Hi Alex, are there any solution for Bluetooth remote ? I recently got a Xiaomi standing fan (smartmi fan 3) the remote uses Bluetooth. The Xiaomi app currently doesn’t support controlling of the switch in Singapore region. The only possible way I can think off now is to use a switchbot to control the switch on the fan.
like the features, setup was difficult for some of my devices (August Door lock, ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxhB5YOMNj04GuoAosExygP4cH-dKeb4aB Bose speaker)... but all switches and outlets (5), thermostat, tankless water heater. Unfortunately all I can do is turn on/off Bose. It doesn't support volume or changing channels, but I believe that is due to the particular speaker I have.... Worth getting if you already have other devices to use it with... I don't sit around and ask Alexa questions much so that doesn't really matter to me....
love the content sir! I recently just started with all the smart home thing, and I like how every time I show it to my grandma, she's just in awe HAHAHAHAHA
Which broadlink RM should I get? the pro or not. I am thinking of connecting the remotes for my smart blinds and fans and lights and the air-con. Any idea if PRISM+ TVs can be added to broadlink? Thanks in advance!!
Nice sharing. I wish to get your advice -->My kitchen (open concept) and living room has 1 AC each, I consider my kitchen and living room as same space. If I use this IR blaster, I will end up always turn on both ACs, am I right?
Hello, I have a question. I have portable thermostats Habitat, which send the signal to the wall-mounted ac unit. I don't want to buy their hubs because they are super expensive. The portable thermostat works with RF. Is there a way I can connect those to HA? Thank you
Hi.. thanks for the video. However I find it a bit hard to follow and understand. It will he easier if u list out what devices are required and the function of each device. Just my 2 cents worth..
bro are we able to use use the aqara switch as a trigger to trgger a series of action? i have a ceiling fan that does not turn on until i use the remote. im thinking of just click the aqara switch then it will base on broadlink rf blaster to turn on fan and oscillation. but i cant seems to do it.
Need some advise here: I have Philips light DL851 and using RF remote. I tried using OutSmart RF blaster but it doesn’t work. How do I know if the broadlink RM will work with all RF remote controller ?
Will use automation on my fan, and TV IR/RF.. too many of these controllers lying around and have to switch here and there for eg. (TV, starhub / singtel TV box).. All these can become one and controlled by my phone would be great!
Hi Alex, I also have aqara switch. Did you manage to link one of the gang to turn on your washer? How did you do it? I added my aqara hub and switches all to xiaomi app (China region) When I link them to Google home, all I see is my xiaomi fan and air purifier. Non of the aqara items detected. Is it normal by the way?
Hi Alex! Can I know what’s your workaround solution for the big issue you mentioned regarding the tv having the same on/off button. I think this is something common for dumb fans too. Will have the same issue sadly. Also, this means we will encounter similar issue if we want to use a scene switch right where we ideally want to press 1 button and a while scene is up the want we want.
some tv are are smart, so to off don't use the IR function. For fans of the same brand, they usually allow you to set different radio channels which is the case for mine
thank you for always uploading such informative smart home videos! i’m trying to build my own smart room (bc im still a student and staying with my parents) your videos have been very helpful especially since you are based in singapore so its much more easy to apply to my own room! the switchbots and remote will be a nice addition for me but if not keep doing what you are doing!! hoping to learn more in your future videos! thank you!! :)
Thanks for sharing! Am considering using SmartThings as my centralised hub. Just wondering that you are moving to SmartThings as your centralised hub now, does this mean that your TaiTaiLe cannot be "smart" since Broadlink cannot be integrated with SmartThings?
Isnt the BroadLink able to connect to both IR and RF? Is the reason you're using both only because placing the BroadLink in your study would not be able to reach your yard? Also, is the BroadLink able to connect to the switchbot devices to minimize the number of hubs? Just found your channel and learning alot. Hope you continue to make more content.
ya the Broadlink can't reach every devices. Broadlink and switchbot different brands, you can make use of google or alexa to bring them together for routines setup
Hello~ Great video but I have a qn on integration to Google home. How do you set up your laundry time routine? I can't seem to integrate my rf blaster using SmartLife to perform actions through Google Home. It'll be "unable to process commands" for the device.
Hi Alex, Can i check if you are able to create routines in Google Home / Alexa / Broadlink App where the Broadlink HTS2 temp & humidity is used to manage the aircon on/off? Thank you!
Hi Alex, i have been watching your smart home series lately, i like them very much. I have come across a problem when i use my switchbot hub to learn my tv remote control. There is a netflix button on my tv remote control but on my switchbot hub ir learning menu, there isn't such button, may i ask is there a way to learn netflix button with the switchbot hub? Thanks. I have a quest appreciate you could share how to learn the netflix button on the tv remote control but the switchbot hub learning menu does not have. Thank you very much.
you can relearn any buttons you want 1. go to your tv device 2. click on the pencil icon to edit 3. select the button you like to change 4. follow the onscreen instruction to learn the button
Hi Alex, met a problem with connecting all my triple rocker aqara switches and xiaoai (black speaker) to the gateway, all my single double rocker switches works, would you have any idea how to fix it?
Eh nice la u making these videos, alot videos i find on youtube for smarthome devices apply for angmo country, all the components buy from amazon need few weeks shipping lead time. See ady oso tired, thanks for sharing.
Honestly I'm still quite confused at the many gadgets and how they all come together? And at times I question the need to set up a smart home when we have remote controls, even on our phones. air con remote can also preset what time to switch off etc. And I feel that instead of me telling Google home what to do and waiting, isnt it faster if i just walk over to the switch and press it? correct me if I am wrong? The only part I feel might be useful is probably having a one button press to switch off everything once I leave the house
Making remote control smart is just 1 component of a smart home setup. Different smart home solutions have its own benefits and also depend of individual requirements. Maybe you could just implement something see whether you find it useful or not, no harm trying. It can be as easy as getting a smart bulb or a smart plug
Hi Alex, just wondering if broadlink rm4 pro can integrate with smart things. My new home will only be having a few smart switches, sensors and the remote.
Its up to u, u can just use an IR blaster or even just a smart switch. For eg my living room fan, i mainly control the on/off only, nothing else. If someone accidentally switch it off then your IR wont work
Hi Alex, Does that mean i will need M2 in all of my room since it also functions as a IR Blaster? Otherwise I would not be able to automate my aircon in my rooms.
