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mustangcoupe
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| Posted: March 24 2006 at 23:02 | IP Logged
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I have been given the ok to spend $$$$  but need to replce some of my old x10 stuff with working stuff... I dont have much so I just figured Id ask for direction first... I have PH so that is not needed. I figured maybe an Insteon PLC and switches to start with? But I havent looked into them yet I know it is the latest and greatest... Id also like to start doing some IR and RF/ALARM W800RF32 or w800RF32A?
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Todd Hannemann
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TonyNo
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| Posted: March 24 2006 at 23:31 | IP Logged
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I would not suggest migrating to Insteon over time (mixing it with X10). I, and others, have had trouble using the two technologies simultaneously. As you add more modules, Insteon will work better but at the expense of X10 devices.
A USB-UIRT and a W800 would be a good, safe addition.
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mustangcoupe
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| Posted: March 25 2006 at 14:15 | IP Logged
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Ok, I dont have too much invested in X10 so a switch now would be ok with me... does the w800 receive the inston signals? What is recommended for insteon devices. I need a PLC. But should I but a "starter kit" also or just piecemeal it? Do I need a SignaLinc RF Signal Enhancer?
Can I still use my x10 palmpad and remote to trigger events? or is this where the trouble comes in? What about the x10 security rf stuff? or is there something better and more compatible with instion?
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TonyNo
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| Posted: March 25 2006 at 16:34 | IP Logged
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Insteon is not wireless, although the SignalLinc's use it to bridge phases. At some point in the future, there could be wireless Insteon devices that communicate via SignalLinc's.
I bought the starter kit, and did not use the Tabletop Controller or the SignalLinc's; just the two lamp modules. I need to sell the stuff I didn't use. Installing the SignalLinc's killed my X10 devices and were not needed in my home anyway. Also, remember that the starter kit does not come with a PLC!
I would just get some switches/modules and a PLC.
RF X10 (PalmPad's and security devices) would work fine if you bought a W800.
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dhoward
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| Posted: March 25 2006 at 21:03 | IP Logged
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Todd,
Insteon is definately cool and if you don't have a lot invested in X10, I would go that route. As Tony pointed out, you will definately need a PLC (serial or USB...your choice). While some people can get by without the SignaLincs, SmartHome says that they are necessary and if you have problems, that's the first thing they ask you. They will also be needed for when they do come out with a handheld RF device (supposedly later this year).
Whatever you do, I would definately pick up a W800RF32A. This will work with Insteon or X10 and really makes the X10 RF devices a lot more useable. You also pick up the ability to receive the X10 security signals.
If you've got money left over, the USB-UIRT is a cheap (and very good) way to get into IR control. It will open up a whole new realm of possibilities with having PowerHome control your IR equipment.
Dave.
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mustangcoupe
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| Posted: March 25 2006 at 23:31 | IP Logged
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ok, so I plan on getting a plc and w800rf32a. I need to look at the PC I plan on using to decide usb or serial.
What is the difference with dimmer/relay/timer switches?
I have 2 switches that are outside no dimming ect... I see the ICON switches are compatible with insteon and are alot cheaper. Are they reliable? has anyone used them?
Any problems using flourecent lights with these switches?
Can the keypadlink fire a powerhome macro to send x10 commands? (I think the answer is yes)
Do I need the additional 56KHz IR Sensor in the usb-uirt? I dont know what devices usually need.... If I get it does it affect the device for non 56k? it is only a sensor not a tx led so what is it ued for? where do I get the external it emitters? Can I just use one from Radio shack? or are they special? can I parallel emitters for each device (I am only looking at one room for IR right now) I know I am asking questions I should be asking at the uirt forum but I figured you all might know already
I guess my shopping list consists of
1 plc
1 w800rf32a
1 usb-urt but I think this will have to wait few weeks I dont want to push the WAF too far.
1 keypadlink
3 switches (of somesort)
THANKS FOR ALL YOUR HELP TONY & DAVE
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TonyNo
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| Posted: March 26 2006 at 01:30 | IP Logged
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I have two Icon dimmers and two "normal" Insteon lamp modules. The switches work great, but I have heard of some people getting duds, which are replaced under warranty.
There is talk of fluorescents causing problems; YMMV.
Yes, the keypadlink can fire a macro to send x10 commands.
The optional 56kHz receiver for the UIRT is for remotes that use that frequency. See here and here.
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mustangcoupe
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| Posted: March 26 2006 at 09:39 | IP Logged
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Well I am going to be purchasing my stuff from Martin at automated outlet, and I already know he stands behind the stuff he sells so If I have any problems with the icon Ill just give him a call....
How do you pass your IR from the usb-uirt to your a/v equiptment? I read about using the powerminds, and stick on IR emitters what is your perferred method?
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Todd Hannemann
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TonyNo
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| Posted: March 26 2006 at 12:18 | IP Logged
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Yup, I use Powermids. I have good coverage for all my audio/video equipment using just one, but I have blinds that are 90° to it, so I bought a second one for that. I also have one in my kitchen for the blinds there, and I need to add another one for the receiver that drives the speakers in my bathroom (my daughter switches it from the house line to the tuner and never remembers to switch it back).
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mustangcoupe
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| Posted: March 26 2006 at 13:45 | IP Logged
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Time for her own bathroom...  Does the insteon plc receive x10 also or would I need the CM11A connected also?
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dhoward
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| Posted: April 04 2006 at 18:23 | IP Logged
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Todd,
You can use the Insteon PLC to send and receive X10 commands as long as you don't need extended commands.
Also, dim and bright commands are reported differently so expect a little difference here as well.
Dave.
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mustangcoupe
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| Posted: April 04 2006 at 18:59 | IP Logged
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Thanks Dave.. I have gotten all but the usb-uirt in (just ordered that today) Just need to learn how to use it...
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Topic: ok to spend $$$
