VOICE - SpeakUp with Armin Schwarz, author of House/2 from 05/17/99

SpeakUp with Armin Schwarz, author of House/2 from 05/17/99
<Abraxas> Longstaff Hiya <Longstaff> thank you madodel <Longstaff> hiya Abraxas <madodel> no bots * Sector is a bot <Sector> Hello <Sector> He's back <Fuzy|ogic> 'ello <Longstaff> hiya Fuzy|ogic <madodel> Sector: that explains a lot, do you frequently get the urge to say 'Warning Will Robinson'? <Fuzy|ogic> hi <madodel> hello Peter <madodel> Hello Fuzy <Projects> Hiya Mark <Sector> madodel: Nope, I just beep a lot <Projects> where's the bot? <Projects> s <Sector> Due to storms the bots server had to drop off for now * Projects looks outside... "No storms... sunny and 70+ degrees outside" <Projects> :) <Sector> 84.5F inside this room... * David would like a place where its only 70+ outside right now... <Projects> hey, 70+ is great for here at this time of year <David> Sector: what? you live in an oven? <Sector> Nope, just get lots of heat... <David> Projects: maybe, but where I'm at, its 85+ right now. <David> 70+ would be nice ;-) <Projects> David: lucky you... we won't see that temperature for another 2 or 3 months yet :( <Projects> and we'll get an entire 2 weeks of it, if we're lucky :p <David> Projects: unlucky me - in 2 or 3 months, it'll be over 100 here. <David> Projects: oh well, thats what Air Conditioning is for. ;) <Projects> on the other hand though... we only get about 2 weeks of below freezing per year, so it's a decent trade-off I suppose <Projects> David: heh... I'll save my $$ there... no sense buying one for 2 weeks use <David> Projects: we get a couple of "cold" weeks a year - our 'winter', when it'll get down below 40 <Projects> yeah... same here... below -40 for a couple of weeks, then back to rain and slush <David> too cold. I'm looking for somewhere where the limits are about 40 - 75, and thats it ;-) <Projects> makes for some heavy shovelling... <David> shovelling... I've never seen one of those. <Abraxas> bbiab <Projects> heh... me too, but work in those places is all taken already :) <Fuzy|ogic> So who is the house/2 guy? <David> I'm assuming he isn't here, yet. <Projects> David: heh... we had 55" in 24 hours a few months back... wish I hadn't seen a shovel then either :) <David> maybe he can control the weather for us ;-) <Sector> Not currently present <Fuzy|ogic> Hmmmm... He doesn't love us. I guess it is early though.. <David> maybe so. oh well, I'm into "Total Annihalation" right now, anyway. <Longstaff> his alarm did a 3175? <David> famous numbers. <Projects> ./whereis Armin <Projects> :) <Projects> I think a /whereis should be included in every IRC client... *** Blacky (ASchw@sfr-pci-pqu-vty15.as.wcom.net) has joined #voice [20:00:18] <David> what about a /get? or /grab? <madodel> where's Wayne also? <Longstaff> Projects - yes, but there should be some kinda protocol to respond on lookup/fail with 'nobody knows where so-and-so wnet' <Sector> Welcome <Projects> and /poke /prod would be good too :0 <madodel> Hello Armin <madodel> Speak of the devil <Projects> Longstaff: yeah, that's it! :) <Swanee> Hi all <Projects> SEE?? My /whereis worked! :) <Longstaff> hellothere Swanee <David> must be psychic <Swanee> Hi Longstaff! <Sector> Projects, that was my /fetch... <Projects> coulda been David's /grab... <David> that one I like. like /fetch me a beer????? <Projects> hahahaha <Blacky> Hello everybody! <David> hi <Longstaff> hiya Blacky <Projects> David: but /grab works too... /grab me a beer <Projects> or, /whereis the beer? <Sector> /fetch Projects get the stick <madodel> So how do I use House/2 to turn on my wife? <Projects> hahahahaha <Longstaff> madodel - that's not implemented until the next version :) <Projects> madodel: you sure she's plugged in? <madodel> I think she may be shorted out <Projects> hehehe <Blacky> You laught now. My wife actually is responsible to get me to write HOUSe/2 <madodel> We about ready to start? <Swanee> OK, one more thing to do and I'll be ready... <Andy> madodel: get your wife an IR remote to turn theoutside lights on at night and open the main gate. That'll turn her on. <madodel> Wayne will be doing the intro. Just a couple of announcements. <Longstaff> are we starting then? <Fuzy|ogic> Hi Swanee! *** Marland (Marland@14-ta04wf.idsi.net) has joined #voice [20:06:51] <Swanee> I'm back <Swanee> Hi Fuzy|ogic! <Swanee> Ready Dan? <madodel> VOICE is hard at work trying to revive the Warp Pharmacy. If you are interested there is a new mail list to organize the project - http://mailer.falcon-net.net:8080/guest/RemoteListSummary/warpdoctor <madodel> Dan is AWOL <madodel> The new project is called Warp Doctor <Swanee> Quiet tonight. I stopped at undernet a bit ago and it's quiet there too. <Swanee> madodel: No Dan? OK <Swanee> Welcome to our visit with Armin Schwartz <Swanee> Armin is the author (as I am sure you know0 of House/2 among other fine projects <Swanee> Let's start with a little background from Armin on his past history leading up to today. Armin? You have the floor <Blacky> Hello everybody. My name is Armin Schwarz and I'm an OS/2 user and <Blacky> developer living in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. I started using OS/2 <Blacky> just before Warp 3.0 came out after I had been searching for something <Blacky> better than DOS. In my real job, I'm an Electrical Engineer and my work <Blacky> involves process automation. I do hardware and software. I am the author <Blacky> of HOUSE/2 and other OS/2 programs. You can find them at http://home.att.net/~ASchw <Swanee> Thank you Armin. Are you all set? <Blacky> Just getting used to IRC :-) <Swanee> Just as=k if you have a question Armin. We will open the floor to questions now. :-) <Swanee> as=k = ask <David> yea! another os/2 user! <Blacky> I suggest the following items for discussion: X-10 hardware and HOUSE/2 software. Ask lots of questions. <Swanee> Blacky: Can you tell us more about how your wife actually got you started on House/2? <Blacky> I wrote HOUSE/2 because of a honey-do. My wife wanted me to leave the outside lights on every night. * Swanee wishes his wife would "make" him program <Blacky> I pondered for a few weeks on how to do that. I didn't want to do it manually