[mythtv-users] Alternatives to X-10, was: X-10 Module for Myth?

[Meatwad]

Steven Adeff wrote:

> another option is CLIPSAL, an Aussie company that SquareD (Schneider
> Electric) partnered with to sell in the U.S. market.
> http://www.squaredlightingcontrol.com/

Interesting. I checked with my residential rep and he hasn't even been 
offered the kool-aid yet. The commercial rep I use knew of it and told 
me to check back next year. Marketing is here. Product doesn't seem to 
be available. To be perfectly honest, I stopped dealing with SquareD in 
the late 80's except to replace defective breakers.

Solutions like CLIPSAL already exist in the States and have reached 
maturity. Vantage, Lutron, and Lightolier are the go-to systems for 
integrators wishing to tie into HAI, AMX, Crestron and the various DIY 
control systems like Mr. House, Homeseer, etal.

For retrofits, Lutron RadioRA is a straighforward, fairly cost effective 
way to automate. Bi-directional control of the system is possible with 
RS-232.  Lutron RF is a very well known animal and behaves very well 
when a system is designed properly. They even make a separate SKU 
specifically for a certain area of NYC plagued with interference from 
civil services. Lightolier has the Compose series which is similar to 
Leviton's DALI powerline (X-10) controlled equipment. They also have the 
Multiset Pro series but additional control wiring must be run throughout.

For new construction, Lutron Homeworks, Vantage C-Box and Lightolier 
Lytemode systems are extremely robust but require centralized dimming 
cabinets usually located in the mechanical room. Loads are piped/wired 
directly to the cabinets while the control surfaces communicate via low 
voltage wiring. Typically, systems such as these are found in the 3 
million dollar and up homes.

An emerging wireless mesh technology called ZigBee (802.15) looks very 
promising but so far, only Control4 has product to the market and it 
looks like they have their work cut out for them to bring their wireless 
dimmers to maturity. Keep an eye on this segment if and when it matures.

My recommendation still stands for the Graphic Eye in dedicated theaters 
and for whole-home control, the RadioRA. If you are well connected, you 
may be able to purchase the components but the learning curve for 
designing the complete system is fairly steep. Lutron dealers receive 
extensive factory /technical/ training in system design as opposed to 
other manufacturers' sales and marketing sessions.

--
mw