I have put up an instructable for Home Automation for Absolute Beginners.
No coding and no soldering required. http://www.instructables.com/id/DIY-Home-Automation-for-Beginners-Absolutely-No-co/
If you can handle a sharp knife without cutting your fingers off you can make and customize this home automation controller.
Here are the steps:
- install the free pfodDesigner Android app.
- create your custom menu in pfodDesigner to switch up to 4 things on and off, driven by Arduino outputs D7,D6,D5 and D4
transfer the generated code from pfodDesigner to your computer and program your Arduino Uno - plug in the bluetooth shield and relay shield,
- wire up your low voltage devices to the relays
- power with a USB power pack and connect with pfodApp to switch your devices on and off from your Android mobile.
See the instructable for a full parts list and detailed example.
See www.pfod.com.au for more Android/Arduino for Beginners