Wireless light switches

I've used the x10 wireless switches... they're often white-labeled as store-brand automation (radio shack, home depot, etc), but they're all the same. The bonus is that you're not tied to using an in-wall switch, and can even control your setup with computer software.

X-10 as a protocol seems like a good choice. The quality of the switches is something to pay attention to. I would go with some of the more recognizable names (eg leviton, lutron). My first foray into x10 wireless was with a really el-cheapo brand, and I am not impressed with the quality. Also my cheap x10 light switches did not work well with either CFL bulbs or some of the first LED bulns that I bought.

I've been very happy with the switches we have from Lightning Switch. Not only are they wireless, they require no batteries or electricity!

Admittedly, they take some getting use to, but I wouldn't hesitate installing if/when I need additional switches.

Don't us X10 unless you have a fairly small house. It has trouble communicating over any distance and the signal is soaked up by most modern electronics. I wired my last house with it completely and had two circuits that I could never get to work right. It also requires special equipment to talk across phases in your house, and if you have a near neighbor who is using it they will interfere with each other. A better choice would be smart homes Insteon or multiple vendors Zwave equipment. These two web sites are a goo starting point.

Smart Home: http://www.smarthome.com/_/index.aspx

Zwave: http://www.z-wave.com/modules/ZwaveStart/

The upgrade to X-10 is Insteon. Many of the devices communicate both wireline and wireless so it creates a very robust network. I use about 20 devices throughout my home (about 3000 sq ft), for switches, outlets, thermostat, etc.

sigh Anyone ever wonder what happened to these guys: http://www.flatwireready.com/products/electrical.html

There's a whole story here for an aspiring journalist to run down for Wired.

-C

Check out http://www.enocean.com/en/home/

They are wireless, have great range and are also battery less switches which is a big plus. You can connect a Switch to any number of receivers, and each switch is unique.