Home Hacking Projects for Geeks

4

Part I: Home Automation

Project Overview

This simple project will introduce you to basic concepts

of electricity, wiring, and the X10 home automation

communications protocol by replacing a wall switch

to allow for remote control using X10. While the new

switch could be controlled from anywhere in the house

using a computer, remote control, or other device, you’ll

be automating it using a motion detector in the same

room.

You will start by replacing the existing wall switch

with an X10 wall switch. This is a fairly easy change,

but the wiring can be complex, and you must follow

safety precautions. You will then install an X10 wire-

less transceiver, which receives wireless signals from

the X10 motion detector and sends commands across

your home’s power lines to the X10 wall switch. Finally,

you will configure and position the wireless X10 motion

detector. When you’re done, the motion detector will

trigger the light when you enter a room by relaying both wireless and wired

X10 signals, as illustrated in Figure 1-2.

This project does not require a computer. However, later projects will con-

nect your computer to both the switch and the module and allow you to

integrate both into complex applications.

Shortcut: If you don’t have future plans to remotely control this switch, buy a light

switch with a built-in motion ...