[Rustleup]

Hi

I am completely new to home automation and want some advice on a fairly simple set-up. I want to use windows media center to control two lamps connected to a normal mains plug socket. What hardware do I need for this? Can it be done without re-wiring the sockets?

Many thanks

[hornydragon]

Hi and welcome to the forum...

Dare i ask why you would want a PC to control 2 lamps?

[Rustleup]

Haha good question. I am starting simple with home automation until I learn a bit more/get more money. I mainly use lamps/small lights to light my flat and as I rent the flat I can't really re-wire the electrics until I get my own place.

[reakhavok]

I use Mcontrol from Embedded Automation - Home Page. It installs on media center and will allow you to control insteon,zwave and other type home automation stuff.
you can get a couple of lamplincs and a controller from smarthome.com

LampLinc - INSTEON Plug-In Lamp Dimmer Module, 3-Pin - Smarthome

and that should be all you need.