Gavin Campbell joins me this week to discuss home automation, focusing on the Home Assistant platform. We explore seasonal impacts on automation, the importance of using entity IDs for easy device replacements and share personal experiences with smart technology. Gavin introduces innovative AI applications for improved security and highlights user-friendly solutions like Zooz smart switches. Thanks for listening!







































Full show notes, transcriptions (available on request), audio and video at http://theAverageGuy.tv/hgg628







Join Jim Collison / @jcollison for show #628 of Home Gadget Geeks, brought to you by the Average Guy Network.







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Jim Collison and Gavin Campbell discussed various tech gadgets and home automation topics. They highlighted the new M4 Mac Minis, with Gavin mentioning his first MacBook Pro. They delved into home automation strategies, emphasizing the use of entities over devices to avoid automation disruptions. Gavin shared his dynamic dashboard setup and AI integrations, such as using ChatGPT for image analysis and automation tasks. They also discussed practical home automation products like the Zoo Zen 34 remote switch and the benefits of using Wago connectors for easier wiring. Gavin mentioned upcoming interviews and features on home tech.fm, including robotic lawn mowers and home cinema design.







Show Chapters







[0:07 ] Introduction to Home Gadget Geek







[0:26 ] Weather Talk and Seasonal Changes







[2:46 ] Black Friday and Amazon Links







[3:12 ] Home Assistant Excitement







[7:24 ] Home Automation Replacement Strategies







[8:05 ] Automating with Entities







[12:00 ] A-Lady Integration and Automation







[13:04 ] Naming Conventions and Device Management







[17:28 ] Naming Devices for Clarity







[19:48 ] AI and Home Automation Integration







[27:12 ] Home Assistant Dashboard Improvements







[37:54 ] AI Capabilities and Future Potential







[46:27 ] Home Tech Updates and Features







[50:47 ] Product Spotlight on Zooz Devices







[56:22 ] Upcoming Topics on HomeTech.fm







[59:30 ] Preparing for Winter and Automation