X10 Community Forum

🖥️ActiveHome Pro => SDK => Third Party Add-Ons & Software => Topic started by: Tuicemen on October 25, 2006, 06:34:57 PM

Title: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on October 25, 2006, 06:34:57 PM
Since many wish to play wave files when AHP  turns on /off something I created X10Wavplayer (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/index.html) ;)
This takes nothing away from X10dispatch or BXVC in fact if you wish to have more options I suggest you down load those programs and test run them!
Although this is still  a work in progress I felt there was enough interest to release it! ::) ;) :D
How it works:
The file can be unzipped  and ran in any location even inside the AHP folder.
Want to have Active Home tell you what module activated?
Create a wave file using At&T Natural Voices (http://www.naturalvoices.att.com/demos/) ;) :D
Feel free to post any sugestions or comments here! ;) :D ;D
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: KDR on October 25, 2006, 07:13:09 PM
Nice Job Tuicemen !!  ;D

Going to give it a try.
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Puck on October 25, 2006, 07:50:11 PM
Nice Job Tuicemen !!  ;D

Tried the initial release last night & feel the same as KDR... nice little program.

Only option I'd like to see is to loop X times then close.  ;)
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on October 25, 2006, 10:50:00 PM
Thanks KDR & Puck
Puck: I've got the repeat option added But I'm testing it right now  added repeat options of 0-9  plus Continuous if these aren't enough you can specify any number!
I'll try to post it to the my site Thursday evening! ;)
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Puck on October 26, 2006, 09:12:33 AM
...added repeat options of 0-9  plus Continuous if these aren't enough you can specify any number!
I'll try to post it to the my site Thursday evening! ;)

That's awesome Tuicemen... Thanks !!!  :)

Now if my DS7000 calls me, I will be able to hear in the background which sensor was violated.
Well in my case I don't have OnAlert yet, but I will be able to hear which motion sensors are triggered.

Hmmm.... may have to dedicate a status flag to prevent simultaneous annunciations... I'm sure I have plenty of spare flags left.  ::) :- :D
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on October 26, 2006, 06:14:39 PM
  X10WavPlayer    (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/index.html) version 1.3 is now on the download site!
A few improvements:
;)I hope some of you Users find this Helpful! ;)
In any case please post your comments/suggestions Here! ;) :D ;D
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Puck on October 26, 2006, 07:42:21 PM
;)I hope some of you Users find this Helpful! ;)

VERY MUCH :)
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Dan Lawrence on October 27, 2006, 07:48:47 PM
OK, I've downloaded everything, installed it all and it appears to work.

Can Tuicemen supply a sample macro, and can the macro be downloaded to the interface, or is it a PC macro?

The WavPlayer looks neat, and I think it will be useful.
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: JimC on October 27, 2006, 09:34:24 PM
Thanks Tuicemen. This is a nice little program that is sure to come in handy.

Quote from: Dan Lawrence
Can Tuicemen supply a sample macro, and can the macro be downloaded to the interface, or is it a PC macro?

Dan, the macro can only be run from the PC as it requires the PC to run the batch file.
Dan, to use this you would have a macro that runs the batch file. This is located under advanced functions  ......Windows Command.   In the Execute Windows Program  box you enter the path to the batch file.

Hope this helps. If  not I am sure that Tuicemen can do a much better job of explaining it.

Jim
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Dan Lawrence on October 27, 2006, 11:13:27 PM
I'm going to delete it.

I don't want a macro that runs only from the PC. 

It looked like a neat thing to have, but I'm not that interested in it.

Tuicemen  made a nice little program, but "freeware" that makes people do what they don't really want to isn't worth it.

Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: TakeTheActive on October 28, 2006, 01:38:40 AM
I'm going to delete it.

I don't want
a macro that runs only from the PC. 

It looked like a neat thing to have, but I'm not that interested in it.

Tuicemen  made a nice little program, but "freeware" that makes people do what they don't really want to isn't worth it.

IMHO, it's inappropriate / inaccurate / unnecessary posts like this that got you your original 60 "Unhelpfuls" that you whined to have reset to ZERO.  :(

When someone like Tuicemen invests their own personal time and effort (i.e. VOLUNTEERS) to create something even REMOTELY USEFUL by even a FRACTION of the "Community", and then decides to GIVE IT AWAY to others, *FREE* of any charges or strings whatsoever, you need to acknowledge *AND* respect their work / donation, *REGARDLESS* of whether or not you personally find their *GIFT* fitting to your needs. >:(

{Science Blog} Mom Was Right: If You Don't Have Anything Nice To Say About Someone, Don't Say Anything At All! (http://www.scienceblog.com/community/older/1998/A/199800404.html)]
 :(

Another "poor taste", IMHO, example:

I have deleted BXVC from my system.  It will not allow me to add modules to A1, and it earased alll my old setup.

