Home network configuring scheme for all electric appliances using ZigBee-based integrated remote controller

Controlling the electric appliances is the essential technique in the home automation, and wireless communication between the residence gateway and electric appliances is one of the most important parts in the home network system. In these days, most of the electric appliances are controlled by infrared remote controllers. However, it is very difficult to connect most of the electric appliances to a home network, since the communication protocols are different. In this paper, we propose an integrated remote controller to control electric appliances in the home network with no extra attachment of communication device to the appliances using ZigBee protocol and infrared remote controller technology. The integrated remote controller system for home automation is composed of integrated remote controller, ZigBee to infrared converter, and ZigBee power adapter. ZigBee power adapter is introduced for some appliances which do not have even infrared remote device to be connected in home network. This paper presents a prototype of the proposed system and shows a scheme for the implementation. It provides high flexibility for the users to configure and manage a home network in order to control electric appliances.