Well as time wore on, and crime has increased, the oppurtunity has arisen to place the network on the forefront. After deciding with my wife that it was time to install some security cameras I got the green light to build away. 

Step 1 was to cut a hole in the closet wall and see what I could see under our stairs. This space was walled off and for most other purposes unusable. But for such a man as I it smacked of home server magic. I’ve run a few configurations and it should work out pretty good.

Step 2 is ordering the equipment. Starting from scratch means buying tools in addition to materials. So far I’ve got 1000′ of CAT6, a 16 port POE switch, my current modem and router, a NAS box, flex bit for drilling, and fish sticks for fishing the network cables. I’ll be terminating all the cable at a 24 port patch panel, which is the last item I need for basic function of the network. All that’s left is to pick a day to drill and pull everything to the central location.

Step 3 will be building out the Security camera grid starting with a PTZ on the front of the house and transitioning to a camera for each kids room the finishing with full coverage outside. I’ve structured everything to work in phases so we can build as time and money permit.

Step 4 will be an HP server to distribute media and handle the NAS function for video.

My first automation purchase was two keypad locks for the front and garage door. That way we didn’t have to worry about being locked out of the house and could ditch our keys. I didn’t find out until later that you need a separate controller to interface the locks with insteon. Go figure right.

I really got serious when I started converting some line voltage thermostats to wireless ones. That required two components and a power source for the new tstat. I eventually got that all worked out and even got the tstat wall mounted in the kitchen/dining room. 

Eventually I got my hands on a light switch to control my porch light that was always left on. That led to more light switches. Now my downstairs light is on and ready for me at 4:45 when I wake up, and switches of not long after I leave. I got a screaming deal on a keypad that went into my master suite and controls all the current switches. Slowly but surely most of the switches will converted over.
The heart of the operation is a Universal Devices ISY99i IR pro. Last generations model but suites me fine. Presently I’m dealing with communication issues with some upstairs switches. After adding an access point and line filter it’s slowly sorting itself out. I’ll be the first to admit I’m no expert, so I’ve been pressing forward and learning as I go. As the title would infer every now and then it’s easiest to just reset everything and start fresh but such is life with technology. 

I’ve been playing with dimmable LED bulbs lately. After hours the lights are set to dim automatically so it’s easier on our eyes. Eventually I’ll be adding sensors to all doors and windows and some leak sensors and key appliances. Like any nerd stuff it all comes down having a great time doing it.