Home automation systems such as Crestron and AMX offer the end user the possibility to have something much more than a just standard touch panel with the use of custom designs. Having worked on, and seen many custom installations, a big factor in the overall project is the design of its touch panels. It's true to say that just as a well designed touch panel can enhance your system, a poorly designed panel can equally devalue it or even render it useless.
First off, how are custom touch panels designed and why would you want one? Custom touch panels are designed through proprietary software from the manufacturer, only accredited installers and programmers will have access to this software so you can't design your own panels. It's important to note that whoever installs your system is responsible for their design and implementation. A touch panel design is simply a graphical interface that talks to automation equipment, it incorporates images, text, buttons or even moving images and streamed video.
Designers have free reign over all these elements meaning anything is possible and is only limited by the designer's imagination. There are of course standardised panel templates available, they are easy to install but often lack the personalised touch. Custom designs can be much more than simply displaying a family photo.
Panels can show useful information such as local weather, traffic or news in real time. They can be designed specifically for your home, i.e. an on-screen floor plan can let you read and set temperatures in each room, adjust light levels or monitor CCTV cameras on a room by room basis. They can have specific pages for family members and be named and styled to individual tastes.
So what are the common problems? Firstly, a simple issue is purely aesthetics, many panels either look ugly or are poorly fitted into their surroundings. Panels should really complement the room they are placed in, be discreet and stylish. Another big problem is over complicated panels which are overloaded with content and are difficult to use.
You shouldn't need a manual to operate your system, it should be intuitive for you to pick up a control or look at a touch panel and understand how it works. If its not, you'll soon be irritated by it's design, especially seeing as its something you may be using many times a day.
If touch panels feature as part of your automation project it's worth asking the installer if customisation is possible. It's certainly worth investigating the design and usability of the panel even if it's not customised. Remember, the whole success of your system can hang on the design of its controls. Ask for examples/demonstrations prior to installation and make it a consideration when choosing your installer.
