ECS: Lightng Control Methods
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Lighting/appliance control methods

ECS supports the following methods of lighting/appliance control: X10, UPB, Insteon, WebSwitch, and hardwired (which applies to lighting only):
  • X10:
    Transmits commands to X10 modules via AC power lines.
    Least expensive, but also the least dependable.
    Communication is one-way only: Modules do not respond to commands,
    so there is no way to know if a module actually receives a given command.
    Supported via the Ocelot, PowerLinc/USB/PowerLinc/Serial, Omni, TI103, and CM11A/CM11U.
     
  • UPB:
    Transmits commands to UPB modules via AC power lines.
    The best power line technology available (in terms of both reliability and longevity).
    Communication is two-way: Modules respond to commands (so you know the module's state).
    Supported via a USB controller (e.g. the UMC-DB9-W).
     
  • Insteon:
    Transmits commands to Insteon modules via AC power lines.
    Modules have been known to fail intermittently when numerous modules are used (power reset required to correct).
    Communication is two-way: Modules respond to commands (so you know the module's state).
    Supported via the PowerLinc.
     
  • WebSwitch:
    2-outlet module that responds to commands sent over ethernet.
    Off/on only (no dimming).
    Extremely robust/dependable (much more so than power line).
    Communication is two-way: Modules respond to commands (so you know the module's state).
     
  • Hardwired (lighting only):
    Controls light voltages directly.
    Extremely robust/dependable (much more so than power line).
    For 12V/DC fixtures/bulbs only.
    Best suited for low-wattage LED lighting.
    Supported via the PWM8x-Dimmer and the EcoDimmer.

How to determine if a power line technology (X10 / UPB / Insteon) will work well in your building
All power line technologies are subject to line noise and/or wiring anomalies. So before making a sizable investment, you should assure that signals can be successfully transmitted throughout your building:
  • Purchase one transmitter (e.g. a tabletop "console") and one module.
  • Plug the module into an outlet one side of the house.
  • Plug the transmitter into an outlet on the other side of the house.
  • Push the console buttons to turn the module off and on, and verify that it responds.
    Note: If an X10 module fails to respond, changing the house-code may help.
  • Repeat with other corners of the house.
Note: If you are having X10 transmission problems, you might consider the X10 Transmit Booster (XTB). We have heard that it works very well.



Omnipotence Software
support@OmnipotenceSoftware.com
423-745-0026
604 CR 181
Decatur, TN 37322
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