MQTT and or Domoticz

[gajotnt]

Hello, really new to this scene, been reading alot about OpenHab HomeAssistant and Domoticz, and domoticz looks like the easier one to configure and just has powerfull, really great interface.

But now to my question, can I have a "smart house", just by using MQTT? I know that if I want utility readings, timers, events and other stuff i have to use a backend like Domoticz, but is it possible to have the light swichs operating only with MQTT?

Im asking this just in case something goes wrong with my future domoticz install, i want to know if i can rely on having minimal services just using an MQTT broker for comunication between devices.

[mlamie]

This clip helped me to understand MQTT and Node Red
https://youtu.be/WxUTYzxIDns

Also have a look at the wiki https://www.domoticz.com/wiki/MQTT

A short answer, yes you can even work without Domoticz, but why... manny complex things are made easy in Domoticz? If you miss something in Domoticz there you can use other tools such as MQTT. It all depends on your needs and preferences.

[SweetPants]

Im asking this just in case something goes wrong with my future domoticz install, i want to know if i can rely on having minimal services just using an MQTT broker for comunication between devices.

yes you can, but that means all your devices need to be MQTT aware and not all devices you might need support MQTT. Take a look at MySensors MQTT https://www.mysensors.org/build/mqtt_gateway

[gajotnt]

You're right, domoticz makes it easier. btw you mentioned NodeRed, do i have to use it?

but that means all your devices need to be MQT

That looks like a sweet device

[mlamie]

My advice check the video. It will complete your puzzle on MQTT and Node Red
https://youtu.be/WxUTYzxIDns

The doubt you have with the various platform and fall back scenario is not completely clear to me. The installation, configuration and even scripting with blocky in Domoticz is user friendly and simple (in my opinion it is less technical than Home assistant and OpenHab). In case of a crash or something else you can easily restore a DB backup.

If you would be able to control your devices/things when Domoticz is offline then you have to spend some time in investigating the control of the device/thing without the gateway. For example can you still use the light switch without the gateway... Can you turn on the thermostat without the gateway. I can, but it is up to you and the decisions you will make while buying devices.

[gajotnt]

Thanks for all the help, will take everything into account