Jeff, one of the guys mentioned the Lutron Homeworks RF (sort of). We're currently installing this RF processor, along with their regular wired processor in our building in upstate New York. I can't say that I've used many of the other systems out there, but Lutron is solid, from their products right down to the engineers on staff. We just went to training in PA, and its an impressive place. One RF processor can provide up to 64 zones of control, with 32 keypads for control. Up to 16 processors can be linked together, for 1024 zones of control. Size is not the issue here.
The biggest feature that we love about the Lutron (other than its low defect rate) is its ability to integrate with other types of systems, like the B&K product, HVAC, internet control systems, etc. I'm sure many other systems have the same type of expansion. They just don't seem to have the full package like Lutron does. Reply with any addtional questions if you wish.

Did the guys at Lutron tell you there still using an 8-bit processor while everybody else has or is moving up to 24-bit?

Jeff,

My situation is very similar to yours. When my house was being built, the builder allowed me to run conduit to all switch locations that would not be attic accessible after the drywall was up. Since it was not a custom house, it was not possible to do a home-run type lighting system.

I have installed and programmed my own Vantage lighting system using the hardwired keypad stations and ScenePoint dimmers. It is a work-in-progress and I will be adding more ScenePoints plus some AccentPoint plug-in RF dimmers for lamp control and even some home-runs for some additional light fixtures.

I have also installed and programmed my own Crestron system (AV2), Caddx security system, AutoPatch AV switcher for whole-house audio and video, PC based music server, etc. All systems are connected to the Crestron AV2, which acts as the "brain" of the house. The AV2 therefore "knows" everything that is happening and can coordinate among the various systems. For example, lights turn off 5 minutes after I arm the security system and leave the house and turn back on when I return, but only if it's dark outside. This is a simple example. The automation possibilities are endless!

I purchased my equipment from dealers with the understanding that I was buying hardware only and would not require any installation or programming assistance from them. There is a Yahoo Crestron group that is very helpful and I have been able to help some people there also.

Installing and programming the systems is a lot of fun (and work). As I said, it is a work-in-progress that will keep me busy for quite a while, but that is the fun part.

My background. I am a professional programmer and a computer science and electronics engineering major. I am a very technically-minded person who always has to know "how everything works". I have been playing with electronic devices and doing electrical wiring since I was about twelve. I always make sure I do everything the professional way. For example, I have a book on the electrical code and always follow it.

If you are a technical-type person, you should be able to do your own installation and programming. You can download the Vantage (and Crestron) software and read the help files to see if it's something you want to try.

John

dlynn,
what's the big deal with a higher-res processor for lighting control with some automation?
how much more processing would require 24-bit?
the lights turn on exactly when the button is pressed.

Any faster processing needed can be down with external I/O's. We mix and meld different industrial processors for advanced applications.

fill me in, I guess I'm missing the boat.

I suppose the real difference is how you define your system; Lighting control vs. Home Automation