M2 is just another device that has IR, switchbot mini can do that as well, broadlink, sensibo and etc. Yes you need one in every room since it requires line of sight
it depends on you are what type of person haha, generally if you like to stay in the apple ecosystem then look for devices that work with the apple homekit
Been using the Logitech harmony remote for integration but it’s no longer supporting the latest as they had ended their production. Hope I can win these as a replacement
End of support for harmony already? I thought of trying it, think can forget it already if there is no further developments and enhancement to the product
When i try adding scenes into google home routines, it keeps saying "Sorry unable to reach broadlink" any fix for this? Yours seems to work well at 5:48
are you able to playback the scene properly inside broadlink app? if yes and if you have linked broadlink app to google home successfully, shouldn't have any issues
Wife not familiar with tv remote controls (always making me do all the work) so hopefully these devices can make my(our) lives easier! P.s TV on/off button is faulty too!
Hi Alex, I came across ur video & find it very information. In this video, u have used a broadlink rf blaster to control ur ceiling fan. I have bought a S brand rf blaster (work with 315 & 433 mhz) to pair with my Fanco ceiling fan that runs on 315mhz frequency. However the S brand blaster can’t learn my fan’s frequency. So I’m wondering if the broadlink blaster able to do so?
switchbot and broadlink? both of these brands have documentation on home assistant www.home-assistant.io/integrations/switchbot/ www.home-assistant.io/integrations/broadlink/
Hi Alex been following all ur videos now that I have my own place. Qns on the broadlink for kdk fan using IR. I have 2x 48’ fan with light in my small 4rm livingroom. Seems like I can’t control them individually after setting up. I press on both turn on. I press light both lights turn on. :( Do u have some advise seeing u also have 2x identical fan in ur set up?
for fanco fans they are RF and for the remote, you can set them to listen to the same channel or different channel. So depends on your requirements, some people prefer to have them configured as a group, some prefer separate.. but for IR the only solution is the placement of the IR blaster, you will need 2 if you want them to be separately
@@AlexTeo I want to control them individually. Hmm in that case I really need to trial and error in positioning the individual IR blaster at extreme ends, so it doesn’t activate both at once? If so I guess this is also like one of the limitations:(
No you can't, these are just simple hubs meant to only control their own products. You need hubs that is able to add customized coding to control devices that are not natively integrated. My next video i will be covering this topic :)
Hi Alex! Am trawling through your videos for useful gems as my reno will be done end April, so shopping for stuff now. Definitely wouldn't mind a switchbot. In addition, do you think I can get the contact for the handyman you used to install the TaiTaiLe rack you have?
Switchbot would a sick cop. Great video too. Wanted to ask if you know anything about a 2.4G remote. Atleast that’s my fan is using. And it doesn’t seem to work with my BroadLink pro. Quite frustrating.
Hi Alex! Not sure if you’ll see this comment. Im planning to integrate my AC with the switcbot. But my AC remote is universal and works with all the aircons in my home. Is there a way to program it for specific aircons at home?
I bought this a couple of days ago just to be able to control my lR controlled candles with Google Home voice commands. I made a costum control in the Switchbot app but it dont work. Is there any why to make it work?
Thank you Alex for the explanation. I remember asking you about this IR blaster stuff prior before this video and now I got a more clearer picture to learn how to integrate them!! Can’t wait to get my hands on them!!
am looking into smart home...currently am already having google home and google wife in my parent's house which I currently staying. Looking into controlling lights and fans...so those devices in the giveaway would help me explore more into this area. Also my parents who are already 70+ are learning to use google home, i would hope to get the devices to help them further.
Bro how you got ur ceiling fan connected? I have Crestar value air and I believe it is working on rf. I bought gateway hub that connnrcts wifi and rf. I am still not able to get the frequency for the fan.
Would love to win the giveaway as my husband and i are currently renovating our first resale home after multiple failures at securing a BTO. Winning this would mean so much to us!
Thanks for the very informative video ! These really help home owners uplift their quality of living. Hope to win the smartbot and get started on my smart home journey!
Nice video! Would absolutely love a Switchbot! I have a «dumb» light in my kitchen that is not possible to make smart, so a little robot attached to the switch would be perfect!
Do you know if this will work for the little remote that you have on condo gates? I have remote and want to tell Google to open the gate for me. I have direct line of sight to the gate maybe 6m distance
Bought the Switchbot hub because of your review. Was able to add my Aircon, which is a IR device but can't seem to be able to add my fan which uses a RF remote.
@@AlexTeo btw not blaming you or anything... just sad that my Mitsubishi aircon is the only thing I can add in my room and a Crestar fan can't be added. Keep all the good videos coming.
Smart devices are nice and all but how do you secure your networks such that these devices will not be exposing your data onto the internet? e.g. xiaomi or google home constantly homing to a server outside your control. After all, many smart devices aren't built with security in mind.
Hence some people run their own private isolated environment with Home Assistant. I am also concern with security, that's why i'm skeptical using IP cameras inside the house. But if you look at other individual smart home devices like a smart light bulb, there is no sensitive data there. The concern is not going to servers from xiaomi or google, their network security is definitely much more secured than what you are able to build. So the concern is mainly on your own home network level, do the basics like not using default ssid, setting a secured password all these. If you want to go another level to secure your network, you can put some home based firewall appliance or Pi-hole.
@@AlexTeo thanks for the sharing. would you recommend Home Assistant for someone starting home automation from ground zero or is it not worth the hassle?
@@swb90 if you are a techie guy who don't mind to touch some coding/scripting, then the Home Assistant is a very good and powerful platform for a smart home
Awesome!! Really is best tech video. I got the same taitaile laundry system and aqara smart switch for my whole house because of your recommendation. pls do more such videos! any ways to buy the cloud shape switchbot still?
wah awesome, feels good hearing that. You can try getting it from amazon US, might be 0 shipping cost with amazon prime www.amazon.com/SwitchBot-Infrared-Conditioner-Entertainment-Compatible/dp/B07DL6M8PZ
I don’t need a central platform to control my home smartly. I just want my phone to be a central remote control for my ceiling fan, laundry rack, tv, air-con, lights etc. can you advise what can I do?
it will be simply using the app for each of the solution for the devices then. Nothing difficult if you don't need to have a central platform for the devices to work together. Actually I don't quite understand your question
Hi, thanks for always replying to the comments helping a newbie out like me. So right now presently, my fan, lights, Aircon, drying rack are all operated by remote controls.they are not smart devices which have WiFi connection. They each have their own remote controls and thus I have many controls lying around. I was thinking if it was possible for my phone to act like an universal controller to on/off these devices. I don’t need to use Siri/ Alexa to control them using voice command. Any idea if that is possible?
