Embedded Files
The MPP applications allow you to replace the original manufactures cloud services with your own service. This involves setting up and running your own local server which is of course more complex than using on a hosted cloud service. But it is much more secure, reliable, you'll never need to pay a fee, and you will still have a working system even if the manufacture withdraws support for their products.
MPP Servers run on an android device you configure to be an always on, always connected hub for your IoT devices.
Once you've got the server running you run the matching client on your phone to establish a secure connection (use the same google account on your phone and server to share the MPP app licenses).
You have a number of different choices for servers. An old android phone (3.0 or better) makes a good server. For new, Walmart, Bestbuy, Target (and similar) sell low end android PAYG (aka no-contract or pay-as-you-go) phones that are perfect for this app for < $10 at time of writing. Ebay will have new ones often < $50. Try a search like this:
No Contract phones at WalMart/BestBuy/Target, etc. Anything 4.2 or later with 1GB RAM will work.
Note that these phones do NOT need to be activated with the carrier unless you want to use their data network or send SMS (text) messages in response to automation events. And you usually don't, the wifi connection to your router is usually adequate and you can leverage IFTTT, PushBullet, email to SMS services, etc when necessary.
If you get the T-Mobile version and need cellular access they have a pay-as-you go plan for $3 per month. It's great as a fallback if your wifi fails or to send SMS alerts. You won't use the minutes and likely will send only a few SMS messages so the cost is typically < $36 per year even if you're based outside of the USA.
There are also a number of other good server choices. Any platform that supports java can be used as an MPP server:
- PCs with any version of windows or linux
- MAC/iOS
- A NAS or HTPC
- RaspberryPI
- Some routers
Configurable Console
Use WemoManager, WemoHome or WemoLED widgets and you've got a configuble (and removable) touch interface with multi functions. With WemoManager for scheduling, a flexible rule engine and remote access.
Yeah, I hate the power cord too (which would plug in at the outlet under the switch). There are other solutions for that, including putting it someplace else that's handy and the cord is out of the way. For example I have a tablet on the kitchen counter with a similar setup, and an old phone in a desk dock on a nightstand configured as an alarm clock and music plus these same functions.
This particular layout is 3 wemo switches and 4 LED bulbs, with quick launch to a wifi thermostat, security system, and security cameras. Weather, calendar, web browser, and clock are on the next page (just swipe), and the 3rd is direct to the apps used to configure things. Anything can be reconfigured, just drag it around.
They're handy as emergency phones - 911 access is still provided even without activation, and you can make wifi calls for free.
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