I really like the idea of programmable lighting controls. Basically, a computer allows you to setup lighting scenes. When activated, scenes can control any number of lights in the building — on/off and intensity. What I don’t like is you are hosed if the company goes under, or decides to stop making the model you installed when you need replacement parts. From what I can see, all the parts they use are proprietary.
Has anyone got information on a system that uses industry standard hardware (relays and controllers) that can be controlled by a PC?
Replies
Lutron. Get one of the magazines geared towards people installing home theatre systems (the nice stuff - projection onto 8 x 12' screens, etc.) they have tons of adds from these kind of outfits.
remodeler
Do a google search, literally hundreds of systems out there, lots of them run the classic GE RR7 relay system. Once you have relays in place ($25 list, but avail surplus sites for $5), there are PC controlers and data loggers (eg. PICO) that are only a few hundred $$ (or, buy a $4 A/D chip and build your own interface for $10, lots of web sites with free software and circuits for this)
Neatest systems are when you can get on the net and check your house from anywhere in the world and turn on/off anything, take a look at the minicam stored pix, etc. .
Have fun!