Smart Home System Homematic IP

A smart home should bring more comfort and security into your own four walls. It is all the more important that the data traffic between smartphone and devices runs reliably and securely. The German manufacturer eQ3 entered the smart home market very early in 2007 and has since specialized in realizing a secure smart home. The result is the wireless smart home solution Homematic IP.

SmartHome beginners sometimes have respect for what the Homematic system can do. And they draw the wrong conclusion that it is hardly manageable for the layperson. The fact is: Homematic provides such a complete solution for networking our SmartHome that it can certainly keep up with the significantly more expensive KNX bus classic - and at an attractively lower price (not only as a wired solution, but also by radio). And the truth is: to get the most out of all the possibilities of the Homematic system, you may need an expert. Because more complex Homematic installations are no longer a simple matter, but require a thorough study of the manuals and a professionally planned installation of all individual applications. But it is also true: anyone can theoretically install the wireless retrofit solutions themselves and expand them step by step. Of course, it's not necessarily for people with two left hands. For example, you should think about the logical function of a heating control in a large house before starting.

Quality benchmark for other providers

The manufacturer, the “eQ-3 AG” in Leer, is undoubtedly one of the pioneers of SmartHome technology. After all, the radio standards of Qivicon and RWE have been developed, and many other manufacturers use Homematic technology (for networking radiator thermostats, fire and intrusion detectors) to build bridges from their own offerings to the Homematic world. The components of the East Frisians are very common in Germany and are sold through online retailers such as Conrad, ELV, Reichelt, Pollin and Cyberport. So if you choose a Homematic base, you will find a very large number of different components that meet all the requirements of a modern SmartHome: lighting control using dimmers and intelligent switches; Control of room temperature through programmable thermostats, also coupled with window and door sensors; Movement of blinds, shutters and awnings according to the weather. A large selection of sensors detects water damage, fires, gas escapes and even burglars that affect windows or in the front yard. Or open the garage door with a flasher and switch on the front door lighting.

Homematic IP: The idea of ​​a (future) secure smart home

While there are certainly many smart home systems that are visually more appealing, you know exactly where you are at Homematic IP: The radio devices network via the current IPv6 protocol, which assigns each device a unique, unique identifier. This enables the control center to precisely identify and address each device. Information security during data exchange was checked and confirmed by the VDE in 2018.

Huge online community bakes the system

eQ3 guarantees the continuation of the Homematic IP series until at least 2030. However, it is unlikely that the manufacturer will miss the system. Because in the meantime a huge online community around Homematic IP has established itself, in which users provide each other with exciting tips and tricks. Homematic IP can be expanded much more flexibly and creatively compared to many younger systems. This is ensured, for example, by roller shutter actuators, light sensors and circuit boards. The latter make it possible to integrate ordinary electrical devices into the smart home.

Who is Homematic IP recommended for?

The Homematic IP Smart Home is interesting for the following target groups:

• Smart home beginners who attach particular importance to a smart home system with German data protection standards or who want to operate a purely local smart home system
• Advanced smart home fans and hobbyists who want to benefit from an active online community
• Users of the European smart home platform "Conrad Connect" (as an alternative to the American IFTTT)

Central control: CCU3 or access point

Most smart home systems only allow the smart home to be controlled via a control center that is connected to a cloud. Homematic IP offers the user two different options: operate the smart home purely locally or connect it to the manufacturer's cloud. So you have to choose from the outset either for the CCU3 (local operation) or the access point (cloud connection). We have summarized the advantages of the solutions in the table. In general, however, both control centers enable the automation of all Homematic and Homematic IP devices.

Homematic IP CCU3 and access point in comparison

Both control centers enable the automation of all Homematic and Homematic IP devices.

Photo: eQ3

CCU3 focuses on local automation via browser interface	Access point puts focus remote control via app
Local control via user interface WebUI (control via app possible via Third-party apps)	Smart home control via Homematic IP app (Connection to eQ3 cloud on German servers)
Voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant (only through third-party providers)	Integrate up to 80 radio devices
Integrate up to 400 radio devices	No local storage due to cloud connection
8GB flash memory	Not compatible with Philips Hue (only via the Conrad Connect platform)
Compatible with Philips Hue	Not compatible with Philips Hue (only via the Conrad Connect platform)
Price: approx. 150 euros (current Amazon price)	Price: approx. 47 euros (current Amazon price)

The brain of the system: Web UI or the Homematic IP app

If you choose the CCU3 as the heart of the Homematic IP system, the "Web UI" web interface serves as a platform for programming the smart home. Switching times can be clearly defined here and device links or device groups can be defined. For example, any wall switch can be assigned to a group of switch sockets.