@@Whatexactlyispeace then that's exactly what this video is showing, using an IR blaster solution from switchbot/broadlink to make your controllers 'smart'. In the video, i demonstrated controlling these devices via the mobile app
Hope to win the Switchbot items! Would looove to use the Switchbot to turn on my heater when I'm still in bed haha. Can't wait to SMART-IFY my new home!
Hi Alex, can I integrate Aqara wall switches and broadlink ir/rf blaster to smarthings and use one of the aqara switch button to control broadlink ir/rf blaster to say turn on fan or light?
@@AlexTeo then in that case how about some of tuya ir or rf blaster which are supported by smartthings? Can I use aqara switches to command those ir rf blaster to perform certain task? All linking up to smartthings.
Hi Alex! I've been watching a lot of your videos to know more about linking up devices from different brands but am still quite lost😅. Not sure if I remember correctly, but I think you mentioned in one of your videos where you use a wireless remote (not sure Xiaomi/switchbot) to control your bedroom appliances e.g. curtain, aircon etc, through the switchbot hub. May I know how that is done? Really like your videos!
Hi Alex, not sure if this message will reach when this video is sometime back and it’s still so useful. I’m using aqara M1S hub to connect to all my aqara wall smart switches and aqara motion sensors, with some automation on aqara iOS apps. Need advise on - I wish to turn on ceiling fan/light (Bestar) upon opening the main door,, thinking of aqara door sensor, but I’m not sure which IR/RF hub can integrate into aqara, or there is none actually? Alternatively, is it actually more correct to use broadlink IR/RF to connect the controllers to the ceiling fan/light, my understanding this is possible through Google home.. however the bridge that I’m Not sure of is between the aqara door sensor to the broadlink hub, on how to trigger the turning on of fan/light upon triggering aqara door sensor.. do you mind sharing what’s the best options? (Ps the wall switch controlling the ceiling fan is not smart switch coz no neutral cable) thanks a lot
the M2 hub and G3 hub both have IR capability but no RF, if your fan is using RF then you don't have other options within aqara. If you want to use broadlink rm4 pro for RF, you have to use alexa to configure automation rules with your aqara sensor and broadlink fan device. This is because google home doesn't have that feature
@@AlexTeo Thanks for the advise and sharing Alex. I suppose Broadlink doesn’t need a hub to work right? I chance into this outsmart wifi IR/RF whereby it claims to be able to connect to google home and smart life apps, however in order for the door sensor to work together, my understanding I need a zigbee hub which I prefer not to since I’m already using aqara hub.. or I really have no choice but to have another zigbee hub in order to get my ceiling fan/light automation to work? Paisei for asking another long question.. thanks a lot
@@lawrencetan6824 not sure what automation rule you are trying to set and the devices required in the rule, basically all of them must be on a common app. Generally you can try using alexa app since you can add skills to it
I've been watching your videos for a while now, and it has inspired me to set up a smart home for ourselves too! My partner and I look forward to your videos every week as we have also just got our own home. I would love to win these SwitchBot devices to automatically control my A/C, TV and laundry rack system :D
Hi Alex, hope everything's fine & well, for a 47sqm apartment it is not necessary to have additional access points in every room, correct me if I'm wrong as one router is sufficient enough for all devices to have fast connection especially if there's only one occupant due to the size. How about having several google home mini speakers like one in living room, one in kitchen & one in bedroom, what's your advice? Have a suggestion how about making a video review on Windows 11 upgrade & user experience?
your questions have no link to this video haha.. nevertheless wifi strength will be hugely affected by the singapore thick walls so can't say for sure whether you need access points within a room. Google home mini is up to you whether you are going to voice trigger google assistant at those spots or music playback. Note that the speaker is not fantasic, i see it as just to trigger google assistant. Anyway I don't have a single google nest mini speaker
I'm moving into a new home soon and did not think of making it smart because I thought it would be too pricey. I love that SwitchBot is an affordable solution that is able to use existing appliances. What a smart company making smart products! I'd love to be able to win the giveaway please :).
Hi Alex, great video and I learnt a lot from your videos on smart home. A quick question on the IR blaster solution - as I have multiple aircons (eg living room, master bedroom) of the same brand, how do I ensure that I turn on the my desired aircon via IR blaster? I presume the remotes are the same and is interchangeable
@@AlexTeo thanks Alex, so if there is aircon near to each other, say just behind wall, there is also chance that the two aircons are turned on/off. Is my understanding correct?
Thank for making this video! Definitely will make my quest to smart home easier..Hope to win the switch bot hub to use in my coming new house which im moving in this year :)
Do keep the good content coming. Researched more about SwitchBot after watching your videos, definitely a brilliant method to turn non-smart fixtures/devices smart!!
I'm a simple man, I see Alex post a new vid, I watch, I like. Question, do you that "moving" smart home systems will be easy ? Cannot recall immediately from your vids but, what are your most bang for the buck/frequently used automations? Also, does others in your household use the automation or is it only yourself?
simple is good! Migrating smart home is easy but tedious, a change in your wifi ssid is a lot of work already. Most bang for buck - smart lights, IR blaster, vacuum robot Everyone in the household
Of course still interested to get hold of the SwitchBot products via this giveaway! Super close to completing the reno for my new house so this will be extemely helpful in making it smarter :) Thanks for the useful and easy to understand content as always!
@@AlexTeo Also take note that some fans although RF may not be using 433mhz. I am usong broadlink rm4 pro with 4 Aerofan ceiling fans and eorking great. Great info about devices being stateless if using a toggle command.
