Having a spare PC, I'm thinking to start out with a CM12U (UK) and a couple of light modules. Then I want to get a 8-1 IR/RF remote with a reciever. Does this sound like a good way to start? What sort of reciever should I get? There is the sort that plugs into the house circuit and relays the X10 signals to the PC and there seems to be a type that plugs straight into the computer, or is that only for something different like cameras. In the future I might look for a way to send signals out from the PC that would turn on the hifi etc in response to X10 signals from the remote. Is there an easy way to do this or does it need an expensive IR-out box and should I be thinking of something different to the CM12U if I want this function later?
Thanks for any help. Phil.

You can start with a CM12 and add a package called HomeSeer (www.keware.com) about £70. This has IR capability a few ways, one an IR interface from conceptuk (about £30)

I use a RC5000 (Marantz version of the Pronto) and a all house code IR -> X10 (from letsautomate.co.uk, about £30) and it all works fine.

What you've got WILL work and does not have to be binned later.

There ARE different (and sometimes expensive) IR boxes (Ocelot & SmartLinc are names I've heard in this context).

I would suggest NOT getting an RF remote control, they are (AFAIK) limited to one house code. I bought one and basically wasted £70 odd quid.