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Which controller?

Hi everybody,

I have a question that was probably addressed in this forum, but I could find a answer that I like.

I have a background in electronics and programming, but don't know noting of home automation (have order some books !).

I'm looking for a home automation controller to my new bough house. I want a cheap but reliable system. For now, my main objectives are to control some X10 devices, the irrigation system and to control or implement a security system (more on this latter). I would like the controller to be expandable, by the addition of new plug-in modules and/or by implementing a network of modules (rs-485 or similar). I think this will give me plenty of room to play in the future. On the software side, I also would like to be able to program the system using linux and open source tools.

I think that the alternatives are a =93of the shelf=94 semi-professional system (Ocelot?), some sort of kit or DIY system like the HSC_II (or HSC_C?) and a SBC, but since I don't now noting about this subject and reviewing all the systems on the market today would take me forever, I would appreciate the opinion of you all.

Finally, one other question: what are the advantages /disadvantages of using an separated security system, as opposed to integrate the security system in the H.A. controller.

Regards,

Jos=E9 Mariano

Reply to
jmariano
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My vote is for the JDS Stargate. It will do everything you mention.

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I have a question that was probably addressed in this forum, but I could find a answer that I like.

I have a background in electronics and programming, but don't know noting of home automation (have order some books !).

I'm looking for a home automation controller to my new bough house. I want a cheap but reliable system. For now, my main objectives are to control some X10 devices, the irrigation system and to control or implement a security system (more on this latter). I would like the controller to be expandable, by the addition of new plug-in modules and/or by implementing a network of modules (rs-485 or similar). I think this will give me plenty of room to play in the future. On the software side, I also would like to be able to program the system using linux and open source tools.

I think that the alternatives are a ?of the shelf? semi-professional system (Ocelot?), some sort of kit or DIY system like the HSC_II (or HSC_C?) and a SBC, but since I don't now noting about this subject and reviewing all the systems on the market today would take me forever, I would appreciate the opinion of you all.

Finally, one other question: what are the advantages /disadvantages of using an separated security system, as opposed to integrate the security system in the H.A. controller.

Regards,

José Mariano

Reply to
BruceR

I would suggest the Homevision or Homevision Pro controller. See:

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Watch eBay, one comes up every so often.

Reply to
John, SW Missouri

I would like the

Take a look at the Elk M1 family.

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It is relatively easy to interface to, is moderately priced, well thought out very expandable, and implements security well (Elk is/was a security company.)

It is widely supported by commercial HA software (HomeSeer, Charmed Quark, Main Lobby)

There is much enthusiasm and support from a wide range of DIYers. For example, visit

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It is also the basis of some Linux-based Home Automation systems:

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HTH ... Marc

Marc_F_Hult

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Visit my Home Automation and Electronics Porch Sale at
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Reply to
Marc_F_Hult

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