If you choose the CCU3 as the heart of the Homematic IP system, the "Web UI" web interface serves as a platform for programming the smart home.

Photo: eQ3

In principle, eQ3 does not provide app control via the CCU3 system. However, if you still want to address the Homematic IP system via an app, you have a number of third-party apps to choose from, for example:

iOS apps:

• @Home

• pocket control HM

• HomeControl

• homeNOW

• LiVo

Android apps:

• TinyMatic

• Home24

• homeNOW

Anyone who definitely wants to address their smart home on the go is better advised to use the access point as a control center. For the access point, eQ3 offers the native Homematic IP app, which is used to configure and control the smart home system. Thanks to the connection to the Homematic cloud, you can quickly preheat the apartment from work if you arrive home earlier than usual. Since the Homematic IP app is also compatible with Amazon Alexa, nothing stands in the way of voice control.

With the Homematic Cloud, you can quickly preheat the apartment from work.

Photo: eQ3

Overview of heating control from Homematic IP

Homematic IP now has three radiator thermostat models in its range:

• The radiator thermostat with rotary control (table on the left)
• The compact radiator thermostat (table on the right)
• The Easy Connect with button control

The Easy Connect thermostat can be used as a standalone solution independently of the smart home system. In principle, it has the same functions as the radiator thermostat with rotary control, which is why it is not listed in the comparison table.

Homematic IP Radiator thermostat with rotary control

Homematic IP Radiator thermostat compact

Both radiator thermostats can be controlled via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

Photo: eQ3

Temperature changes and triggering the Boost function (rapid heating of the radiator) possible directly on the device	Closed housing, therefore no operation or manipulation on the device possible
Voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant	Voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
In connection with the Homematic IP window and Door contact - the temperature becomes visual automatically lowered as soon as a window is opened	Automatic lowering of the temperature during ventilation via the integrated window-on detection (Connection with a Homematic IP window and Door contact not necessary, but possible)
No dismantling protection	Theft and tamper-proof through the enclosed Disassembly protection
up to 6 heating phases per day with individual adjustable temperature	up to 6 heating phases per day with individually adjustable temperature
Price: approx. 55 euros (current Amazon price)	Price: approx. 60 euros (current Amazon price)

Homematic IP wall thermostat

Homematic IP offers the right wall thermostat for central heating control. In addition to the current actual and target temperature, the air humidity is also shown here. Three different weekly profiles can be preset and individual schedules can be set for each room. Note: The thermostat is available in different versions to replace the brand switches for the underfloor heating. Price: approx. 48 euros (current Amazon price)

Homematic IP offers the right wall thermostat for central heating control.

Photo: eQ3

Homematic IP floor heating actuators

The Homematic IP underfloor heating actuators enable control of underfloor heating and circulation pumps. Depending on the version, six or ten heating zones can be addressed individually. The heating water flows constantly, so that a uniform and efficient utilization of the heating system is guaranteed. In conjunction with the Homematic IP IO Box, the thermal bath can be controlled and switched between heating / cooling (winter / summer operation). With the Homematic IP switch actuator for heating systems (double), up to two circulation pumps, circulation pumps, boilers or electronic radiators can be switched.

Price: approx. 150 euros (current Amazon price)

Homematic IP door / window contacts

The Homematic IP door and window contacts are available in two versions. Both work with an infrared transmitter that can reliably detect opening and closing. They are therefore suitable for linking to the radiator thermostats as well as for burglary protection.

Homematic IP Window and door contact - optical

Homematic IP Window and door contact - concealed installation

Both door and window contacts work with an infrared transmitter.

Photo: eQ3

Flexible assembly with the included Adhesive strips or screws	Concealed installation in the frame of plastic windows or doors with adhesive strips
The window / door contact is visible in the interior	With the window closed or closed door is the device not visible
During ventilation, the Room temperature in connection with the Homematic IP radiator thermostat automatically lowered	During ventilation, the Room temperature in connection with the Homematic IP radiator thermostat automatically lowered
On request, e.g. B. in combination with the Homematic IP Siren Alarm will be triggered as soon as a window or a door is opened	On request, e.g. B. in combination with the Homematic IP Siren Alarm will be triggered as soon as a window or a door is opened
1 x AAA battery for 2 years lifespan	2 x AAA batteries for 5 years lifespan
Price: approx. 30 euros (current Amazon price)	Price: approx. 39 euros (current Amazon price)

Window handle sensor

As an alternative to a door and window contact, the Homematic IP window handle sensor can be integrated into the system for burglary protection or for climate control. The sensor also detects whether the window is open or closed and passes this information on to the linked devices. It is powered by an AAA battery and will last for about 2 years. An inconspicuous attachment is possible with the included white or silver cover.

