Anyone know of a reasonably priced IR-to-dry contact closure device, preferably multiple channel (6)? I know I can cobble something together with X10 devices, but it seems like an unnecessary and expensive alternative. Now that I'm Pronto equipped, I'd like to use it to control my speaker switching system, which can be controlled by contact closures as well as panel buttons.

Have been to the Home Controls Inc. and Home Auto. Systems/Smarthome catalogs but have only found that type of function as part of much MUCH larger devices (e.g. Stargate, etc.).

Any Ideas?

Steve

Steve:

Try Xantech at www.xantech.com. They have a wide variety of devices that should fill the bill.

Thanks; I had already been there and had not found anything that fit the bill. I might have been able to make something work, but the bottom line cost would not have been worth it. But thanks for the reply anyway.


Steve

Steve:

As Alan suggested, Xantech has exactly what you are asking for. (Programmable Controller 590-00) is the name and model number. Momentary contacts initiate IR commands, 16 isolated circuits, learning microprocessor and 16 individual contact closures. I have used this device on several jobs and it hasn't failed me yet. Price? $300.00. To me that's inexpensive. Remember, you get what you pay for.

Good Luck
Greg Brown
Entertainment Technologies
Dallas TX.

Steve,

I had the same issue. I think you want to send I/R and have a contact close, not close a contact and have an I/R Command sent, big difference! You can use X-10 and it will work but... A low cost 15 channel I/R kit is available from Jameco. You get a I/R transmitter and a Receiver. You teach the Pronto the I/R codes and then the receiver can be set to "change-over" or "pulse contact" switch each of it's 15 channels. I've done this, it works well to directly switch things with just your remote. I have also used this setup to give direct inputs to my Home Base X-10 controller to initiate larger events like lighting scenes. Giving direct input to the controller where ever possible helps avoid collisions in my very busy X-10 system.

Transmitter P/N 120555 $49.95
Receiver P/N 120547 $44.95
Jameco 800-831-4242 www.jameco.com

Good Luck!
Ed Rempalski