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Smart switch alexa is does it count
Former Community Member
So looking through regs items need to be switched to be controlled. So does an Alexa for type switch count. If you run a normal switch then add Alexa bulb say at some point someone will turn off the switch and the item will over time deprogramme. Therefore you could short back of switch giving constant power and solving problem but is that within the regs?
I admit to using a smart switch to disconnect the AC supply to my bedroom tv. (I'm one of those who can't stand the bright standby light at night). When I wish to switch it off, I'm warm and comfy. So 'ok google, turn off the bedroom tv' has advantages over 'getting off my backside'. But I'd never rely on it for isolation. The switch on the socket does that.
In response to the OP... ALWAYS include a manually operated and preferably lockable switch. (a fused spur where you can remove the fuse works unless you're plagued with malicious pixies).
Many of these smart switches (most? all?) are microprocessor controlled, and the relay or triac is simply driven by a logic output. Micros can crash and produce spurious data on their outputs. Annoying if it's your pc/smartphone, potentially deadly if it's an output controlling an AC supply you're currently holding on to.
I admit to using a smart switch to disconnect the AC supply to my bedroom tv. (I'm one of those who can't stand the bright standby light at night). When I wish to switch it off, I'm warm and comfy. So 'ok google, turn off the bedroom tv' has advantages over 'getting off my backside'. But I'd never rely on it for isolation. The switch on the socket does that.
In response to the OP... ALWAYS include a manually operated and preferably lockable switch. (a fused spur where you can remove the fuse works unless you're plagued with malicious pixies).
Many of these smart switches (most? all?) are microprocessor controlled, and the relay or triac is simply driven by a logic output. Micros can crash and produce spurious data on their outputs. Annoying if it's your pc/smartphone, potentially deadly if it's an output controlling an AC supply you're currently holding on to.