every night and morning or <Blacky> use timers or light sensors, they all required drilling and changes in wiring. Too much work. <Blacky> I had known about X-10 but never really looked at that system. So I went on the web and found the CM11A controller <Blacky> and a wall switch that would do exactly what I wanted. All I had to do is replace the existing wall switch with the X-10 model. * Norm gives thanks.... Another engineer! <Fuzy|ogic> Classic engineer mentality... Too easy to simply flip the switch every night... <Fuzy|ogic> :) <Redoaks> Blacky-Does X-10 resemble the remote units used by devices such as the old regency Energy Management system from the mid-eighties? <Blacky> The CM11A is programmed via a PC and software was only available for you all know what. So HOUSE/2 was born which turned <Projects> hehehe <Blacky> really into more work than if I would have installed a light sensor :-) But it is *fun* work. <madodel> I remember X-10 years ago. Any idea how long has it actually been around? <Blacky> Madodel, I think about 20 years <Norm> X-10 has been around since 1974. <Fuzy|ogic> Where did you find information on programming for X-10 and what additional hardware was needed? <Blacky> Redoaks - I'm not familiar with that product. <Longstaff> i/m not familiar at all with what an x-10 is <Redoaks> Blacky-it was a stand-alone programmable unit that used remote modules through the house wiring. <Blacky> I found info at www.x10.com. The protocols are available. <Blacky> X-10 works over the powerlines - no wiring is required. <Swanee> hmmm... scratch that question :-) <Projects> will X-10 work on very old powerlines with no grounding? <Fuzy|ogic> You didn't need anything to plug into a serial port or anything? <madodel> It uses rf signals doesn't it? <Blacky> Projects - Yes, but only certain modules (most of them). <Projects> good... I only have one grounded outlet in the whole place <mandie> hello <Fuzy|ogic> I'm just wondering what the medium of transmission from the PC to the modules is... <Norm> Only real limitation is it won't work through isolation transformers. <Swanee> Hi mandie!! (did you think you were me... showing up so late?) <Blacky> The computer interface (CM11A, the size of a transformer) talks to the PC thru the serial port. <Fuzy|ogic> OK <Swanee> "isolation transformers"? <Howard> Evening all! <mandie> Swanee: storm..and it's not over so don't know how long I'll be able to stay :(... I really wanted to hear Armin <mandie> Howard: g'evening :) <Blacky> The CM11A to module communication goes thru the powerline. <WarpHoss> sorry i'm late. <Swanee> mandie: OK, you're forgiven. :-) <mandie> Blacky!!! didn't recognize you :) <mandie> hope someone is logging <Sector> mandie: Yup <Swanee> mandie: I am but started a touch late. <Andy> Blacky: I don't have a CM11A. Will House/2 work with a TW523 on the serial port? <Projects> any way to get the required hardware without the win-software? <Swanee> What are "isolation transformers" <Abraxas> Projects Buy it at Radio Shack :-) <Blacky> X-10 only works on one leg of a transformer but you can get bridges to go across. <Projects> Swanee: transformers that aren't allowed to talk to anyone else :) <Projects> Abraxas: seriously? <Blacky> Hi Mandie <Abraxas> Projects yep <Swanee> Projects: "Embrace and extend" transformers? :-) * Projects stops his order for the "kit" <Projects> hehehe <madodel> Projects: I think Radio Shack is the first place I ever saw X-10 <Blacky> HOUSE/2 does not work with the TW523 <mandie> Blacky: sorry I was late and maybe the question was already asked...exactly what do you need for House/2 <DA_MAN> Please excuse my ignorance .. but what is TW523? <Projects> mandie: money :) <Blacky> Projects - No, use the CD as a coaster. <mandie> Projects :) <Projects> Blacky: I have far too many coasters here already :) <Andy> TW523 = Two Way X-10 interface <DA_MAN> thanks Andy * Swanee is saving his coasters to build furniture with. He has almost enough for a bedroom suite. <madodel> I thought CM11A is two way? <Blacky> Mandie - you need the ActiveHome kit ($50 or lower) best bought at www.x10.com Join their mailing list and watch for sales. <Projects> ActiveHome kit is 49.95 right now, and it says "last day" <Howard> I've been messing about with X-10 stuff for a while, and House/2 slightly. The connection point is a CM12U which occasionally locks up. Is it faulty, or do they all do it? <madodel> x10.com is always having some sort of sale. Last weekend everything was 12% off * Projects is ordering ActiveHome with 3 hawkey motion sensors <Redoaks> Is there any minimum hardware requirement for all this stuff, or can I dig out an old 386 and make it a dedicated House/2 unit? <Blacky> Project - Last day since over a year ago. It's been as low as $37. Don't get fooled by their ads. <Projects> heh... figures :p <Howard> Projects: you don't know how lucky you are over there - that $50 oner here (England) would be nearly �200! <Projects> Howard: similar here too... I'm not in the US. Our dollar's worth about 0.02 US <Swanee> Can we slow the pace of the questions just a bit. Try to offer your question when Armin looks like he has finished one <Swanee> Have it ready and just hit enter. (this should be good) We'd rather not have to moderate but we need to let Armin keep up. <madodel> so many questions so little time <David> would you prefer it the other way??? <Blacky> Howard - the CM11A/CM12U does lock up. I had troubles too. See my X-10 and HOUSE/2 FAQ at http://home.att.net/~ASchw * Swanee thinks Armins index fingers are getting blistered from typing. :-) <Blacky> Remember, I'm an engineer and always precise at answering :-) <Howard> Blacky: Wilco - ta! * Norm suspects Armins types with two fingers.... <madodel> I thought CM11A is two way? <David> come on now - live a little - approximate! <Blacky> X-10 has three PC based controllers: CP290, TW523 and the CM11A. The CP290 does not report external X-10 events. <Blacky> I think the TW523 (internal card) is two-way as it can receive external X-10 events. So is the CM11A. <madodel> So an X-10 module can send back it's current state to the CM11A? <Projects> hint- if you're at the X-10 page and ready to order, DON'T use