I'm going to start putting some form of lighting control in my new house. In my old house, I had some X10 switches by Lightolier and later Smarthome. I really like the look and the closest thing I could find with newer technology is the Insteon gear (made by Smarthome).

For this first phase, all I want to do is to automate the turning on and off of various outside lights at dusk. I do not want to have a PC turned on all the time to control this. Later, I'll add dimming capabilities to some of the rooms in my house.

What is the most cost-effective way to do the first phase? I'm assuming that I need some switches, a PC interface, and a PC program- but I'm looking for some recommendations.

Thanks,
CJ

Hi CJ,

Aside from the Insteon switches, you'll need the PC interface called a PowerLinc Model 2414U (USB) or Model 2414S (Serial) and can download a free simple timer application from Smarthome.com. This software will allow you to create timers that will run in the interface itself ... no PC required once it's setup.

Cheers,
Paul

If you put more than one load switch in a gang box, make sure to total wattage is less than or equal too the wattage of the lowest watt dimmer or if its a 3 gang box spread them to opposite sides of the box with a linked switch in the middle.

Hopefully you have traveller wires to seperate these. Maybe your just doing single gain switches and none of that matters.

Insteons are great from my experience, I have 152 and I was talking to a guy that has 100 last night, good stuff for him as well.

Hi CJ,

Aside from the Insteon switches, you'll need the PC interface called a PowerLinc Model 2414U (USB) or Model 2414S (Serial) and can download a free simple timer application from Smarthome.com. This software will allow you to create timers that will run in the interface itself ... no PC required once it's setup.

Cheers,
Paul

Do you have a link to the software? The cheapest software on their website that I could find was $69.

Thanks!
CJ

If you put more than one load switch in a gang box, make sure to total wattage is less than or equal too the wattage of the lowest watt dimmer or if its a 3 gang box spread them to opposite sides of the box with a linked switch in the middle.

Is this due to heat dissipation?

For the front porch, I plan to replace 2 switches in a 4-gang box. 1 switch will control a pair of coach lights, another is for 3 recessed porch lights, the other two switches, which won't be replaced, are for fans.

For the driveway, I'm planning to replace all 3 switches- one for 3 coach lights, one for 2 flood lights, and 1 that controls 3 fluorescent lights in the garage. Can I use a regular switchlinc for the fluorescents?

There will be a few more switches for the rear deck and patio, but none of those control more than two lights.

Hopefully you have traveller wires to seperate these. Maybe your just doing single gain switches and none of that matters.

I have neutrals, but you only need travellers for 2+ way switches, or am I misunderstanding you?

Insteons are great from my experience, I have 152 and I was talking to a guy that has 100 last night, good stuff for him as well.

That's great to know. My wife hated the inconsistencies of the x10 equipment and if I have some of the same problems, I may no longer have a house in which to live!

Thanks,
CJ

CJ,

I get a little more indepth here http://www.cinemaronlineforums.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=9305

Its mainly for people that are pushing the wattage limits in some instances, also how to break large groups into smaller groups and turn on different types of things.

Yes they have a switch for flouresants and fans and appliances

Thanks Mark- I've not seen a house wired with travellers before, but now it makes some sense.

CJ

PS- your theater looks great!

Do you have a link to the software? The cheapest software on their website that I could find was $69.

Thanks!
CJ

CJ,

Here you go:

http://www.smarthome.com/files/2814ub.exe

Cheers,
Paul

Thank you Paul, I'll check it out.

CJ

Any ideas on the differences between these two models (besides the power passthrough)?
http://www.smarthome.com/2414u.html
http://www.smarthome.com/2814ub.html

Thanks,
CJ

http://www.techmall.com/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=821&SearchTerms=2814

Passthrough and LED color.

To control your Insteon devices, I have found the following freeware, used in conjuction with the PC Controller - USB module works really well:

http://www.kenmill.net/PublicInsteon/

http://www.techmall.com/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=821&SearchTerms=2814

Passthrough and LED color.

I had missed your response- thanks!

CJ