DSC Interface to a PC for Home Automation

I have a DSC Power Series (PC1832) and I would like to integrate it with my zwave lighting control. I am just starting the project and wanted to figure out how to get information out of the DSC alarm. They seem to offer both an IT-100 and PC5401 which appear to be very similar. I did consider the IT-120 with an ethernet interface but I could not find any good technical information about the IT-120. The serial interface seemed simpler. Why does DSC offer both the IT-100 and PC5401? Does anyone have a recommendation on which one and where to purchase?

DSC IT-100 http://www.dsc.com/Default.aspx?id=228
DSC PC5401 http://www.dsc.com/Default.aspx?id=58

Thanks,

Pat

I think Homeseer software supports the DSC and definately ZWave. That would be your best solution.

If you are thinking of writing a serial driver for the DSC, then you have a LONG way to go to get close to what a commercial automation software solution can do for you. If you value your time at all, you'lll pay for the software in your first night of programming.

HomeSeer offers 2 DSC plugins both of which support the IT-100 and PC5401. You can trial each for 30 days for free.

pat said:

I have a DSC Power Series (PC1832) and I would like to integrate it with my zwave lighting control. I am just starting the project and wanted to figure out how to get information out of the DSC alarm. They seem to offer both an IT-100 and PC5401 which appear to be very similar. I did consider the IT-120 with an ethernet interface but I could not find any good technical information about the IT-120. The serial interface seemed simpler. Why does DSC offer both the IT-100 and PC5401? Does anyone have a recommendation on which one and where to purchase?

DSC IT-100 http://www.dsc.com/Default.aspx?id=228
DSC PC5401 http://www.dsc.com/Default.aspx?id=58

Thanks,

Pat

Click to expand...

The IT-100 is the "newer" model. They both do the same thing though.

[/quote]The IT-100 is the "newer" model. They both do the same thing though.[/quote]

Thank you for the reply. The IT-100 seems to be cheaper (about $60) so same functionality, cheaper and newer all sounds good to me.

On the software recommendation front I am going to buy vs. build an application. I just have not made that much progress. It seemed to me that once I get the hardware working I can try out a couple applications and pick one. IMHO getting the hardware working was the first step and then playing with the software was the fun part!

Thanks for your feedback.

http://www.homesecurityandautomation.com/ is the place that lists the IT-100 for $60.

Never underestimate the value of writing a device driver. It is certainly not for everyone; however, the experience provides you with a deep understanding of the hardware and software.

The MisterHouse community has created an incredible array of device drivers and everything is free. The only downside is that the documentation is weak so there's a bit of a learning curve involved when implementing them!

Fortunately, the HA market is comprehensive and offers something for everyone and ranges from 'pay a professional for a turn-key solution' to 'write your own HA program'. I've chosen to write whatever drivers I'm missing using a free commercial product (Premise). Your choice may be Homeseer, CQC, etc. Pick one and run with it!

We support the Power Series 5401 & IT100 and the 4401 (MaxSys) interfaces. And we support more Z-Wave interfaces and options than any other software vendor.