Recent content by Hari_Seldon

A quick follow up - thanks to all for the help. I now have dimmer control working. It was a pretty quick process with the Dealer version of PC Access, although I wasn't able to find specific documentation on how to set it up. Here are my notes: Step 0 - Setup the RA-RS232 zones (assign each...

Thanks! I assume this option is only in the Dealer version of PC Access? I don't see it on my user PC Access, and I don't see the option on the keypad menu either. Thanks, HS

I now have the system setup, but I can't figure out how to tell the OmniIIe that I have connected the RadioRa system to its serial port (J3). Can anyone point me to these specific instructions? I have reviewed the OmniIIe manual and the PC Access manual but I can't find where it says how to...

Thanks for the tips. My breaker panel is full on the phase that apparently corresponds with the ideal outlet. I didn't want to rearrange the breakers but if that is the only way I guess I'll do it. It's a bit complicated because the 'ideal' outlet is actually sourced from one of two...

I have a TED 1000 ( http://theenergydetective.com ). It works great on certain outlets, but not on the ideal outlet (cannot connect). I am guessing I need a phase coupler, however I don't know which one to buy. According to the TED debug guide...

Thanks Brian! I did read that a RA-REP RF repeater unit is required to setup a new RA system. A friend of mine is trying to use this very setup here in town. I am following his progress because I plan the same setup. He has so far been unable to control individual lights from HAI, only...

I am considering the following lighting control setup: HAI Omni IIe + RadioRA I would like to be able to turn on/off individual lights, report light status (on/off) and set scenes via the HAI system. Can I use the RA-RS232 interface for RadioRA lighting control through HAI? Or do I need the...

Does anyone have input on this camera before I pull the trigger? Thank you, HS

I tried out the Touchsmart at Best Buy today and was pleasantly surprised. It seems perfect for a kitchen PC. I just can't figure out why HP would fail to offer a VESA mount option. I can't see buying one unless I can figure out how to mount it on the wall. I wonder if the back leg can be...

Good point on the IR. It looks like the AverMedia PC DVR solution is widely recommended on the forums. Do these require a dedicated PC? Or could I use a single P4 3GHz machine for security cameras and also to run CQC or act as a media server (for example)? If I build a dedicated PC for the...

Thank you all for the input. I think the 9 camera Q-See system might do the job, but I'd rather not have IR, and I don't need 9 cameras. If I increase my budget and spend ~$1000 for 4 cameras, can anyone recommend a specific camera model? -HS

I am building a new home and I have wired for 4 outdoor security cameras. The amount of camera and DVR options are overwhelming, so I am seeking advice from experts, or those who have recently installed a similar setup. I would be happy to purchase a system through an expert if it saved me...

As part of my security / surveillance setup I would like to include a doorbell unit with a camera and speaker. I believe there are a few models from Panasonic: Panasonic Doorbell Cameras But I don't really like the look. Does anyone know of a generic enclosure I could use? Or a more...

Thank you all for your input. In talking with the insulation and low voltage wiring installers I learned there are 2 ways that spray foam can damage wires (which some of you brought up as well): 1 - If wiring is not secured, expanding foam can push it out past the studs/joists. When the...

My new home is under construction and I plan to wire for security, automation, audio and video before we seal up the walls. We are planning to use spray foam insulation (Icynene) in the walls and ceiling. I believe as spray foam cures and expands it can get very hot. I am concerned that this...