Lutron RadioRa 2

Call every local RA2 installer, ask each of them if they'll provide the software if you buy your devices from them.

They're more likely to jump if they install too.

If possible talk to a local electrical distributor. They would know who is certified.

Or call Lutron, they can direct you to your local authorized dealers. I'd be slightly hesitant about some electricians. Just because they can sell RA2, doesn't even mean they themselves have access to the software. Only dealers who have been to the full day training are authorized with access to the Essentials software. And only dealers who have completed full certification have access to the "Inclusive" software.

Lutron Tech Support prob can provide you with a list of those local people who have completed the 2-day BLAST training. If not, they can contact the local Lutron rep, who definitely has a list.

An electrician may be a good person to get the software from. He may not WANT to program. Generally, they aren't as tech savvy as the custom installers. Of course, they may lack the experience and expertise to design a setup well, so it may be a trade-off.

Lutron Tech Support is 24/7/365, BTW. From the U.S.A.

Another GREAT reason to go with Lutron.

I am looking for same.
Any updates?

Are the installers allowed to install a copy of the software at a site where they have install a RA2 system?

It this day and age it seems crazy to spend $10K on a lighting system and not be able to customize it yourself.

Frankly, it's a show stopper for me. I'm happy to pay a certified dealer to install and happy to buy all my lutron gear from them. I just want the freedom to configure the lighting system how I want it.

The installer can leave a copy of the software with the "end user" per the
agreement. If the installer won't do it, find a different installer. Get a
signed agreement that includes leaving the software on your own computer.

You would probably have to get the installer to upgrade your software in the
future when you want to add new goodies.

I'm a certified BLAST installer and do quite a bit of RadioRa. I would not bother wasting my time trying to hard to get the software through improper channels. The reason is because Lutron provides the software on the specific end users account, and the revisions are posted rather than updateable in the software itself. But the main reason is that if there is not product added or deleted (the adaptive dimmer is taking the place of some models) it is not supported anymore in the software. So something that works today may not work tomorrow.

If your going to try and secure something noteworthy, you really need a login to the Ra2 website, not so much the software (which has changed 4 times already that I know of in the past few months and is still a work in progress.)

They're more likely to jump if they install too.[/quote]


OR, if they are desperate for business which is not a very good sign. Anyone installer who would go against policy to gain a single sale (residential at that) is probably shady and I wouldnt want them doing anything in my home.

If you can't find anyone to give you ra2 software the new iPad software from lutron let's you do a lot of customization. It's $20 from iTunes. If you do get your hands on software, you will need to get instructions too. The software has no help or wizard to get you started. You can do programing from main repeaters as well, it is a pain, but can be done.

Sounds like a good excuse to add another zone of lighting, professionally installed.

I am an electrical contractor and also have been to Lutron for the PSP training. I have different relationships worked out with different customers but nobody that I know of is giving the software away. Some customers want a copy and some don't want to touch it. As stated above, the license agreement does allow for a copy of the software to be left on the customers computer. It is also true that most electricians in my area are scared of technology. I guess I am really a home automation installer with an electrical background and license. Any time that I go to a customers home I try to make sure that the software is updated as it is changing rapidly and new versions keep coming out, and it really is getting better. Main repeaters are also taking firmware upgrades with the new software. I don't think it would be that hard to find a contractor who will work with you. Everyone sees it a little bit differently but if you can establish a good relationship with an installer, that would probably be the best way to stay on top of it. Also, the iphone app will work on the ipad for free but the graphics are not as good. Also works on the ipod touch and now android as well. You just have to keep in mind that we understand DIY because we are of the same mind. This is also how we make a living so it will always cost something. Just my $0.02.

You can go to the Lutron website and click on the "where to buy" tab and find a list of all the Lutron certified installers in your area.

what is the name of the android app? I found it with googles help

Just an FYI, cocoontech.com has searchable lists of iOS and android apps that are home automation and home electronics related.