I have an mx-850 doing all that I want. Now I would like to control the lights in the room. Could someone help me out with exactly what I need. I have been on the x10 related websites so I figure I need x10 switches. I am not sure what else. I just have the 850 do I need the 250 or 300 emitter that I have read about? I now there have been threads on this, but I am slow on the uptake and need it spelled out for me.

Thanking whoever answers in advance
Joe

Joe, get yourself some Lutron switches, preferrably the Spacer system, not the basic Spacer. The MX-850 is already pre-programmed for both Lutron and the X-10 but the Lutron is far more reliable and as well nicer to look at I find with all of thier custom plates.

You will want to run a cat5 to the light switch location for RF to IR control.

Thanks for the reply. The light switch is already in the wall. I would replace that with the Lutron and then how and from where do I run the cat5 and for what purpose?

Run the CAT5 from the RF base station to the Lutron dimmer. Splice the CAT5 into the emitter cable.

Mike

Talk to Bill @ Home Automation Net. I picked up their PCS scene lighting kit and it has been very reliable and was extremely easy to set up.




[Link: homeautomationnet.com]

Thanks for the tip

Joe

Joe,
to run your cat5 you will need to get access through the wall wither from the ceiling (if it is a drop ceiling) or from behind your baseboard. If you have never done anywork like this I would recommend getting an installer for best results. We usually have the right tools. But, if cost is a factor then I would remove the baseboard that is underneath that light switch you want to control. Then I would make a hole no higher then the baseboard to allow access into the wall cavity. I would then make a small hole behind the trim plate for the light switch in the drywall. Then I would fish the cat5 through there. You should be able to tuck the cat5 around your room if it is carpet, but if it is hardwood then i would remove the baseboard all the way around to hide the wire, then reinstall all of your baseboards once you are done.

Thanks. As luck would have it there is an equipment closet behind the light switch so to run the wire will be a cinch.