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![]() | Two-way X-10 (all 256 addresses) |
![]() | Two-way infrared (255 signals) |
![]() | 24 I/O ports |
![]() | Video output on the TV |
However, there are three main differences between HomeVision and HomeVision-PC:
HomeVision-PC uses the same serial communications protocol as the standard HomeVision version. Thus, the above-mentioned software packages will work with either HomeVision version. HomeVision-PC is also available in an international version with PAL video and 220V/50Hz power.
HomeVision-PC looks the same as the standard HomeVision unit. However, while HomeVision is a stand-alone controller that can run your home, HomeVision-PC is simply a hardware interface device for X-10, IR, video, and digital I/O. It relies on the PC to be the "brain". Therefore, the following HomeVision functions have been removed:
![]() | Standalone capability (i.e., HomeVision-PC cannot function without an attached computer) |
![]() | Real-time clock |
![]() | Timers |
![]() | Scheduled events |
![]() | Periodic events |
![]() | Flags |
![]() | Variables |
![]() | Macros |
![]() | Automatic thermostat control capability |
![]() | Expansion port (to connect to Multifunction Expansion Port, HomeVision-Serial, or HomeVision-Phone) |
![]() | Some video screens |
![]() | Numerous commands related to the above functions were also deleted |
The video menu system is also different from HomeVision. HomeVision-PC contains only the following video screens:
![]() | Main menu, which accesses the following screens:
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![]() | The above screens then access the following screens:
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The vast majority of our customers use HomeVision, as it provides much more power and can run "stand-alone" (i.e., without a computer running). If after reading this you're still not certain which is right for you, HomeVision is probably the answer.
HomeVision-PC may be preferable if all of the following conditions are met:
![]() | Youve selected a PC-based program to be the "brain" of your system. |
![]() | You dont need any of the accessories (which work only with HomeVision). |
![]() | Youre willing to have your system dependent upon the PC (i.e., your system will go down if the PC crashes or shuts down). |
![]() | Youre on a budget. |
If you meet all these conditions, you may want to use HomeVision-PC as the hardware interface to the PC.