Technology Tuesday: Smart Sockets

What is a smart socket?  It’s actually just a fancy way to say smart plug.  That may have taken some of the allure out of this topic but I assure you, smart sockets are really super cool! 

Your next question is very likely going to be, “what makes them so smart?”  Well, they make all of your “dumb” devices into “smart” devices.  A smart socket connects to wifi and is usually associated with a mobile app and allows you to control devices remotely.  Ever leave your house and wonder if you switched off your curling iron or television?  Have you ever left your workstation and wondered if you turned off your monitor or task lamp? 

There are many different types of smart sockets at many different price points.  Different brands offer different features so be sure to select the one that has the features that are important to you.  Here is a short list of key features that are available on smart sockets: 

  • lots of functionality for a very low price, as low as $15 each 

  • energy use monitoring 

  • best compatibility with other home kits or voice assistants 

  • designed for outdoor use 

The market is full of smart devices that do many different things.  However, if you have a restrictive budget, you may not be able to purchase the “smart” version of all of the devices you use.  That is why smart sockets make so much sense for a low cost solution; a smart socket can transform any device that plugs into it a “smart” device with remote functionality. 

In general, these devices are marketed toward residential customers.  However, this technology is still in its infancy and I would be willing to bet, practical commercial and/or public sector applications are on the way! 

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Sources: https://www.cnet.com/news/best-smart-plugs-of-2020-alexa-amazon-homekit-google-assistant-kasa-apple/ 

SJVCEOTechnology Tuesday, Smart Sockets