FHEM

Overview

FHEM is a Perl-based server software for home automation, enabling control of devices like lamps, shutters, heating, and monitoring of sensors for temperature, humidity, and power usage. It supports automation tasks, event logging, and visualization through a modular architecture with over 430 modules. Targeted at users with technical knowledge, it stands out for its extensive protocol support and auto-detection of new devices.

Key Features

• Protocol Support - Supports protocols like HomeMatic, FS20, MAX!, and others for house automation devices.
• Auto-Detection - Automatically creates devices and logs when receiving data from new sensors.
• Event Logging - Logs events to files or databases with regexp filters.
• Notifications - Triggers external programs or scripts on specific events.
• Timed Commands - Executes commands based on time, such as sunset triggers.
• Interfaces - Provides text, JSON, XML interfaces over TCP/IP, SSL, or HTTP.
• Modular Design - Over 430 modules for devices and services, easy to extend.
• Web Interfaces - Multiple web frontends accessible via browser on various devices.

Pricing

Platforms & Requirements

Runs on Linux, Windows, macOS, and embedded systems like FRITZ!Box via Perl. Requires Perl interpreter; no specific minimum hardware beyond standard server capabilities. Web interfaces optimized for desktop (port 8083), smartphone (8084), and tablet (8085).

Integrations & Ecosystem

• HomeMatic
• FS20
• MAX!
• CUL USB devices
• Weather services
• Online calendars
• Databases for logging
• HTTP/JSON/XML APIs

Alternatives

Reputation

FHEM is respected in German-speaking home automation communities for its reliability, deep protocol support, and longevity since 2005. Users praise its flexibility and module ecosystem but note a steep learning curve due to command-line heavy configuration and dated web interfaces. Active forum support helps, though documentation is mostly in German.