What Do Air Quality Monitors Measure?

by

In a previous post, I discussed my plans for buying an outdoor quality sensor. But, I didn’t explain what air quality actually entails. It isn’t just one thing. There are a lot of factors involved.  The US Environmental Protection Agency sets an air quality index for five major air pollutants:

  • ground-level ozone – created by chemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOC). Ozone is most likely to reach unhealthy levels on hot sunny days in urban environments, but can still reach high levels during colder months. Ozone can also be transported long distances by wind.
  • particle pollution –  This most commonly includes PM2.5 and PM10. The 2.5 and the 10 indicates the size of of particulates and the measurement is of the concentration in the air
  • carbon monoxide – The most common source of CO outdoors would be cars, trucks and other vehicles or machinery that burn fossil fuels. Indoors, gas appliances, furnaces, and chmineys.
  • sulfur dioxide – The most common source of SO2 is burning of fossil fuels by power plants and other industrial facilities, as well as some heavy equipment.
  • nitrogen dioxide – NO2 forms when fossil fuels such as coal, oil, natural gas or diesel are burned at high temperatures. Again, cars are the most common one here.

These are all a concern indoors as well to some degree, but there are additional items that are a focus indoors:

  • carbon dioxide – CO2 is produced both naturally and through human activities, such as burning gasoline, coal, oil, and wood. People exhale CO2 which contributes to CO2 levels in the air. Why is this important indoors? It is often measured to quickly but indirectly assess approximately how much outdoor air is entering a room in relation to the number of occupants. During the pandemic, as a measurement of air circulation, using this as a way to determine how well ventilated a space is. When I was in one older building with a group of people, the bulding had a protocol that, if the levels grew too high, they would open windows to get it down.
  • formaldehyde – HCHO is found in some building materials, including composite wood, insulation, glues, paints and finishes, preservatives, pesticides, cigarette smoke, etc…
  • volatile organic compounds – emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids and are emitted by thousands of products such as paint, solvents, aerosol sprays, cleansers and disinfectants, air fresheners, automotive products, hobby supplies, dry-cleaned clothing, pesticides, copiers, etc.

Scary stuff. Most indoor air quality sensors contain a TVOC sensor, a PM2.5 sensor, and a CO2 or eCO2 sensor.

  • TVOC – because there are so many VOCs, it’s impossible to monitor them all. TVOC is a measurement used to measure the overall amount of VOCs in a space. It is not uniformly defined.
  • PM2.5 – As mentioned before, this is the size of the particulates. Anything PM10 or less is inhalable. Fine particulates are PM2.5 or less. Therefore, the PM10 reading contains the PM2.5 particulates as well. Combustion of gasoline, oil, diesel fuel or wood produces most of the PM2.5 pollution in the air, and PM10 also includes dust from construction sites, landfills and agriculture, wildfires and brush/waste burning, industrial sources, wind-blown dust from open lands, pollen and fragments of bacteria.
  • CO2 vs eCO2 – Estimated CO2 is a derived number based on the TVOC reading of a sensor. . If there are substantial concentrations of other VOCs present, the eCO2 reading would be higher than the actual CO2 level.

If you remember from that previous post, my on-order outdoor sensor has dual PMS5003T sensors, which measure PM2.5 and PM10, an SGP41 for VOC and NOx measurements, and I could opt to add a NDIR CO2 sensor. In fact, after I ordered, they switched from dual particulate sensors to 1 Particulate and one CO2 sensor for their outdoor kit. While elevated CO2 levels are usually used to derive indoor air circulation and quality, they can also be used outdoors to indicate other harmful gases that are often emitted with CO2 like SO2, NO and NO2 as they are often emitted with them.  Similarly, VOC is more commonly measured on indoor sensors, but can also appear outdoors near chemical factories, gas stations, natural gas leakages, and burning of garbage.

Air Quality is derived from the concentration of these items in the air and usually displayed as a number on the Air Quality Index. Different countries have different scales and formulas for calculating this. The US EPA’s scale is 0-500 and uses color coded ‘traffic light’ system to indicate good versus bad air.

