploring all the possibilities that SmartThings and my TPLink plugs offer. It’s thrilling to think about how much I can automate and customize my home environment. I’m sure there will be some bumps along the way, but I’m excited to learn and grow with this community.

Thank you all in advance for your help and advice! Let’s make my smart home journey a success together! :slight_smile: