X10?

[tjp]

Anybody use an X10 system to control your lights and pumps.
do they work good?
I’m thinking of trying it.

Terry

[hypertech]

I've got an older version I'm using on a gecko tank and they work great.

I'm thinking about getting a setup for that on my 29 if I can find a cheap temp controller.

I'm not convinced its that much cheaper than a controller if you want a tamp controller and pH meter also.

[tjp]

I’m thinking of building every thing in a PVC box and using the X10 outlets for lights and pumps.
I have an old laptop computer I’d like to use with it.
Maybe even add a camera to it also.
But I’d like to buy it here in town and ask a few questions first before I buy, know of any place to get X10 things here in Minnesota?

Terry

[hypertech]

radio shack used to sell them - they aren't labeled x10 but they are the same thing.

[Soltaker]

I got a starter set a while back. They work pretty good IMHO. It came with a reciever and a remote control. Plus there are a few programs out there that you can run from your PC that will work as timers to turn your lights off and on. Sorry for the blurry pic.....but you get the idea.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v120/Soltaker/IMG_2053.jpg

[hypertech]

You can get a timer system that looks like a little clock. That's what I have running mine so I don't have to have a pc connected.

[Chris Goetz]

I think Micro Center carries a type of X10 system...

[aka_BigRed]

Don't bother getting them locally - buy them on ebay. You can try buying them in a "lot" from somebody that is selling it all together and you'll get the best deal. Buying them individually from Ratshack will empty your wallet in a hurry, and they don't know jack about them. You are better off googling and hitting up some of the online home automation forums for *real* advice instead.

I use it and it's pretty reliable. There are considerations that can influence that - are you house or apt? Some appliances will dump lots of noise that can really drop reliability, but there's filters for that to help.

Check your pm's for some more info on my setup.