Newbie Question on Motion Sensors setup

[Grayson]

Hi,

 

I recently installed the ELK-M1 security system and I am getting into home automation now and plan on purchasing the ISY994i and several Insteon devices. I want to make sure I have a good understanding of how everything works.

 

For example, I want to set up a motion sensor in the master bathroom so when someone walks in the light turns on (full during the day and at 50% in the evening). In addition to the ISY994i and PLM module, for this example I think I need

 

- Motion Sensor

- Dual band wall switch that is connected to the light I want the motion sensor to control.

- Then I use the ISY to create the scene that controls the brightness of the light based on the time of day

 

Is that correct? Since I plan on using a dual band wall switch I shouldn't need a separate access point for the RF control....correct?

 

Does it matter how far distance wise the ISY and PLM are from this first installation? I know once I get more devices installed the way Insteon works will send repeat signals through all the devices, but is there a range limit on how far the first device is from the ISY & PLM?

 

Thanks in advance.

 

John

[LeeG]

I would strongly recommend using a pair of Access Points for coupling. In wall Dual Band devices do not have the RF range of an Access Point that is not hindered by wiring inside the box which affects RF coverage. If you happen to have metal boxes RF range is even more restricted.

 

The Motion Sensor will likely talk to the Dual Band SwitchLinc being so close but Motion Sensor placement relative to the SwitchLinc could make a difference. I would not count on the SwitchLinc providing coupling if the ISY PLM is not on the same phase. Depends on distance, number of walls in between, number of floors in between, obstructions, etc. That is why a recommend Access Points for coupling.

[oberkc]

- Then I use the ISY to create the scene that controls the brightness of the light based on the time of day

 

In addition to the access point suggestion by LeeG (which I second), there may be benefits to using a "program" rather than a "scene" to control brightness, but this has no effect on what you need to purchase.

 

While you did not mention it, is integration with your Elk system important? If so, be aware that this requires an additional "purchase". There is an add-on software module required with the ISY-994.