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rorycl
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Joined: November 22 2008
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| Posted: November 22 2008 at 18:01 | IP Logged
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I've stumbled upon PowerHome while surfing around looking for possible solutions for a problem I would like to solve: I have a door phone in my flat which I don't always want to have to go to to let people into the building.
In short I would like to run a script on my linux box or press a button on a web page to open the door of my building.
Initially I was thinking of trying to link up a small Wrap or Alix board with a serial or usb connector to the phone to (somehow) make the short electrical connection required. However on looking around more it appears that X10 might be more useful although perhaps overkill.
I appreciate that this question isn't strictly related to PowerHome, but I can see that X10+PowerHome appears to be a powerful combination.
I'd be grateful for any advice. I should also note that I live in the UK.
Rory
Edited by rorycl - November 22 2008 at 18:03
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TonyNo
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| Posted: November 23 2008 at 08:51 | IP Logged
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Welcome!
You would start with a European X10 PLC and Universal (UM7206E) module. The Universal is just an X10 relay that has two screw terminals to connect your device.
There are also European Insteon modules.
After that, be careful. This stuff is pretty addictive!
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rorycl
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| Posted: November 23 2008 at 12:11 | IP Logged
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Hi TonyNo
Very many thanks for the pointers. Your warning about X10 being addictive seems well put; I've now started thinking about turning things on and off in our office remotely!
With regard to the PLC module, I wonder if you mean something like the following?:
http://www.uk-automation.co.uk/product_info.php?manufacturer s_id=&products_id=1016
The Universal module I saw here:
http://www.matrixxsystems.de/66+M535dc101b07.html
I'm confused as to how the PLC module can connect to a linux box as I'm not familiar with signalling over a RJ11 phone connection. After that I'm not clear as to how the Universal module receives signals from the PLC as the Universal module appears not to have a power line connection.
Sorry for the continued questions. Futher pointers very gratefully received!
Rory
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TonyNo
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| Posted: November 23 2008 at 13:13 | IP Logged
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The RJ is plugged into with another cable that is terminated for a serial port.
The Universal has a mains plug on the back that you can't see.
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Topic: X10 newbie : door phone problem
