Control 4

Originally Posted by eldithomaso

I've got it. I use a 500 series controller and media server and 6 lighting automation switches.

It runs my theater, my blu-ray changer, and automates many lights in my home and the entire theater.

I'd recommend it but it can be relatively expensive when you plunk $129 for each switch and the labor for install. Expect to spend at least $4,000.00 for a basic system for just theater control. Licenses for pads/phones run about $200 each or $500 for unlmited.

The ability to automate and control my theater from my I-phone or an I-pad and show people my entire movie and music library alone is worth the price of admission. My SO loves the automated lighting controls.

With the right installer it is perfect for a basic home automation strategy, easy to use, has I-pad, phone etc options for control and can releatively easily be programmed with a little knowledge.

My goals were:
1) total theater automation and control - lights through equipment. [works great and integrates my BD collection on screen or on my control pads as it does music ripped to the server];
2) home automation - lighting automation primarilly but I wanted the option for door locks, the garage etc.
- I haven't played with HVAC, video monitoring, alarm system integration etc.

Originally Posted by eldithomaso

Well yes. I have been adding on for two years.

First I'd have bought the I-phone pad control earlier. It's amazing and trounces the included remote hands down.

Second I'd have bought the 400 disc bd changer or a media server sooner.

Third I wish I'd have spent more time planning what i wanted to automate up front.

Those are all after initial want/need items. Its amazing what you realize it can do after you install it.

Think about theater warm up and lighting scene options. Timing duration ect. For example I added all on all off, projector warm up and down cycles pre and post movie.

Spend time with your wife or family and see what they would use before the install. I thought I planned pretty well but then my wife asked about automating outdoor and indoor security lights ect and it took off.

Also be sure you buy a license for DirectorHE so you can adjust and add programing without paying an installer every time.

You need a live 24/7 Internet connection for the controller and need a UPS.

Finally be sure you have switchplates and replacement gang boxes and covers and decora second third forth switches as needed for older style or similar replacements and you know your electrical panel if you want to save installer time and cost.