  • 0-50 is Good(Green)
  • 51-100 is Moderate (Yellow)
  • 101-150 is Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (Orange)
  • 151-200 is Unhealthy (Red)
  • 201-300 is Very Unhealthy (Purple)
  • Above 300 is Hazardous (Maroon)

 

Throw Away The Key- Should You Be Switching to a Digital Lock?

by

In my exploration of home automation, locks and cameras are always the most concerning when it comes to privacy and security. With all the hacks and exploits you hear about, trusting a third-party with the keys to your house can be a scary thing. Having control of your security is important. Every time I’ve compromised on control in the name of convenience, I’ve regretted it.

So, rather than starting with Smart Locks, I’m starting with the concept of digital locks in general. I’ll get to smart locks in a subsequent post.

What are Digital Locks?

The term can be somewhat confusing, because a digital lock is not necessarily electronic, it can be mechanical. It refers to a lock that is opened using a combination keypad over a key.  Some people still prefer a mechanical digital lock. Why?

  • Electronic deadbolts are usually battery powered…what happens when the battery dies?
  • They often contain a motor to turn the bolt, and this part can wear out or otherwise over time meaning more frequent replacement.
  • Mechanical Options are also popular with Observant Jews as they would refrain from using electronic devices on Saturdays and holidays.

A digital lock replaces something you have…a key, with something you know…a code, although many of these locks still offer a key override. But this is nothing new. For years, one of the entries to my building has been through a garage, with a keypad on the outside to open it. More and more people are moving to locks that don’t require a traditional key for at least one entry into their home. In my follow-up where I get into Smart Lock technology, these do not just include built-in keypads, but using your phone to unlock, fingerprint, etc.

Digital locks have also become increasingly popular for short term rentals, such as AirBnB, as providing a code is easier than key exchange, and changing the code is a trivial matter. The Smart digital locks allow remote changing of the code and the others allow changing at the unit itself.

Are Digital Locks Safer than Keyed Locks?

The traditional keyed lock itself is inherently risky in itself. An expert lock-picker can pick a lock rather quickly. It is possible the absence of a key may actually be more secure, because there is nothing to pick.

But all this doesn’t mean you can’t bypass a digital lock in the same way most people bypass keyed locks, it just means you can’t do it with a pick. In most cases, the biggest security of a lock, is not the key. Most criminals are more likely to use brute force to break in over picking the lock. So, a key question in any lock purchase is hard it is to brute force it. For example, Consumer Reports tests their door locks with a 100 pound steel battering ram, and test both with and without a reinforced box strike plate. Their recommendation, by the way is to invest in reinforcing against a brute force attack as well as a hardened lock that is not easy to drill or otherwise break.

Again, that doesn’t mean a determined individual can’t get in. Security is often about making things harder, not impossible.

 

Finding the Right Outdoor Air Quality Monitor

by

In 2023, there were wildfires in Canada which blanketed the Northeastern United States with smoke. This marked a change in what parts of North America had to deal with this problem. This marked an overall increase in interest in air quality sensors.  I had looked into air quality sensors over the last few years, and there are a lot of options for indoor air quality sensors, but not quite so many for outdoor. Will talk a bit more about indoor air quality and how air quality is evaluated in a separate post.

My requirements were not achieved easily by most of the commercial options I explored. After failing to find one I liked, I built my own outdoor air quality sensor. It failed. So I rebuilt it…and it failed again…this time due to condensation somehow getting into the assembly. You can’t fully enclose the sensor because it needs air to flow over it, so there is this risk. So, after wasting two perfectly good sensors, I decided to fall back to something made by someone else as clearly I’m not that level of builder.

Requirements

  • Local access to the data as opposed to having to get data from my own network from a remote API. I feed everything into Weewx, so anything with local data can be fed that way.
  • User replaceable parts
  • More than just a PM2.5 sensor.

 

The Other Options

That initially took me to the Purpleair line of products. Purpleair offers a several sensors plus a community of enthusiasts and their devices can be polled directly. At the time I last looked, they had what they now call the Classic…which did not her user replaceable sensors…being as the PM5003 sensors they use only have a few years of lifespan, it meant replacing the entire unit at that point. Their new Flex and Zen models allow replacement of the sensors without having to replace the whole unit, but you have to get parts from them. And the unit is are just under $300 each.