the browser stop button after you've selected something... <Blacky> Only the two-way modules (LM14A, AM14A and RM501) <Blacky> These two-way modules are around $30. The regular modules are $10. Best to get them at www.asihome.com He has good prices. <Swanee> Redoaks asks> Is there any minimum hardware requirement for all this stuff, or can I dig out an old 386 and make it a dedicated House/2 unit? <Blacky> If you can make OS/2 run on a 386, it should work. make sure you got 16MB or more. <mandie> does it run on warp 3 also? * Projects ran OS/2 an OS/2 bbs on a 386 with 8mb ram for several years <Blacky> It's developed on Warp 3, yes. * Sector had OS/2 2.0 running on a 386DX with 8 megs * Projects used 2.11 and 3.0 with 8mb... worked just fine <Blacky> HOUSE/2 will need Warp 3 or later. <Swanee> The computer just sets it up doesn't it? I mean it doesn't have to stay connected, is that correct? <Redoaks> Sounds like a great use for a dumpster candidate <mandie> Readoaks: agreed :) <Blacky> No need to stay connected with the PC. Just set it up. <Swanee> Redoaks: Really. A guy could still make it worthwhile instead of tossing it. <Abraxas> Blacky I have a question relating to Timer Events <Blacky> If you dedicate a PC to it, you can record all events. A 386 should be fine. <Redoaks> We have plenty of testimony to Warp 3 on a 386 <Blacky> Abraxas - shoot <Abraxas> I've setup House/2 with the Active Home kit ... and set a Coffee Maker and Light to come on at 5:30AM .... neither will come on <Blacky> Anybody out there with a Cp290? <Abraxas> Both units work from the keyboard control as well as the remote <Marland> blacky: i have a couple of cp290's (and cm11a's) <Blacky> Abraxas - did you enable upload and then actually upload it? <Abraxas> Blacky yes, I did ... and the EEPROM status shows (at the time of upload) the date and bytes used ... but now (a day later) the eeprom status shows UNKNOWN <madodel> I see the check box to "upload to interface", if I don't upload, will House/2 control the device timing of events instead of the CM11A? <madodel> Or do you have to always upload? <Blacky> Abraxas - send me the SET file and the MACRO.PRM file sometime. <Abraxas> I just tried it again, and this time it showed twice as many bytes stored in eeprom .... go figure :-) <Blacky> Madodel - no, you must upload to the CM11A. <madodel> So House/2 is not directly controling the devices? Just programmming the interface? <Blacky> Abraxas - what is the date range set to? <Abraxas> Blacky Jan 1 to Dec 31 <Blacky> Madodel - House/2 controls the modules, but you must activate the sliders. <Blacky> Abraxas - Use the HOUS2UTL program to decode the MACRO.PRM file and it will tell you what got uploaded. <Abraxas> I just reset the coffee pot to come on at 7:50 PM (3 minutes from now) ... will let you know <madodel> Yes I knew the sliders did, but the Defines don't have any efffect unless uploaded <madodel> isn't it a little late for coffee? <Blacky> Madodel - That's correct. HOUSE/2 does no timed execution - yet. <Projects> Blacky: question about the hous2utl app... I'm downloading house/2 right now from bmt. Do I need the h2utl17b.zip as well, or is that in the house2.zip that I'm downloading? <Redoaks> Never too late for coffee :) <Blacky> Marland - HOUSE/290 will come out soon. <Blacky> Projects - Check the About box - I'm not sure if I refreshed the archive at BMT. <Howard> Redoaks: it's 01:50 here - I think *that's* too late! <Projects> Blacky: 'kay, thanks <Sector> Howard: That's not late, it's early <mandie> Blacky: do you need to use a scheduling program in conjunction with House/2 in order to get timed events? <Redoaks> Howard: Well, you can have a tea :( <Howard> Redoaks: One of my failings as an Englishman: I don't drink tea! :-) <Marland> blacky: that's OK -- i wrote my own code for cm11a and cp290; i prefer a batch interface instead of a gui one. <Blacky> No scheduling program needed. Once the timers are uploaded, they will execute in the CM11A. No PC required. <mandie> ah, ok <Redoaks> Howard: :)) <Abraxas> Well, it came on :-) <mandie> Abraxas: and then there was coffee! <Howard> Blacky: Do you know if there's a 2-way lightswitch module available in 240v? <Blacky> Marland - HOUSE/290 is REXX-enabled. <David> guess you'll have to get up at 5:24 to set your coffee maker to start at 5:30 ;-) <Marland> blacky: that's great.... more os/2 programs should do that. <Blacky> I don't know of a two-way light switch period. Only modules, I'd like one myself. <Howard> Drat! My hall light is a prime candidate, but I need to switch it from up and downstairs. <Blacky> Howard - two-way in X-10 speak means it talks back. Are you refering to master-slave? <Blacky> There are master slave switches available for stairs etc. <Projects> it talks back? /me cancels his order... have enough people around here that talk back already <Howard> Sorry - I meant normal-wiring 2-way (2 DPST switches, each able to switch on/off) <David> DPST? you mean SPDT... <Howard> Whoops! Yes I did (it's late! :-) <Abraxas> oops <Marland> howard: the master/slave work like (and replace) ordinary 3-way switches <David> oops - Elvis has Left the building... * Projects didn't do it! <Swanee> dum, de dum dum... <David> come back! come back! <mandie> Blacky come HOME! <Howard> Marland: What is the wiring between them? <Sector> /fetch Blacky <David> if this works,.... I'm scared. <Marland> just like a 3-way switch. there are several ways you can wire them. <mandie> or we could say, this is your House/2 :) <Projects> hahaha <Marland> you can also get a wireless switchpad so you can run the light w/o putting in new wiring. * Projects has a sign "These premises protected by OS/2"... now it'll really apply :) <Abraxas> Projects just be careful where and how you set up thos motion sensors ..... they can be quite irritating :-) <Norm> Heh heh, we used to have a problem with ants in motion sensors. <Projects> Abraxas: I have one of those exterior lights that have motion/heat detectors... I know how irritating they can be :) <madodel> buggy eh? <Swanee> AHA! He's back! <Norm> madodel: Yep. <Abraxas> madodel Ohhhhhh that was BAD!!!! <Norm> WB! <Blacky> My line went down. <Norm> (He just doesn't want to tell