[NCLUG] Experiences with x10 home automation system?

[Marcio Luis Teixeira]

Hi,

I have a really old HP IIID LaserJet printer at home. I keep it turned off 
while not in use, because the manual says it consumes 170 watts when in 
standby mode (and a whopping 940 watts while printing!). However, I would 
like my Linux print queue to be able to cycle the power on the printer, so I 
wouldn't have to do so myself. If the x10 home automation system performs as 
advertized, I think it would be just what the doctor ordered. I would just 
add a serial controller to my Linux box and a control module to the printer 
(it looks like the SR227 wall outlet can handle the wattage).

Have any of you guys have had any experience with these x10 devices? They seem 
almost too good to be true and *plus* there seems to be Linux drivers written 
for it. Does anyone have any experiences with these gadgets? Are their any 
gotchas to watch out for?

I think these devices might also be awesome for remotely rebooting computers 
-- does anyone know if these controllers provide clean enough power for doing 
so? It seems like they are primarily build for lamps, TVs and other low-tech 
appliances.

Marcio Luis Teixeira