Unless you still have the prior version available, I'm done with it.

I have deleted BXVC from my system.  It will not allow me to add modules to A1, and it earased alll my old setup.

Unless you still have the prior version available, I'm done with it.

So... you downloaded the Upgrade version (not the Full version) and expanded / copied the files to the same folder you have been running BXVC from?

Yes and it screwed up my BXVC settings, lost every module and refused to allow a new A1 module to be added.
So, bye-bye to BXVC.
Loved the prior version, great to play with.  Downloaded the new version, copied the files to the folder, BLOOEY!!!

Did it ever occur to you to take this "conversation" to PM?

Did you ever stop to think about how much "hurt" you inflicted on -Bill- (of BXVC) by "bad-mouthing" his *FREE* (probably HUNDREDS of hours invested) contribution to the "Community" out here in PUBLIC?

Go ahead and DING me again! I know that the MAJORITY of my current 48 "Unhelpfuls" came from you! Posts like yours are *TOTALLY* uncalled for in a "Community" where folks come to help one another.


And I've also been recently informed by x10javier (aka Crabby Sysadmin ) that he's been getting LOADs of complaints about *ME*, yet I have only received *TWO* PMs:

Folks,

If I do something that you find *TOTALLY* disagreeable:

[/size][/b]
Thanks!
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Puck on October 28, 2006, 02:33:13 AM
After seeing the last 2 posts on this tread, I sent this PM to TakeTheActive:

Re: X10WavPlayer(Add Sound to AHP)

I seen that post earlier and wanted to say something too... haven't been around long enough and not as outspoken I guess. But from what I seen of your posts and your character on this board, I knew it wouldn't go unnoticed / unaddressed. CHEERS!!! (wish I could pass you a beer)

You try to get people to read, think and appreciate that everyone here is volunteering their time & efforts to help... it's hard to believe how someone can interpret that as UNHELPFUL!
KEEP UP THE AWESOME WORK ON THIS BOARD  TakeTheActive!!!

Dan

I'm sure I'm not the only Member / Guest / Lurker who appreciates what TTA does and tries to do for this board.
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: JMac on October 28, 2006, 10:18:44 AM
I don't contribute much, but I second the motion...........and added my helpful to Take the Active".
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: JimC on October 28, 2006, 10:58:10 AM
Quote from:
I don't want a macro that runs only from the PC. 


Dan,
Would you please explain how this program could be run from the interface. I was unaware that the CM15a had speakers hidden within that could be used to play the sounds.

Would you also please explain what the purpose of your post was. Why was it necessary to post anything negative about anothers efforts to improve AHP by developing add ons.

Just so you know who it was. I just gave you a negative for your uunthoughtful iinconsiderate post. Now go ahead and seek your revenge like you have on others. >:(


TTA, your post was right on and should be applauded.

Tuicemen THANK YOU, I  for one, find the program eextremely usefull and it was actually something I was looking for.

Jim
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: KDR on October 28, 2006, 11:06:31 AM
I also found it usefull and encourage Tuicemen and others to keep up the good work. Just because someone doesn't have a need for it or likes exactly how it runs doesn't make it bad. I support TTA's comments and others on this matter.
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Duck69 on October 28, 2006, 12:30:01 PM
Ditto to Puck & JMac,  ;D 8)

I believe TTA receives a lot of unwarranted un-helpfuls and  that most of these are of  a personal nature.[/b]

If someone has a problem with TTA. Send him a personal message and work it out in private.[/b][/color]  ???

DON'T ABUSE the Ratings system.

x10javier, when is forum software going to be upgraded and some of our suggestions for improvements implemented ?

Tuicemen &  -Bill- (of BXVC) keep up your good work.
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Dan Lawrence on October 28, 2006, 01:48:03 PM
Quote from:
I don't want a macro that runs only from the PC. 


Dan,
Would you please explain how this program could be run from the interface. I was unaware that the CM15a had speakers hidden within that could be used to play the sounds.

Would you also please explain what the purpose of your post was. Why was it necessary to post anything negative about anothers efforts to improve AHP by developing add ons.

Just so you know who it was. I just gave you a negative for your uunthoughtful iinconsiderate post. Now go ahead and seek your revenge like you have on others. >:(


TTA, your post was right on and should be applauded.

Tuicemen THANK YOU, I  for one, find the program eextremely usefull and it was actually something I was looking for.

