Homeowner Forum / Home Automation / May 2006

I have 68 Insteon (including Icon) switches in my new addition to home.  I
have linked a few of them but feel that there must be an easier way.
Ideally, what I would like a software and hardware (connected via USB) on a
PC that would identify all the Insteon devices, allow me to ...

I know next to nothing about circuit-level electronics, but I'd love to
learn how to make an IR repeater where the signal goes over twisted
pair in Cat5 to run parallel to audio and video signals.
I've always wanted to learn more about this stuff, and though I grew-up

I wanted to use x10 to independently control four 300W Halogen lights
on the ceiling of my recently-built barn.  I am using gray 3/4" PVC
conduit and boxes with wires pulled inside for all wiring in the barn
which is unheated thru Vermont winters. I wanted to mount X10 modules

Looking to add a hardwired XM radio to my shower during a shower
remodel.  I can't seem  to find such a product though. Heck, i can't
even find a normal hardwired shower radio anywhere either.  All I can
find is those cheapo freestanding shower radios.

Are there any recommendations for low to moderately priced security cameras that can be accessed via IP?  I'm building a house and would like to be able to check progress online while I'm at work.  I'm hoping to have 2 to 4 cameras.
What setups have worked well for you?
Also, it ...

Can anyone point me to either a single or duplex 110v 15A outlet that can be
controlled by a 12v signal from my HT Receiver? I have 2 Sub amps that have
manual toggle switches for power, and they wind up staying on when I shut
the receiver down. I'd ideally like a device that I ...

Looking at 80 lights/outlets being controlled, including a large detached
garage.  Looking for lighting control preferably with an integrated
controller
- UPB     -  Supported by Elk and HAI

I've got a cat that likes to wander. (1-2 block range)
I try to get him inside before dark, but I don't always have any luck in
finding him.
I was wondering if anyone knew of a small (he's only 10 lbs) transmitter

you guys are the experts... i have no experience with this
stuff, but i am looking to set up things to turn on & off
when i'm out of town.
is the Intermatic kit at Costco a good start and price?

Has anyone been able to retrofit existing shades or blinds into
motorized units?  I have Hunter Douglas PowerRise blinds which are
battery powered, but I'd like to retrofit them to a wired system for
more reliability and better performance.

Hello I am trying to set up a home automation system and so far have
installed an OMNI IIe controller and I believe I have that part of it
working.  I can access it from my PC so I believe I have it at least
half working.  What I can't seem to figure out how to do is I want my

I can't decide between the 2. Any experiences on either of them?
Thanks,
JT

with HAI Omni II for window sensors, smoke detectors, motion detectors
do i need 4 conductor shielded or is unshielded ok?
Thanks

Hi everyone.  I'm looking to buy an answering machine which must have
the following two criteria:
*2-way recording (ie.  records not only incoming messages when I don't
pick up the receiver but can also record BOTH incoming or outgoing