Hi guys,
I've been lurking for a while - originally subscribed to
the
group last year when planning a self build project that has since fallen
through numerous times. I've bitten the bullet and am now moving
house
to another house that need refurbished, probably at the end of the
month.
I've decided to rewire and replumb the house together with
all
the usual kitchen , bathroom and window stuff.
I'm putting together my wiring plans, and intend to buy
comfort and build the system from there from the HA front, and install as
many
cat5 and video dist cables as possible during the course of
things.
I've got approval from the other half for most of it -
she's
and electronics technician so can appreciate 'some' of the concepts and
advantages. I've got a couple of questions...
Firstly aimed at some of the locals - Mark etc. where's the
best place to buy the conventional hardware - wire, sockets etc? Are
you
planning any get togethers - I'd appreciate a hands on chat to convince me
to
take a deeper plunge, and some practical tips and advice / encouragement,
face
to face.
I intend as mentioned to start with 'Comfort' and build the
system from there.. perhaps going to home vision, I need some advice to
make
the system hardwired and designed to make this 'upgrade?' as painless as
possible, or will I ever need to go down this route?
I've got a reasonable handle on electronics, have installed
plumbing / ch systems, alarm systems and done some rewiring in the past,
and
am game to tackle anything DIY within reason. I understand the
principles of PC hardware and network fundamentals - I've ever dabbled in
network admin a bit and repaired and built many a PC. My downside is
programming - haven't got a clue beyond some VB I did a number of years
ago. I need some friendly advice.
I want to have as much X10 automation of lights, and a few
appliances, and us comfort as a fully fledged security system, with the web
interface etc. and use a few cameras to see who's at the front door.
I'm
also interested in the use of comfort to interface with the heating control
system - I believe there's some work going on the development of this at
the
moment?
Any help and or advice appreciated.
Sorry for the long winded mail.
Thanks.
Best Rgds,
Steve Dickson
Industrial
Engineering
Department
Nortel Networks - Monkstown, Northern
Ireland.
Email: sdickson@xxxxxxx