Getting Started

[brad37]

Okay I ready to get started on my home automation project but I was hoping to get some guidance as far as choosing the right equipment/software to be the backbone of my automation system. I have done a bunch of research and the question I keep getting hung up on is which main controller to get. My main goal is to be able to control my house via web , pc and mobile app. The use of a server to host software is not a problem. I will be starting with lighting and HVAC control, but I intend on expanding to Home Theater and security. For the lighting I'm planning on using Insteon Dual Band, for the dimmers and thermostats. Now all that being said , what would be the best place to start , I have looked at the :
Smartlinc 2412n

ISY -99i with Dual Band powerlinc modem

Global Cache GC-100 with Dual Band Powerlinc modem (not sure if this will even work)

As far as software goes I have no idea there are so many
Well that's all I've got any advice , guidance or otherwise would be greatly appreciated, I'm not tied to any of the listed hardware solutions anything you guys can recommend would be great.
Thanks in advance

 

[Rupp]

I would recommend giving HomeSeer a try. You can down load a free 30 day trial here:
http://www.homeseer.com/downloads
It works great with Insteon, UPB, Z-Wave, X-10, etc and has plugins for every main stream security system on the market. It provides new iPhone/iTouch/iPad and Android touch screen interfaces via the HSTouch add on as well. The beauty when using HomeSeer is you can use the best products that each protocol offers. So you can use your Insteon devices and still add Z-Wave locks, X10 devices along with UPB devices. Check us out over at the HomeSeer forum if you have any other questions. http://board.homeseer.com