I have an IR543, a Sony RM-AV3000 remote with X10 codes programmed in, and basic X10 wall switches and lamp modules from Radio Shack. Now I would like some of my lighting to:
A. Go on gradually
B. Go to a preset level of intensity
C. Respond to macros for scene creation
I assume I have to replace those switches, but to what? Also, once the new switches are installed, how do I program them? Is it all done by programming the remote, or is another device needed? For example, if I want a lamp to turn on, but only to half brilliance, how is that done?
Thank you for any help you can provide.

I don't know the exact procedure, as I haven't had the pleasure of doing scenes yet, but it goes something like this:

First, you actually set each dimmer to the setting you want for, let's say, Scene #1. Then you program each dimmer to use this setting when it receives a particular address (house/unit code) signal.

Each dimmer module also gets a primary address, so it can respond to manual commands like any other X-10 receiver.

Larry
www.fineelectricco.com

Hey Larry,
Thanks for the info. I was also interested if finding out what hardware I will need. I think I am going to need new switches, and possibly some type of controller. Not sure.

You'll need a maxi-controller like the PHC02,
[Link: homeautomationnet.com]

If I have the PHC01 do i still need the PHC02? If so, what is the difference? Will I have to change my wall switches and lamp modules, and if so to what?
And last, what is the setup procedure. Does the PHC02 somehow program the wall modules?
Thank you for the help.

You must have a PHC02 as it has seperate buttons for on and off. The PHC01 combine these functions for example when you send A1 it send out A1 On, where the PHC02 just sends A1, you have to send on. This is a critical difference when programming scenes. The price difference is only about $6.

Bill
www.homeautomationnet.com

Bill,

Can you set up scenes with a PCS wall dimmer switch and a LampLinc dimmer lamp module? I've tried just about everything but those two don't seem to want to work together.

Thanks,
Don

Bill, please simplify for me if you can and let me know what I need. i just want to control the lights and my components with a remote. I will probably be buying the MX-500 cause it seems to be reasonably priced and people recommend it. I assume I just need the IR543 transciever and an x-10 wall dimmer. I don't think i need to worry about scenes just yet. Will this work for me or do I need something additional? Do you recommend that remote control? Also, as I write this I could also use a simple x-10 light switch that controls my gas fireplace. That would be pretty cool to turn on from the couch. Thanks.

Basic lamp modules will not let you remember your dim level, or slowly dim up when turning on. You need to replace them with the 2-way lamp modules. And, if you are using a remote to control them you don't need the PHC02. I'm doing mine with a IR543. To do preset scenes though you will need something like the "Active Home" kit which lets you set scenes as macros and stores them into a controller module. So, say you set code A-2 to dim your livingroom lights to 30% and shut all others off, then when you press A-2 on your remote the controller sees that code and tells your lights what to do.

Craig,

Stay away from 2-way modules and switches, unless you have a very specific need for them; they eat signal strength. You will need the maxi controller PHC02 to program anything with scenes. Even the PC programmable modules require you to initiate programming manually with a maxi controller. The MX500 is a great remote, although the 700 is a lot easier to set up and a whole lot more powerful because of the PC interface. But if budget is tight, you won't go wrong with the 500. So you will need an IR543, a PHC02, scene capable switches or modules and a remote capable of sending X10 unit codes. Active home can be made to mimic scenes, but if you are using scenes properly sending a single command directly to the switches and modules will set them all to the level you want (even off) without the need for any PC program. Hope this helps.

Bill
www.homeautomationnet.com

Thanks to both of you. The mx-700 is more than I can spend. If I told the wife I'm blowing $300 plus on a remote control I think she'd have me committed. I know some sites sell a package deal with the mx-500 and a Oneforall with JP1. do you recommend getting the package. I'm not sure what the benefits are for getting the extra remote but at a minimum it won't go to waste...i can use it upstairs.

So the bottom line is if I buy this I'd be good to go...

- MX-500 (package or not?) $99
- this scene starter kit... $99 (inludes ir543,phc02,dimmer)
[Link: homeautomationnet.com]
- extra basic x-10 on/off switch (for fireplace) ...please recommend one if possible

so for about $200 I can have complete control over my components, lighting (with scenes), and fireplace? that would be nice

just wanted to make sure I don't buy unnecessary stuff or end up missing stuff that I do need.

don't mean to ramble with all the questions. I'm new and trying to figure out how to get all the stuff working together efficiently.

thanks again

We have a hard time competing against folks on the 500, we are authorized by URC but you can find the 500 below our cost in several outlets. The rest is fine, you never know what you may end up needing in noise filtering and coupling. The coupling you can take care of if you stay on the same phase, the noise has to be addressed if it's there. You will need a schematic for your fireplace, not all of them use line voltage switches. You may end up needing a contact closure instead.

Bill
www.homeautomationet.com

Bill,
I recently purchased the maxi controller (sc502) but I'm missing out on something as far as using it for scenes. It doesn't have the capability. It's the same one shown on your website. What am I missing?

I was able to set up some pretty good scenes with a CM11A that I purchased on ebay for $25. Also, with the same unit I could set up timers for my outdoor lighting an an indoor lamp that goes on very dim at about 10:00pm, and shuts off at 4:00am. Highly recommended device. No need to have your PC on once you program it. Just plug it in. And the software is easy to use.

The SC502 is a European unit, I don't think you can use it with the PCS products because of the 50 60 Hz difference. The CM11 works great for setting up scenes but you still need to enable remote programming manually.

Bill
www.homeautomationnet.com