My boss recently accused me of loving my job because of the
'toys' I play with. Can you imagine?! But Dave hasn't seen the latest item to arrive in
the office and I'm really glad I got to it first!
X-10's ActiveHome is a PC-based wireless home
automation system that works with lamps, appliances, even your outdoor security lights.
Setup is quick and easy - we plugged in 3 lamps and 2 appliances in under 15 minutes. Then
plug in the computer module, install and run the software - done!
The basic ActiveHome kit includes:
- Universal UltimateREMOTE - also operates electronics equipment.
- Keychain Remote - activate commands as you enter your home.
- Computer Interface - program lights and appliances, set
timers.
- Transceiver Module - passes commands over existing AC wiring.
- Lamp Module - switch and dim any incandescent lamp.
- ActiveHome Software for Windows - Windows 3.1 and 95
compatible
We've been running the software under Windows 98 and haven't
had any problems. The software makes it easy to program the lights to come on and off at
certain times. My personal favorite is the Appliance Module, which controls the coffeepot.
It is too fun to be able to click a button for more coffee to begin brewing. :)
The X-10 ActiveHome system retails for about
$100.00 US but is often on sale for around $50.00. If you sign up for the X-10
newsletter, you'll be notified of special pricing and events by email. There are many
add-ons to the system, but the only ones I've ordered so far are the "Sticka
Switches" which attach with screws or Velcro to the wall and control your lights,
etc. The one here in my office controls the fan. The nice thing about them is that you
don't need remotes all over the place if the Sticka Switches are installed.
Some of the other pieces of this system I'd like to get
include motion sensors and wall switches. We're also considering these as Christmas gifts
for our mothers, whose homes could certainly use them.
The ActiveHome system integrates with X-10's
home security offerings and can be expanded to control up to 256 other X-10
compatible modules. It can even be programmed with "macro" commands to group
together several actions from a single key. I'm impressed with the flexibility of this
automation system and like the fact that you don't have to buy it all up front - I prefer
buying a few pieces here and there rather than a large cash outlay. This way, we can plan
for our expansion pieces and get exactly what we want. Imagine, no more 'lights out'
arguments with the kids! :D
Their website can be found at
http://www.x10.com/homepage.htm, so check it for yourself and let me know what you think!
Got a comment? Email Anise
