Your computer can be a vital part of your smart home when connected to Home Assistant. This integration lets you control household automations with your computer as a trigger or condition. Here’s how to add your Windows, Mac, or Linux computer to Home Assistant.
**Adding Your Computer**
For Windows users, use the HASS.Agent app and an MQTT broker. For Linux, use Go Hass Agent. On Mac, install the official Home Assistant app from the Mac App Store. This method is easier but more limited.
**Using Computer Sensors**
Once connected, you can access various sensors on your computer, such as:
– Active (logged in or not)
– Frontmost app (current focused app)
– SSID (Wi-Fi network name)
– Primary display (external monitor connected)
These sensors can be used to trigger or conditional states within automations. You can use them for productivity and downtime tasks.
**Automation Ideas**
Use your computer sensors to automate:
– Refocusing on work during hours
– Controlling lighting and heating when sitting down
– Dimming lights at night for gaming
Windows and Linux users can send commands related to power and computer states, such as locking or shutting down the computer. This integration offers endless possibilities for smart home automation.
By connecting your computer to Home Assistant, you can turn your device into a powerful trigger or condition for household automations, making it an essential part of your smart home setup.
Source: https://www.howtogeek.com/i-added-my-computer-to-home-assistant-and-you-should-too