Minimum equipment required?

Hi,
I'm installing CBUS in my new home. The electrician is wiring about 40 different channels back to a central point so I can switch them using relays. I'm installing the cbus pink cable to all points that I may require switches/sensors etc in the future.
Due to limited funds I would like to install minimum of hardware for a start then add to system later.
All the lights are less than 15w fluoro so electrician said I could double/tripple up the channels so I can get away with 1 x 12 channel 10amp relay modules.
I will also just use 1 x DLT switch for now.
What else is required to be able to get system going including an interface to plug into computer (either serial or RJ45)?? All I want to be able to do is set the DLT buttons to turn one or two relay channels on/off.
I presume would need to use a powered version of the relay module.
Any help would be much appreciated.
Regards,
Craig P.

 

Can anyone help on this one? What is required in addition to a relay and a dlt to start a CBus system? What is minimum requirement for programming via pc?

 

You would need a "powered version" relay, DLT, serial or network interface.

I started with a 4 key neo, 2A (4 channel) dimmer and PC Interface.

 

The minimum allowable C-Bus network is one consisting of 1 output unit (e.g. a relay unit with built-in power supply) and 1 input unit (e.g. a DLT switch). With this you have a minimum network. From there, if you want to program the units with a PC you'll need to add a PC interface of some sort (either Serial, Ethernet or USB) so that you can connect your computer.

 

Thanks guys.
What is the best pc connection? I will have a pc close to the bus so would be able to use serial, usb or network. Which is the best unit to use?

 

the new usb pc interface would be the best to use. Most laptops don't come with a serial connection anymore and converters are problematic

 

Network interface

Hi

If you can afford it then the ethernet network interface is worth considering; you don't have to worry about USB drivers, serial ports and it gives you flexibility with location in the future.

Plus, with wireless networking I can program my C-Bus from the comfort of my couch

Paul

 

thanks, will go for ethernet. I'm all for wireless on the couch!

 

Ethernet Connection

I agree ethernet set up is great if you have a wireless connection. Shame I have to get up to reporgram my black and white touch screen.