us he's on an NT box...) <Blacky> BTW, House/2 is on sale this week at bmt micro, you save $5. <David> not connected thru AOL, are you??? ;-) <Blacky> CSi * mandie notes that David is bad...very bad :) <David> sorry... I run an ISP, and I HATE AOL! HATE AOL! HATE AOL! <mandie> David :) <Howard> Blacky: How does a master/slave X-10 pair work? <Redoaks> David: Boy-I'm not gonna mess with you! <Blacky> Some time tonight I will ask a trivia question and the winner will get a free HOUSE/2 registration. <Blacky> Master-slave allows to turn on one light from two different places. <mandie> these "trivia" times are the only time that I wish I wasn't a VOICE officer :( <David> Redoaks: thats OK, we're a 'good' ISP * madodel isn't an officer, but already has registered House/2 <Howard> Right - known as "2-way" here! Are *they* available in 240v (preferably -U configuration :-) <Redoaks> mandie- wwe can all chip in and buy you one <David> madodel: then you could get it for mandie <mandie> Readoaks: aww, that's kind :) <mandie> lol <mandie> I should have bought it last year when Armin was demoing at Warpstock 98 <Blacky> Howard - check around on the net. There are schematics out there that show how to convert. * Abraxas bought House/2 after reading all thos good articles in the VOICE Newsletter (shamless plug) <Howard> Blacky: OK, I'll do that. <Blacky> BTW, two-way modules can be interrogated with software to find out on/off/dim status. Or find out if the bulb is burnt out. <mandie> shameless spelling! <Abraxas> hehe ... that too, mandie <mandie> :) <Blacky> Mandie - maybe Warpstock '99? * Abraxas had to turn off Spellguard ... that incessant beeping was driving me nuts :-) <mandie> Blacky: I'll be there! I take it you will be there again this year :) <Blacky> I'm planing to be in Atlanta. <mandie> great! <mandie> Blacky: have you ever thought of having some of the ActiveHome kits on hand for sale also?...would make it very convenient for ppl :) <Projects> mandie: I like your style :) <mandie> hehe <Blacky> Yes, I have though about it even last year. We'll see. * Projects thinks his order didn't go through on the X-10 site... some database locked thing... <mandie> ok :) <mandie> so you just neeed the 49.99 kit to get up and running <mandie> oh, and House/2 of course :) <Projects> and House/2 <Projects> :) <Swanee> Blacky: What's the weirdest use for House/2 that you've come across, or that someone has admitted to you? (Dumb question but "people want to know") <Blacky> BTW, I don't recommend using X-10 for coffee makers or heaters (unless you want to burn down your own house). <Projects> unless you've defected, and will be happy with the included coaster :) <mandie> blacky: bummer...is there something that you do recommend for coffee makers? <Projects> Swanee: wanna know what I'm doing with it? Running a reptile cage lights/heater :) <Abraxas> Blacky great .... NOW you tell me :-) <mandie> Abraxas: just save the coffee to put the fire out! <Swanee> Projects: That's a start, but c'mon Peter... I'm talking weird! <Projects> Swanee: and if the rodents needed lights/heat, I'd do it there too :) <Redoaks> Swanee: How about full volume Pink Floyd to rock you to sleep-then wake you in the AM <Blacky> I'm just overly careful, that's all ;-) <Swanee> Redoaks: That's not weird, that's a great idea! <madodel> The SR227 units I bought are rated at 1800 Watts <Projects> Swanee: how about an automatic feeder for the snake? Preset day to dump a rodent into the snake cage... hmm... * mandie doesn't consider not wanting to burn you house down as being "overly careful" <Swanee> Projects: LOL <Redoaks> I used to do that with the Regency * Projects sets about engineering a feeder... gotta move the rodents to above the snake cage... hmm... <Abraxas> Funny ... the manual that came with ACtiveHome kit ... step one was to plug the coffee maker into the Transceiver unit <Redoaks> (before marriage) * Fuzy|ogic must go home now... <Swanee> g'night Fuzzy! <Redoaks> Blacky- what's your upgrade policy? <Blacky> I had one wall switch burn out and it actually shorted so the light stayed on all the time. An appliance module may just burn out the contacts and fail safe. <mandie> ah, there's an 8% discount right now..total $46.00 <Howard> I use it to turn on an electric kettle in the morning - just have to remember to put water in it in the evening (it has a steam-triggered turn-off - the norm here) <Swanee> Yeah... that sounds like good reason not to heat or make coffe with it. <Projects> mandie: you ordering at X-10's site now? <Blacky> Upgrades will always be free. I will also include HOUSE/290 with HOUSE/2. HOUSE/290 will also be available separately. Isn't that a deal? <mandie> Projects: yes <Andy> Blacky: Since House/2 is being developed for the 290 with REXX-enable, is there any chance House/2 will ever be developed for the TW523 ? <Redoaks> Good man :) <Projects> mandie: let me know what happens... I don't think my order made it through, but I don't want to resubmit just in case. <mandie> projects: will do <Howard> Blackie: I can't remember if I registered House/2 - do you keep records of who has ? (sorry to be a pain) <mandie> what ordering instructions do they want..... <Projects> no idea... I left that blank <Andy> Projects: It is cheaper at http://www.baran-harper.com/bh007.htm <Swanee> Are there any other questions for Armin before we start to wrap it up? <mandie> probably why it didn't go through :) <Projects> Andy: thanks... if my order didn't go through, I'll try there :) <Blacky> Andy - The TW523 is a different animal and not available anymore. I doubt I will support it. Even the CP290 is totally different that the CM11A. <mandie> I'm on my way....just in the nick of time :) <Blacky> Howard - email me personally. <Andy> TW523 is still for sale. <Projects> hehehe <Howard> OK! <mandie> great, they have so many items listed...you'd have to know exactly what you need to get it from them <Blacky> X-10 came out with the Firecracker, another PC interface. Only interactive, no memory, but supports RF. <Projects> Blacky: am I gonna break anything if I run House/2 without the proper hardware? Just want to look for now. Too bad one can't download the hardware :) <Howard> Folks: It's been fun, but I must catch some Zs before I have to get up in 4.5 hours time - 'night all! <Projects> mandie: the CK11A Active home 5 piece interface kit looks like it... <Redoaks> I'm sold. I really miss the old Regency. This sounds much better. <Redoaks> Goodnight Howard <Blacky> Projects - House/2 runs without the hardware, Just not as much fun. You won't break anything. <mandie> that's 74.39..alot more expensive <mandie> sorry, 80.85 <Projects> Blacky: thanks... :) <Swanee> Projects: You can test it without x-10's but keep an eye on your electric razor. They have a habit of flying away. <Andy> Blacky: Earlier there was mention of the CM11A having some kind of failure. I use the TW523 for a security and home automation and it never fails. How reliable is the House/2 with CM11A ? <Projects> Swanee: hahaha <mandie> hmm..what's a free palmpad and slimfire <mandie> must they use the term "fire" <Projects> mandie: dunno, but that's what I went for :) <Blacky> Slimfile is a small keychain remote. * Abraxas bought the deluxe kit .... about $150.00 :-) <Abraxas> I have more remotes and motion sensors than I know what to do with :-) * Projects doesn't have Abraxas's money, or he would too <Blacky> Palmpad is a large keychain the size of a PalmPilot :-) <mandie> ok :) <Sector> Projects: All you need is his credit card <Projects> Sector: I know... been trying to get it, but no luck :) <David> Projects: or his credit card number... <Swanee> Abraxas: Yeah but you have to keep the front of your house well lit in case some angry husband comes around. <madodel> I had bought the CK11A and 4 wall modules and they sent me a bunch of those keychain things and several hawk eyes <Blacky> Andy - I don't have any reports of problems with House/2. If I do, I usually fix them righ away. <Abraxas> Swanee not anymore ... my new Glock 19 has Trijicon Nightsights on it :-) <Swanee> Abraxas: lol, going all out now huh? :-) <Projects> hrm... /me is a bit suspicious of a site that sells stuff, but can't speel on their webpage <Sector> /msg Projects: Here it is 0000 0000 0000 0000 exp: 01/01 <David> Blacky: something not on topic, - I see on your site you have software to hook to a APC UPS. Will that also work with a TripLite? <Abraxas> Projects what'd they do ... mispell cheque again? <Projects> Abraxas: nothing that drastic... "... we can ship you product" instead of "... your product" <Blacky> UPS Monitor is only designed for the APC UPS. I doubt it will work on Triplite. <mandie> projects: it's just sitting there waiting for response <David> Projects: picky...picky...picky... <Redoaks> Maybe it's an Italian site :) <Projects> possible :) <mandie> Projects: they use "your" in their .inf file :) <Abraxas> good one, mandie :-) <Projects> hehehe <mandie> The Database appears to be in a locked state. <Projects> mandie: that's what I got too <mandie> did you do what it said to do? <Blacky> Everybody ready for the trivia question? <Projects> mandie: nope... chicken :) <Swanee> Redoaks: If it were Italian wouldn't it be "we ship you product" Oh no... that would be native american... <Abraxas> Blacky go for it :-) <mandie> projects: well, considering that there's no "Utilities" menu...I won't try it either :) <mandie> g'luck all <WarpHoss> yeah just do it. <Blacky> Trivia question time: How long did it take to develop and release the first version of HOUSE/2? I'm looking for <Projects> Swanee: actually, it's a canadian company :p <Blacky> a number and time units (seconds ... milleniums, you choose). You have 5 minutes to post your answer. <Blacky> The first one appearing on my screen, who is the closest, wins. <Projects> mandie: guess if it arrives, the order worked. If it doesn't, it didn't :) <WarpHoss> 17seconds. <Swanee> Projects: opps... native canadien... <Andy> Will the CM11A do everything the TW523 does? I need the return X-10 signals from motion detectors etc to trigger other prgms such as playing a WAV or displaying a screen with the layout of the alarm and sending outer X-10 signal as a result of If-Then-Else. Will House/2 let me do that? <Blacky> Andy - House/2 ver 2.0 will do that. <Redoaks> Swanee- It might be "we shippa you product" <mandie> I don't see any answers to the trivia question <Blacky> House/2 ver 2.0 will be out sometimes this year. <Abraxas> Blacky and when might we expect to see version 2.0? <Abraxas> Ahh ... <Swanee> Blacky: Was House/2 your first app or was it done after you had already done a few? (trivia question hint?) <Swanee> Redoaks: lol! <Andy> Triva answer: 1 month, 1 week, 1 day, and 1 hour. (wild guess.) <Blacky> I had done two games first: Memory Game and Leave One. <Redoaks> Trivia - 2 years <mandie> Projects: it didn't go through. We should have received a UPS tracking # <Projects> mandie: ah... thought so. <Swanee> OK gang, he was already started with programming so how long... * Swanee hears the theme to Jeopardy playing in the background... <David> do I fail if I don't answer??? been busy - have to keep skipping to keep up ;-) <Zoltan> Trivia - when wife said you are finished with it minus start time <Blacky> Do I need to give a hint? <Projects> Blacky: in answer to your answer to my earlier question.. the utils in the house2.zip is version 1.7, not 1.7b <Swanee> Keep guessing you guys... Voice officers cannot guess <David> trivia - 3 weeks (wild guess) <StevenL> Ok, I'll guess. 