The Changelog: Software Development, Open Source

Run your home on a Raspberry Pi (Interview)

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May 13, 2022

Mike Riley, author of "Portable Python Projects" and a home automation expert, dives into the world of Raspberry Pi in this engaging discussion. He shares insights on the latest Raspberry Pi hardware and why Python is the go-to scripting language for these projects. Listeners will find entertaining ideas for home automation, including freezer temperature monitoring and customizable alerts. Mike also highlights the advantages of using Raspberry Pi for enhancing data security in personal home labs, sparking creativity among tech enthusiasts.

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INSIGHT

Data Security Concerns

Many home automation kits are closed environments with unknown data security practices.
Building your own with a Pi gives you power and transparency over your data and the system.

ANECDOTE

Automated Fan Control

Mike uses a Pi Zero 2W with a temperature sensor and Hue light switch to control a fan.
This setup acts as a thermostat, automatically turning the fan on and off based on room temperature.

ANECDOTE

Adam's Pi Setup

Adam uses his Pi for Pi-hole, Plex, and Portainer, but aspires to explore home automation further.
He powers his Pi with a PoE hat for a cleaner setup with fewer wires.

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This week we’re joined by Mike Riley and we’re talking about his book Portable Python Projects (Running your home on a Raspberry Pi). We breakdown the details of the latest Raspberry Pi hardware, various automation ideas from the book, why Mike prefers Python for scripting on a Raspberry Pi, and of course why the Raspberry Pi makes sense for home labs concerned about data security.

Use the code PYPROJECTS to get a 35% discount on the book. That code is valid for approximately 60 days after the episode’s publish date.

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Featuring:

Mike Riley – Website, GitHub, X
Adam Stacoviak – Website, GitHub, LinkedIn, Mastodon, X
Jerod Santo – GitHub, LinkedIn, Mastodon, X

Show Notes:

Something missing or broken? PRs welcome!