Recently I found a nice article about home automation using open source software and OS Linux. It covers all aspects of smarthome - appliance control, media recording and streaming, security and surveillance system, telephony. Actually this is a brief overview. So, don’t expect to find there detailed instructions how to automate your home. But as a start point is really helpful.
P. S. LinuxMCE basically offers all features described in that article and much more.
Recently Marmitek introduced SWM1P - an X10 micro module for operating sun blind, shutters or projection-screen. It’s equipped with a preset function, a blocking mode and two way communication, which allows to retrieve its status remotely.
The SWM1P has built-in relay with two contacts for connecting a 230V motor and can be installed and programmed very easily. Using the SWM1P together with CM15Pro (and with LinuxMCE probably) you can protect your furniture from the sun, keep your house cool or organize hi-tech home theater.
The SWM1P can be found on the Intellihome at €99.95.
[via AutomatedHome]
AutomatedHome today published a review by Stephen Shephard (home automation installation company owner) of newest version of X10 programmable PC interface CM15 Pro. It’s available in Europe at €98.00. Regarding opinion of Mr Stephen Shephard the CM15 Pro is good but it has some disadvantages which cannot mar its reputation, though.
See also:
Recently Marmitek launched its new product - USB CM15Pro With X-10 ActiveHomePro Software. It includes a logic engine and 8 times more memory then CM12 (I even don’t speak about my CM11) which allows to store over 1400 timers and/or macros. To communicate with wireless X10 devices CM15Pro sports built-in RF transceiver. So, you don’t need separate TM12U transceiver module to receive events from the MS13E occupancy sensor.
Traditionally CM15Pro is shipped with X-10 ActiveHomePro software which allows to configure and control all X10 devices in your home as well as add various scenarios. The ActiveHomePro is based on Windows and it’s absolutely free (you can download it from the Marmitek’s web site).
Personally I maintain a healthy skepticism about X10. There are more modern and power technologies such INSTEON, PLCBUS or Z-Wave in the home automation area. So, it might be more useful to produce INSTEON devices for European standard then develop dead-end technology.
[via AutomatedHome]
Recently I mentioned about possibility to control X10 devices from MythTV interface. Here is a detailed explanation how to add that feature into your media center. As I suspected that approach uses Perl interface to the X10 API (ControlX10-CM17). It also needs libdevice-serialpor.
Using approach showed below you’ll able to control X10 devices not only from MythTV on-screen menu but from its remote control as well. Great work!