Replace X-10 Home Automation System?

[Sarahsda]

Hi. I know this is way OT but I don't know where to go.

For years I have used the X=10 home automation controllers for lights in my house. Very useful especially when I travel for security purposes. But the X-10 controllers and remotes are getting long in the tooth (so am I) and I'm afraid I won't be able to get them in the future.

I am looking for recommendations on a current system which does simple lighting control automatically. I'm not building a total smart home but just control about a half-dozen lights in the house.

One reason I need to update is I'm programming my controller using an ancient Mac running OS8.6, and when it dies, I'm sh*t out of luck.

Anyone have recommendations on equipment, manufacturers, or even forums I should be checking out? Thanks!

 

[W9TR]

Lutron Caseta. Simple, reliable, flexible.

 

[audiotemp]

There are plenty of open source home automation software options that would allow you to program your X-10 devices from a modern computer. Some of these would also allow you to mix in new devices (such as those from Lutron) as well although this would not be as simple as buying all new from a single manufacturer.

 

[whoaru99]

Sounds like you're capable of much more than plug and play, but would something plug and play work for you?

Phillips Hue or some other stuff... Amazon Alexa routines controlling WiFi switches, etc.

 

[whoaru99]

Far as I know, but not tested, I think I can control a bunch of Hue lights and Amazon WiFi switched receptacles from my smartphone anywhere there is cellular or WiFi, or just let it all run on the routines set up in the apps.

 

[felix_katze]

not sure about your home auto...but for your mac try: Infinite Mac

I beleive you can customise your own virtual macs and load whatever software you want. I know nothing about interfacing it with other devices but it might be worth a look as a few vintage mac people seem to think its the greatest thing...