X10 uses wireless (~300 Mhz) and wired communications to control lights, outlets and other devices. This review covers CM17A personal computer (PC) serial controller, ActiveEye Motion Sensor lamp and appliance modules.

CM17A control module is no longer sold by X10 merchants. X10 switched to universal serial bus (USB) interface. There are many Ebay and 2nd hand sellers of X10 equipment.


The Good:


X10 is cheap, dirt cheap compared to DMX or other remote control systems. It's versatility in controlling lights and other electrical appliances. Hand held and PC controllers makes it an easy system to use.

Many free PC programs available to control X10 systems. Bottlerocket and Flipit are two Linux programs that provide versatility and stability.


The Bad:

CM17A X10 wired system command modules use home electrical wires to transmit commands. If your home wiring is having issues -- so will your command module. In same cases being on the wrong side of the fuse box can cause problems.

Don't use power strips with surge protectors on a X10 system. They will interfere with commands by choking signals.

Using Microsoft Windows PC operating system may cause serial devices to randomly stop working.

Not all X10 devices were built to last. Manufactures like Philips, Radio Shack and IBM slapped their names on various X10 devices. Brand names don't mean quality. I through away 3 IBM lamp and appliance controllers after they randomly started to turn on devices.

X10 ActiveEye Motion Sensor is a compact and is capable of sending wireless commands. Problem is it uses red led "blinks" to indicate how it is programmed. It's confusing at least and is doesn't hold it's memory once the AAA batteries are removed.

Don't use X10 on LED light strands. Appears to be a 'leakage' resulting in some LED's always being dimly lit. Some people have reported having problems with LED's flicking when on. A problem I have not encountered.

Summary:

X10 are inexpensive control system. The key is understanding the systems limitations and having a grasp on fundamental troubleshooting.


About the Author:

8 years of X10 experience wrapped around seasonal light control. 20 years of Microsoft Windows 2 years of Linux experience.