Insteon vs UPB for a high end X10 retrofit

Jul 08, 2005 6 Replies
J
Insteon vs UPB for a high end X10 retrofit open original image

Hello:



I'm about to buy some new higher end switches, and wanted to go with Insteon but I'm also looking at UPB.



I've got a box of about 15 X10 switches, 3 ways, IR sensors, motion detectors, etc. but only about 4 switches wired in the house. Realistically, I could chuck it all and go with something new, and just use the old switches in out of the way places, especially if I go with Insteon.



I like the way a keypad with UPB can become an in wall controller but I like the X10 compatibility of Insteon.



I really, really like the 'tap the top for on' switches. I got the impression Insteon works that way, but with UPB it looks like it would but I haven't seen this addressed for sure.



Does UPB have a 'tap the top for on' 'tap the bottom for off' true rocker action?



Both require a neutral wire, correct?



Has anyone seen a real live Insteon module? So far all the reviews I've seen are regurgitations of the press releases.



Any thoughts?



== John ==


Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
J

I'll answer my own question with the UPB, they are true rockers. (I didn't see this on the smarthome site but the manufacturers site clearly mentions it).

Apparently so too.

== John ==

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
B

I have not got my hands on Insteon, yet.

UPB does require a neutral.

The Simply Automated Switches (UPB) are beautiful switches. I have preferred Leviton in the past, but SA has surpassed the pleasure of Leviton.. I like the feel of the SA UPB switches, the on and off are more tactile giving better feedback. I have not heard of UPB issues yet. I know Insteon has X-10 compatibility, but no HA controller to my knowledge supports the technology (except via X-10) UPB has 5 years in install time,

18 months of retail installs.
Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
A

I do have both UPB and Insteon switches (we're on the beta team) installed here. They are both nice feeling switches and work quite well. I personally like having the light bar like the Insteaon switches have.

Yes, they both require a neutral wire.

Martin Custer

formatting link

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
B

UPB is much better then SmartHome.

I wouldn't waste my time with the smarthome switches.

Contact me if your interested in a package deal.

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
W

Much better? More like "sucks less". Powerline stuff stinks, some less than others.

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
B

Yes I have to agree Most of the time

UPB & Lightolier are the exceptions

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required