The
Energenie Pi-mote Remote Control Outlet Starter Kit is a fascinating product. In short, this is a device which allows one to remotely control power outlets around one's home. This is a cheaper solution than the many "ready to go" kits that have grown in popularity in recent years. That said, the Pi-mote does require some setting up and effort to get working. To combat this, it is arguably one of the most customizable outlet control setups on the market.
Pi-mote- What Does it Do?
Before explaining the device in detail, some readers might lack familiarity with the Raspberry Pi itself. The Raspberry Pi is a tiny computer that is both affordable, often going for less than $50 without accessories, and highly customizable. Raspberry Pis essentially serve as blank slates upon which one can build anything desired.
People have used them as Smart TV setups, personal computers, WiFi extenders, retro gaming machines, and much more.
The Energenie Pi-mote is essentially a device which allows users to control power outlets around their home remotely. The Pi-mote plug, included with purchase, goes directly into an outlet. Following this, an appliance's power cable can be inserted into the adapter plug. This then syncs up to a 'pi controller board', an add-on that actually controls the software to turn on/off devices remotely.
For only $39, this is some fantastic hardware.
Some extremely basic Python skills are required to get things going. The actual code required is extremely simple and provided, making set-up simple for novices. This need for programming skills is not unusual in the world of Raspberry Pi accessories, so it is nice that they provide instructions. These basic instructions will get you started, but the real benefit is that you can do substantially more with the device. The Pi-mote activates and deactivates power outlets by default. It can be set to turn on and off at certain times or run in cycles with some programming knowledge. Intricate Raspberry Pi setups can also use this device to only activate when necessary, such as gardening setups or media centers. One might simply use the device to control lights within their home. In reality, one is only limited to their imagination with this device- and their programming skills.
General Thoughts
The general appeal of this device is the level of customization possible. One can change nearly anything desired regarding its performance with nothing but code. It is in this way that it stands above other "outlet control" devices. Other devices act to simply turn devices on and off remotely; this allows you to do whatever you would like. If one considers hardware customization options, the opportunities for the Energenie Pi-mote really are nearly limitless. If you are unfamiliar with the Raspberry Pi and all of its utility or customization options,
their website has a good deal of information.
Interested in the Energenie Pi-mote?
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220-Electronics is the place to purchase Pi-motes. If you are interested, purchase one today while they are still in stock!
