Re: Re: Idratek Release Cortex V24

[Kevin Hawkins <yahoogroupskh@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Mal Lansell wrote:
> Can you use normal switches, or do they have to be the push-to-make
non-
> latching efforts used with X10 etc?
>
> Mal
>
>
So far I must admit I have only used similar push to make buttons-
although I'm sure you can use standard open/closed type contacts.  There
are possibilities in both replacing existing buttons on the IdraNet
faceplates and using some of the spare inputs a lot of these have.
The other issue is the practicality  regarding the features that you
might want to control via the switches -  you really need the push
buttons to implement dimming sensibly - although I suppose a rotary
switch could work - if you must.

The faceplates aren't as attractive or contemporary as say C-Bus but
they're ok and can often be used behind other faceplates - and if
Idratek were to invest in the half dozen or so different variants that
they would need to create a complete range then they'd be totally
unaffordable and selling almost none.  A lot of modules , although
mounted on what looks like a faceplate are basically just I/O that can
sit inside a wall or under a floor anyway.  Really the PIR's - which
Cortex uses for room occupancy are the ones that I've still got to sort
- and if you compare them to C-Bus ones they're pretty inconspicuous
anyway.  I feel Idratek's range is a good balance between appearance,
features and cost and appropriate for the HA enthusiast.   I too have
wondered how much it would cost to produce extra different coloured
decals for the faceplates though.

Ahh yes, thanks for the prompt Paul  - I forgot to mention 'Reflex' -
which basically directly links things like switches and lights on
IdraNet such that either they always happen without Cortex being
involved or they fallback to this direct operation should Cortex be
lost.  A great feature that enures the basic functionality remains
available. This style of control is actually very similar to how xAP and
xPL can work where the devices all hear each other and can send messages
directly from say a switch to a light without a controller or a
controller can orchestrate the interactions.   Another reason I like
IdraNet.:-)

Kevin



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