Thank soo much Alex again for the amazing video for Smart home devices. Always learning something new in each of ur new videos. Im still interested in getting the switchbot giveaway as it would really really help me bcoz i just got my nest mini. It would really help me alot to kickstart my smart home system as the hub mini IR feature would help me control my tv and aircon perfectly :) Really hope i win this! As always, looking forward to yr next video. Take care & stay safe 👍🏽
Definitely would love to get my hands on the switchbot. I am currently planning on making my resale home smart with Google Assistant, but it is truly not a n easy feat. Your content has been a great help!
@@AlexTeo Ok. I'm still confused. Basically, I would like to use a smart hub to replace my IR remote controls (for TV, fan, hifi), and a smart switch to control lights, and have everything work with Google Home. What would you recommend?
@@terencesim8050 as explained about IR you need line of sight, so its impossible to have just 1 IR blaster to cover everything in the house. As for smart switches, there are many brands out there, can choose based on which design you like and check whether they have sensors as well. For me, I prefer aqara.
Thanks Alex, your videos are great. I'm new to the whole smarthome / hub world. Watched your smart hub video. Is the understanding that there can be 1 single app (smart things hub) platform to control with the aid of a hub (like smart things)? What is the diff with switchbot vs smartthings vs etc? What is the best user friendly all in one setup?
hihi alex, im watching this video to guide me as im starting to set up my own home. Also realized that the video is almost a year old now, not sure if there are any changes or better recommendation out there now. Will you be able to advice?
@@AlexTeo thanks for replying Alex! The IR hub must be able to connect to wifi router right? Learning how to setup smart home and watched your videos, your videos are awesome! :)
Hi Alex! Great video on providing explanation and demonstration on the usage of the product! however, I wish to ask few questions. 1) can a switch bot be programed of certain scheduling? e.g To turn on Heater at 6am everyday and off at 10pm? 2) Can a Switchbot be programed to an AC? Do we have the ability to Switch on the appliance remotely when we are not at home? Hope to hear for you soon! Thanks!
Share some use cases of how you are making use of IR/RF blaster!
Are you on telegram
Hi Alex, are there any solution for Bluetooth remote ? I recently got a Xiaomi standing fan (smartmi fan 3) the remote uses Bluetooth. The Xiaomi app currently doesn’t support controlling of the switch in Singapore region. The only possible way I can think off now is to use a switchbot to control the switch on the fan.
@@Shubham-uc8ku no I'm not
@@alvinng9375 china region as well? ya probably switchbot, i don't have other solution in mind
Alex I am looking to control infrared devices with smartthings app automations , is switchbot mini hub can be used ?
like the features, setup was difficult for some of my devices (August Door lock, ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxhB5YOMNj04GuoAosExygP4cH-dKeb4aB Bose speaker)... but all switches and outlets (5), thermostat, tankless water heater. Unfortunately all I can do is turn on/off Bose. It doesn't support volume or changing channels, but I believe that is due to the particular speaker I have.... Worth getting if you already have other devices to use it with... I don't sit around and ask Alexa questions much so that doesn't really matter to me....
love the content sir! I recently just started with all the smart home thing, and I like how every time I show it to my grandma, she's just in awe HAHAHAHAHA
hahaha... i hope she can appreciate these home tech!
Which broadlink RM should I get? the pro or not. I am thinking of connecting the remotes for my smart blinds and fans and lights and the air-con. Any idea if PRISM+ TVs can be added to broadlink? Thanks in advance!!
it depends on your requirements, the broadlink should work fine with prism TV, don't forsee any issues
Nice sharing. I wish to get your advice -->My kitchen (open concept) and living room has 1 AC each, I consider my kitchen and living room as same space. If I use this IR blaster, I will end up always turn on both ACs, am I right?
Hello, I have a question. I have portable thermostats Habitat, which send the signal to the wall-mounted ac unit. I don't want to buy their hubs because they are super expensive. The portable thermostat works with RF. Is there a way I can connect those to HA? Thank you
Thanks for the informative video. I'm partly on Google Home, so your recommendations are relevant for me. Appreciate your sharing!
Hi.. thanks for the video. However I find it a bit hard to follow and understand. It will he easier if u list out what devices are required and the function of each device. Just my 2 cents worth..
Thank you so much for producing such informative smart home videos week after week. Proud to see u being featured by property guru!
wah thanks for your support too!
bro are we able to use use the aqara switch as a trigger to trgger a series of action? i have a ceiling fan that does not turn on until i use the remote. im thinking of just click the aqara switch then it will base on broadlink rf blaster to turn on fan and oscillation. but i cant seems to do it.
Thanks for sharing! I am using the Broadlink RM Pro mainly for my bedtime routines. With the SwitchBot, I will be able to automate even more!
niceeee, I'm sure there is more to implement!
Need some advise here:
I have Philips light DL851 and using RF remote. I tried using OutSmart RF blaster but it doesn’t work. How do I know if the broadlink RM will work with all RF remote controller ?
i suggest you to try reaching out to broadlink for advice
Will use automation on my fan, and TV IR/RF.. too many of these controllers lying around and have to switch here and there for eg. (TV, starhub / singtel TV box)..
All these can become one and controlled by my phone would be great!
yeah you could probably run a scene or use voice to just switch on everything 1 shot
Hi Alex, I also have aqara switch. Did you manage to link one of the gang to turn on your washer? How did you do it? I added my aqara hub and switches all to xiaomi app (China region) When I link them to Google home, all I see is my xiaomi fan and air purifier. Non of the aqara items detected. Is it normal by the way?
washer is running on a plug not switch, i have it always on anyway. Yup, that's normal expected.
Hi Alex! Can I know what’s your workaround solution for the big issue you mentioned regarding the tv having the same on/off button. I think this is something common for dumb fans too. Will have the same issue sadly. Also, this means we will encounter similar issue if we want to use a scene switch right where we ideally want to press 1 button and a while scene is up the want we want.
some tv are are smart, so to off don't use the IR function. For fans of the same brand, they usually allow you to set different radio channels which is the case for mine
thank you for always uploading such informative smart home videos! i’m trying to build my own smart room (bc im still a student and staying with my parents) your videos have been very helpful especially since you are based in singapore so its much more easy to apply to my own room! the switchbots and remote will be a nice addition for me but if not keep doing what you are doing!! hoping to learn more in your future videos! thank you!! :)
yeah I have planning to do a video like how to makeover a room with 5 smart home tech!
