What is Homebridge?

[lcw731]

@JasonJoel

Not to be negative, but all of this (homebridge, homekit, node-red, mqtt) is easily found on google.

There is really no need to wait for someone else to explain it to you when you can just go read a few overviews and get the gist.

I've been doing that . Seeking real world experience and perception is part of the research, not just what google finds on a website. The problem is most of these websites are geared towards people that already know what it is going in, not those with no understanding looking for an introduction. It makes it unnecessarily difficult to grasp what it is or what devices or systems are required to use it. Information isn't presented in a way that makes it clear what you need or what you can do with it. My intention with these posts is to get real experiences and ideas for whether or not its even something I want to consider

@JasonJoel

100%. More is unfortunately MORE when it comes to lifecycle cost, maintenance, troubleshooting, etc.

If there is a defined use - great. If not, let it pass.

This is precisely what I am looking into. What is it? Do I even have a reason to use it? Can I use it? Is the benefit enough to justify the time and expence that will be necessary to learn about, implement, and support it? Most of these are questions that google can't answer, but discussing with others what their experience has been can prove invaluable.

@wayne.pirtle

My point is, have a reason for implementing Homebridge or any other peripheral systems. They can be a big help, or a constant bane.

This is EXACTLY what I am exploring.

@wayne.pirtle

Some of the articles on the support systems are overwhelming to someone who is relatively new to home automation.

You have hit the nail on the head! I really wish I knew and understood more in technical terms, and I'm
sure it will come in time, but right now I need plain English.

@wayne.pirtle

Let’s help redirect the questions that on the surface appear to be easily answered by reading a treatise on the subject. Sometimes the OP is just needing a bit of help deciding if they really need to dive in without having to make a significant time investment just to find out why they would or wouldn’t use it.

Thank you! That sums it up perfectly!

In the end I don't have any apple products, and really don't plan on getting any, so It seems this probably wouldn't be an option for me. Thank you all for your insights.

Thank you @wayne.pirtle for having an uncanny ability to get in my head and understand exactly what I was trying to do! You made some very astute observation which we can all benefit from.