The Samsung SmartThings suite brings cutting-edge automation to any home for very little money. It heralds the beginning of affordable internet of things and does a very good job of introducing you to just how smart any home can be.

The suite is made up of a hub that plugs into your home router, motion sensor, multi sensor, presence sensor and power outlet. The kit, along with hundreds of compatible products, allow you to control things like door locks, room temperature and appliances.

The SmartThings suite motion sensor can work with a security system to monitor movement within your house or on its own to alert you to movement. The multi sensor keeps track of which doors and windows are open or closed while the presence sensor tells you who is in the house or when people arrive at the property. The power outlet is what you use to control the lights and appliances. All the sensors connect to the hub which you can control with the SmartThings app from anywhere in the world.

The Samsung SmartThings suite isn’t just about security, but about a smarter home. For example, put a motion sensor by the bed and it could automatically turn on the light if you get up during the night. Put it by the front door and it could tell you when the postman arrives or when the kids get home from school. The power outlet can automatically turn the oven or washing machine on so they are ready for when you get home. The options really are endless.

Jesmond Darmanin is a technology enthusiast who has his own blog at www.itnewsblog.com.