@@AlexTeo omg yes please!! that will be great, looking forward to it :)
Thanks for sharing! Am considering using SmartThings as my centralised hub. Just wondering that you are moving to SmartThings as your centralised hub now, does this mean that your TaiTaiLe cannot be "smart" since Broadlink cannot be integrated with SmartThings?
it is still smart via Google home for voice and alexa for automations, just not on smartThings
Isnt the BroadLink able to connect to both IR and RF? Is the reason you're using both only because placing the BroadLink in your study would not be able to reach your yard?
Also, is the BroadLink able to connect to the switchbot devices to minimize the number of hubs?
Just found your channel and learning alot. Hope you continue to make more content.
ya the Broadlink can't reach every devices. Broadlink and switchbot different brands, you can make use of google or alexa to bring them together for routines setup
Hello~ Great video but I have a qn on integration to Google home. How do you set up your laundry time routine? I can't seem to integrate my rf blaster using SmartLife to perform actions through Google Home. It'll be "unable to process commands" for the device.
for this video it's basically broadlink scenes syncing over to google home that's all
Hi Alex, Can i check if you are able to create routines in Google Home / Alexa / Broadlink App where the Broadlink HTS2 temp & humidity is used to manage the aircon on/off?
Thank you!
nope i didn't use their solution
Hi Alex, i have been watching your smart home series lately, i like them very much. I have come across a problem when i use my switchbot hub to learn my tv remote control. There is a netflix button on my tv remote control but on my switchbot hub ir learning menu, there isn't such button, may i ask is there a way to learn netflix button with the switchbot hub? Thanks.
I have a quest appreciate you could share how to learn the netflix button on the tv remote control but the switchbot hub learning menu does not have. Thank you very much.
you can relearn any buttons you want
1. go to your tv device
2. click on the pencil icon to edit
3. select the button you like to change
4. follow the onscreen instruction to learn the button
Hi Alex, met a problem with connecting all my triple rocker aqara switches and xiaoai (black speaker) to the gateway, all my single double rocker switches works, would you have any idea how to fix it?
most likely not, seek official support is the best
oh wow! thank God i found this video... i assumed i couldnt achieve smart home because my fan is RF and my ac is IR
haha not many brands can do RF
Eh nice la u making these videos, alot videos i find on youtube for smarthome devices apply for angmo country, all the components buy from amazon need few weeks shipping lead time. See ady oso tired, thanks for sharing.
yeah that's why I decided to make some videos on smart home in singapore context as what works what don't work is very region/country based
Honestly I'm still quite confused at the many gadgets and how they all come together? And at times I question the need to set up a smart home when we have remote controls, even on our phones. air con remote can also preset what time to switch off etc. And I feel that instead of me telling Google home what to do and waiting, isnt it faster if i just walk over to the switch and press it? correct me if I am wrong? The only part I feel might be useful is probably having a one button press to switch off everything once I leave the house
Making remote control smart is just 1 component of a smart home setup. Different smart home solutions have its own benefits and also depend of individual requirements. Maybe you could just implement something see whether you find it useful or not, no harm trying. It can be as easy as getting a smart bulb or a smart plug
Hi Alex, fun question!
I'm thinking of getting a Broadlink RM Pro 4. Would I be able to use the RF to replace my Yale smart lock remote?
hmm not sure better check with broadlink official support
Hi Alex, just wondering if broadlink rm4 pro can integrate with smart things. My new home will only be having a few smart switches, sensors and the remote.
No it can't, you can use alexa or if you have ifttt can do automation there
Hey Alex, any idea if the switchbot hub mini able to learn 2.4g remote control? Currently have the RM4 Pro but its not able to learn/detect :(
switchbot hub supports IR only, you can try checking out the bond hub
Thanks for this! Very helpful indeed. Just wondering whether a smart switch is needed to on/off ceiling fan since a hub can also do the same?
Its up to u, u can just use an IR blaster or even just a smart switch. For eg my living room fan, i mainly control the on/off only, nothing else. If someone accidentally switch it off then your IR wont work
Hi Alex, Does that mean i will need M2 in all of my room since it also functions as a IR Blaster? Otherwise I would not be able to automate my aircon in my rooms.
M2 is just another device that has IR, switchbot mini can do that as well, broadlink, sensibo and etc. Yes you need one in every room since it requires line of sight
I have read someHere that the new switcjbot hub 2 gives the actual state of some ir devices like the ac. Could you please confirm ?
yup it does
OMG i won the speaker!! Thank you ALEX! Yet another giveaway can i join this giveaway too? Hahaha..
yes congrats! pm me your details
Hey Alex .. my main phone is iPhone and I also own an android phone. What smart hub would u recommend for iOS? 😅
it depends on you are what type of person haha, generally if you like to stay in the apple ecosystem then look for devices that work with the apple homekit
Informative and helpful 😇
Been using the Logitech harmony remote for integration but it’s no longer supporting the latest as they had ended their production. Hope I can win these as a replacement
End of support for harmony already? I thought of trying it, think can forget it already if there is no further developments and enhancement to the product
When i try adding scenes into google home routines, it keeps saying "Sorry unable to reach broadlink" any fix for this? Yours seems to work well at 5:48
are you able to playback the scene properly inside broadlink app? if yes and if you have linked broadlink app to google home successfully, shouldn't have any issues
Can playback in broadlink, no issues.But Google assistant keeps saying cannot reach broadlink
Hi Alex, may I know which android app for broadlink is able to link up with Google Assistant?
The broadlink app
Hoping to win the giveway, the IR blaster will be so useful to turn on air con without worrying about changing batteries.
yup no doubt, i use that so often everyday triggering with voice
Wife not familiar with tv remote controls (always making me do all the work) so hopefully these devices can make my(our) lives easier!
P.s TV on/off button is faulty too!
Question??? Is the hall or room is big and there are 2 aircon, could this device control the Aircon individually?
can the physical remote do that? IR blaster is just simulating pressing the remote at that particular position placed
Hi Alex, I came across ur video & find it very information. In this video, u have used a broadlink rf blaster to control ur ceiling fan. I have bought a S brand rf blaster (work with 315 & 433 mhz) to pair with my Fanco ceiling fan that runs on 315mhz frequency. However the S brand blaster can’t learn my fan’s frequency. So I’m wondering if the broadlink blaster able to do so?
best is to get confirmation from official broadlink, if not just buy and test if you can do a free return
@@AlexTeo thank you for ur reply. Keep up the good work and continue to make interesting videos. It is very informative & helpful.
