Building a Home Smart Control System from Scratch: My Experience with LOGO! 8.0

Hello everyone, I am an engineer with over ten years of experience in industrial automation. Over the years, I have frequently used various PLC devices, among which the Siemens LOGO! series has impressed me the most. Today, I would like to share how to use LOGO! 8.0 to build a home smart control system, making our lives smarter and more convenient.

Why Choose LOGO! 8.0?

I remember when I was renovating my house last year, I faced multiple needs such as lighting control, temperature control systems, and fresh air systems. After repeated comparisons, I ultimately chose LOGO! 8.0 as the control core, mainly based on the following considerations:

• High cost-performance ratio: Compared to industrial-grade PLCs, the price is more affordable.
• Easy to use: Graphical programming, suitable for beginners.
• Comprehensive functions: 8 digital inputs and 4 digital outputs meet basic needs.
• Easy networking: Supports Ethernet communication, allowing for remote control.

Hardware Preparation

1. Basic configuration list:

• LOGO! 8.0 basic module (12/24RCE)
• Power module (24V DC)
• Expansion module (optional based on needs)
• Several sensors
• Relay module
• Network cables and tools

Tip: It is recommended to purchase from legitimate channels to avoid counterfeit products. I once bought a counterfeit product from a certain platform, and it took me a long time to debug without success.

System Design Approach

In my practice, I divided the entire system into the following functional modules:

1. Lighting Control
   • General lighting
   • Scene lighting
   • Corridor sensing
2. Environmental Control
   • Temperature monitoring
   • Fresh air control
   • Underfloor heating control
3. Security Monitoring
   • Door and window status
   • Abnormal alarms
   • Remote viewing

Key Points of Program Implementation

1. Basic Program Framework

First, it is necessary to plan the allocation of I/O points. My approach is:

• I1-I4: Lighting control inputs
• I5-I6: Temperature sensors
• I7-I8: Door and window sensors
• Q1-Q2: Lighting control outputs
• Q3: Fresh air control
• Q4: Underfloor heating control

2. Core Function Programming

Taking corridor sensing lighting as an example, the design approach is:

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When the human sensor detects movement:
1. Immediately turn on the corridor light
2. Start the delay timer (suggest setting it to 3-5 minutes)
3. Countdown during no movement
4. Automatically turn off the light after the countdown ends

3. Network Configuration

The network setup for LOGO! 8.0 is quite simple:

1. Set a fixed IP address
2. Configure the gateway and subnet mask
3. Enable the web server function
4. Set an access password

Tip: It is recommended to connect LOGO! to the home local area network to avoid direct exposure to the public network environment.

Practical Application Cases

Here are some application scenarios in my home:

1. Corridor sensing: No need to turn on the light when going to the bathroom at night
2. Scene mode: One-click switch for wake-up, homecoming, sleep, and other scenes
3. Security linkage: Automatically turn on when leaving home, automatically alarm when detecting abnormalities
4. Temperature control linkage: Automatically control underfloor heating and fresh air systems based on room temperature

Common Issues and Solutions

1. Program freeze

• Cause: Usually due to program logic conflicts
• Solution: Check if there are interlocking situations in the program

1. Communication interruption

• Cause: Network setup issues or hardware failures
• Solution: Check network configuration and confirm hardware connections

1. Sensor false triggering

• Cause: Interference signals or improper sensitivity settings
• Solution: Adjust installation position or modify triggering parameters

Usage Insights and Suggestions

1. Planning first

   In the early stages of system design, fully consider future expansion needs and reserve enough I/O points.

2. Step-by-step implementation

   It is recommended to first build core functions, and after stable operation, gradually add other functions.

3. Backup regularly

   Regularly back up programs and configuration files to avoid having to reprogram due to unexpected situations.

4. Safety first

   All electrical installations must comply with safety standards; seek professional electricians’ assistance if necessary.

Conclusion

After more than six months of use, this system has brought a lot of convenience to my life. Although I encountered many problems during the process, the sense of achievement after solving them made it worthwhile. I hope my sharing can provide some reference for friends who want to create smart homes. If anyone encounters problems during practice, feel free to leave a message for discussion; I am happy to share more experiences.

Finally, a small suggestion: during the process of smart transformation, do not blindly pursue diversity in functions; practicality should come first. Let us learn through practice and grow through learning!