x10 security control program for homes

x10 security control software for home automation

X10 security - smart home on a budget
'Home automation made easy'
by Adrian Biffen
Systems Administrator
AeroHOST Web Systems

x10 can be used to automate just about any anti-theft home security provision that you can think of. I have implemented a number of measures in my smart home. (click here to get the kit to Automate your home with X10! )

I have motion sensors installed all around the house that turn lights on when potential intruders approach. This doubles as a safety feature for guests arriving and leaving at night, not to mention our own comings and goings. You can extend this concept to gate control, alarm systems, fire prevention, etc., with wireless video camera surveillance too. Another nice implementation is a house lighting sequence for when you are away that follows your normal patterns at night with a random component thrown in, so that lights don't always come on at exactly the same time if somebody is watching the house.

We also have an elaborate intrusion detection system for when we are away. Here's a very inexpensive kit that will dial out to 4 different phone numbers (no ongoing monthly cost) when the system is triggered:

Protect yourself with X10!

I considered getting the Robo-Dog 'barking dog' kit from the X10 Wireless Security Cameras website , which provides a very effective simulation of same inside your garage or wherever. You can use motion sensors to trigger this system, just as you would with lights. However, I decided instead to take a different course of action and get myself a biologic. She provides an extra companionship feature that you just can't get from a computer.

Her name is Belle and she has a number of advantages:

	Failsafe: She has an autonomous power supply and works even when the electricity fails (no UPS required).
	Rapid Mobility: She can move around, avoiding fixed objects, and automatically arrives at the point of intrusion.
	Portable: She can travel with us in the motorhome or boat and provide protection services at all times.
	Easily Programmed: Just a little food and kindness is all that's needed.
	Superior Intrusion Detection: Very sensitive sound detection system.

The only downside is that she hogs the superior intrusion detection

TV whenever the doggy diving championships are on, but we make this concession to her. You won't find this item at x10.com website, you'll need to find other sources (specify 'Golden Retriever' if you want 'smart' model).

The total cost of ownership (TCO) is higher than other components in our smart home, but she's worth it! Naturally, I'm building an automatic food and water dispenser for her and the cats, controlled by our x10 system. (click here to get the kit to Automate your home with X10!)