Price: approx. 50 euros (current Amazon price)

Overview of Homematic IP security devices

The alarm siren for indoor use makes a loud noise with up to 90 decibels.

Photo: eQ3

Whether at home, in the office or with the elderly parents, smart safety devices can enable quick action in many dangerous situations. In the event of a break-in, Homematic IP not only makes it uncomfortably loud for the intruder, but also daylight in conjunction with a lighting system. The resident is immediately informed of a message on the smartphone. The security system can be focused at certain times of the day or at the push of a button, for example on the keychain remote control.

Homematic IP alarm siren

The alarm siren for indoor use makes a loud noise with up to 90 decibels. For example, it can react to a change in the status of the door / window contact or the motion detector. Both the alarm duration and the signal tones can be selected. On request, the alarm siren provides acoustic feedback when arming and disarming. The integrated sabotage protection recognizes the attempt of dismantling or manipulation. Price: approx. 49 euros (current Amazon price)

The current price for the alarm siren is around 49 euros.

Photo: eQ3

Homematic IP motion detector with twilight sensor

The motion sensor with twilight sensor is predestined for two applications: on the one hand, it lights up the house in combination with a lighting system as soon as it gets dark, on the other hand it catches the burglar who flies by and alarms the siren and the house owner. The whole thing also works conveniently on the veranda, because eQ3 also offers a splash-proof version. Both models record movements with a range of up to 12 meters and a radius of 105 °. Price: approx. 40 euros (current Amazon price)

The motion detector costs around 40 euros and is also available in a splash-proof version.

Photo: eQ3

Homematic IP smoke alarm device

Smart smoke detectors are particularly helpful when the fire ignites in your absence. The resident receives a push message as soon as smoke forms. If an incident occurs at night, LED emergency lighting also helps with orientation. In 2018, the Homematic IP smoke detector was honored by the Stiftung Warentest. The focus was on reliability and energy saving. Two permanently installed lithium batteries supply the smoke alarm with energy for about 10 years. Up to 40 radio smoke detectors of the Homematic IP series can be linked. Price: approx. 57 euros (current Amazon price)

Homematic IP water detector

From a water level of 1.5mm, the built-in siren in the water alarm sounds an alarm. Alternatively, an additional alarm siren can of course also be used. The tilt sensor detects unwanted movements and attempts at manipulation. Price: approx. 40 euros (current Amazon price)

Homematic IP keychain remote control

The Homepatic IP keychain remote control has 4 function keys for "envelope protection", "full protection", "alarm disarmed" and "light on / off". It is suitable as a supplement for a Homematic alarm system as well as for a lighting system. Price: approx. 40 euros (current Amazon price)

The Homepatic IP keychain remote control has 4 function keys for "envelope protection", "full protection", "alarm disarmed" and "light on / off".

Photo: eQ3

Overview of shutters, blinds and awnings control from Homematic IP

Automatic roller shutter control is not only convenient, it also proves useful in the areas of security and energy saving.

Photo: eQ3

Automatic roller shutter control is not only convenient, it also proves useful in the areas of security and energy saving. On vacation, for example, the home still looks inhabited, in summer you save energy for cooling systems by using clever shading.

Homematic IP roller shutter actuator - flush-mounted

With a Homematic IP roller shutter actuator, the shading is not only controllable via app or Homematic remote control, but can also move up and down independently depending on the position of the sun. Individual weekly plans can also be created for the regular daily routine.

Price: approx. 60 euros (current Amazon price)

Homematic IP blind actuator - flush-mounted:

Blinds, Venetian blinds, roller shutters and awnings can be controlled with this actuator. Especially for use with blinds, it enables the slats to be positioned exactly. The functions are the same as the roller shutter actuator - flush-mounted.

Price: approx. 70 euros (current Amazon price)

Homematic IP roller shutter actuator for brand switches:

The roller shutter actuator is suitable for all common tubular motors and integrates seamlessly into the existing rocker switch on the brand switch. The functions are the same as the roller shutter actuator - flush-mounted

Price: approx. 67 euros (current Amazon price)

Homematic IP blind actuator for brand switches:

Existing switches are upgraded by the blind actuator smart. Even the slat position can be set. The blinds can be controlled via app, remote control or depending on the sunrise or sunset.

