How to Buy a Programmable Lighting System

Imagine being able to call out "Let there be light!" and have all the lamps in your house respond immediately. Sophisticated whole-house lighting systems are now available to both create moods and offer increased convenience and security. Costs range from $200 for simple functions to several thousand dollars for full-house systems.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Focus on wireless systems if you're retrofitting this technology to an existing home. Wireless systems use infrared or radio frequency (RF) signals instead of behind-the-walls wiring. For new construction, install wireless or hardwired systems.

2. Decide what to connect. Integrate lighting devices with entertainment-- lights dim and shades lower automatically when you start a movie. Or link safety and security devices: As alarm sensors are tripped, they activate flashing lights; if fire alarms sound, the whole house lights up.

3. Place control pads in convenient locations. With some hardware variations, each system's central control unit connects to wallmounted keypads, from which you command lights and devices. Install keypads at entry doors, bedsides or wherever they're desired. Keypads hold up to nine buttons, linked to receivers in outlets, sockets and wall switches.

4. Program lighting scenes: custom, dimmable lighting combinations designed for the moods or activities you enjoy in each room. Different light levels work better for entertaining, reading, dining and home theaters. In addition, there are sleep, vacation and emergency modes. Once you've programmed key settings, they can be stored for easy access.

5. Control your environment. Timers and remote controls are favorites to access your system. Some feature an in-car option. As you reach your driveway, you can turn on interior and exterior lights. Others allow you to connect to the central control--and the home itself--through a computer or Web-enabled personal digital assistant to access your system from almost anywhere.

6. Find dealers and installers through manufacturer Web sites. Look for manufacturer-trained personnel especially for hardwired systems. Programmable lighting sources include GE Lighting (gelighting.com), Lightolier Controls (lolcontrols.com), LiteTouch (litetouch.com), Lutron (lutron.com) and Vantage Controls (vantagecontrols.com) and others. These firms also offer design and programming, integration with other electrical systems, and user training. Whole-house systems start at about $1,600 plus installation.

Tips & Warnings

• Before buying, check the method of programming. Some systems must be programmed by professional installers, some you set up with a personal computer, and others you program from the keypads themselves.