I looked at Ecowitt as well. Ecowitt sensors are sold under several names in multiple countries. They have 3 air quality sensors, only one is rated for outdoor use, and is battery operated. I tried it, but on battery it has an update time of ten minutes…which created a variety of problems in my receiver missing the update. The indoor ones allow for USB power which increases the frequency of updates.

What I Picked

I explored a few additional choices and finally found something to try. A company in Thaland called AirGradient. AirGradient is an open-source platform with a strong community behind it. They launched their first outdoor design in December of 2022.

Pros

  • They design long lasting air quality monitors that are open source and open hardware…perfect for my philosophy on the matter.
  • The prices are reasonable, and if you don’t like them, you could in theory build it yourself.
  • They provide kits to various organizations.

Cons

  • 1-3 Weeks to Ship, and 2-3 weeks once shipped to most destinations

Their outdoor unit can be purchased as a DIY kit with all the parts or as a preassembled and tested unit. It consists of:

  • Dual PMS5003T air quality sensors. The T variation includes temperature and humidity sensors.
  • Based on an ESP32 C3 chip, which means you can install Esphome…the software platform I used for my homebrew sensors
  • A sensor slot for a third sensor, they offer a TVOC/NOx board for this, an SGP40
  • While the two PMS5003T sensors are for redundancy, one could be replaced by an CO2 sensor which they sell.

The fully assembled version includes either the SGP40 or the SGP40 plus a NDIR CO2 sensor included, as well as full testing of the unit with a report.

So, I’ve ordered one of these kits for $95 with all the parts. If it works, I may order more of their products. But, even if I never order from them again, I can get PMS5003 replacement sensors from a variety of vendors and keep the one I have going indefinitely. But, if it is as advertised, I feel another weeks long order coming on.

Their indoor sensor is equally impressive, and even includes an RGB LED system to act as an air quality ‘traffic light’, but will talk about that in future.

 

In Massachusetts, An Overloaded Grid Stops The March Of Solar Energy

by

You’ve run the numbers on your new solar project. You expect a great ROI on your solar panels. But then, when you go to get the permits, you are told that the grid can only support an installation half the size of what you had scoped out, and, now, the numbers no longer make sense.  The Boston Globe recently reported that this is the reality for many in the state.

Massachusetts has long been a national leader in solar adoption, thanks in large part to an innovative incentive program that drove early developments. But now, it’s a different narrative: there’s very little room on the electric grid for new projects to connect.Hundreds of projects, totaling more than 400 megawatts, are being held up while the state and utilities determine how much additional electric infrastructure is needed and where, and who should pay for those upgrades.

Our antiquated grid is not set up to add capacity, not set up for reverse metering, not set up for even monitoring energy usage remotely.  This is quickly becoming a hindrance to the adoption of solar in Massachusetts and beyond.

 

Secure Your Vacation Home with Remote Monitoring

by

Are you worried about the security of your vacation home while you’re away? With remote monitoring, you can have peace of mind knowing that your property is safe and secure. Let’s explore the benefits of remote surveillance for your vacation home and how it can help you protect your investment.

Why Remote Monitoring is Essential for Your Vacation Home

Protect Your Property from Burglars and Vandalism

Vacation home securityby Daniel Chen (https://unsplash.com/@dchestudio)

Vacation homes are often targets for burglars and vandals, especially during the off-season when they are left unoccupied. With remote monitoring, you can keep an eye on your property from anywhere in the world. This means you can quickly respond to any suspicious activity and alert the authorities if necessary.

Monitor for Fire and Water Damage

Aside from theft and vandalism, vacation homes are also at risk for fire and water damage. With remote monitoring, you can receive alerts if there is a fire or water leak in your home. This allows you to take immediate action and prevent further damage to your property.

Keep an Eye on Your Property Management Team

If you rent out your vacation home, you may have a property management team that takes care of the property while you’re away.

Remote monitoring allows you to oversee their actions and guarantee suitable maintenance of your property.

This can also help you identify any potential issues or concerns with your property management team.

How Remote Monitoring Works

Remote monitoring involves the use of cameras and sensors to keep an eye on your property. These devices are connected to a central monitoring system, which can be accessed through a mobile app or a web portal. This allows you to view live footage of your property and receive alerts if there is any suspicious activity.

Types of Remote Monitoring Devices

There are various types of devices that can be used for remote monitoring, including:

  • Security cameras: These can be placed both indoors and outdoors to capture footage of your property.
  • Motion sensors: These can detect movement and trigger an alert if there is any activity on your property.
  • Door and window sensors: These can alert you if there is any unauthorized entry into your vacation home.

Choosing the Right Remote Monitoring System

When choosing a remote monitoring system for your vacation home, there are a few factors to consider:

  • Coverage: Make sure the system covers all areas of your property that you want to monitor.
  • Connectivity: The system should have a reliable internet connection to ensure that you can access it from anywhere.
  • Mobile app or web portal: Decide which option is more convenient for you to access the system.
  • Cost: Consider the upfront cost of the system as well as any ongoing fees for monitoring services.

Benefits of Remote Monitoring for Your Vacation Home

Peace of Mind

Remote monitoring appby Annie Spratt (https://unsplash.com/@anniespratt)

The biggest benefit of remote monitoring for your vacation home is the peace of mind it provides. You can relax and enjoy your vacation knowing that your property is being monitored and any issues will be addressed immediately.

Cost Savings

Investing in a remote monitoring system can also save you money in the long run. By preventing theft, vandalism, and damage to your property, you can avoid costly repairs and replacements.

Insurance Discounts

Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes with remote monitoring systems. This is because these systems can help prevent and mitigate potential damage to your property, reducing the risk for insurance companies.

Remote Access

With remote monitoring, you can access your vacation home from anywhere in the world. This means you can check in on your property at any time and receive alerts if there is any suspicious activity.

How to Set Up Remote Monitoring for Your Vacation Home

Step 1: Choose a Remote Monitoring System

The first step is to choose a remote monitoring system that meets your needs and budget. Do your research and read reviews to find the best option for your vacation home.

Step 2: Install the Devices

Once you have your system, you can install the devices in and around your vacation home. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation.

Step 3: Connect to the Monitoring System

Next, you’ll need to connect your devices to the central monitoring system. This may involve downloading a mobile app or setting up a web portal account.

Step 4: Test the System

Before leaving your vacation home, make sure to test the system to ensure that it is working properly. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your property is being monitored while you’re away.

Real-World Examples of Remote Monitoring for Vacation Homes

Example 1: The Smith Family

The Smith family owns a vacation home in a remote area. They were concerned about the security of their property while they were away, so they invested in a remote monitoring system. One day, they received an alert on their phone that there was motion detected on their property. They were able to quickly access the live footage and saw that there were two individuals attempting to break into their home. The Smiths immediately called the authorities, and the burglars were caught in the act.

Example 2: The Johnson Family

The Johnson family rents out their vacation home during the off-season. They wanted to keep an eye on their property and ensure that their guests were following the rules. With remote monitoring, they were able to monitor their property management team and ensure that their guests were not causing any damage to their home. This helped them maintain the value of their property and avoid any potential issues with their guests.

Conclusion

Remote monitoring is an essential tool for securing your vacation home. With the ability to monitor your property from anywhere in the world, you can have peace of mind knowing that your investment is safe and secure. By choosing the right system and setting it up properly, you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about the security of your vacation home.

Key Strategies For Maximizing Your Solar Panel ROI

by

Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular as a renewable and cost-effective source of electricity. With the rising costs of traditional energy sources and the growing concern for the environment, more and more people are turning to solar panels to power their homes and businesses.

But investing in solar panels is a big decision, and it’s important to ensure that you get the most out of your investment. In this article, we’ll discuss key strategies for maximizing your solar panel ROI (return on investment) and how to use a solar panel ROI calculator to make informed decisions.

Why Is Solar Panel ROI Important?

