Newbies X10 questions

[hpoom]

OK I've spent the last couple of days reading about x10 stuff, but I have a few questions before I go out and spend some cash.

I have found out that I can now controll x10 stuff with am all in one remote (thanks to another thread on here). But the problem I have is I have very few power outlets in my house to most stuff us attached using 4ways, also all the AV Equiment and PC stuff is attached using 6way surge protectors.

1/ Can I plug lamp modules into 4ways OK and will this still work?
2/ Can I plug lamp modules into surge protectors or will these remove the signal?
3/ Can U plug the controll module into a 4way or surge protector???
4/ Can I put an appliance module between a socket and a 4 way to turn 3-4 lamps on an off at the same time?

Thanks in advance I'm just wokring out if I need to change a few singel sockets to 2ways before I buy x10 stuff.

[Johnny Thunder]

1. yes this will work fine.
2. never tried this but I cannot see the problem, the signal is sent on the neutral.
3. Will be fine in a 4 way, and again, cannot see a problem with the surge pro.
4. You would possibly overload the module.
Appliance modules are rated at 500w. Lamp modules are rated up to 300w. You would have to do a
few calculations.

Hope that helps you mate.

[hpoom]

OK Regards number 4, I have 3 20w bookshelf lights on top of my DVD storeage that are all pluged into a 4way, they all run off of 12v transformers. I was thinking of putting an Appliance module between the socket and the 4way and then have all 3 lamps come on and off with one command.

So would that work, they are only 60w combined

[Johnny Thunder]

You should have no problems with that mate.
Just make sure that nobody plugs anything naughty into the spare socket.
You could always cover the spare way with a child protector.

[hpoom]

OK one last question, does x10 stuff consume much power? It must use power to sit there listening for signals all the time? I'm I going to see my electric bill shoot up, or is it minimal?

[Johnny Thunder]

Don't worry about your electricity bill.
Worry more about the credit card if you get the automation bug, which you will.

[hpoom]

I already have the automation bug, but have limits to what I can do in my current house and with my current budget. Thats why I picked x10 as it seams easy to setup and not too pricey. Thanks for all your help Johnny