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Depending on which automation system you choose will depend on what you need to buy.
Some systems have the modules in a central location such as a node zero. Then you run wires from the modules to the rooms. One set is for the switches another set is for the lights for example. Other systems have switch modules in the walls and these are connected via cat5 cable. The cable is either daisy chained to other modules then a single cable goes back to the main control module or interface. Or you can wire up each module in a star pattern and have the cable from every module going back to the main control unit (hence the name star pattern). Or sometimes due to the way things get laid out you can sometimes do a combination of both.
Idratek is a good choice, and the guys are always helpful.
Domintell is another choice.
Then there is C-Bus and KNX/EIB as well.
As for multimedia why not take a look at the XMBC stuff. You could have several of these all connected to a central NAS. It is possible to stream live TV such as Freeview or Freesat as well if you have the right equipment, such as a tuner card or usb stick thing. The XBMC works well. Even my eight year old daughter can operate it. So its not a steep learning curve to learn for yet another gadget.
For networking and other cabling definitely go for at least CAT5.
You might want to look at Abitana for a few ideas. They have a UK distributor.
For music you can either use the XBMC or go and have a look at the Sonos range of equipment.
Lastly you don't need a rack, but you will need something. It all depends on the home automation system you pick as the modules maybe din rail mounted, in which case you will need some sort of consumer unit. The Abitana ones look nice.
Some other things to think about and or ask. If the computer crashes, will I still be able to switch my lights on etc manually.
Expandability- think about if you want to be able to expand in the future, its easy to run extra conduit or cable now but not so easy later when the plaster is up. Empty conduit with a length of string inside so you can then pull the cable through is always a good idea. If you are going to do the cabling yourself,then remember no more than 2 bends in the conduit. If you need to have more bends, then fit a junction box that you can easily access.
Invest in some cheap washing up liquid as you can use this to lubricate the cable, makes it easier to pull through the conduit,especially if there is a couple of cables already in the conduit (you only need to do it after the first couple of meters). Oh and if there is space in the conduit leave a length of string. don't be tempted to run loads of cable in one conduit its better to maybe use 2 conduits. the more cables you have in a conduit the more chance that every time you run another you could damage something.
Something I do depending on the location of Node zero is to run maybe one or 2 very large diameter conduits, have these going into a large junction box then from there have smaller conduits feeding off to the rooms.
Invest in a cable tester .
Oh and lastly always leave about a metre of cable sticking out at the ends as this is the bit that can get damaged during the pulling.
You will also need help when pulling the cables. So have beer in the fridge
Originally Posted by automate-me
