Re: X10 HA vs. security

[Frank Olson <Use_the_email_links@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

pithen@xxxxxxxxx wrote:
> I just bought myself a new condo last month (oh yeah, first time
> homeowner!) and was toying with the idea of buying an X10 CM11A off
> ebay and using it with Heya to do some simple automation stuff. One
> thing in particular that I'd like to do is rig up some door sensors so
> that I know a) if I forget to close the garage door, and b) to alert my
> girlfriend and I if somebody comes in uninvited while we're sleeping.
>
> I guess I have a few questions here. First, among the droves of info
> about X10, I can't really seem to sort out anything regarding whether
> or not the door sensor (which I believe is considered a security
> module) will send regular X10 signals to the CM11A which can be read by
> Heya. Any info on this?
>
> Second, I've noticed several threads complaining about how old and
> unreliable X10 is. Is it all *that* unreliable? If I were to use newer
> modules which support status polling (I believe they exist, right?)
> could I not just include in my scripts something that would keep trying
> to turn a device on or off until the status polling reflected this
> change? I see there are other alternatives out there, but seeing as I
> just bought my first place my budget is such that, well I probably
> shouldn't even be looking at X10 nevermind something more expensive.
>
> Thanks all!
> Ken
>


There are a number of electronic security solutions that offer far more
in the way of "peace of mind" than X-10.  Ademco, DSC, Napco, Elk all
"talk" to X-10 so integrating your existing components would be a
"snap".  Because they're actual security controls, they can also
communicate alarms on standard phone lines or via the internet.  There
are a number of online dealers and stores:

http://www.norcoalarms.com
http://www.wmballen.com

You can also check out the dealers on this page:
http://www.yoursecuritysource.com/buyingonline.htm

Good luck!!