ecsl@netbloc.com: 9714: Are you using TTS in your HA UI?

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Are you using TTS in your HA UI?
Kevin Trainor
Mon, 27 Nov 2000 14:10:12 -0600

Mon, 27 Nov 2000 14:10:12 -0600

Hi All:

I'm still in the early stages of implementing my home automation system using ECS.
So far, I am controlling lights and pool filtration. When I finish writing my serial-byte
interface, I will install my new access control system on my entry doors. Eventually,
I expect to include HVAC control, security system control and lawn sprinkler control.

I have ordered a Leapord and it should arrive tomorrow. Based upon the new features
that Mark has implemented for the Leapord, I expect to be able to use it as both an
input and an output device as part of my UI. I can see placing one at each of my entry
doors, my bedroom, and maybe a couple of other places.

But somehow, despite having a touch screen console on which to display messages, I am
attracted to the idea of using TTS to get the user's attention and inform him of messages
of immediate importance. These would run the gamut of everything from a door being
left open to smoke being detected in the basement. Having dreamed up this feature,
I am baffled about the right way to implement it. Do I install a public address system
and blare every message to every room in the house? Do I try to find an intercom system
with a computer interface that would allow me to direct messages to certain locations?
Since I'm not trying to tackle voice recognition of commands, is this just a silly
"nice to have" feature that will turn out to be not worth the effort anyway?

So, at last, my questions: What are the rest of you guys doing with TTS and other sound
output? Is it worth doing? What delivery mechanisms have you used? What else should
I consider before embarking on this course?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Kevin

Hi All:

I'm still in the early stages of implementing my home automation system using ECS. So far, I am controlling lights and pool filtration. When I finish writing my serial-byte interface, I will install my new access control system on my entry doors. Eventually, I expect to include HVAC control, security system control and lawn sprinkler control.

I have ordered a Leapord and it should arrive tomorrow. Based upon the new features that Mark has implemented for the Leapord, I expect to be able to use it as both an input and an output device as part of my UI. I can see placing one at each of my entry doors, my bedroom, and maybe a couple of other places.

But somehow, despite having a touch screen console on which to display messages, I am attracted to the idea of using TTS to get the user's attention and inform him of messages of immediate importance. These would run the gamut of everything from a door being left open to smoke being detected in the basement. Having dreamed up this feature, I am baffled about the right way to implement it. Do I install a public address system and blare every message to every room in the house? Do I try to find an intercom system with a computer interface that would allow me to direct messages to certain locations? Since I'm not trying to tackle voice recognition of commands, is this just a silly "nice to have" feature that will turn out to be not worth the effort anyway?

So, at last, my questions: What are the rest of you guys doing with TTS and other sound output? Is it worth doing? What delivery mechanisms have you used? What else should I consider before embarking on this course?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Kevin