Before we dive into strategies for maximizing your solar panel ROI, let’s first understand why it’s important.

Cost Savings

Solar panels on a rooftop

by Fer Troulik (https://unsplash.com/@fertroulik)

The primary reason for investing in solar panels is to save money on electricity bills. By generating your own electricity, you can reduce or even eliminate your reliance on traditional energy sources, which can save you thousands of dollars over the lifetime of your solar panels.

Return on Investment

Solar panels are a significant investment, and it’s important to know how long it will take for you to recoup that investment. By maximizing your solar panel ROI, you can ensure that you see a return on your investment in a reasonable amount of time.

Environmental Impact

In addition to cost savings, solar panels also have a positive impact on the environment. By using renewable energy, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Key Strategies for Maximizing Solar Panel ROI

Now that we understand the importance of solar panel ROI, let’s explore some key strategies for maximizing it.

1. Choose the Right Solar Panel System

The first step in maximizing your solar panel ROI is to choose the right system for your needs. There are various types of solar panels available, and it’s important to consider factors such as efficiency, durability, and cost when making your decision.

It’s also essential to consider the size of your system. A larger system may generate more electricity, but it will also come with a higher upfront cost. It’s important to find the right balance between cost and energy production to maximize your ROI.

2. Optimize Your Solar Panel Placement

Solar panel placement

by micheile henderson (https://unsplash.com/@micheile)

The placement of your solar panels can have a significant impact on their efficiency and, therefore, your ROI. It’s important to ensure that your panels are placed in an area that receives ample sunlight throughout the day.

If possible, avoid shading from trees or buildings, as this can reduce the amount of energy your panels can generate. Additionally, consider the angle of your panels to maximize their exposure to the sun.

3. Take Advantage of Incentives and Tax Credits

Many governments and utility companies offer incentives and tax credits for those who invest in solar panels. These can significantly reduce the upfront cost of your system and increase your ROI.

Be sure to research the incentives and tax credits available in your area and take advantage of them when making your solar panel investment.

4. Monitor and Maintain Your System

To ensure that your solar panels are operating at their maximum efficiency, it’s important to monitor and maintain them regularly. This includes cleaning the panels to remove any dirt or debris that may be blocking sunlight and checking for any damage or malfunctions.

By keeping your system in top condition, you can ensure that you are getting the most out of your investment and maximizing your ROI.

Using a Solar Panel ROI Calculator

Solar panel ROI calculator

by Adam McCoid (https://unsplash.com/@adammakesfilm)

A solar panel ROI calculator is a valuable tool for anyone considering investing in solar panels. It allows you to input various factors such as system size, cost, and location to determine your potential ROI.

By using a solar panel ROI calculator, you can make informed decisions about your solar panel investment and ensure that you are getting the best possible return.

Real-World Examples of Solar Panel ROI

Let’s take a look at two real-world examples of solar panel ROI to better understand how it works.

Example 1: Residential Solar Panel System

John and Sarah are homeowners in California, and they are considering investing in a solar panel system for their home. After researching their options, they decide on a 5kW system that will cost them $15,000 upfront.

With the incentives and tax credits available in their area, they are able to reduce the cost to $10,000. They estimate that their system will generate $1,500 in electricity savings per year, resulting in a payback period of approximately 6.7 years.

After the payback period, they will continue to save $1,500 per year, resulting in a significant return on their investment.

Example 2: Commercial Solar Panel System

ABC Corporation is a manufacturing company in Arizona, and they are looking to reduce their energy costs and environmental impact. After researching their options, they decide to invest in a 100kW solar panel system that will cost them $200,000 upfront.

With the incentives and tax credits available in their area, they are able to reduce the cost to $150,000. They estimate that their system will generate $30,000 in electricity savings per year, resulting in a payback period of approximately 5 years.

After the payback period, they will continue to save $30,000 per year, resulting in a significant return on their investment.

Conclusion

Investing in solar panels is a smart decision for both cost savings and environmental impact. By choosing the right system, optimizing its placement, taking advantage of incentives, and using a solar panel ROI calculator, you can maximize your return on investment and reap the benefits of renewable energy for years to come.

