more switches... future plans... software ponderings

I know, I know... I've been very bad about updating my blog in a timely manner. After buying some additional starter kits from individuals who decided against UPB, I got some extra switches, so I spent last weekend installing switches for the entry way, kitchen, and breakfast room. I now have every commonly used light in the downstairs (and therefore, my house since the only commonly used room upstairs is my daugheter's room) with a UPB switch. From my bedside or as I walk in or out of the house, I can control any room... very cool stuff considering what I knew about home automation just a couple of months ago (i.e., nothing).

I guess what needs to happen next is get some single switches, not the more expensive universal switches, for lights around the house that are less commonly used, but still should be automated. Looks like the best deal for this is at Fry's, where there are SAI single switch dimmers for $37.99 (although they are branded as HAL due to Fry's partnership with HAL). Just for my own documentation purposes, the lights that I would need these single switches are:
porch light, dining room, office, playroom, 3 closets in bedroom.

As for software ponderings... I think I'm starting to get tired of MisterHouse (already!). The problem with this software, in my opinion, is that the only thing constant about it is that it is in a constant state of flux. There are new check-ins made everyday to the SVN source, which I guess is a good thing if they are largely bug fixes and new functionality, but that's not always the case. Also, each individual module is written by a different developer, and it shows... the interfaces are different (in general), not well documented (in my opinion), and I'm not entirely sure everything will work together once I get things up and running.

The reason I went with MisterHouse in the first place was two-fold: the price (free) and the fact that it works with both UPB (at least in a fledgeling state) and the W800RF32 so I could use PIR's and door/window contacts as a rudimentary security system. Well, now that the end of the year is approaching, I will likely have a budget for home automation purposes, and I think one of my purchases is likely to be Homeseer. Although it is infinitely more expensive than Misterhouse ($177.95 at AutomatedOutlet), it has plugins for UPB and the W800RF32 (although, they both cost more money). It also has a plugin for 3com Audreys should I choose to purchase one or two of those around the house. I think more research into this is warranted.

In other news... Go Hogs.