Re: powerlinc usb control api

[nobody@xxxxxxxxxxxx (Dave Houston)]

"John" <weekender_ny@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:

>Does anyone have a way to control the powerlinc usb api using
>python on cygwin? python on linux? Perl or any other scripting
>language on windows? Smarthome doesnt seem eager to supply
>the apis for the powerlinc usb i just bought.
>
>Thanks a lot for your help,

You probably bought the wrong Powerlinc. They sell the 1132U for $38 or $70
depending on whether you buy it with or without their software.

     http://www.smarthome.com/1132u.html
     http://www.smarthome.com/1132cu.html

They also sell the PowerLinc V2 USB as part of the "INSTEON Development Kit
- USB". The development kit also includes a LampLinc V2 as well as the
documentation needed to write your own software and sells for $99.

     http://www.smarthome.com/insteon/sdk2600U.html

The Insteon V2 version can also control X-10 devices.

There are some severe restrictions in the Insteon SDK license. Licensees are
prohibited from ever disclosing anything about the Insteon SDK including the
results of tests.

<quote>
The Kit and all related information are confidential and proprietary to
SMARTHOME. You agree not to disclose any information relating to the Kit
(including without limitation the results of use or testing) to any third
party without SMARTHOME?s prior written permission.
</quote>

They also retain the sole right to decide whether any product developed by
licensees can be sold.

<quote>
You acknowledge and agree that the distribution and commercialization of any
INSTEON labeled compatible applications and products developed by you using
the Kit will be subject to (i) successful completion by you of SMARTHOME's
designated authentication and compatibility testing processes and (ii)
approval by SMARTHOME.
</quote>

Other organizations have certification programs but do not prevent
non-certified products from being sold as "compatible".

Smarthome has been inconsistent. They published the protocol for the initial
(TTL & serial) version of the Powerlinc but only offered the protocol for
later versions to "qualified" developers. The Insteon SDK is reasonably
priced and includes the necessary documentation and is available to anyone
who is willing to spend $99 and be subject to the license.

Neil Cherry and others have proceeded based on verbal assurances from people
at Smarthome. I would suggest getting it in writing as the terms of the
license stipulate.