Quick Start

IP-Symcon

IP-Symcon is a server software which aims to combine, link and automate different automation systems in one server. This means that systems that cannot communicate with one another are brought together in a uniform, clear configuration. Furthermore, IP-Symcon offers a uniform Visualization and control, both for the browser and via Mobile Apps for iOS and Android. A comprehensive description is available on the product page .

Supported Systems

IP-Symcon supports a wide variety of well-known manufacturers and protocols. An overview of the native systems can be seen in the Module Reference. Additionally, the Module Store is offered. This is a platform on which modules are submitted, quality controlled and made available by the community to the user free of charge.

IP-Symcon Editions

There are three different licenses: Basic, Professional and Unlimited. These are valid indefinitely and offer the same system support. The only difference between the editions is the number of variables, WebFronts, RTSP streams and, from the Professional license, the ability to individually customize the WebFront visualization with an extended editor. A detailed list of all functions can be found in the Function overview . An existing license can be upgraded to a higher version at any time. An overwiev of the upgrades can be viewed in the shop.

Subscription

A Subscription activates features, which are offered by our server. This includes, for example, push notifications, updates, Connect Control (especially important for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant). An expired subscription does not affect the running server, only the features associated with the subscription will be deactivated. A subscription can be extended at any time via the Shop.

Trial version

It is possible to Request a Demo . This demo is valid for one month and offers the same functional scope as a professional license.

Hardware requirements

The IP-Symcon server must run permanently. A SymBox , Windows, MacOS, Linux Ubuntu, Raspberry Pi or Docker (also QNAP, Synology) system is required for this. Which version of the respective operating system is required can be looked up in the Version Overview in the System Requirements area. Furthermore, so-called gateways are required as an interface for the built-in systems. Which gateways are supported can be looked up in the respective Module Reference and their device list. Some gateways are offered in the Shop or even as a SymBox extension .

SymBox Functionalities

The SymBox is the in-house server. This can be bought in a DIN rail housing for the electric cabinet or in an aluminum enclosure. In addition to the very low power consumption (max. 3W) the SymBox with SymOS offers a specially adapted operating system and tailored web interface for IP-Symcon. In addition to updates and settings, the Data Backup can be conveniently managed with this. If a Symbox is in use, the SymOS can be reached in the local network via "symbox.local ".

Installation of IP-Symcon

The installation is described for the respective system under Installation. After a successful installation, the IP-Symcon Service starts automatically and is ready for configuration.

Tray Functionalities

After installation, the Tray Application is now available on Windows and MacOS. Depending on the operating system, the tray application is located as an IP-Symcon symbol in the respective system tray. Via the application The service can be started, stopped and updated. Under "Information" there is the possibility to set up Remote Access.

Configuration

Management Console is used for configuration. This can be called up from anywhere in the network via a browser. To open it, "[IPServer]:3777/console/" just needs to be entered in the address line. If a SymBox is in use, this is symbox.local:3777/console/ instead.

Basics

The basic concepts and their handling are described in the area Basics. The next step are the Components, which explain the functionalities for control, automation and visualization.

Visualization and Control

The WebFront visualization of the instances set up is created automatically and can be further adapted to one’s personal needs. Control takes place via the visualization. Another option to control the system are the Free Mobile Apps for iOS and Android.
All necessary information can be found under Visualizations.

Security

In order to cover the important aspect of security in home automation, external access is not possible by default factory settings. Further information on all security aspects can be looked up in the section Security. In addition, a security widget checks the configuration and provides an overview of any passwords that may need to be set.

Data backup

For Data Backup a backup can be created. This can be installed onto a different or a new system. Exact steps for this can be found under load backup. Such a backup is fully compatible even with a Change of Platform.

Connect Control

The Connect Control is used for encrypted external communication. It enables secure control and Visualization outside of your local network. Certain functions and modules (e.g. Amazon Alexa, Push Notifications) require a permanent internet connection. This is also guaranteed by the encrypted Connect Control.

Remote Access

The Remote Access offers the possibility to configure IP-Symcon from the outside. Only after assigning a password the access from the outside, additionally to the local network access, will be activated. It is thus possible to carry out full remote maintenance. Connect Control is required for this.

More Information and Videos

Further information and examples can be found on the Symcon YouTube Channel and under Procedures. In addition to the Documentation, the Forum also offers a large amount of information, script collections and ideas, as well as a broad base of professionals and newcomers.