Re: EIB installation

["David Buckley" <db@xxxxxxx>]

--- In ukha_d@yahoogroups.com, Martin Wonders <martin.wonders@u...>
wrote:
> Ok, we're definitely leaning towards Instabus know for two
> reasons, the ability to use standard wiring, as you've
> mentioned and also the non proprietary standard.

I wouldnt get too hung up on the open standard bit :-)

But then again, I wouldnt get hung up on removing the thing,
either :-))

> Having said that we have yet to look at the cost.

Aha :-)  In my opinion, EIB is more expensive than CBus, though not
by a huge amount, and your milage may vary. (eg 4 x dimmers, CBus =
330, Instabus = 456.  CBus 4 button plates = 54, Siemens equivalent
which are 2 gang rockers, 31 quid.  So four lights is 580 Instabus,
546 CBus).  If you decide to change your decor, with Instabus you
just get new front plates, available in a massive range of styles,
so the redecoration costs are lower.  But if cost is a serious issue
you need to fully price the whole system, as there are swings and
roundabouts.

Finally, the Instabus system if you install it fully undoable will
lead to wall acne if you have multiple controlled things in one
place.  The CBus star wired system is neater under these
circumstances.  One CBus controller (a neo or whatever) and a hidden
away din rail box full of dimmers and relays is prettier than
several combined button/dimmer units each of which looks just like
an ordinary light switch.

> Do you have any prices on the Siemens Instabus kit, we have
> found a lot of info but no prices.

I had a faxed price list (about 20 pages of excel printout), but no
longer, from AC Electrical.  Although AC elec have a big branch
network, only one(!) of them has the price list... The rest of them
go "Siemens what?"  And of course, I cant remember which branch
has
the Instabus chaps.

Start here: http://www.siemens-industry.co.uk/smarthomes

Theres some good links.

The only prices I have are from when I priced up the "playing
around" kit (about 515 quid+VAT, IIRC), as follows:  (and I know
this will come out badly formatted...)

5WG1	121-1AB01	Power supply 320ma	156.12	1
156.12
5WG1	120-1AB01	Filter	32.75	1	32.75
5WG1	191-5AB11	connector 2x2	23.11	1	23.11
5WG1	190-8AB01	data rail 214mm	5.71	1	5.71
5WG1	148-1AB02	Interface, rs232	143.26	1
143.26
5WG1	562-2AB01	BCU + 2 x 10A binary for box mount
121.53	1	121.53
5WG1	525-2AB01	BCU + 1 x 1A dimmer, box mount	114.6	1
114.6
5WG1	520-2AB01	BCU + 1 x shutter raise/lower	114.6	1
114.6
5WG1	243-2AB11	white double switch	30.46	3	91.38
5TG1	801	Switch frame	3.66	3	10.98
8GB5	741	distribution board		1	0
5WG1	840-0AB01	Easy starter CD		1	0

814.04


BCU - Bus Coupler Unit, the 10 pin connector
Binary = on/off (ie relay)
Shutter raise/lower - 2 x relay outputs, for automating blinds





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