Re: Newbie Advice needed

["Brian" <brian@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I agree with what Mitch stated.

I wouldn't install X10 standard switches and buy something better. I started
with these got my hooked. I actually have 5 of these used. Several appliance
modules, cm11a, etc... I'll give you a great deal on these if your
interested something to get you started cheap. My email is posted. I also do
packages deals for bigger orders.

Leviton and Smarthome both have better switches. If money is a issue buy a
couple at a time. For appliance/lamp modules x10 are fine.

Ocelot is a great choice ( I have one) but it's a learning curve to learn to
program. But you will need a PSC05 to send commands.

ACT coupler/Repeater http://tech-home.com/act-couplerrepeater-p-306.html

Have you looked at Zwave?
--

---------------------------------------
Brian A. Dye
brian@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
http://tech-home.com
---------------------------------------


"Mitch" <sumcoolgai@xxxxxxxxx> wrote in message
news:RM%me.37071$ya2.10627@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
>I think most people would recommend against using any of the X10 Inc
>switches.  Personally, I've had nothing but bad experiences with them.
>
> One friend of mine does use them.  He buys them in bulk so he can replace
> them when they die.
>
> My guess is if you look at total cost of ownership, the Leviton or
> Smarthome switches aren't as expensive as they seem based on purchase
> price.
>
> Also, the "click" on the leviton and smarthome switches is very nice
> compared to the "squish" you feel when you hit an X10 inc switch.
>
> I've used all of them in different installations.
>
> My current favorite is the Smarthome stuff.  Their first generation
> switches had a few problems, but I just finished a house with 30+ switches
> and everything works great.
>
> I put in a couple of the "booster" switches in distant locations (from the
> panel with the coupler/repeater) and reliability has been excellent.
>
> I'm also using their 8-key keypads in a number of locations.  I had bad
> luck with an older 6-key unit.  But, all the "new" ones are working just
> fine.
>
> Be sure to get a "maxi controller" from X10 though.  It makes programming
> much easier.
>
> Mitch
>
>
> Free wrote:
>> I am wavering between an Ocelot controller (with PLC interface, about
>> $175) and the SmartHome 1132CUP ($100).  I expect to go through a
>> trial phase and eventually end up with something like HomeSeer running
>> on a dedicated PC, so I want something economical to start with that
>> won't be too much of a waste to throw away when I move up.
>>
>> When I began looking, UPB was the most attractive technology, but the
>> price discouraged me, so I think X10 is best for now.  I recognize the
>> need for filters and a coupler/repeater.  The coupler is a small
>> problem - my only 220v outlet is for my dryer and there is no room for
>> one of the plug-in modules; so I need a hard-wired unit at the breaker
>> box.  The problem is I can't find one that is both a coupler/repeater.
>> Any suggestions?
>>
>> The SmartHome switches and outlets are much higher (2-3x) than
>> x10.com.  If I went with either the Ocelot or 1132CUP, should I stay
>> with SmartHome devices or would x10.com receivers work nearly as well?
>> Is there another brand that gives better price/performance?
>>
>> Thanks to all.
>>
>> "Tech-Home" <brian@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
>>
>>>SmartHome in general has the highest prices around.
>>>
>>>X10.com has gret deals when you buy Sale or Packages deals.
>>>
>>>Remember you get what you pay for. I yanked all my X10 stuff out for
>>>better reliability.
>>>
>>>Plan on buying Filters and a Coupler /Repeater.
>>>
>>>With new technologies X10 isn't my choice it is obviously the cheapest
>>>but its for a reason.
>>>
>>>Brian
>>>http://tech-home.com
>>