dc8 or x10

[gmatta]

I need to know:} what do these things do? are they just an exspensive powerstrip? or do they hook to a controller to power stuff (i see them in reference to controllers on threads thats why i ask) why are they used?

[DaveMorris]

They accept the commands from a controller to turn things on or off. They are far more than an expensive power strip.

[Hornet]

x10 : sends signals via the electric line to turn off items plugged in the x10 unit. No always reliable because interference/noise from lighting ballasts sometime interrupt the x10 signals and items don't turn on and off like you have scheduled .

DC8 : works in conjunction with a controller like a ACIII to turn off outlets as you have them programmed. The DC8 eliminates the line noise problem associated with x10 modules and basically ensures on/off operations everytime.

I'm no specialist but I did stay in a holiday express last night.

[chimmike]

You can't use an Aquacontroller without some form of input device like an x10 (no longer made IIRC) or a DC4 or DC8.

DC=Direct connection. The aquacontroller connects directly with each plug for control purposes.

[crvz]

Those are the work horses for controllers. The controller sends a signal, and these devices make the physical change (through a relay device) to turn power onto various pieces of hardware. They cannot be used without a controller, so I wouldnt consider them "pricey power strips."

[chimmike]

nope, they're not pricey power strips, they're the required add-on, or you've just got a fancy temp and ph meter.

Like Nintendo does with the Wii. Can't play 2 players on boxing wtihout another controller and nunchuck. But that's an extra $50. And then the extra wheels for Mario Kart are like $15.

[Mr James]

I use X10's because I can't stomach the price of the DC4 and DC8 yet. Plus, witht eh X10's you can have your wires going to any outlet you want, as long as it is on the same circuit as the controller. Most of the reefers on here would probably want a dedicatd circuit if they could. Yes, the X10's are not always reliable, but what is??

[gmatta]

ah Nintendo :) (makes an old man smile!)