Any rf blaster compatible with homekit?
Hi Alex, can I check whether the IR and RF blaster reviewed here compatible with home assistant?
switchbot and broadlink? both of these brands have documentation on home assistant
www.home-assistant.io/integrations/switchbot/
www.home-assistant.io/integrations/broadlink/
Hi Alex been following all ur videos now that I have my own place. Qns on the broadlink for kdk fan using IR. I have 2x 48’ fan with light in my small 4rm livingroom. Seems like I can’t control them individually after setting up. I press on both turn on. I press light both lights turn on. :( Do u have some advise seeing u also have 2x identical fan in ur set up?
for fanco fans they are RF and for the remote, you can set them to listen to the same channel or different channel. So depends on your requirements, some people prefer to have them configured as a group, some prefer separate.. but for IR the only solution is the placement of the IR blaster, you will need 2 if you want them to be separately
@@AlexTeo I want to control them individually. Hmm in that case I really need to trial and error in positioning the individual IR blaster at extreme ends, so it doesn’t activate both at once? If so I guess this is also like one of the limitations:(
Hi Alex. Can I use a tuya zigbee hub with a sonoff zigbee door sensor and an aqara zigbee motion sensor?
No you can't, these are just simple hubs meant to only control their own products. You need hubs that is able to add customized coding to control devices that are not natively integrated. My next video i will be covering this topic :)
Hi Alex! Am trawling through your videos for useful gems as my reno will be done end April, so shopping for stuff now. Definitely wouldn't mind a switchbot. In addition, do you think I can get the contact for the handyman you used to install the TaiTaiLe rack you have?
yup sure, benny @ 9062 0052
@@AlexTeo Thanks!
Switchbot would a sick cop. Great video too. Wanted to ask if you know anything about a 2.4G remote. Atleast that’s my fan is using. And it doesn’t seem to work with my BroadLink pro. Quite frustrating.
hmm never heard of that, what fan are you using man?
@@AlexTeo Crestar value air. Apparently, it’s a newer series of their fans
Why you have switchbot hub when you can buy 2 broadlink. Switchbot Hub only IR.
because switchbot integrates with smartthings unlike broadlink, and also if you have other switchbot products, the hub serves more than 1 purpose
Hi Alex! Not sure if you’ll see this comment. Im planning to integrate my AC with the switcbot. But my AC remote is universal and works with all the aircons in my home. Is there a way to program it for specific aircons at home?
nah no way to do that, that's how IR works, you can only play with the positioning
@@AlexTeo thanks!😀 would u have any suggestions to make google home to integrate with certain aircons at home?🫠
I bought this a couple of days ago just to be able to control my lR controlled candles with Google Home voice commands. I made a costum control in the Switchbot app but it dont work. Is there any why to make it work?
suggest you to watch guides or reach out to switchbot if you need product support
@@AlexTeo Cant find any guides (found you😅) and the support dont answer me.
Nice apartment! Thank you for the tutorial!
Thank you Alex for the explanation. I remember asking you about this IR blaster stuff prior before this video and now I got a more clearer picture to learn how to integrate them!! Can’t wait to get my hands on them!!
oh, i hope i answered your questions about it
am looking into smart home...currently am already having google home and google wife in my parent's house which I currently staying. Looking into controlling lights and fans...so those devices in the giveaway would help me explore more into this area. Also my parents who are already 70+ are learning to use google home, i would hope to get the devices to help them further.
Bro how you got ur ceiling fan connected? I have Crestar value air and I believe it is working on rf. I bought gateway hub that connnrcts wifi and rf. I am still not able to get the frequency for the fan.
What is the exact product name?
@@AlexTeo the fan is called crestar value air 55” i have BroadLink Wi-Fi, IR and RF device same as the one in ur video.
Would love to win the giveaway as my husband and i are currently renovating our first resale home after multiple failures at securing a BTO. Winning this would mean so much to us!
sorry too late, winners already announced! more giveaways in the future :)
@@AlexTeo oops! time to turn on notifications for your videos from now on hahaha 🤣
Thanks for the very informative video ! These really help home owners uplift their quality of living. Hope to win the smartbot and get started on my smart home journey!
Hi Alex, does the switchbot works with AC that are more than ten years old model?
as long as it is IR, the switchbot hub can learn the remote
Nice video! Would absolutely love a Switchbot! I have a «dumb» light in my kitchen that is not possible to make smart, so a little robot attached to the switch would be perfect!
Is there a cable to be able to use it in multiple rooms
Do you know if this will work for the little remote that you have on condo gates? I have remote and want to tell Google to open the gate for me. I have direct line of sight to the gate maybe 6m distance
are you able to use the remote at the same distance you want the IR/RF blaster to be placed? if yes then most likely it will work
@@AlexTeo nice, will order one and try.
Bought the Switchbot hub because of your review. Was able to add my Aircon, which is a IR device but can't seem to be able to add my fan which uses a RF remote.
Mentioned at 3:18
@@AlexTeo yea.. it's sad.. mine's a Crestar fan which is like a pretty popular brand in Singapore but it's not in the list.
@@AlexTeo btw not blaming you or anything... just sad that my Mitsubishi aircon is the only thing I can add in my room and a Crestar fan can't be added. Keep all the good videos coming.
@@shadowhawk i see, should have gotten something that can learn rf if you know your fan is using rf
Hi Alex, is there any blaster in the market now that can learn RF?
Smart devices are nice and all but how do you secure your networks such that these devices will not be exposing your data onto the internet? e.g. xiaomi or google home constantly homing to a server outside your control. After all, many smart devices aren't built with security in mind.
Hence some people run their own private isolated environment with Home Assistant. I am also concern with security, that's why i'm skeptical using IP cameras inside the house. But if you look at other individual smart home devices like a smart light bulb, there is no sensitive data there. The concern is not going to servers from xiaomi or google, their network security is definitely much more secured than what you are able to build. So the concern is mainly on your own home network level, do the basics like not using default ssid, setting a secured password all these. If you want to go another level to secure your network, you can put some home based firewall appliance or Pi-hole.
@@AlexTeo thanks for the sharing. would you recommend Home Assistant for someone starting home automation from ground zero or is it not worth the hassle?
