Hi all,
I am looking into automation options for my house. Primarly for my HT but also something that can control my bedroom av system, all lighting in the house, my house wide audio system and our multi-zone heating system.

I think I found a good deal on a Crestron System to start from and build off of. The system is the MC2W-C17Pak. The following description is pulled from the Crestron website:

"This complete control package includes the ST-1700C color touchpanel, ST-DSN docking station, 2-Series MC2W wireless control system, ST-BTPN battery pack, (2) IRP2 infrared emitter probes and PW-2410RU power pack. It is an excellent choice for both commercial and residential applications"

I have negociated with the seller to by the system, which is new for $1200. He indicated that this normally runs for about $3500-$4000. I have had problems verifing this statement. I am also not that firmiliar with this system and am not sure it will support the items and growth for the future. Any advise and/or validation from someone in the know would be great.

thanks,
Jim

are you installing this yourself?

The quotes I've heard for Crestron installs are usually much much more, as they're the domain of professional installers who don't install just one thing at a time. There's certainly folks out there who have DIY'ed a crestron system, but there's not that many of them.

I don't actually know the answer definitively to your question, but I didn't think Crestron sold anything that cheap. That's another reason I DIY'ed a whole home automation system using a software engine, and myprice own parts. I certainly wouldn't be surprised at a $4K list for that stuff you mention.

As to whether it can meet your needs, what are your needs? Do you already own the equipment that you want to automate, or will you be buying all new stuff in order to fit it in?

I've automated pretty much the whole schebang at this point, check out the sig for details.

Who are you buying from? The biggest component to a Crestron system (or realy, any automation system) is the programming. You most likely aren't getting the necessary software, which is proprietary and not available to end users legally.

If you are buying from a legit dealer, maybe you can work something out for programming the system. If you are not, then it is unlikely that the Crestron solution will work for you.

The Crestron system you are looking at is a processor and a 1 way panel. The retail is about what the seller said. That system is a great starting point and is geared to be a single room solution. As a theater control it will be outstanding, to use it as a whole house control it leaves alot to be desired. A 1 way panel has no feed back which means if you are not in the room you are controlling then turning lights on and off, adjusting temperature and controlling volume is a crap shoot. If you want a whole house control look at an Ethernet enabled processor and a 2 way screen. Crestron has many variations of this and they do turn up on EBAY. IMHO Crestron and AMX are true control systems not A/V controllers trying to do automation. A properly programmed Crestron system is the pinnacle of automation and you will not be disappointed.

Paul

Who are you buying from? The biggest component to a Crestron system (or realy, any automation system) is the programming. You most likely aren't getting the necessary software, which is proprietary and not available to end users legally.

If you are buying from a legit dealer, maybe you can work something out for programming the system. If you are not, then it is unlikely that the Crestron solution will work for you.

What he said. Without the software it could end up as an expensive paper weight. And even if the seller will provide you with the software, it could end up as that paper weight as it's likely to be a long process of trial and error.
Trust me on this. Been there, still doing that. :D

Chip

Thanks everyone for your input. I am have started looking at a HAI system for the majority of my control throuhout the house. I still think the crestron would be a great deal for the theater, but I might focus it more to control of the AV and see if it can tie into the HAI system. I belive the HAI is ethernet-based. Regardless programming will be a challenge. I am pretty handy at it with other items and am a Software Engineer by trade, but I will likely hire someone to get me up and running while I am learning the language.

thx,
Jim

Jim, sounds like you have the background and interest to use a software based automation system like Mainlobby / Homeseer/ CQC / HAL. They all have HAI support available. You would have a much easier go of it and spend a whole lot less.

Jim, I have the exact same setup you are looking at: MC2W and ST-1700C. Works like a charm. I wanted something a little more powerful than my MX-800 universal remote and the Crestron is all that. Since I am running a Sony HS-51 projector and LCD in the same room, the Home Theater needed more than one remote and my wife couldn’t work it at all. Now with the touch panel, you hit video and are given a choice as to whether you want LCD or Projector. A second page takes you to a source; Comcast Basic, Direct TV HD, or PS3. A Gefen 4 X 2 HDMI switcher makes it possible. The Vesa ports on the MC2W processor allow the Stewart Screen to drop when project button is touched.

I have just finished installing Lutron’s Radio RA and the Crestron will be able to handle remote control of the lights through an RS-232 Lutron interface. A TPS-4L wall mounted panel would be a very cool addition down the road.

I am not a heart surgeon or a Rock Star and don’t have an unlimited budget for things like a Crestron system. My budget was $2K and was able to buy the Crestron hardware used for 1000.00 and paid approx the same in programming.

If I am not home, someone else can actually work the Home Theater. Very happy with this system.


Tom