X10 smart home on Windows 7 - European version or better alternative?

I’m planning to move house and carry out some renovation work. In my new home, I’d like to install a ‘simple’ ‘smart home’ system.

I’d appreciate some advice on which system would be best suited to my needs:

Control would be via a computer (Windows 7 x64):
- lighting (dimmer, On, Off) (what type of lighting should I use? Is there an energy-efficient solution for dimmers? Fluorescent/LED, and what would the costs be?)
- software with the ability to create ‘macro’ commands
- electronic control of window blinds.

Ultimately, the system is to run on Windows 7 EN with voice control capability.

I’ve heard of the X10 solution; it can be controlled via the Girder programme, but when searching online I’ve only found ‘American’ systems (with American power sockets). Does anyone know if there is an X10 system compliant with European standards, or alternatively, if there is a reasonable alternative to this system?

Many thanks in advance to forum members for any suggestions...

Best regards, Paweł...

PS. Does anyone know of the “IntelligentHouse” system, which can be used to adjust the colour of LED lighting?

Have you had a look at the website http://www.ebode.pl/automatyka-domowa-x10-c-2.html
? Have a look for systems such as HomeMatic or xComfort as well. And type ‘PLC X10’ into the search engine

KNX/EIB is the largest interface for building control, with over 1,000 modules

As an alternative, I can also mention the wireless Z-Wave system. You can find a description here Link . For control, you have the Vera server with a full SDK and the ability to write macros. There’s also the mControl software, which runs on Windows Media Centre and also allows you to write various macros, including those based on motion detection by cameras. For this, you’ll need a USB dongle and some actuators to control the lighting and blinds.

I’ll just join this thread so as not to start a new one.

My question is: which IB system would you recommend that’s simple (and intuitive) to use? I’ve found loads of companies specialising in this on Google, but I’d like to get an objective opinion from people who have had the chance to try them out (not self-proclaimed experts!).
It doesn’t necessarily have to be the cheapest on the market, but I’d like it to be one where adjusting the devices’ operating algorithms (I’m referring to defining the cause-and-effect relationships between roller blinds, solenoid valves, motion detectors, reed switches, IP/USB cameras, thermostats, and lighting) and adding new equipment isn’t too much of a hassle. I’m asking about such a system because I intend to gradually install it myself in my home (we all know what the costs are like, which is why I’m only interested in a flexible, user-friendly system that I’ll be able to expand over time).
Thanks in advance for your helpful replies.

Have you considered the NEXO system? http://www.nexwell.eu/
At present, it’s probably the only system offering such extensive options for connecting multiple installations within a flat. I’m not sure how it compares with other companies now, but as recently as last year it was the most affordable option.
Control is available via an LCD panel and a PC – see here: http://www.nexwell.eu/aktualnosci/nowosc-program-nexovision

Typical system functions include an alarm, control of lighting, heating, roller blinds, RGB lighting, garden watering, and a ‘home occupancy’ simulation, etc. You can define any functions, macros or switches on the panel. When leaving the flat, with a single command we arm the alarm, lower the blinds, switch off all the lights in the house, cut the power to selected rooms or the entire flat, etc.
We can check the status of our flat via text messages and send commands, such as switching on the lights outside the property – the possibilities are virtually endless.
From the user’s perspective, it’s simple and straightforward; all functions (logic) are set up by the installer, though of course the user can also ‘play around’ and programme the system according to their own imagination.

Regards

Hello,
The X-10 system can be controlled using the Active Home Pro software (which also works on Windows 7) – English version only. It supports advanced macros and timers. It requires the CM15A USB interface (which operates independently once settings have been uploaded from the computer), which sends and receives commands via the mains electricity supply and via radio signals.
As for the European standard for sockets, the devices can be found on the ebode website mentioned earlier. In addition to full-size system switches, the system includes so-called micro-modules fitted into a junction box – behind a switch or socket from any manufacturer of electrical fittings. ON/OFF micromodules require a neutral wire, whilst for dimmers, communication and control take place using only the live wire.
The system also includes modules for mounting on a DIN rail.
Roller shutter control modules are available.
In Europe, compatible systems are marketed under the brands X-10, Ebode and Marmitek.

@i_darek, if I’ve understood correctly, are you planning to install the system yourself at home?

Best regards,
Adrian

Hello,

At present, one of the best systems on the market is Control4.

Once you’ve let us know what your budget is, we’ll put together a quote for you.

The system connects all the devices in your home.

You can find more information at www.ib.synergy.pl.

Kind regards.