The RTI seems really great. My main concern is ME, making it work. I have programmed a couple SL 9000s so I understand that part of programming. Its the human interface with a computer to make the RTI work that worries me. I am not proficient with computers so, if the instructions ASSUME I know something, there will be great frustration. I have read some of this in previous threads. People do seem to get through it eventualy, but some were darn near the brink. Words of wisdom would be welcome.

They really are not that bad to program. But do yourself a big favor and go to the RTI site [Link: rticorp.com] download the software (it's free) and play with it awhile. I think after you try it you will be in the best position to answer your question.

Bill
www.homeautomationnet.com

That's a good suggestion, Bill. I downloaded the software a few days ago for that very reason. It's pretty easy to use and I'm no computer expert by any means.

I did try that. That is the origin of my concerns. However I haven't written this off yet. If it weren't for the potential "on-off" feedback, I would probably not care enough to bother with this one.
Is there a device like the RF receiver unit involved with this that will work with only IR signals so that, any IR remote could have the benefit of this feature so useful for macros? "on-off" sensing and macro sensorship

Yes, there is an outboard status sensor for use with IR systems. Its built by Xantech, and its called Gatekeeper. The RTI is simpler to setup however, and is likely to be similar to or lower in price, by the time you've got a complete Gatekeeper system. Gatekeeper is probably better applied to a distributed IR or multiroom system w/ IR keypads. There is also an X10-IR status sensing system available from SmartLinc that could be used for this purpose.

jcmitch

There is really nothing out there that works as seamlessly as the T2 than the IRF-6 with it's accessories. The gatekeeper system list for $435 with one controller and one current sensor, and you don't have the RF feature. If you cant get around on/off status with discreet codes, you best solution is to use the IRF-6 and enjoy the RF feature you get along with it.

If the on/off staus is the only reason you are contemplating a T2 and don't need all it's features, look at the Pronto. This site has a wealth of support for it.

Bill
www.homeautomationnet.com

Bill,
The Pronto does not offer status sensing does it? I gotta have real buttons too!
Rick

No, the Pronto does not, although as someone has said in one of these threads, you can use a Xantech GateKeeper system to control the IR but it is costly. In Xantech's defense the system also senses light temperature and a host of other things it is pretty cool.

The T2/IRF-6 is the only integrated system that has a refined software & hardware package at this price range.

The Pronto does have 5 hard buttons, which some find is enough.

Bill
www.homeautomationnet.com

That's not exactly true. The Niles IntelliControl is also an integrated system, w/ voltage sensing and rf capabilities, in this price range. The software,BTW, has a number of advantages over the RTI package. (Its got some drawbacks too.) Often, the Niles is a better fit for many users. The interface is simple and unintimidating. No one has ever asked me, with a Niles Intellicontrol system, "How does this tv work?" That cannot be said for any of the other controllers out there, RTI included. People like buttons, as long as there aren't too many of them. Don't get me wrong, I like the RTI, and use it often. Just not always.

jcmitch

Bill E: The Pronto has 7 usable hard buttons and a backlight button.

Stand corrected, forgot about the two on the bottom. I never really got into my Pronto because I did not like the feel of it. That’s not to say it's not a fine remote especially at it's price.

As For Niles, MSRP for the Current sensing modules is $215 each, video $150, Mounting bracket and master module $270. This is more expensive than by far than RTI's set up. Yes the remote is only $200 but the software that goes with it is $400. I have not used their software but I did not read anything in the product announcement about integration with Gatekeeper.

Bill
www.homeautomationnet.com

The Niles IntelliControl comes complete with a tabletop Rf controller and Rf receiving Main System Unit for $1200 MSRP plus programming. The MSU has built in video and 12v sensors for 8 components and built in IR routing capabilities. For most of the readers here, no it is not the right choice. The Niles is not manufactured for the "Do It Yourself" crowd. It can only be installed by an authorized dealer or custom installer. The programming software and hardware are not available for retail sale. But the point is, the RTI T2/IRF6 is not the ONLY choice for someone looking for an integrated, effective solution in this price catagory.

Other specs:
IR Bandwidth 20kHz to 150kHz; and 455kHz
IR Code Memory 250 IR codes (520 IR Codes with optional memory)
Sequence Capability 312 twenty-six step sequences
Sequence Delays .5 to 99 seconds
Contact & Control Assignable-NO, NC & 12V (up to 100mA); Video Scene-NO, NC & 12V (up to 100mA); Audio Scene-12V (up to 100mA)
Mounting wall-mount or rack-mount (19" wide x 3-1/2" high x 3" deep)

jcmitch