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REMOTELY CONTROLLED LIGHT PROJECT ON A WALL SWITCH
This is the succinct version --- Link to detailed version
First you need an X10-controlled wall switch
There are several wall switch modules available and any of the units are suitable for this project. Most of these units must be used with incandescent lamps (under 500 watt) or special compact fluorescent lamps.
Now we have limited the field and can go to a supplier (see our resources page) type "Wall Switch Module" into their search engine. You should be able to find a basic unit for under $15. The more expensive units are certainly more attractive but often require special face plates or other accessories. A basic one like pictured above should do just fine.
Now we need a controller to be able to switch the lamp from another location. There are, of course, a great variety of controllers available but for an inexpensive, simple system there is really only one choice: THE X10 MINI CONTROLLER. This unit plugs into any outlet and provides convenient control of up to four modules.
Even if you decide on a more complicated system, I suggest you may want to buy at least one mini-controller as a backup and testing device.
If you aren't familiar with house wiring, it would be wise to find some friend who is or hire an electrician. If you do it yourself, be sure to turn the electricity off at the breaker panel before proceeding. Unscrew the faceplate and the old switch and disconnect the old switch from the two wires. Connect the two wires to the new switch and place it in the location of the old switch. Reset the breaker after the faceplate has been re-installed. Plug the mini-controller into any convenient wall outlet. That is all there is too it. Press the #1-ON switch to turn your light on. Press the #1-OFF switch to turn your light off. When the light is on you can dim it by pressing and holding the dim button until you get the desired light level. Once it is dimmed you can increase the brightness by pressing the bright button. If it works (and it should) you are done. If it doesn't, check troubleshooting on the detailed page.
Now that you've succeeded in installing your this system, you are probably ready to try something a little more advanced. Perhaps you would like to try one of these variations:
- Add a second mini-controller to control your light from another location. There is no limit on the number of controllers you can have set to the same address. Thus you can have a mini-controller on each side of a couch if you wish or at both doors to a living room.
- There are controllers that fit in the location of a conventional light switch. You may have an unused switch near where you want to place the controller and can replace it with one of these. Many electrical contractors leave a blank space in a gang of two or more switches for just such an expansion. If you decide to use this suggestion, be sure to check that the switch box has power wired into it as these controllers require 110 volt power and some switch boxes may not have the necessary wiring.
- Finally you can upgrade to more advanced control. Some of the items below are links to an article on advanced systems.
- A battery-operated controller can be placed anywhere (even mounted on a wall).
- A computer can be used for more elaborate control or advanced timing.
ORDERING THE COMPONENTS
To order from Smarthome (or just see their description of these devices) click on the Smarthome X10 affiliate link below:
OTHER LINKS
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Starter Project --- Select a Project --- Alternatives to the Mini-Controller -- Battery Operated Remotes -- Help with Troubleshooting -- Help with Addressing -- Deal Finder -- Resource Page - Affiliate Information -- The Newbie Club
(C) Donald Scouten 2003
How to choose an X10 address