3 man months. <Swanee> Zoltan: LOL!!! Great answer! :-) <mandie> lol <Blacky> I think I recently updated HOUS2UTIL. I try to fix things as they are reported. <Swanee> Blacky: They might need you to play high/low with them <David> shouldn't it be 'when wife said finished' - 'when wife SAID you started' ;-) <mandie> watch it guys! <Blacky> So far everybody is low, <David> I know who my boss is ;-) <StevenL> I was afaid of that. <WarpHoss> trivia> 365 days. <David> well, I saw one for '2 years', was that low also? <StevenL> OK. 6 man months. Where are all the speculators? <Andy> Triva answer: 6 months (2nd. wild guess.) <Swanee> Redoaks' 2 years was LOW? <Swanee> Is this a trick question? Like, "It's not finished yet"? <Blacky> 2 years is to high. <mandie> placing order by phone <Andy> Triva answer: 6 months and 1 day (3nd. wild guess.) <Swanee> hehe OK, I figured you must have missed the 2 year answer. :-) <Redoaks> Oh well... <Projects> order me one too, while your at it... :) <mandie> projects: serious/ <mandie> ? <StevenL> 6 months and 2 days. <Andy> hee hee <Swanee> Zoltan has the answer if he could extend his formula <Projects> mandie: hrm... sure, why not. The 69.95 thing <mandie> hold... <Andy> Triva answer: 6 months and 3 days <Blacky> Cut-off time for the trivia. * Projects didn't think mandie would be serious :) <Zoltan> Well I bought it last year, so I am out. <David> thats ok. What was the answer? <Swanee> Zoltan: You could get a second copy for your wife to use in her house after she sees what you wrote here. :-) <Blacky> The correct answer is 8 month. Sector is the winner with 7 mo 1 week. <David> yea! <Swanee> Yeaaaa Sector!!! <Redoaks> Congrats Sector <mandie> Projects: he said..... <Swanee> Hip hip hooray! <Sector> Hmmm, I thought it was 7 months, 1 week, 2 days, 3 hours, 5 minutes, 7 seconds, 8 microseconds... <Projects> mandie: she said.... <Projects> :) <WarpHoss> Congrats. <mandie> that their system is sooo busy right now that it can't issue confirmation #'s fast enough <mandie> said that the order should have gone through and we should receive email confirmation later tonight <mandie> if not..call back tomorrow <David> yea, right. sounds like 'NT to me. <Swanee> Sector: What, no nanoseconds? Sheez... talk about approximate <mandie> lol <Projects> mandie: ah. ok. Thanks <mandie> ok :) <mandie> Sector: congrats!!! <mandie> now try to get the ActiveHome! * Abraxas congratulates Sector .....see .. hanging out in #voice 24/7 soemtimes pays off :-) <WarpHoss> Swanee> What's your new address? send it to me please. <Sector> Hey, I got to live somewhere... <Swanee> We want to that Armin for being here with us tonight and now open the floor to any general discussion. Like how will Zoltan hide this log from his wife. :-) <Abraxas> Well, you picked a good neighborhood :-) <Projects> Abraxas: it's raydav@intlaccess.com, but he's got 3 isp's, and uses all the addresses to make sure he gets something :) <Swanee> WarpHoss: swanee@pillarsoft.net <StevenL> Thx Armin. <Redoaks> Thank you Armin <Blacky> About the TW523 - if I want to support it, I have to buy it and I also have to have the protocol. <WarpHoss> Swanee> Thanks. <Andy> Thanks Armin! <Swanee> WarpHoss: You bet Abel. My old addy still works too though. <Blacky> With the CM11A and House/2 I had to do alot of reverse-engineering eventhough the protocoil is available. <David> very interesting Armin <Andy> TW523 = $30 <Swanee> Thank you Armin. I'm glad your typing skills stayed awake. :-) <mandie> Armin: thanks for presenting House/2 tonight and thanks for supporting the OS/2 community!! :) <Andy> I don't know about the protocol for the TW523 <Swanee> brb <mandie> I've heard that before! <Blacky> Thanks to everybody who supports my OS/2 programs. The support is mutual. Keep looking at my website for upgrades and new programs. <David> 'brb' always looks like 'burp', to me. ;-) <mandie> lol <mandie> sure will <Projects> David: me too... :) <Projects> Blacky: thanks to you for supporting OS/2 :) <Abraxas> Blacky will do ... and thanks .... dunno what I was doing wrong, but the system seems to have accepted the programming, this time :-) * Abraxas is happy now .... my coffee will be ready when I get up in the morning :-) <David> yea, right. like - it never fails when the tech is around, kinda thing ;-) <Abraxas> David exactly :-) <WarpHoss> Swan>Look for e-mail. <David> you know, of course, tomorrow morning, *NO COFFEE* ;-) <Projects> hehehe <David> better get his telephone number, before he gets away (sure... I can do that ;-) <Abraxas> David that's what I figure ....but it can't hurt to hope * mandie is going to bring House/2 to Warpstock 99 and set it up to "sensor" detect where Dan and Wayne are! <Projects> ahahahahahaha! <WarpHoss> Mandie I know where they'll be! <Abraxas> mandie just put a Hawkeye in the bar (with a Smoke Detector, too) :-) <WarpHoss> And don not need House/2. <Andy> Blacky: Sorry I'm not ready to jump on the CM11A. I have been using X-10 for about 20 years and have about 100 devices all running under an elaborate DOS prgm called HC2000. Until now I have never seen any other prgm that came close to being able to do what I already do. But I'll gladly help you test anything you make for the TW523. <mandie> WarpHoss: with YOU in the BAr :) <Projects> mandie: but you'll have to stick an X-10 module up each of their butts... <mandie> Projects: I'm a nurse remember :) <Projects> mandie: you are? hehe... you're all set then :) <WarpHoss> Xactly. Mandie or at the buffet! <mandie> WarpHoss: that'll work too :) <David> that module: ON or OFF? * mandie is looking forward to WArpstock 99 <Abraxas> Speaking of online orders .....I ordered a SCSI ORB Drive from IB yesterday :-) <mandie> David: AUTO :) <Blacky> Andy - will see if the protocol is available, but can't promise anything. <David> I can see I'm gonna have to go to WS'99, just to meet all these jokers ;-) <madodel> Any word yet on hotel reservations? <mandie> David: it's well work it! * Projects sobs <Andy> Blacky: I can put you in touch with the author of HC2000, I was a beta tester for him many years ago. He might be able to provide the protocol for TW523. <mandie> Madodel: I'm hoping this week :( <Abraxas> David yep .... and you won't regret the trip ..... we all had a BLAST last year :-) <Blacky> Andy - cool. <David> sure sounds like it. think I'm going to want a booth. any idea when things are available? <Blacky> Abraxas - will the ORB work under OS/2 ? <mandie> is Decker Automation the same interface as House/2 ? <Abraxas> Blacky yep .... it will <mandie> I recall from Efnet that Derek Decker had some automation software also <mandie> David: have you checked the WArpstock homepage: <Blacky> mandy - Decker has a program for the CP290 ASAIK. It's REXX-enabled. <mandie> http://www.warpstock.org <mandie> ah, ok <David> not lately. guess I should, again. <mandie> David: we hoping that registration will start this week <Blacky> ASAIK = AFAIK <mandie> we=we're :) <David> ISP business is more hectic than a turkey around