Do you have an old iPad sitting in a drawer collecting dust? Most of us do. It is likely too slow for new games, and the battery might not last long. But you do not have to throw it away or let it sit there. You can turn that old tablet into a dedicated smart home controller. It is a cheap and easy way to view your security cameras, control your lights, and check the weather. Let's look at how you can do this in just a few steps.
Why an Old iPad is Perfect for This
Using an old tablet as a home screen is a smart move. You do not need a fast chip to show a clock or some light switches. Even a device that is five years old can handle these tasks easily. Plus, keeping it plugged in means the weak battery will not be a problem.
You will save money by not buying a new smart screen. Companies charge a lot of money for dedicated smart displays. Your old tablet already has a great screen and works with most smart devices. If you love finding cool uses for your old gear, check out our favorite tech and gadget tips to make your life simpler. It is a great way to recycle what you already own.
Choosing the Right Smart Home App
To start, you need an app that shows all your devices in one place. Apple has its own Home app which works well if you only use Apple gear. It has big buttons that are easy to tap when you walk by.
If you use a mix of brands, you have other options. You can use the Google Home app or Amazon Alexa app. There are also custom dashboard apps like Home Assistant. These let you build a screen that looks exactly how you want. Pick the one that connects to your lights and plugs.
How to Mount Your Tablet on the Wall
Where should you put your new smart screen? Most people like to place it near the front door or in the kitchen. This makes it easy to turn off all the lights when you leave the house.
Just like learning how to organize a tiny entryway when you have no closet, setting up a wall mounted tablet is all about saving space and keeping things neat. You do not want ugly cords hanging down your wall.
You can buy a cheap wall mount online. Some mounts use strong tape so you do not have to drill holes. Try to place it near an outlet so you can keep it charged. You can use thin white cords that blend in with your wall paint.
Key Settings to Change First
Before you mount your tablet, you need to change a few settings. You do not want the screen to turn off every two minutes. Go to your settings and set the auto lock feature to never. This keeps the screen on all day.
Next, turn down the brightness. A screen that is too bright will look bad at night. It can also wear out the screen faster. Many tablets have a setting that changes brightness based on the light in the room. Turn that on to save power.
Lastly, turn off notifications. You do not want email alerts or text messages popping up on your wall. Keep the screen clean so it only shows your home controls.
Keeping Your Device Safe and Connected
Since this tablet will stay on all the time, you must keep it safe. Make sure your Wi-Fi signal is strong where you mount it. If the connection drops, you will not be able to control your lights.
You should also think about safety. Keeping a tablet plugged in all day can make it warm. Use a high quality charger and cable. If you notice the back of the tablet getting hot, unplug it and let it cool down. Some smart plugs can be set to turn off the charger for a few hours each day to protect the battery.
Simple Ways to Use Your New Screen
What should you actually put on your screen? Start with the basics. Add a big clock and the local weather forecast. This is helpful when you are rushing out the door.
Next, add your most used light switches. I like to have a button that turns off every light in the house at once. You can also add a view of your front door camera. That way, you can see who is there without opening the door.
Give Your Old Tech a Second Life
It is easy to let old gear sit in a box. But with a little work, you can turn that old screen into something useful. It is a fun project that makes your home feel more modern.
Do you have an old tablet you can use? Find a good spot for it and start setting it up today. You will love having all your home controls in one easy spot.
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