What is Needed for My First System?

[pcwhiz]

i have read allot of different things on OS/platforms and many things on the different addons but I am a bit lost on what i REALLY need to get started. Overall i want this for my new house and to start with will be controlling lights but then i will want to add thermostat control, door/window monitoring and whatever from there. I already have two Pi-2 units for Kodi that i could repurpose one for this but i can use a windows PC also. Which would be better? I like the idea of using a Pi2 since they are so small etc.

In addition to knowing what i need to start with i want to know what systems/manufacturers to go with? I know there is Wink, ZWave etc. Its all a bit overwhelming. I'm a very technical guy so this stuff isnt scary to me I just dont know where i should start and i dont want to start off with the wrong products.

thanks in advance!
Robert

[Egregius]

I would go for a Rpi and zwave.
Or, if the cables aren't there yet a central domotica system.

[pvm]

Rpi2 and zwave. Zwave is robust, many settings on the devices, mesh network

[pcwhiz]

I would go for a Rpi and zwave.
Or, if the cables aren't there yet a central domotica system.

ok thank you. what should i use for the hub? i see there are so many, D-Link Staples Connect Hub, Aeon Labs Z-Stick Z-Wave Plus Gen5, Samsung SmartThings Hub 2nd Generation? it seems the Aeon Labs is simple as it just plugs into the USB port?

[bbqkees]

You need a USB ZWave stick like the Aeon Labs for the Pi.

[pcwhiz]

You need a USB ZWave stick like the Aeon Labs for the Pi.

ok thank you.