Hello Im new to x10 and would like to install some switches around my house which are the best in everyones opinion? I would like to be able to control the switches directly through a palm pad or wall mounted controller somebody told me pcs were the ones I needed? thanks for any info

I prefer the Compose dimmers from Lightolier (http://www.lolcontrols.com) or by Switchlinc (http://www.smarthome.com).

CJ

The best are the smart switches from PCS. The Switchlinc switches are also good.

[Link: homeautomationnet.com]

I find the compose have sever limitations, the Switchlincs are OK but PCS is still currently the best. There are true rocker ACT switches coming out next month. Look at them to be priced very well and to perform extremely well.

Bill
www.homeautomationnet.com

Bill- What limitations do the Compose have? Why do you consider the PCS to be the best?

Thanks,
CJ

One reason I really like the PCS switches is the ability to adjust receive level. I've never found a situation where I couldn't adjust the receive level to overcome a high noise/low signal level condition. I even have my programable controller running my next door neighbor's outside lights by lowering the receive level in his PCS switches.

The adjustable receive level sounds pretty cool. I wish that they had the LED strip on the side so that they would match my other dimmers.

CJ

My gripe with compose is that the signals only work on the circuits that have compose. So if you have overhead lights on one circuit and one lamp on a separate circuit you have to dedicate a compose circuit just to handle one lamp. The idea behind X10, which is that, you can add devices anywhere. Compose takes care of noise and signal strength issues quite well, but in order to get it to what a good X10 system does, you need to add it to every circuit. In most places that could be 30 or so breakers. I like the idea of compose, but find that a well-done standard X10 system with a good coupler repeater, quality switchs and noise filtering works just as good.

Bill
www.homeautomationnet.com

I agree with you to a point. However, the Compose line can be used in either the Compose or X10 mode, correct?

Thanks,
CJ

My whole house is X10, and I've tried lots of brands. Converted everything to Smarthome products (switchlinc, houselinc, touchlinc, etc.). Not only top quality, but amazing customer and warranty service.

CJ,

You are correct, but you don't get any benifit of the compose system on the circuits not with compose. Compose is still basicly X10 but in a closed circuit system.

Bill
www.homeautomationnet.com