Question for home improvement types here...

[PeterB]

... how (can?) I convert a regular light switch, controlling a porch light, to a light-activated switch? (So that it comes on only when it gets dark...) Where would I buy one of those? (Online source?)

I would also rather not have one of those motion-activated switches, those things are just annoying.

[Racer X]

depending on the light fixture, sometimes you can a photo sensor between the socket and the bulb, then you just leave the switch on. I did that with my front porch, and I found one of those photocell sockets that will work with CF bulbs.



The CF compatible ones are very hard to find. Mine are Intermatic Digital Light Sensors, pn NE3RC 150w max incandescent, and 45w max CF. Only about $10 each when I ordered them in from an electrical supply house.

[MacMagus]

Looking for something like this?
http://www.amazon.com/American-Tack-SLC4...13-9246230

[PeterB]

Yep, that's a good solution -- thanks guys. And here I thought I'd have to rewire the switch...

While we're on the subject of switches -- the other thing I've been looking for is a remote controlled AC switch, of the type that plugs into a socket and allows you to plug something into it, with TWO remotes for one switch (so as to be able to control the switch from two different locations). I have one of these now from Radio Shack, but I'm finding that it seems to go on and off by itself-- I'm guessing the neighbors are using something that is doing it. Anybody know where you can find one of those? (Or alternatively, tell me how I can block the neighbor's signals? Tinfoil perhaps?)

[Racer X]

some of those x10 devices have different frequencies. maybe inside the devices and the transmitter there are dip switches to change. just a thought.

[PeterB]

Hmmm... I just opened up one of the remotes, and it doesn't have DIP switches, rather a soldered connection... I could potentially unsolder and resolder on both of the remotes and the control unit, but not sure that would help, since the problem could just as easily also happen on another frequency... and then I'd have to resolder again... maybe better to figure out some way to block the neighbor?

[Racer X]

maybe there are some forums devoted to that technology, or possibly a different brand of x10 stuff that has different settable frequencies.

[cbelt3]

Most X10 stuff (that you buy at the terminally spamhappy annoying X10.com) has a switch and wheelswitch to set frequencies for your control. You may have gotten the el cheapo radio slack version.

[Dubya]

Well, you can try wrapping the neighbors in tin foil, but I'd use rope.