thanksgiving. You don't have time for ANYTHING important. just customers. <mandie> <--- reads typos :) <David> sometimes the typos are more readable than the proper spelling. <mandie> david: where are you located? <David> down in south Texas. <mandie> are you a domain host? <David> yes <mandie> what's your url? <David> www.InSPired-Designs.Net is main one. <Blacky> OK, thanks everybody for putting up with my slow typing. Hope to see you all at Warpstock 99. Good night. <mandie> Blacky: gnite and thank you <Projects> slow typing? It appeared quite quickly here... :) <mandie> Projects: that should tell you something :) <Abraxas> Thanks, again, Blacky <Andy> ok <Projects> mandie: :) <mandie> David: what type of connection do you have? <David> Blacky - keep up the OS/2 work! <Redoaks> Goodnight armin <David> mandie: currently, we have a variable connect with from 2 to 8 ISDNs, and 1 T1, depending on the load in/out. <mandie> ok * mandie hopes she's not being "too" nosey :) <David> we pay upstream based on bandwidth utilized, so we keep it low. <Blacky> David - you bet! <mandie> ah <David> mandie: is more than welcome to ask. I am more than welcome to not answer, but not to someone that uses OS/2...NEVER <mandie> hehe <DA_MAN> David: are you an OS/2 Isp (as in your servers are os/2 ) .. <David> I'm the only ISP I know of that uses OS/2 servers. I assume there are more, but don't know. <David> been VERY happy with it. survives all kind of 'hacker attacks. <mandie> www.inspired-designs.net is running Apache/1.3.3 (OS/2) on DIGITAL UNIX <mandie> way to go!! <David> well, thats what Apache says... actually, thats just one of the 3 OS/2 servers we have here. <David> other two run Apache/PHP 1.3.6 <DA_MAN> david: there is an Os/2 isp mailing list .. <David> I know, but that would suggest I have 'time' to manage these things............. <mandie> lol <Zoltan> Good night everyone, got to do some Z-s. <David> this is the first FREE time I've had for about 2 weeks. *** Signoff: Zoltan (Leaving) [22:09:23] <David> Zol: plesant dreams <mandie> David: very well put! <mandie> First, I believe that one of the prime reasons we're all here, is to help each other in our development and growth. <mandie> That development is furthered by communication and experience with one another. <David> totally AGREE <David> thats why I'm changing our policy on 'operating hours' to say "I'm gone when there is a 'VOICE chat' ;-) <mandie> wonderful!!!! you are very welcome :) * StevenL Netcraft reports are notoriously wrong wrt OS/2. <mandie> StevenL: that's what I've read <David> sorry, I'm very suspicious of ANY press. seems they're all owned by M$ ;-) <mandie> StevenL: we must both belong to the POSSI mailing list :) <Swanee> back <StevenL> mandie: yep. <mandie> David: "Designs" do you do web site design? <madodel> Anyone been to news.stardock.com/stardock.os2 lately? A lot discussion on a new client <David> mandie: yes, if you look at the 'business' pages, we did every one, except the angelfire one (of course). <mandie> madodel: do you think there is "any" chance of this coming to be? <Swanee> madodel: I have been but not for the lst day or two <mandie> David: ah, ok <David> some don't work yet, still in design stage. <mandie> right <madodel> You are asking the wrong person Judy. Ask your buddy Brad <Swanee> mandie: Stardock invited the discussion so maybe Brad can tell you more. <mandie> madodel: buddy not...associate..maybe...acquaintence..yes :) <mandie> Swanee: I've invited him for a speakup on the subject :) <Swanee> mandie: How about a hard hitting report for the newsletter under the guise of a soft and gentle woman? <Swanee> :-) <mandie> and where would I find one of those :) <Swanee> We CAN erase that from the log if we do a covert action on this can't we? <Swanee> mandie: I don't think you'd have to look far. :-) <mandie> the log shouldn't even be running now..the speakup is over <mandie> :) <David> just out of curiosity, what HAS ibm's response been to these voice sessions? <David> do they even take any kind of interest? <mandie> we are basically end users so IBM could care less <mandie> we do have some IBM'ers that support us and are happy to be our guests at speakups <mandie> Mike Kaply, Tim Sipples, Mike Persell, Sam Detweiler <Swanee> David: In general, I don't think the general IBM'er even knows about them but we have had a couple of very good guests from IBM to do speakups and they were quite good. <David> you know, you'd think IBM would figure out what Apple has. that the end-users actually drive a part of the business market. <Projects> IBM is stupid :p <David> I remember a couple of them. Sipples, I think <Redoaks> I don't think taht IBM wnats to fight for that business <David> certainly appears they are 'intelligence challenged' <Swanee> David: Yep, and even doing something cute is really good for business. Look at the iMac <mandie> it wouldn't be a fight...it would mean providing support and they don't want to put money out for that <David> have you seen the sales figures on the iMac, and G3 boxes? <mandie> ah...fight M$..gotch <mandie> gotcha <David> Apple can't build them fast enough to get them to the stores, around here... <Swanee> I think mandie has said it for the most part. That is why a support system like we are discussing could be very important in the future. <Redoaks> I once wrote IBM to support the system and farm out the support-I got a long useless form letter in return <David> still don't understand IBM's attitude. who says that you have to FIGHT them? small conversions have a way of blossoming, sometimes. <Swanee> Redoaks: The letter from Sipples asked a few questions that I thought were pretty telling. <David> just look at the way weeds pop up in you're yard? <Swanee> David: Unless you're me... I can't even get WEEDS to grow very well <Swanee> :-) <David> the 'suspension' of the WIN/OS2 project, I think, is going to be one of the BIG failures for OS/2, I'm afraid. <mandie> why did that go by the wayside? <Swanee> David: My feeling on that is more like "six of one and half a dozen of the other" <Redoaks> I have quite a few friends and relatives in IBM-one service rep told me that IBM love NT because they get $250.00 an hour for