Smart Home Posts

Are you just starting to get into home automation, and you’re looking for some guidance on how to get started with your smart home? Or, maybe you’re a home automation pro looking for some cool tricks or some inspiration for your next project.

Either way, you’ve come to the right place.

Hi, I’m Nathan Kinkead. Here at KinkeadTech.com, I’ve documented much of my own journey for the automated home so that I can hopefully help others out there who are trying to do the same thing.

I’ved used the Vera Z-Wave home automation system used to be the best bang for your buck in my opinion.  Since then, I’ve switched to Samsung SmartThings and am having a lot of fun with that.

I am also a big fan of Kodi (formerly XBMC), I’m a hardcore Android user, and I’m an Xbox One gamer. Be sure to check out several of my home automation posts where I have built integration between all of these things to tie them all together!  Z-Wave + Kodi + Android + Xbox One = Awesome.

If you have any question or would like some help with your particular situation, be sure to leave a comment or hit up the community forum. Thanks!

How to Build Your Own Home Automation System

Home Automation System
There are many factors to consider when making the home automation system. This information is vital in the building of a home automation system.Continue reading How to Build Your Own Home Automation System

Nest Now Makes It Easier to Automate Home & Away

Nest announced some features that should help solve the problem of being able to accurately automate things based on whether people are home or away.Continue reading Nest Now Makes It Easier to Automate Home & Away

DIY Home Security Automation with Z-Wave Deadbolt Lock

This DIY home security guide will cover the installation of the Kwikset 910, how to program Z-Wave scenes that use it, and other NFC and wearable tricks.Continue reading DIY Home Security Automation with Z-Wave Deadbolt Lock

Xbox One XBMC / Kodi Live TV OneGuide Integration

This Xbox One XBMC integration guide shows how to configure Xbox One OneGuide and Kodi on your HTPC so saying voice commands will make Kodi change channels.Continue reading Xbox One XBMC / Kodi Live TV OneGuide Integration

Z-Wave Christmas Tree Strobes with the Music

Looking for something else to hook into your home automation system? Try this Z-Wave Christmas Tree that strobes up and down with the music.Continue reading Z-Wave Christmas Tree Strobes with the Music

DIY Home Security System using Z-Wave and Tasker

Are you and your family protected? Here are some tips on how to setup your own DIY home security system with more features and no monthly cost.Continue reading DIY Home Security System using Z-Wave and Tasker

Get Android Notifications on your TV

If you use XBMC/Kodi for your television consumption (like I do), and you have and Android phone (like I do), you can get Android notifications on your TV.Continue reading Get Android Notifications on your TV

Logitech Harmony Gets Z-Wave Home Automation: Are They Too Late?

Just announced: 4 new Logitech Harmony products with new features that allow it to interface with your Z-Wave home automation system. Are they too late?Continue reading Logitech Harmony Gets Z-Wave Home Automation: Are They Too Late?

#DEAL: Mi Casa Verde VeraLite Z-Wave Home Controller for $99

If you've been thinking about getting into home automation, now is the perfect time to buy the Mi Casa Verde VeraLite Z-Wave Home Controller.Continue reading #DEAL: Mi Casa Verde VeraLite Z-Wave Home Controller for $99

How to Make XBMC/Kodi Pause When Your Phone Rings

If you use XBMC/Kodi to watch TV (like I do), there's an easy way to make your show automatically pause when you phone starts ringing.Continue reading How to Make XBMC/Kodi Pause When Your Phone Rings