Remember to regularly monitor and maintain your system to ensure that it continues to operate at its maximum efficiency. With these strategies in mind, you can confidently make the switch to solar and enjoy the many benefits it has to offer.

Monitoring with Uptime Kuma

by

Earlier today, the server that hosts Gadget Wisdom was down for ten minutes. This happens every so often, and the server is due for replacement one of these days as the oldest one I have. But one of the problems I have is that local monitoring is…well, local. You shouldn’t run your monitoring solely on the server you are monitoring. You need something external as well.

So, enter Uptime Kuma. Uptime Kuma came onto the scene two years ago, as a self-hosted version of something like UptimeRobot(which does offer a free tier). There are other self-hosted products as well, but I was able to get this running in a short period of time and it provides exactly what I want, and it looks like it has an active development team.

So, what features does Uptime Kuma offer?

  • Dozens of notification methods to configure….email, messaging, SMS, etc.
  • HTTP, ping, as well as server specific monitoring.
  • Useful Stats and Graphs
  • Optional Public Status Pages

So, now, I’m waiting for my next downtime, to see how exactly this works in production, but just having the ability to remotely monitor and get notifications is another tool in my monitoring arsenal.

Deciding if a Whole House Battery Makes Economic Sense for You

by

In the evolving landscape of residential energy solutions, the concept of whole house batteries has gained prominence, promising increased energy independence and potential cost savings. However, deciding whether investing in a whole house battery makes economic sense for you requires careful consideration of various factors. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key considerations to help you make an informed decision.

Assessing Energy Usage Patterns:

Before diving into the world of whole house batteries, it’s crucial to understand your household’s energy usage patterns. Take a close look at your electricity bills over the past year to identify peak usage times, assess seasonal variations, and pinpoint areas where energy consumption can be optimized.

Understanding Utility Rate Structures:

Different utility companies offer various rate structures, including time-of-use pricing and demand charges. Familiarize yourself with your utility’s rate structure, as it can significantly impact the economic viability of a whole house battery. Batteries are particularly beneficial in areas with high electricity costs during peak hours.

Exploring Solar Integration:

If you have or plan to install solar panels on your property, a whole house battery can complement your solar energy system. During times of excess solar generation, the battery can store the surplus energy for use during periods of low solar production or high energy demand.

Calculating Return on Investment (ROI):

Determine the potential return on investment by considering the cost of the battery system, installation, and any applicable incentives or rebates. Compare this against the expected savings on your electricity bills over the battery’s lifespan. Many factors, including local incentives and the duration of power outages in your area, can influence the ROI.

Considering Power Outage Frequency:

If your area experiences frequent power outages, a whole house battery can serve as a reliable backup power source. Consider the inconvenience and potential costs associated with power outages when evaluating the economic sense of a battery system.

Evaluating Battery Lifespan and Maintenance Costs:

Whole house batteries have a limited lifespan, typically measured in cycles. Understand the expected lifespan of the battery system you’re considering and factor in any maintenance costs. Evaluate whether the potential long-term savings justify the initial investment.

Assessing Environmental Impact:

In addition to economic considerations, weigh the environmental impact of adopting a whole house battery. If reducing your carbon footprint is a priority, a battery system paired with solar panels can contribute to a more sustainable home energy solution.

Staying Informed about Technological Advancements:

The field of energy storage is evolving rapidly, with continuous technological advancements and decreasing costs. Stay informed about the latest developments, as future innovations may impact the economic viability of whole house batteries.

Empowering Your Energy Choices

Deciding whether a whole house battery makes economic sense for you is a personalized process that involves considering your unique circumstances, energy needs, and financial goals. By carefully assessing your energy usage patterns, understanding utility rates, and factoring in the potential benefits of solar integration, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your priorities. Whole house batteries represent a step toward greater energy independence and resilience, and with the right information, you can navigate this empowering choice for your home.