Price: approx. 77 euros (current Amazon price)

Overview of light and smart home control from Homematic IP

The automated light control is part of a complete smart home experience. Homematic IP offers solutions for dimming, automatic lighting and simple switching via wall switches. Both lamps and any smart home scenario can be started at the push of a button.

Homematic IP switch socket / switch measurement socket

All power supplies, such as floor lamps, washing machines or refrigerators, can be integrated into the smart home system using a switch socket.

Price: approx. 48 euros (current Amazon price)

Homematic IP dimming actuator - phase section:

The dimming actuator - phase section is specially designed for lamps (LED, energy-saving lamps, halogen and light bulbs). As the name suggests, the connected luminaire can be dimmed in 0.5 percent steps. A flush-mounted version is also available.

Price: approx. 54 euros (current Amazon price)

Homematic IP dimming actuator for brand switches - phase cut:

In combination with a special adapter, the dimming actuator can be installed in common switches (Busch-Jaeger, Gira, Merten, Berker, Jung, düwi, Kopp). The functions are the same as the dimming actuator - phase section.

Price: approx. 60 euros (current Amazon price)

Homematic IP switching / measuring actuator for brand switches:

The switching / measuring actuator allows the use within existing cross and alternating circuits, whereby the energy consumption is displayed in the Homematic IP app. A flush-mounted version is also available.

Price: approx. 47 euros (current Amazon price)

Homematic IP continuity sensor with direction detection

To ensure that the light does not burn unnecessarily in any room, the passage sensor checks whether people are present. Even in the dark, the sensor detects a person entering the room. The passage sensor is therefore also suitable as burglar protection. Thanks to its compact shape, the sensor can be installed on the side of the door frame and does not count pets at a corresponding height. Price: approx. 97 euros (current Amazon price)

Homematic IP wall switch

Sometimes you just want to adjust the light, shade or temperature with a switch. Of course, this also works in a Homematic IP Smart Home. You can choose, for example, the 2-fold wall switch, the 6-fold wall switch (see picture) and a remote control with 8 assignable buttons. Price: approx. 67 euros (current Amazon price)

With the Homematic IP Smart Home you can adjust the light, the shade or the temperature with a switch.

Photo: eQ3

Homematic IP circuit board

The Homematic IP circuit board enables switching, for example of a switch or button input, 12 V signal transmitter or of LEDs by radio in the low voltage range. Applications are possible in almost all areas of smart homes - conventional household appliances, light installations or garage door operators can be intelligently controlled with Homematic IP. Price: approx. 30 euros (current Amazon price)

The Homematic IP circuit board enables switching, for example of a switch or button input, 12 V signal transmitter or of LEDs by radio in the low voltage range.

Photo: eQ3

Overview of weather sensors from Homematic IP

The weather plays a major role in intelligent home automation. With the help of the Homematic IP weather sensors, for example, the ventilation control can be regulated appropriately and awnings can be retracted in good time before the rain shower.

Homematic IP weather sensor - basic	Homematic IP weather sensor - plus	Homematic IP weather sensor - pro	Homematic IP temperature and humidity sensor - Outside
current temperature, Humidity, Wind speed, Brightness and Duration of sunshine	Temperature, humidity, Wind speed, brightness and sunshine duration also the beginning of rain and the amount of rain	Temperature, humidity, Wind direction, wind speed, Beginning of rain, amount of rain, Brightness and sunshine duration	current temperature and humidity
Price: approx. 99 euros (current Amazon price)	Price: approx. 179 euros (current Amazon price)	Price: approx. 235 euros (current Amazon price)	Price: approx. 36 euros (current Amazon price)

Homematic IP Smart Home: List of compatible smart home systems

• Amazon Alexa
• Google Home
• Conrad Connect compatible devices
• Smart frog camera

The most popular extensions for Homematic IP

The Smart Frog camera can be integrated directly into the Homematic IP Smart Home system. It has two-way audio and saves the recordings of the last four hours free of charge. If the integrated motion detector or noise detection is activated, the owner receives a message on the smartphone. Thanks to the geofencing function, there is no need to worry about disarming the camera. As soon as you are at home, Smart Frog goes into sleep mode. Price: approx. 89 euros (current Amazon price)

The Smart Frog camera can be integrated directly into the Homematic IP Smart Home system.

