Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions:
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Question:
I’ve seen X10 products like the MiniTimer at Home Depot, SmartHome.com, Radio Shack and lots of other places. It’s always more expensive elsewhere. What’s the difference?
Answer:
That’s a big question and there are three ways to sum up the answer:
- Manufacturer’s pricing
- The X10 Legacy
- Functionality
Manufacturer’s pricing
X10 is the manufacturer. An X10 purchase is factory-direct, which means you get the best deals on home automation, security, and personal assistance systems from us. All of the companies and retailers you mentioned above sell a lot of products we manufacture. So do lots of others. X10 is the only place you can get great deals on the MiniTimer, learn how to install it, speak with a customer service representative and buy accessories. We are your one-stop shopping site for X10 products.
The X10 Legacy
X10 has had 30 years in the home automation game. Not only are we the manufacturer, we’re also the trusted name in PLC protocol (power line control). Sure, other companies keep trying to improve on the X10 protocol, but no one has been able to duplicate its reliability. X10 is simply the best name in home automation.
Functionality
Other digital timers and dimmers have only one function – to either program or dim lights. But who wants a one-hit wonder? The MiniTimer does both – and them some. Program not only your lights and lamps but also household appliances. And the MiniTimer modifies a program so that your lights turn on or off at a slightly different times throughout the day - giving your home a lived-in look. When combined with quality X10 accessories like our Pro 2-Way Dimming Lamp Module with Memory Dim and Soft-Start features, you can do even more! Dim or brighten your lights and lamps to fit your personal lighting needs.
Question:
How many lights and appliances can I control with the MiniTimer?
Answer:
You can control as many as you want! We have a more-the-merrier approach to home automation. The MiniTimer has 8 standard control switches which each can control multiple items depending on how many Lamp and Appliance Modules you have set to the same Unit code. Simply plug a lamp or appliance into an X10 Lamp or Appliance Module. Set individual or groups of Modules to a Unit Code between 1 through 8 to coordinate it with the corresponding rocker found on the Mini Timer key pad and watch your home turn into a smart home.
Question:
Can I use the Mini Timer to control outdoor lighting?
Answer:
You bet! Although the MiniTimer alarm clock can’t be placed outside, it can still be set to operate a variety of outdoor lighting from within your home. Control your porch lights, patio lights, shed lights or any other outdoor lights. We offer a variety of quality X10 accessories such as Lamp and Appliance Modules, Wall Switches, and Remote Controls to assist with your outdoor lighting and appliance control needs.
Question:
Can multiple MiniTimers control the same lamp or appliance?
Answer:
Of course! Like we always say…The more, the merrier. All X10 MiniTimers are compatible with one another. If you have a MiniTimer in your living room to control your living room lights, you can also control those very same lights from a MiniTimer in your bedroom. Program a fan in your kitchen with a MiniTimer in your dining room then later turn it off with a MiniTimer in your laundry room. Use the Unit Code on your MiniTimer key pad to control different sets of lights and appliances. Use as many MiniTimers as you need.
Question:
The MiniTimer packages have a set amount of accessories already included. Does that mean I can’t add any more products to the package?
Answer:
No way José! MiniTimer packages include what you need to get started but you’re welcome to expand it any way you like! The Mini Timer works with quality X10 accessories like Lamp and Appliance Modules, Wall Switches, Remote Controls and more! Our customers are always coming up with creative ways to personalize packages. Add as many pieces as you need.
Question:
How long does setup take?
Answer:
We’ve made it so easy for you that deciding which lights, lamps and appliances to use with the MiniTimer is the only difficult part. We include easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions and our friendly, professional customer service representatives are X10 experts and are available 24/7 to assist you either by phone or online. Your MiniTimer can be up and running in 15 minutes.
Question:
I’m not that technically inclined. What happens if I break something?
Answer:
We’ve got you covered. Repairs can become costly and as time goes on, parts can become difficult to find and replace. That’s why we’ve made it easy for you. With our X10 EXTENDED WARRANTY PLUS PLAN and you can choose a two, three or even five year warranty. You get no-questions-asked coverage and VIP access to both customer service and tech support. We’ll treat you like royalty.
Question:
I'm no computer wiz. Can I REALLY automate my home without software?
Answer:
You sure can. The benefit to the MiniTimer and X10’s modules is that they can work with or without computers. The built-in capabilities of the Powerhouse MiniTimer and other controllers allow you to do everything from time lighting and appliance functions to dim your interior and exterior lights for just the right mood. Setup is really as easy as plug, program, and go!
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