Insteon vs Zwave, which setup is easier?

[krys]

I have been trying to decide between the two, with the obvious downside to zwave being COST. However in my research on the forum I see a whole lot of people having issues getting the insteon systems up and running successfully using ddamrons method. Alot of the threads dont seem to be solved either. So my main question, has anyone attempted both setup's and which one was easier/ more reliable?

Also I am still not sure exactly what hardware is needed for both systems (just for controlling lights at the current time)
Insteon- 2412 control unit (serial or usb)
             insteon light switches


Zwave- control unit? do I just need the usb adapter
                    http://shop.micasaverde.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=110&products_id=151
           separate remote?? do i have to have this
           zwave switches

I just want to control these lights through lmce, no other method is needed

what is a good web page for ordering zwave stuff in the US?

[tschak909]

* Get a Z-Wave USB stick from MCV.

* Get Light modules.

* Install light modules

* Carry USB stick around with you, it has its own power.

* plug in modules and light switches. Press button on the USB stick, it will blink.. press button on modules, it will stop blinking. That module is associated.

* Repeat for all modules

* Walk over to core, plug USB stick into core

* Lighting Wizard will start.. hopefully it will say "I've detected X number of lights in Y rooms." .... IF this is it, you've got it... accept it, go through the rest of the wizard.

Done.

-Thom

[krys]

damn, that sounds pretty slick. I think I will just shell out the extra dough for zwave

[tschak909]

Start here:

http://shop.micasaverde.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=110&products_id=151

-Thom

[hari]

be aware that this method has some limitations. It works perfect for easy devices. But you cannot e.g. add a portable controller to your network that way. With a new remote like the Tricklestar you can also use SIS mode. Totallymaxed tried it today and was impressed. There will be an option in 0810 to later add a controller and use SIS mode.

best regards,
Hari