1. What is this item?
Smart plugs and timers are automation devices that allow you to schedule, remotely switch on/off, and monitor farm equipment—such as irrigation pumps, lighting circuits, heaters, or fans—via preset schedules or smartphone apps. They form the basic building blocks of a smart farm, reducing manual checks and optimizing energy use.
2. How is the Quantity Estimated?
• Number of Controlled Circuits: Count each device or circuit you wish to automate (e.g., one for each pump, greenhouse light bank, water heater).
• Future Expansion: Add 10–20 % extra capacity for new equipment or zones.
• Zones & Schedules: If different areas require distinct schedules (e.g., morning vs. evening irrigation), estimate one plug/timer per zone.
Example: A 10 ha farm might need:
o 2 for main irrigation pumps
o 3 for greenhouse fans/heaters
o 4 for outdoor lighting banks
—Total: ~9 devices (+2 spares) = 11 units.
3. What are the Cost Components?
• Smart Plug/Timer Unit: The device itself (Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or relay-based).
• Hub/Gateway (if required): For mesh/Zigbee systems or advanced IoT integration.
• Installation & Wiring: Plug-in vs. hard-wired installation; may require minor electrical work.
• Integration & Configuration: Setting up schedules, app linking, and user training.
• Maintenance & Firmware Updates: Occasional updates to ensure security and functionality.
4. Going Rates & Per Unit Cost
• Basic Wi-Fi Smart Plug (16 A): ₹800–₹1,500 each
• Digital Programmable Timer Switch: ₹1,200–₹2,500 each
• Industrial IoT Relay Module (multi-channel): ₹5,000–₹15,000 per module
• Hub/Gateway (Zigbee/Z-Wave): ₹2,000–₹5,000 each
• Installation & Setup: ₹200–₹500 per unit
• Annual Maintenance: ₹100–₹300 per unit (for firmware and minor fixes)
Example: Automating 11 circuits with basic smart plugs:
• Plugs: 11×₹1,200 = ₹13,200
• Installation: 11×₹300 = ₹3,300
Total ≈ ₹16,500
This lightweight automation layer brings energy savings, precision, and peace of mind by letting you control farm systems from anywhere.