Photo: Smartfrog

Sonos music control

The Multiroom speakers from Sonos can be connected to the Homematic IP Smart Home via the Conrad Connect platform. This also makes the music control part of the home automation system and can be connected to creative if-then scenes. The favorite playlist then always plays in the right place at the right time. Price: approx. 219 euros (current Amazon price)

The Multiroom speakers from Sonos can be connected to the Homematic IP Smart Home via the Conrad Connect platform.

Photo: Sonos

Control Homematic IP devices via Amazon Alexa

The lighting control, heating control and safety control can be carried out via Amazon Alexa voice commands. Example voice commands:

• "Alexa, put the bathroom at 22 degrees"
• "Alexa, set the living room light to 50 percent"
• "Alexa, turn on full protection"

This is how the link between Homematic IP and Alexa works:

An activation key is required to link Homematic IP and Alexa, which can be generated in the Homematic IP app.

1. Open the menu, tap on "Settings" and select the "Amazon Alexa" menu item.

2. Copy the activation key displayed

3. Open the Alexa app

4. Select Homematic IP Skill, tap "Activate" and enter the activation key in the input field. The account link is created by tapping on "Send".

Integrate Homematic IP devices in HomeKit

There is currently no official Homekit certification for the Homematic IP components. If you still want to control your Homematic IP devices using the Home app, you can do so via an unofficial detour. This requires the lightweight NodeJS server homebridge and a Raspberry Pi.

Expand compatibility with Conrad Connect

A good alternative to linking with Apple HomeKit is the Conrad Connect platform.

Photo: Conrad Connect

A good alternative to linking with Apple HomeKit is the Conrad Connect platform. All Conrad Connect partner devices can be linked to one another via a web interface. This means that the compatibility of Homematic IP is suddenly expanded by a few hundred devices from well-known manufacturers.

Examples of Conrad Connect useful links for Homematic IP:

• Philips Hue
• LIFX
• Netatmo
• Nokia Health
• SONOS
• Android time
• Android phone

Homematic IP Smart Home in the test overview

AV-Test verdict 'Secure' (tested smart home product 2018): "No personal data is collected, stored data is completely anonymous and is transmitted encrypted between the access point, cloud and app". According to the AV-Test, "relevant data according to the current state of the art are stored in encrypted form using the Android KeyStore in the Homematic IP app"

Pcwelt-de says after the long-term test of Homematic IP (2018): “ Homematic IP has been working perfectly in our domicile for almost a year. So far, there have been no serious failures or problems […]. Remote inquiry via app also works reliably. However, it always takes a few seconds until our app has established the connection to the Homematic IP cloud and the data can be queried."

Haustechnikverstehen.de writes after the test of Homematic IP (2018): "Even if not everything went smoothly - I am a Homematic IP fan! Homematic IP is a full-fledged and complex smart home system with many options, which is worth taking a closer look at. […] In addition to the great technology, I think the price-performance ratio is right and you get a lot for your money. I can clearly recommend Homematic IP as a smart home system.”

According to the long-term test, Computerbild awards 4.7 out of 5 stars for Homematic IP (2018): “It is really amazing how you can immediately increase the comfort when heating with just a few simple steps. The setup is child's play."

Homeandsmart.de awards the grade 'Good' and says after the test (2017): "With Homematic IP, the Homematic system has undoubtedly climbed to the next level of evolution. […] Both the functionality and the user-friendliness are convincing. If previous Homematic web user interfaces were more complex, the app is now reduced to the essentials, clear, tidy and visually appealing."

Advantages of Homematic IP Smart Home

• Creative home system that can be expanded
• Free cloud service with app control
• Large selection of components
• Voice control with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
• IPv6 identifier for reliable radio communication
• In the event of a server failure, basic features remain functional
• No personal information is collected

Disadvantages of Homematic IP SmartHome

• Manageable direct integration from third-party manufacturers
• Hardware design could be more appealing

Conclusion: Mature smart home system for beginners and hobbyists

No matter how much experience you have in the smart home sector - Homematic IP has the right options for everyone. Beginners can get started right away with manageable starter sets, hobbyists can implement complex scenarios and integrate almost any power supply unit into automation. Due to the reliable IPv6 radio distribution, the system is generally very stable and also scores with the best security measures in terms of data traffic.

• Homematic IP starter set for heating control
• Homematic IP starter set for roller shutter control
• Homematic IP starter set for underfloor heating control
• Homematic IP starter set for burglary protection