@@swb90 if you are a techie guy who don't mind to touch some coding/scripting, then the Home Assistant is a very good and powerful platform for a smart home
Awesome!! Really is best tech video. I got the same taitaile laundry system and aqara smart switch for my whole house because of your recommendation. pls do more such videos! any ways to buy the cloud shape switchbot still?
wah awesome, feels good hearing that. You can try getting it from amazon US, might be 0 shipping cost with amazon prime
www.amazon.com/SwitchBot-Infrared-Conditioner-Entertainment-Compatible/dp/B07DL6M8PZ
carousell as well
Thank you so much
How many do i need if its a 2 storey place
I don’t need a central platform to control my home smartly.
I just want my phone to be a central remote control for my ceiling fan, laundry rack, tv, air-con, lights etc. can you advise what can I do?
it will be simply using the app for each of the solution for the devices then. Nothing difficult if you don't need to have a central platform for the devices to work together. Actually I don't quite understand your question
Hi, thanks for always replying to the comments helping a newbie out like me.
So right now presently, my fan, lights, Aircon, drying rack are all operated by remote controls.they are not smart devices which have WiFi connection.
They each have their own remote controls and thus I have many controls lying around.
I was thinking if it was possible for my phone to act like an universal controller to on/off these devices. I don’t need to use Siri/ Alexa to control them using voice command.
Any idea if that is possible?
@@Whatexactlyispeace then that's exactly what this video is showing, using an IR blaster solution from switchbot/broadlink to make your controllers 'smart'. In the video, i demonstrated controlling these devices via the mobile app
Hope to win the Switchbot items! Would looove to use the Switchbot to turn on my heater when I'm still in bed haha. Can't wait to SMART-IFY my new home!
best of luck!
Awesome guide! Clear tutorial as always 👍
glad it helps!
Hi Alex, can I integrate Aqara wall switches and broadlink ir/rf blaster to smarthings and use one of the aqara switch button to control broadlink ir/rf blaster to say turn on fan or light?
aqara switches yes, broadlink no
@@AlexTeo then in that case how about some of tuya ir or rf blaster which are supported by smartthings?
Can I use aqara switches to command those ir rf blaster to perform certain task? All linking up to smartthings.
@@evanding605 yes if you manage to get them all on smartThings, for eg I use my aqara cube to control my a/c and tv via switchbot hub
Hi, does the Switchbot Hub support Amazon Alexa?
yes it does
Hi Alex! I've been watching a lot of your videos to know more about linking up devices from different brands but am still quite lost😅. Not sure if I remember correctly, but I think you mentioned in one of your videos where you use a wireless remote (not sure Xiaomi/switchbot) to control your bedroom appliances e.g. curtain, aircon etc, through the switchbot hub. May I know how that is done? Really like your videos!
Hi Alex, I have IR remote ceiling lights, a/c, tv and cable tv remote. What will you recommend that's affordable to get started?
Hi Alex, not sure if this message will reach when this video is sometime back and it’s still so useful.
I’m using aqara M1S hub to connect to all my aqara wall smart switches and aqara motion sensors, with some automation on aqara iOS apps. Need advise on - I wish to turn on ceiling fan/light (Bestar) upon opening the main door,, thinking of aqara door sensor, but I’m not sure which IR/RF hub can integrate into aqara, or there is none actually? Alternatively, is it actually more correct to use broadlink IR/RF to connect the controllers to the ceiling fan/light, my understanding this is possible through Google home.. however the bridge that I’m
Not sure of is between the aqara door sensor to the broadlink hub, on how to trigger the turning on of fan/light upon triggering aqara door sensor.. do you mind sharing what’s the best options? (Ps the wall switch controlling the ceiling fan is not smart switch coz no neutral cable) thanks a lot
the M2 hub and G3 hub both have IR capability but no RF, if your fan is using RF then you don't have other options within aqara. If you want to use broadlink rm4 pro for RF, you have to use alexa to configure automation rules with your aqara sensor and broadlink fan device. This is because google home doesn't have that feature
@@AlexTeo Thanks for the advise and sharing Alex. I suppose Broadlink doesn’t need a hub to work right? I chance into this outsmart wifi IR/RF whereby it claims to be able to connect to google home and smart life apps, however in order for the door sensor to work together, my understanding I need a zigbee hub which I prefer not to since I’m already using aqara hub.. or I really have no choice but to have another zigbee hub in order to get my ceiling fan/light automation to work? Paisei for asking another long question.. thanks a lot
@@lawrencetan6824 not sure what automation rule you are trying to set and the devices required in the rule, basically all of them must be on a common app. Generally you can try using alexa app since you can add skills to it
@@AlexTeo Thanks Alex. Will try that out
I've been watching your videos for a while now, and it has inspired me to set up a smart home for ourselves too! My partner and I look forward to your videos every week as we have also just got our own home.
I would love to win these SwitchBot devices to automatically control my A/C, TV and laundry rack system :D
Hi Alex, hope everything's fine & well, for a 47sqm apartment it is not necessary to have additional access points in every room, correct me if I'm wrong as one router is sufficient enough for all devices to have fast connection especially if there's only one occupant due to the size. How about having several google home mini speakers like one in living room, one in kitchen & one in bedroom, what's your advice? Have a suggestion how about making a video review on Windows 11 upgrade & user experience?
your questions have no link to this video haha.. nevertheless wifi strength will be hugely affected by the singapore thick walls so can't say for sure whether you need access points within a room. Google home mini is up to you whether you are going to voice trigger google assistant at those spots or music playback. Note that the speaker is not fantasic, i see it as just to trigger google assistant. Anyway I don't have a single google nest mini speaker
I'm moving into a new home soon and did not think of making it smart because I thought it would be too pricey. I love that SwitchBot is an affordable solution that is able to use existing appliances. What a smart company making smart products! I'd love to be able to win the giveaway please :).
Hi Alex, great video and I learnt a lot from your videos on smart home.
A quick question on the IR blaster solution
- as I have multiple aircons (eg living room, master bedroom) of the same brand, how do I ensure that I turn on the my desired aircon via IR blaster? I presume the remotes are the same and is interchangeable
you need a IR blaster in every room
@@AlexTeo thanks Alex, so if there is aircon near to each other, say just behind wall, there is also chance that the two aircons are turned on/off. Is my understanding correct?
