Question regarding local vs cloud processing for ST
Just ordered a ST hub and will be receiving it in the next couple of days. But I have a question before I dive into the world of zwave and ST. If my internet connection is down - how much local processing can the ST do ? Can I control things like zwave based switches, dimmers and lights without cloud connectivity? I understand that I would not receive any status updates or notifications, since the messages are routed to their cloud service and then back down my mobile device.
A co-worker suggested I use ST for things that I need to control from outside the house. To control things like thermostat, garage door opener status/open/close. But use Home Assistant with a Aeon stick for local stuff like ceiling lights, switches, motion activate lights, and fans. Just to avoid the 2-3 second latency and also if the external network connection is down. thanks in advance.
Posted Sep 9, 2016, 12:24 AM UTC
Your co workers suggestion is an interesting idea. But why not use home assistant for everything z-wave and just use smartthings for ZigBee and then control all of it via home assistant (HA can control ST with a smart app on ST and mqtt).
Honestly I've so rarely had issues with ST connectivity/lag that I'm not sure its worth it for everyone. It seems that everyones milage varies though.
STs offline capabilities are extremely limited. From what I understand, but not verified myself... It can run the smart home monitor (home security) and smart lighting (controls lights based on simple triggers, obviously only certain triggers work without network). Reason for this is that all other smart apps aren't on the hubs firmware, and must be executed in the cloud.
Aside from all that, welcome to the ST family. [Shameless self plug] Once you get setup I suggest checking out my getting the most out of smart things article.
I think I would be ok with limited ON/OFF style triggers if external network access is not available. Honestly, this is more to placate the wife and meet the Wife Acceptance Factor.
Thanks for the link and will definitely checkout your article.