Re: X10 still around?

[Marc F Hult <MFHult@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

On Sun, 18 Sep 2005 20:26:43 GMT, "Wayne Lundberg" <Waynelund@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
wrote in message  <74kXe.56081$qY1.42679@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>:

>I take it that top posting is acceptable in this newsgroup?
>What I missed (miss) with the X-10 system is feedback such as IR or other
>sensors. Having played a bit with the Basic Stamp, I can see where the 'home
>automation' art could go, and looking through a few sites from people in
>this group, I see a huge leap in technology and I am overwhelmed. Time to go
>back to kindergarten. Your site looks like a good place to start. Thanks!
>
>Wayne
>
>

Top-posting and X-10 deserve each other ..;-)

If you are considering a minor foray or re-entry into X-10 (it's cheap and can
work fine for some needs), consider starting by developing a schematic diagram
of your house wiring.

In so far as possible, put all X-10 devices and the interface (CM11a, TW523 etc)
on one 110VAC leg and devices that may reduce the signal ("signal suckers" such
switching computer power supplies) or noise on the other 110VAC leg.

This does two things: 1) obviates the need for a coupler and attendant problems
and 2) minimizes failures owing to reduced signal strength and noise.

Then, as need arises, choose from one of the alternatives to X-10 based in part
on consideration of the home automation _software_ you select. None that I know
of supports all the emerging technologies at this time.

(Basic stamps are neat. The new "industrial" version with expanded temperature
range opens up a whole new area of environmental monitoring. Buy them here:
http://www.phanderson.com/basicx/index.html )


HTH ... Marc
Marc_F_Hult
www.ECOntrol.org