X-10 Info and questions

[bill-e]

Jeanna,

You will not find a dynamic timer with all these features which does not need a computer to run. Some, Like the Neptune AquaController have their own computer, but you pay for that.

You cannot do moon light simulation unless you daily compute the moon/rise/set times and it's phase and adjust it accordingly. Same for sunrise/set although you dont have to worry about phase.

If you're satisfied with fixed times, then your cheapest way out is manual timers.

I do not recommend a manual timer for the moon, I think that does more harm than good. You need the moon to vary in duration and intensity and also provide a number of moonless nights.

I agree with Stircrazy, the x10 for wavemaker isnt the best thing...too noisy unless you remote the modules or do the solid state modification. However Soft Start for pumps isnt a big deal, I've been running with 3 maxiJets on a wave timer strip for over 3 years and they are quite and still running well. Even the AquaController doesnt have it. Whatever you buy, dont pay extra for that feature, it's not worth it. eLightMaster does work well with the X10 universal module which is silent and is used to switch a motorized ball valve (which was the actual reason for adding the Wavemaker). That being said, the WaveMaker is an option anyway.

And the leaving the computer on thing, in the long run, your computer will thank you. Most electronics fail from the thermal shock of startup or shutdown. As long as you turn off your monitor I dont think you would notice any change in your electric bill.

I hope you all have fun with your FireCrackers, we'll probably have to wait till next 4th of July for another sale like that one.