Need a simple answer...
Am in the process of getting some X10 stuff along with the IR to X10 convertor so I can control with my Pronto. I would like to create a macro (either on the Pronto or using X10 software) that would be called "Bedtime" which would turn off all the lights and close the garage doors (2 of them). Of course this means it has to be able to tell if the either of the garage doors are already shut so it only shuts them if they are open. Is there a simple method to do this? If so what is it? Have seen the HouseLinc, is that the way to go?

The Houselinc is a nice piece but you don't need it to control a simple function like closing the garage doors. You could use the power of the Pronto as the brain of the system, but it must be pointed at the IR543 at the time of the macros. The garage door(s) can be controlled by a simple contact closure module (PUM01) to simulate a button press and a magnetic switch to sense the doors status. I will send you a drawing. So you can better understand.

Chris Couture

X10 Controlled Garage Door The following describes how to add remote control to your garage door using X-10 control so that you can close your garage door on a timed schedule ( have it close every week day at 11:00 PM in case you forget), by telephone, or even with your computer!

IMPORTANT! Please make sure that the auto-reverse feature is adjusted properly and in good working order since using this set up will mean that you are closing your garage door while unattended.




What you will need: (1) X-10 Appliance module (#AM486 or AM466)

(1) X-10 "Burglar Alarm Interface" (#PF284)

(1) X-10 Universal Module (#UM506)

2-Conductor Wire

(1) Wide gap, N.C. Magnetic sensor switch



INSTALLATION: 1. Set AM486 to (for example) G1 and plug into outlet above door opener.

2. Set UM506 to G2, momentary, Relay and sounder, and plug into AM486

3. Connect output terminals of UM506 to the screw terminals that your momentary push-button is connected to. (Leave push-button connected!)

4. Install magnetic sensor. The contact part can be mounted on the track using Adhesive Mounting Putty available in hardware stores. The magnet part should be screwed to the garage door. Mount the sensor in such a way that the contact closes when the door is fully open. When mounting the sensor, be careful that neither part interferes with the motion of the garage door.

5. Set the PF284 to G1, input 2, mode 3 and plug into any convenient outlet. Wire contacts of PF284 to magnetic sensor switch. Again, route the wires in such a way that they don't interfere with the motion of the garage door. Your installation is now done! (Easy isn't it?)



OPERATION: Note! Your door will operate normally using the push-button or remote controls that you already have!

1. Door is closed. Send G1 "On" to "unlock" the system. Then send G2 "On" to open door. Note that if the door is closed, sending G2 "On" will not open the door. More on this later.

2. Door is open. Send G2 "On" to close door. When door closes, The PF284 sends a G1 "Off" command that "locks" the door.



HOW IT WORKS: Let's say that you come home from work and open the garage door with your normal remote control. You've been running late and in your haste to get dinner, you forget to close the garage door. When the door opened, the PF284 sent a G1 "On" command to the AM486 allowing the UM506 to receive commands. You could set a timer console to send a G2 "On" command every day at 11:00 PM. This would close the door if it was open, but would do nothing if it was closed.

You could also install a telephone interface so you could close the door from any telephone if you forgot. Or, you could open the door to let in a neighbor or repairmen. You can also use X-10 keychain remotes as additional remotes.

p.s. create a macro to send the G1 then G2 signals to the IR543 from the Pronto.

There you have it!

Good luck,

Scott

Scott,
This would be a nice system if you wanted to open the door also. I don't like it because:

First: It would cost more.

Second: Who needs X-10 to open the garage? I wouldn't want a neighbor or repairman in my home without me being there so...?

Third: This would take one extra code on the IR543. With only 16 you might not want that.

Forth: You would be relying on the Pronto to send out not one but two IR codes. More room for error!

Fifth: I wouldn't want to use an X-10 remote to open the door when my car alarm remote will do so! This was fairly simple...wanna know how?

Just my opinion!
Chris Couture

I (personally) like this setup:

1: The cost is ONLY increased with the ADDITIONAL features (telephone, computer control, etc.)

2: I only let people in my home who I trust, family, friends, etc. The choice is totally up to your comfort level.

3: Kenny came up with the need for using a Pronto, I personally like using my computer to automate my macros.

4: I think that the Pronto can handle one extra IR code, that's the point in having a Pronto, right?

5: Opening the garage door via X-10 is only another choice. I use my HomeLink to open mine, but I like the ability to do so if I wish.

Just trying to offer some suggestions that offer the greatest ability and can be done in stages if so desired.

Thanks for your suggestions, they are quite helpful to everyone, including myself!

Scott

p.s. thanks for the advice on the Weiser Powerbolt deadbolt locks. I was successful in getting them to work! I'll post the details later. Thanks Chris!