Hi, after reading the many threads on this forum and seeing so much help and advice given, I noticed that not too much confidence is put X10 co. products?

I just installed a security system using X10 items and also am using ActiveHome for my lights, coffee pot etc. After a little trial and error (calling X10 tech support at 5am), I seem to have everything working fine.

I am just wondering is this just for a short time and do I have invest in more expensive items?

I am retired with alot of time on my hands but not too much money to do what I like to do.

Thanks for any suggestions or help.

Hi Pete.

The "regular" X-10 product line seems to suffer from a lack of quality control with certain items. But not all of them.

A few problem items are the wire-in wall switches and some of the small pocket remotes.

But I can assure you that items such as the security system seem to work quite well, especially for the price. My uncle is also enjoying his retirement and installed the Protector Plus system 2.5 years ago and it works well. (same goes for a colleague of mine)

The regular line (as opposed to the "pro" line) is really inexpensive as compaired to many competitors but there is a reason behind it all. Quality.

So if you have a floor lamp that you would like to control by X-10, go with the cheap module.

If you have a wall switch in a high traffic area or where little kids will be banging on it to turn the lights on and off, go with another make of switch.

You can mix and match X-10 compatible products as needed.

One more comment: If you find that the signal does not always reach the module in question you should probably install the Phase Coupler. This $30 item seems to solve many people's problems. The other common problem is noise on the wiring from many different household devices...


Have fun with it, create your own custom ideas and good luck!

-CL

Thanks Chris, as I said everything is working fine and I hope I do not need a phase coupler in the future. I am somewhat of a handyman but will not go in the main fuse box (maybe thats why I am around for retirement) and just getting a electrician in the door is about $200 dollars in the Boston area.

Pete