After years of predictions that practical
home automation is just
around the corner, many builders prefer
to avoid smart-home devices. But
even techno-skeptics may want to take
a second look at one type of home
automation technology. A communications
protocol called X10 can be used
to control lights or appliances with
low-voltage signals sent over regular
120-volt household electrical wiring.
Although X10 components can be configured
into complex whole-house
automation systems, individual components
are simple to install, cheap,
and widely available. A remodeler
might consider using X10 modules for
such simple applications as a wall
switch that controls a distant light.
X10 technology was developed in
Scotland in 1978. The original patents
have expired, and the protocol is now
shared by several