๐ Book Overview
“Programming Your Home” by Mike Riley is an innovative guide for anyone looking to dive into the world of home automation using Arduino, Android smartphones, and your personal computer. With a highly practical approach, the book focuses on turning simple home appliances and everyday objects into smart, automated systems using open-source tools.
Whether you're a hobbyist or a tech enthusiast, this book empowers you to transform your living space into a responsive, smart environment.
✍️ About the Author
Mike Riley is a technology journalist, software developer, and frequent contributor to tech publications. With decades of experience in computing and development, Riley brings his expertise into the maker world with this hands-on book, encouraging readers to bridge the gap between code and real-world devices.
๐ Book Details
- Title: Programming Your Home
- Subtitle: Automate with Arduino, Android, and Your Computer
- Author: Mike Riley
- Publisher: Pragmatic Bookshelf
- Edition: 1st
- Language: English
- Pages: ~200
- Format: PDF / Print / ePub
- Genre: Technology, DIY, Home Automation, Programming
๐ง What You’ll Learn
This book offers a variety of smart home projects and teaches you how to:
- Control home devices using Arduino microcontrollers
- Automate systems with Android apps
- Send alerts via email, SMS, and Twitter
- Interface with sensors like motion detectors, temperature sensors, and more
- Write automation code using Python, PHP, and Ruby
- Build interactive, secure home projects using open-source hardware and software
๐ Project Highlights
Here are some of the practical home automation projects covered in the book:
๐ 1. Smartphone-Controlled Door Lock
Build a door lock system that can be opened and closed from your Android phone using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
๐ฆ 2. Tweeting Bird Feeder
Create a smart bird feeder that tweets you when a bird visits it — perfect for pet lovers and nature watchers.
๐ 3. Electronic Guard Dog
A motion-detecting device that simulates a barking dog when someone approaches your door.
๐ก 4. Smart Light Automation
Control your home lighting based on schedule, presence, or remote commands.
๐ฉ 5. Email Alerts for Home Activity
Get notified via email when a door opens, a light turns on, or someone enters your home.
๐ฅ Who Should Read This Book?
This book is ideal for:
- ๐ง Makers and DIY Enthusiasts
- ๐จ๐ป Programmers interested in hardware integration
- ๐ฑ Android developers expanding into IoT
- ๐ก Tech-savvy homeowners
- ๐ง๐ STEM students and educators
Even if you're not a professional developer, the book offers plenty of step-by-step instructions, diagrams, and sample code to get you started.
๐ฆ Tools & Technologies Covered
- Arduino UNO / Nano
- Android Studio
- Python, Ruby, PHP
- Wireless modules (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi)
- Temperature sensors, motion sensors
- Relay modules, actuators
- Open-source APIs and communication protocols
๐ SEO Keywords (You Can Target)
- Arduino home automation projects
- Smart home with Android and Arduino
- DIY home automation book
- Mike Riley Programming Your Home
- Automate house with code
- Open source home automation
- Build smart systems at home
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- Pragmatic Programmers tech books
✅ Final Thoughts
“Programming Your Home” is an engaging and inspirational guide that empowers everyday users to take charge of their living spaces. It brings hardware and software together in exciting ways, allowing readers to:
- Save time
- Reduce manual effort
- Enhance comfort and security
- Experiment and innovate
If you're ready to level up your home with your programming skills, this book is your first step.
๐ Highly Recommended for Bloggers, Educators, and Tech Creators.
Whether you're automating your curtains, monitoring your mailbox, or tracking temperature across rooms, the possibilities with this book are endless.
