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itdeptcorp
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| Posted: February 16 2010 at 10:52 | IP Logged
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Hello,
We would like to use PowerHome in our office to help manage the lights and some other devices/controllers.
Can anyone give me advice if there would be Power related issues?
Or if this is not a good idea or any reasons Why or Why Not?
Thanks
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grif091
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| Posted: February 16 2010 at 12:34 | IP Logged
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From a Powerhome perspective there should be no difference between a residence and an office. You need a PC running 24/7 or at least during the hours you want Powerhome to control the environment.
Do you currently have control devices installed and if so what are they. There can be issues in an office environment with florescence light fixtures (ballast) and other devices found in a commercial environment that you might not see in a residence but this has nothing to do with Powerhome itself. If you already have a functioning Insteon installation, for example, Powerhome should not have a problem controlling it.
Edited by grif091 - February 16 2010 at 12:35
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Lee G
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itdeptcorp
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| Posted: February 16 2010 at 12:41 | IP Logged
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Thanks for the response,
Today we are in the planning phase and would like to find the best device controllers possible for Florescent ballasts, and other devices which are not needed when no movement is in office.
If you have suggestions as to what is the best practice
Txs
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grif091
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| Posted: February 16 2010 at 13:01 | IP Logged
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The Powerhome software forum is not the best place for Information on hardware targeted for control of a commercial environment. You might try the Smarthome forum. They sell hardware for Home Automation which might be appropriate for commercial use. They are focused on Insteon based hardware and software but they also carry X10 and UPB. X10 is not something to consider for a commercial environment. The decision on what hardware to use will likely determine what software options you will have.
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Lee G
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BeachBum
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| Posted: February 16 2010 at 13:16 | IP Logged
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If you are running florescence and do not have a need to dim those lights then control is very simple. Off and Ons can be controlled by PowerHome either through motion sensors or by time or both. Back in the 70s the IBM office in Chicago was heated by controlling the florescence lights ON times which was cheaper than running a boiler full time. They found when cleaning crews turned the lights off more energy was used for heating. They controlled the lights either through occupancy of thermostats. So the ideas can be endless. Do not recommend X10 because of the reliability factor and the speed is much slower. Cost wise Insteon I would think is your next best protocol.
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Pete - X10 Oldie
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jeffw_00
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| Posted: February 18 2010 at 15:23 | IP Logged
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Insteon is apparently very successful in the commercial market and they have pricing for large installations. Talk to Steve Lee at Smarthome. (but yes, use Powerhome to control it, I think even Steve will tell you it's a valid choice)
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PowerHome Messageboard : PowerHome General
Topic: Advice - In Office Use
