Using HomeKit For Notifications
This document describes how to use Apple HomeKit to control external devices from our apps.
HomeKit
HomeKit from Apple
provides a protocol that developers can use to interface to hardware
devices that are on a home automation network. There are many devices
that can be connected to a HomeKit network. At this time, the
AudioTools suite of apps has integrated light bulbs, for the purpose of
providing auxiliary notifications of SPL levels. The following modules
now support HomeKit, and more are planned for the future.
Compatible Hardware
Any accessory that is in the Light Bulb category and supports color changes through the hue category should work fine. We have successfully tested the Philips Hue brand bulbs and hub, using a "White and color ambiance bulb starter kit".
This kit consists of a hub that plugs into the WiFi router and 4 LED color bulbs.
Setting up HomeKit
Enabling Light Bulb Notifications
In the app, navigate to the Settings page, for the module in use, and tap the HomeKit button on the bottom of the screen.
The available light bulbs will appear in a list. Tap a light bulb to select it, and then tap the Add (+) button.
To remove a light bulb, select it, and then tap the Remove button.
The status of each bulb will be listed in the table. If its status is "Unreachable", please check your HomeKit setup.
There is an
"On/Off" button that will control the selected light bulb in the list,
to assist in identifying the light bulb and confirming communication.
Note that Dual SPL
Traffic Light uses different lists for each traffic light. Make sure
you don't assign the same bulb to both lists, to prevent confusing
results.
Practical Considerations
Future Development
We plan to continue our HomeKit integration with support for more modules and more devices in the future.