tech calls, and he makes much more of them on NT <David> not totally sure. I heard 'moved on to other projects'... I would have given GOOD money for that project. <Swanee> Netlabs is trying to pick up the torch still. <David> 'NT, another one of my HATED subjects. <David> my OS/2 servers run WEEKS at a time, with no failures AT ALL. <David> my upstream providers ONE 'NT server - has to be reset ONCE A NITE. <Redoaks> David: thats the point-no support fees for IBM on you <David> and maintenance at least ONCE A WEEK, to fix problems it develops. <Swanee> Sat night we went out and a freind of mine that works at an aerospace co here said they are getting a new system and it works great when they are testing but when a second user gets on it the whole system locks up. <David> so, in other words, let a product DIE simply because its better. <Swanee> NT? I asked? Yep, they're going to NT <David> sounds like the american way, to me. <David> excuse me, 'american way' -> capitalism <mandie> you wonder why ppl just can't see it <Swanee> The bigwigs say it goes online June 1 so it better be ready. This guy says they can't make it run with 2 users so what will happen when 500 get on it? <Redoaks> Look at it this way-the squelching of Warp is one of the great tragedies of the 20th century. $$ <mandie> Redoaks: I totally agree :( <David> have you seen the press lately? ISP weekly doesn't even MENTION OS/2. everything is 'NT, or windows 2000. <David> people don't see it, because the press doesn't write it, and they don't write it, because there is no interest in a 'dead' OS. <Redoaks> mandie: :( "Y" <Swanee> David: Natch... Everybody "thinks" it's good but the real techs at the large companies know better. Sadly... many times, they don't get to make their own decisions. <Swanee> Hi DaveWgt <Redoaks> I think people don't se it because M$ is such a great wooler-puller-overer <Sector> Eek, an intruder... <David> of course they don't. thats because the people that DO make the decisions, have "Windows'98" at home. <Redoaks> Go to IBM-They have it at work too. <David> if its good enough to work "at home", it'll work in the office. <Swanee> David: I do beleive that makes a lot of difference <mandie> going to take off...thanks to all for coming tonight <mandie> nytol :) <Redoaks> Goodnight mandie <Swanee> I need to run too. Good night everybody! <David> I like that 'time wasted...' <Redoaks> I'm going to follow-g'nite all * Abraxas thanks everyone for attending tonight :-) <David> dropping like flys... I've got to go, too <David> Abraxas: see you next time ;-) <StevenL> See you next time... <Abraxas> g'night, David <StevenL> Bye all... *** StevenL has left #voice [22:36:30] *** Signoff: madodel (irc.us.webbnet.org irc.pa2.webbnet.org) [22:37:19] <DA_MAN> l8tr all .. <Projects> LOL! Anyone read the teamos2help-l post about BSOD's? <Projects> anyone still here? <Abraxas> yep <Projects> I know you are! :) <Abraxas> hehe <Sector> Possibly <Projects> did you read it? * Abraxas doesn't subscribe to that list * Sector doesn't either <Projects> ah... I'll forward it to you... it's great :) <Projects> hrm... maybe I should paste it here <Projects> FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Microsoft Announces Improved BSOD <Projects> In a surprise announcement today, Microsoft President Steve Ballmer <Projects> revealed that the Redmond based company will allow computer resellers <Projects> and end-users to customize the appearance of the Blue Screen of Death <Projects> (abbreviated BSOD), the screen that displays when the Windows operating <Projects> system crashes. <Projects> The move comes as the result of numerous focus groups and customer <Projects> surveys done <Projects> by Microsoft. Thousands of Microsoft customers were asked, "What do you <Projects> spend the most time doing on your computer?" <Projects> A surprising number of respondents said, "Staring at a Blue Screen of <Projects> Death". At 54 percent, it was the top answer, beating the second place <Projects> answer "Downloading XXXScans" by an easy 12 points. <Projects> "We immediately recognized this as a great opportunity for ourselves, <Projects> our channel partners, and especially our customers." explained the <Projects> excited Ballmer to a room full of reporters. <Marland> that's funny <Projects> Immense video displays were used to show images of the new customizable <Projects> BSOD screen side-by-side with the older static version. Users can select <Projects> from a collection of "BSOD Themes", allowing them to instead have a <Projects> Mauve Screen of Death or even a Paisley Screen of Death. Graphics and <Projects> multimedia content can now be incorporated into the screen, making the <Projects> BSOD the perfect conduit for delivering product information and <Projects> entertainment to Windows users. <Projects> it gets better... lemme get to the linux part :) <Projects> The Blue Screen of Death is by far the most recognized feature of the <Projects> Windows (tm) operating system, and as a result, Microsoft has <Projects> historically insisted on total control over its look-and-feel. This <Projects> recent departure from that policy reflects Microsoft's recognition of <Projects> the Windows desktop itself as the "ultimate <Projects> information portal." By default, the new BSOD will be configured to show <Projects> a random selection of Microsoft product information whenever the system <Projects> crashes. Microsoft channel partners can negotiate with Microsoft for <Projects> the right to customize the BSOD on systems they ship. <Projects> Major computer resellers such as Compaq, Gateway, and Dell are already <Projects> lining up for premier placement on the new and improved BSOD. <Projects> Balmer concluded by getting a dig in against the Open Source community. <Projects> "This just goes to show that Microsoft continues to innovate at a much <Projects> faster pace than open source. I have yet to see any evidence that Linux <Projects> even has a BSOD, let alone a customizable one." <Abraxas> Time to go ..... cya all later :-) <Marland> That was great... I agree... time to go... by all <Projects> well...guess I'm off too... laters! * Sector wonders where everyone could be going