SmartHomeUSA.com Home Automation

[bikegal2000]

Hi, I am looking to install a post lamp in my patio. I would like to control it from a switch inside with both dimmer and timer functionality. Is there a good quality product like that out there? I saw something on eBay, but it looked kind of iffy.

Many thanks,
Patrice

[Ryan]

Hey Patrice,

Combining dimming with timed control eliminates our basic lighting timers

So, you can use UPB or X10 to accomplish this (which would also be a GREAT way to get started with home automation technologies). You would first need something to control the light itself. With UPB, it can be a UPB Single dimmer switch. This is what would replace your existing wall switch, and it wires in exactly the same. It will respond to any UPB signal, including signals coming from a pre-programmed UPB timer. With the timer, you can have the light fade on to a certain preset dim level (saves energy). The timer automatically adjusts throughout the year.. so your light can always come on exactly at dusk. You can also control the light on/off and dim it by using the paddle on the switch.

A similar solution can be accomplished with X10 (more affordable but slightly less reliable). See the x10 dimming switch and the x10 timer. It works the same way, but I dont think you can have the light turn on to a certain dim level with this timer.

If you wanted to go further, you could add control of this light to your bedroom or a keychain, for example. You can purchase other wall switches or control modules to control any other lights in your house in the same fashion; via your exisiting timer.. or other wall switches.

Let us know if you have any more questions!