Components of an Automation System

There are many components and parts that make up an automation system. Below we will go over all of them, as well as go over the individual function of each part.

Controlled devices is a term used to describe the large range of equipment that an automation system can control. While it is impossible to list them all as the list is quite a large one, some examples include information systems, intercoms, power drapes, audio/video systems, lighting systems, power doors, and so on. The amount of controlled devices we use in our everyday lives is really extraordinary.

Sensing devices can give you values of certain things like humidity, light and sound levels, temperature, etc. These sensors pass signals which are then converted into a data which a controller program can take and display the right data for the user to read. This data can usually be converted by the sensor but it’s not always the same; it can also be converted by an intermediate protocol converter or by the system controller. The sensor is able to make informed decisions based on the conditions it was produced to collect said information.

Input/output interface devices provide the necessary logical communication link between controlled devices and the controllers. They bring the physical and logical aspects of a system together. Sometimes this equipment can come built-in which it is then considered a feature of the equipment; sometimes it can come as separate equipment which would make it a separate item altogether. Most devices are installed with an industrial standard that many regular appliances have, some however, may need a third party device that can integrate into the home automation system.

Controllers are capable of sending commands that the rest of the system understands. In an automation system, this may not necessary be limited to one controller. A controller works by receiving the correct data in order to control every device. Data can come from many places including user input, sensor input, timers, control programs, even a combination of all.

User interface allows the user to interact with the automation system; it allows the user to send the information to the controller in the way of letting the user know how the system works. There are many differences when it comes to user interfaces as they usually differ from brand, model, and make. The most common things you will find on a user interface is push buttons, touch screen, keyboards, monitors, remote controls, telephone interfaces and on screen options.

System network is the most complicated part of the system; it can be the most difficult to install and the most difficult and expensive to replace. The system network alone is made up from all different types of components some of which include power supplies, dimmers, junction boxes, connectors, adapters, links, cables, wires, sensors, controllers and so on. It is definitely one of the most complex parts of an automation system.

Programming computer. While some automation systems may let the user with the user’s own system interface, sometimes other systems may require a separate computer to program the system controller or any other part of the automation system. Some users can even use both, preferring to stick with some of the users interfaces features while still running a different computer to perform more challenging functions.