Re: Add a lot of X10 or Insteon to a big installation?

["BruceR" <razrbruce@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

 Mitch wrote:
> On May 6, 11:23 am, "BruceR" <razrbr...@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
>>  Mitch wrote:
>>
>> snip
>>
>>
snip
>
> Ok, so do you think I should add all Insteon in the new section
> (relays and dimmers) or stick with X10 for the dimmer to keep the
> number of signal suckers to a minimum?
>
> Many thanks for your help, Bruce!
>
> Mitch

IIRC, you have an XTB-IIR. If that's wrong you should get one. Then, if
you add Insteon dimmers the signal sucking problem won't be a problem
and you'll have the benefit of a standardized look in the new area and
be positioned to move to Insteon control, or a combo of Insteon and X10,
when or if you need or want to. So, yes, since there is not a big cost
difference, I'd go with all Insteon to protect your investment.

If you ever do want to add Insteon control, based on what's available
today, I would recommend a Universal Devices ISY-99i(r) (or an ISY-26
which pops up on ebay from time to time).  UD's ISY line is the best
Insteon controller I have tried to date and does not require a PC to
operate. It will send and respond to both X10 and Insteon signals and is
very well supported by the people at UD. They are constantly adding
features and functions to improve it and are very receptive to
suggestions. It has a web interface so you can access it from any PC,
PDA or cellphone with web access.

I know that my advice is somewhat contradictory; I say that if you have
an XTB-IIR you don't need Insteon or other protocols because it solves
virtually all X10 problems and, on the other hand I tell you to buy the
X10/Insteon capable products so you have Insteon available.  If there
were a significant premium for buying the dual protocol devices my
advice would be to save your money. However, at the current price level
for Insteon devices you might as well "future-proof" and get it as there
may be areas in your home that Insteon will reach in the unlikely event
that the XTB-IIR won't.