@@WilsonChewSG can the same happen when you are using the physical remote?
@@AlexTeo yes not very often but yes
Thank for making this video! Definitely will make my quest to smart home easier..Hope to win the switch bot hub to use in my coming new house which im moving in this year :)
Hi alex, can a device control more than 1 AC? I’ve two ACs in living room and three more in rooms
IR requires line of sight, just pretend you are pressing the actual remote control at that spot then you will know how many IR blaster you need
@@AlexTeo ahh okays so I’d require a minimum of 5 sensibo. do U think there will be a tech where all remotes can be compressed into one device
Do keep the good content coming. Researched more about SwitchBot after watching your videos, definitely a brilliant method to turn non-smart fixtures/devices smart!!
Could you please show how did you configure your celling fan ?
i don't have a guide for that, but basically broadlink needs to learn the remote for every button
thanks for the information. would like to have the SwitchBot
sorry giveaway over, next time!
My house is currently under renovation and your videos are helpful. Too many hubs and switches out there to know which can work..
yeah man, that's the problem with all these smart home stuff, lack of info in sg and also sg is generally slow in adopting new tech
I'm a simple man, I see Alex post a new vid, I watch, I like.
Question, do you that "moving" smart home systems will be easy ?
Cannot recall immediately from your vids but, what are your most bang for the buck/frequently used automations?
Also, does others in your household use the automation or is it only yourself?
simple is good!
Migrating smart home is easy but tedious, a change in your wifi ssid is a lot of work already.
Most bang for buck - smart lights, IR blaster, vacuum robot
Everyone in the household
Of course still interested to get hold of the SwitchBot products via this giveaway! Super close to completing the reno for my new house so this will be extemely helpful in making it smarter :) Thanks for the useful and easy to understand content as always!
Can your Samsung washer be connected to google smart home?
i don't have a samsung washer
Great Info Alex. I do would like to win the switchbots. Keep up the good work!!!
thanks warren!
@@AlexTeo Also take note that some fans although RF may not be using 433mhz. I am usong broadlink rm4 pro with 4 Aerofan ceiling fans and eorking great. Great info about devices being stateless if using a toggle command.
Thank soo much Alex again for the amazing video for Smart home devices. Always learning something new in each of ur new videos.
Im still interested in getting the switchbot giveaway as it would really really help me bcoz i just got my nest mini. It would really help me alot to kickstart my smart home system as the hub mini IR feature would help me control my tv and aircon perfectly :) Really hope i win this!
As always, looking forward to yr next video. Take care & stay safe 👍🏽
thanks for the comment and you too stay safe!
Definitely would love to get my hands on the switchbot. I am currently planning on making my resale home smart with Google Assistant, but it is truly not a n easy feat. Your content has been a great help!
Hi Alex. Can the SwitchBot Hub work with Xiaomi smart switches? Or must I buy the Xiaomi Hub? Does Xiaomi hub integrate with Google Home? Thanks.
typically hubs for a brand only work with products under the same brand. Aqara hubs integrate with google home, not xiaomi
@@AlexTeo Ok. I'm still confused. Basically, I would like to use a smart hub to replace my IR remote controls (for TV, fan, hifi), and a smart switch to control lights, and have everything work with Google Home. What would you recommend?
@@terencesim8050 as explained about IR you need line of sight, so its impossible to have just 1 IR blaster to cover everything in the house. As for smart switches, there are many brands out there, can choose based on which design you like and check whether they have sensors as well. For me, I prefer aqara.
@@AlexTeo Ok thanks!
I will like to win the SwitchBot so that I can plan more smarter feature all in one for my new home!!
Both switchbot and Broadlink has RF capabilities?
switchbot no, broadlink depending on which model you get
Thanks Alex, your videos are great. I'm new to the whole smarthome / hub world. Watched your smart hub video. Is the understanding that there can be 1 single app (smart things hub) platform to control with the aid of a hub (like smart things)? What is the diff with switchbot vs smartthings vs etc? What is the best user friendly all in one setup?
switchbot is just another smart home device provider, while smartThings is a central smart home solution. Both apple homekit and amazon alexa are good
does the IR hub needs to get connected to wifi network 1st before we can use our phone as a remote control?
yup it requires wifi
@@AlexTeo so both ir hub and handphone need to use the same wifi network then to communicate between one another
hihi alex, im watching this video to guide me as im starting to set up my own home. Also realized that the video is almost a year old now, not sure if there are any changes or better recommendation out there now. Will you be able to advice?
no change, if you need RF go with broadlink else aqara m2 and switchbot hub both can do IR and have other uses as well
@@AlexTeo will the aqara m2 hub work with google home?
@@andrewyeo2665 yup
@Alex Teo oh cool! Thanks man
Is there a way to make my fanco ceiling fan smart? It’s using a Bluetooth remote control
bluetooth is tough, possible but no out of the box solution
I guess so too. No worries I’ll keep exploring!
Hi Alex, how about the aircon in the room, do we need to install another IR hub inside the room? Any suggestion?
Yes since you need line of sight for IR
@@AlexTeo thanks for replying Alex! The IR hub must be able to connect to wifi router right? Learning how to setup smart home and watched your videos, your videos are awesome! :)
@@frank645 yeah all hubs need wifi to connect to their cloud service. Thanks for the encouraging comment!
That’s a nice crib you got there
Hi alex, I've read that the aqara hub m2 has built in IR and bluetooth control. Have you thought of upgrading from your m1s to do a product review?
I'm planning to change my entire setup to a better central hub like smartthings or hubitat
Hi Alex! Great video on providing explanation and demonstration on the usage of the product!
however, I wish to ask few questions.
1) can a switch bot be programed of certain scheduling? e.g To turn on Heater at 6am everyday and off at 10pm?
2) Can a Switchbot be programed to an AC? Do we have the ability to Switch on the appliance remotely when we are not at home?
Hope to hear for you soon!
Thanks!
Great video.. Hope to win & try Hub mini.. BTW, Broadlink has added RF control??
yup, you might last time don't have?
I mean, as compare to Switchbot, Broadlink has added RF control?? Thks
@@TTang-do7rh yup thats right, but again do you have RF devices and whether there are any other products in the ecosystem that you are interested