I flat out don't understand the logic of all the New technology Manufactures (UPB, Insteon, Zwave). Why are they all bent on trying to build a controller into each switch and have to charge $75 per switch. If they want to sell a lot of equipment why not keep it simple. All a switch really needs is, reliablity, speed, be able to turn it on, off, dim, preset dim and a ramp rate, thats it, and sell it for $20. If you want the more complicated stuff then that should be handled by a stand alone controller or a PC based solution. Lets face it, the average home owner is not going to be able to install one of these UPB switches and utilize all the features. Heck they are hesitant to install an old style dimmer. The bulk of this equipment being sold is to Home Automation hobbiests, who are technically inclined, and the professional installers. If they want to sell product then keep it simple and keep it inexpensive. If they do the math they might understand. The average home can have anywhere from 50 to 150 switches installed in there home. To have an automated home, at least 50% of these switches should be controlable. So lets say one needs to install 75 switches. 75 * $75 = $5620. Who in there right mind is going to spend this kind of money on light switches. If they were $20 * 75 = $1500. I suspect they would sell a whole lot more product at a lower cost, and this is just for the technically inclined. If you keep it simple and inexpensive more average homeowners would consider installing them and sell more product.
All I want is a basic switch that is reliable with basice functions at a resonable price. :angry:
All I want is a basic switch that is reliable with basice functions at a resonable price. :angry: