Getting started

Hi there, I'm thinking about getting C-Bus wired in, and now is the perfect time since we're in the middle renovating and we're re-doing all the electricals (the existing stuff was so old it wasn't funny).

I just wanted to know, I can get the relays, dimmers, light switches, etc, and my sparky knows what he's doing with a C-Bus install which is great. What I wanted to know is, can I do the programming myself (it's what I do for a job, in multiple languages), or does that have to be done by someone else?

I'm thinking if I have all the components, the sparky knows how to connect it all, I can do the rest? Or is that too simplistic / am I missing something?

Thanks in advance!

 

Getting started with C-Bus home automation.

Hi edgeman,

In response to your question "... am I missing something?", if you wanted to help ensure you take full advantage of your investment in C-Bus home automation, your might consider:

- Choosing a systems integrator to consult with that has a thorough knowledge of the full range of C-Bus devices, their capabilities and limitations, and the way in which they may be integrated with non-C-Bus equipment. Your systems integrator should be located in your own state, and preferably as close as possible to your site.

- Consulting with that systems integrator to determine from the full range of potential benefits, those that are of interest to you.

- Having your system properly designed in detail before you wire for it, to ensure that the wiring you install will support the configuration of equipment needed to implement the functionality that you want.

- Having your systems integrator be responsible from the design, installation, commissioning, programming, and subsequent fine tuning stages (after you have been living with your C-Bus system).

There are free checklists for selecting your systems integrator, and for your home automation project at http://www.homeautomationaustralia.com/ that cover these considerations in much more detail.

A systems integrator would also provide the idea resource to assist someone like yourself with advanced non-C-Bus programming skills to become familiar with C-Bus programming in general, and the programming of your C-Bus system in particular.

 

No problem, I'll check that out, although the budget is limited it may be worthwhile looking into that. I don't mind spending the time myself in terms of development of course. Reading between the lines it sounds like that is all that is required to get a C-Bus install happening.

I am also going to go to the Clipsal "smart house" where they have a lot of stuff on display apparently...

Thanks for the feedback!

 

DIY programming

Hi edgeman
In theory you can do it yourself, but you need to beware of what you are doing, not in terms of programming language, but in terms of cause and effect.
I think you will find the programming is the cheap part compared to the parts. And unless you know how to make the system do the good stuff then it will be an expensive way to simply turn your lights on & off.