Conference atlant::x-10

271.0. "X10 ActiveHome" by TNPUBS::MACDONALD () Mon Feb 17 1997 14:02

    I purchased an ActiveHome kit recently for $90. It came with the following
    components:
    
    - Version 1.1 ActiveHome software (on CD)
    
      Current version is 1.2 which can be upgraded from the WWW
    
    - CM11A Interface module
    
      This essentially replaces the 290. It plugs into a wall
      outlet and has a three-prong outlet pass-through. There is no AC
      power cord to deal with. It has a DB9<->telephone-style-jack data
      cord that pops into the base of it. Internal batteries back up the
      memory for 500 hrs.
    
    - Lamp Module
    
    - RC501 Transceiver Appliance Module
    
      Unlike earlier versions (i.e., Radio Shack model) this will process
      codes 1-16 without using the slide switch. The slide switch is used
      to change the code of the built-in appliance module to either 1 or 9.
      Works with the Keychain remote and universal remote below.
    
    - KC674 Keychain Remote
    
      Two-channel pocket device controls units 1 and 2 or 5 and 6.
    
    - TV/X10 Universal Remote
    
      This unit controls all wireless modules as well as your TV, VCR,
      etc. Has a feature to autmatically set the proper codes for your
      particular TV, VCR, and cable box. 
    
    The software is easy to use and has a built-in tutorial. You can
    download the software from http://www.x10.com and play with the canned
    demo schedules and tutorials.
    
    Aside from setting up individual schedules for each appliance, you can
    load macros into the controller too. The system works well, although I
    still need to install a phase cap at my service feed.