Home Automation Obsession: The Home Assistant Green

by

Years ago, as part of this series, I started to discuss why my preferred home automation platform is Home Assistant. The fact that it merges multiple different platforms together into a seamless whole means you don’t have to pick a side, per se. The most popular platform people run Home Assistant on is a Raspberry Pi. I’ve always had issues, much as I love the Pi, with the fact that it uses a microSD card for storing the operating system and data….as those cards would regularly fail on me.

But, despite the process of installation therefore was, insert microSD card into computer, write to it, and then insert in Pi…that was still a higher level than many people were willing to go. So, the Home Assistant team tried a few different iterations of hardware before they got to one meant for someone who just wants to plug and play. The Home Assistant Green. It is $99 MSRP, and you can add a USB dongle to support Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Thread radios. It has built in storage for the operating system, It does not have built-in wifi though, but your home automation hub is probably more reliable wired.

After you plug it in, you can configure it with a web browser or a mobile app. And since it can be easily upgraded with the latest version of Home Assistant, you’ll continue to get new integrations with various platforms and technology on your network.

The Disney MagicBand+ as a Piece of Tech

by

Disney’s introduction of MagicBand technology was a massive change for the theme park. The overall system began development in 2008, with the idea of reducing friction in the park, and the over $1 billion dollar project to integrate technology at Disney parks culminated with a rollout a decade ago in 2013.

I remember the first experience with the MagicBands, and an experience with family members where the Disney staff just couldn’t fix the problems and kept giving old school paper documents. But, most of those sorts of issues were resolved.

 

Until the

MagicBand+

beginning of 2021, MagicBands were free to all Disney Resort guests….they’d even send you one with your name on it with advance reservations. But, in 2023, we have cell phones that can perform the same function and Disney added NFC support so you could use your phone in lieu. So, MagicBand became more of a collector’s item, or for children or other people without phone. Other guests can receive an RFID-enabled Key to the World card free of charge, and some people just put this in a lanyard in order to get the same utility of scanning as a MagicBand.

So, this brings us to MagicBand+, launched in 2022. It supports bluetooth pairing to your phone, software updates, and a bunch of ‘smart’ features. Disney compares MagicBand+ to MagicBand and to their MagicMobile Service(the phone apps). It’s waterproof, rechargeable, and unique to this device it ‘unlocks enchanting interactions’, in addition to what all of the choices do….unlock your room(if you have one), act as your ticket, check-in for virtual queues and lightning lanes, charge items to your account on file, link photos at rides.

So, I charged the thing up, linked it to the phone app via bluetooth, updated it, wore it for a whole day at Disneyland, and…well, it lit up once for five seconds. So…I was not enchanted. And I was not enchanted for $34.99. Reviews were equally mixed from others at both Disneyland and Disney World. You can’t seem to get original MagicBand anymore. So, the only use for this is so you don’t have to pull your phone out of your pocket to access things.

There are two types of scanners in a Disney park. The built-in ones you just run your hand over, and the mobile ones that ticket takers and others were using for other things, where they actually had to fiddle with it to put it into scan mode…so not much faster.

The MagicBand+ supports NFC, RFID, and BLE(for interactive experiences). It has 5 RGB LEDs as well as vibration ability. So, it is a nice little notification device. So, if you want, you could use an NFC/RFID scanner and use it to trigger events at home. There are some people trying to figure out how to connect to it over BLE and trigger the vibration and lighting system. I hope someone does the work on this, because it would allow me to recoup my investment more fully.

In researching this, the only device outside a theme park that can pair with it is an Amazon echo device, probably because of a partnership with Disney to allow certain experiences. People reported that they could pair the band and it would vibrate and light up in response to notifications. So, whatever custom pairing that requires a Disney app installed on your phone should be reproduceable. Other people reported that once paired, they were able to resend commands they monitored to trigger the device.

If not, there are other options for this that would be less expensive…the home options.

The idea Disney offered was interesting, but after all the money they spent on linking their experiences together, the band didn’t allow them to send me captured ride photos as promised, it didn’t present custom experiences, change screens in the park once it knew who I was…so, as a way of Disney customizing its experience..it was useless. But, now that I own it, I probably will reuse it just for the ability to wave myself into things over fumbling and unlocking my devices.