From: SFPhysics@aol.com
Date: Mon Sep 06 1999 - 11:12:15 PDT
From: SFPhysics@aol.com Message-ID: <2840273a.25055dff@aol.com> Date: Mon, 6 Sep 1999 14:12:15 EDT Subject: Remote Classroom Light Control
In the past I have used the Radio Shack X-2 system to control a classroom
with incandescent lighting, an overhead, and a sound system. They once made
a hand held ultrasonic remote controller and a stationary receiver control
box. An X-2 lamp controller module replaced the original wall switch and
could handle up to 300 Watts, if memory serves, and wall plug modules turned
other units on or off. This system probably would not work with fluorescent
lighting as they are inductive loads with their ballasts. The incandescent
lights are almost purely resistive so are OK. You should check out Radio
Shack, some really good hardware stores where the employees have some
knowledge, Home Supply Depot, Yard Birds, and even K-Mart for modern units.
Read each package carefully. Commercial units are available for all kinds of
lighting but they are expen$ive. Before you spend a dime check out how the
items need to be connected and compare all of the systems you find.
My entire home is controlled by a dedicated house computer using the X-2
system and I have only had a couple of module failures. However, these units
do introduce some RF interference onto the AC line.
Best of luck,
Al Sefl
p.s. If you will be working with potentially deadly line AC ( 110Vrms x
1.414 for peak voltage ), have a qualified school district electrician
install the unit. They know where the main power cutoff switches are, and if
they get knocked on their posterior ends, they are covered by workman's comp.
Teachers are not! Also, school districts sometimes take very dim views of
any changes to facilities. ;-)
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