Overview

The SmartSERVER™ interfaces both to a C-Bus system and an Ethernet network. Other than a low voltage power source, these are the only connections required. SmartSERVER is housed in a compact predominately anodised alloy chassis, and manufactured using premium quality components for years of reliable service.

Via the Ethernet connection SmartSERVER maintains a network presence alongside all your other digital devices. Where a network supports wireless or internet access, then these features can be used to extend the usefulness and reachability of the SmartSERVER. Internet access for example, allows the SmartSERVER to access highly stable time and date sources for clock synchronisation; or email services through which alert messages can be sent. On the other hand WiFi can be used to establish local connectivity with WiFi equipped devices such as smartphones or tablets.

During operation SmartSERVER monitors C-Bus data activity and maintains a model of levels, states and values. Periodically, and during start-up, it makes requests for information to ensure that this model is always accurate. It will respond to requests, and/or initiate, time and dates broadcasts using an internet time source to ensure your smart home does things, when expected.

One of the SmartSERVER features is an inbuilt http web server. With functionality like a typical website, but tailored for user inter-action, it is simple to access an uncluttered and intuitive interface designed to work on most network enabled devices including those powered by Apple, Android and Microsoft. Users can benefit from this approach, as it does away with the need to install a custom "app" on each device. And by not relying on continual new "app" releases, potentially realising an extend product service life.

With an eye on making operation immediately familiar, the user interface styling is in many ways just like one of your current hard wired C-Bus switches. And just like with physical switches, a choice of visual styling themes is available.

As well as the plain text label, optionally add an icon to help identify a keys purpose.

Momentarily touch an On/OFF switch and it will change to the other state.

Press and hold a light dimmer and it will increase (or decrease) until you release, conveniently showing the approximate level.

If preferred, a 'button' can be easily configured to display but not control. Is the office alarm on? the garage door open?

For many users it is likely that access to one keypad will be insufficient. On touch screen devices a left or right swipe can take you to the next available keypad - provided you are authorised. SmartSERVER always requires a valid user account with password. Allocate an account to an individual, or alternatively a group of users with similar needs. With this flexibility it is possible to limit access to certain C-Bus functionality, or just remove "control clutter" for things that just aren't of interest to a particular user.

Portable devices are often used in both portrait and landscape modes. The user interface automatically will re-organise itself to make best use of available screen area on those devices which sense orientation.

Would you like to know when the kids arrive safely home from school each day, or perhaps when your water tank level is becoming low? SmartSERVER can send an e-mail message to you based on C-Bus activity.

SmartSERVER also supports many of the more "commercial" C-Bus features utilised in offices, factories and some high end residences, as well as support for the larger multiple network C-Bus installations.

If connection security is of concern SmartSERVER, can encrypt your web connection using TLS1.2 the most recent successor to SSL.