Jim


Apparently, Jim, the macro can only be run from the PC.  That's because the sound files are on the hard disk. 

That's why I got rid of it.  It's not important to me to have a sound play in AHP when an action is taken.

TTA then decided to drag posts from the past to denigrate me.

Tuicemen did take the time to create a neat little program, I just don't need it. I downloaded it to see what it would do. It did, but I decided I didn't need it.

Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Charles Sullivan on October 28, 2006, 02:49:23 PM
Dan,
You're missing the point entirely.

When you download a contributed program and find it doesn't meet your needs, your posts ALWAYS come across as if you're sneering at the program.  There's no need to post anything at all - imagine what this forum would look like if everyone who happened to read a post about the availability of some program started posting responses like "I don't need anything like that".

If you download a contributed program that you think WOULD meet your needs but it doesn't seem to work right, PM the author about the problem and get his/her advice before publicly raising a stink.  For one thing, it may very well be "pilot error" and you'll avoid embarrassing yourself.

Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: -Bill- (of wgjohns.com) on October 29, 2006, 01:38:02 AM
Dan,
You're missing the point entirely.

When you download a contributed program and find it doesn't meet your needs, your posts ALWAYS come across as if you're sneering at the program.  There's no need to post anything at all - imagine what this forum would look like if everyone who happened to read a post about the availability of some program started posting responses like "I don't need anything like that".

If you download a contributed program that you think WOULD meet your needs but it doesn't seem to work right, PM the author about the problem and get his/her advice before publicly raising a stink.  For one thing, it may very well be "pilot error" and you'll avoid embarrassing yourself.



Thank you Charles!  I couldn't have stated it better myself (except I would have used "annoying" font sizes and colors to emphasize my point)!   ;)

I also agree whole-heartedly with TTA's post!

Dan,
   I personally was quite annoyed with you publicly ranting about BXVC instead of PM'ing or emailing me for help.  Had I CO privileges, I would have deleted your post and PM'd you to help you work out your problem.  However, since I couldn't, I was forced to answer you publicly just so others would see that you were happy again.  I still don't know how many people have read that thread and have decided BXVC is not worth a look, just because (yes, I'm finally saying it!) you goofed the upgrade installation, you goofed further by deleting "everything" and therefore had to re-install from scratch and re-enter all of your settings.  Even with your "I'm happy now" post following, the thread still looks (to those who don't already know better) like BXVC might have been the problem.

   Your post here casts a similar shadow on Tuicemen's program.  I mean, how can; " ..."freeware" that makes people do what they don't really want to isn't worth it." be taken as anything but a dig?  It didn't make you do anything!  You chose to try it.  As JimC pointed out, what did you expect it to do, download firmware that caused the CM15A to grow speakers?

To all who read this,
   I beg your pardon for publicly venting my spleen at Dan!  I have no excuse.  I should have more self-control.  I just couldn't stay silent any longer.   :-[
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: ArtClark on October 29, 2006, 02:44:26 AM
I agree with TTA and all that was said.  Negative coments aren't of any use.  It's OK to vent, once in a while, but who am I to judge another.

After saying that, I would love to try out the program.  Sounds like what I have been looking for.

MY only problem seems to be, I can't get the link to work (My Bad, probably...).  My browser comes up with
Page cannot be found.    Could you please let me know what I am doing wrong.  I would love to try the thing.

P.S.  I tried both the original and updated version links.  Can't get either.  Maybe the server isn't running early in the AM??

TIA  Art.
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: -Bill- (of wgjohns.com) on October 29, 2006, 04:19:20 AM
I agree with TTA and all that was said.  Negative coments aren't of any use.  It's OK to vent, once in a while, but who am I to judge another.

After saying that, I would love to try out the program.  Sounds like what I have been looking for.

MY only problem seems to be, I can't get the link to work (My Bad, probably...).  My browser comes up with
Page cannot be found.    Could you please let me know what I am doing wrong.  I would love to try the thing.

P.S.  I tried both the original and updated version links.  Can't get either.  Maybe the server isn't running early in the AM??

TIA  Art.

Try:  http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/X10WavPlayerV1.3.zip
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: JimC on October 29, 2006, 06:12:26 AM
Bill,

Just wanted to let you know that your software is a blast. I have been playing around with it ,on and off, ever since Tuicemen  was nice enough to post the link to it in these forums a year or so ago. Every update seems to only make it better. Having downloaded every update I only once had problems and it was, OF COURSE, my own doing. A message to you got it quickly straitened out. THANKYOU  ;D :D ;)

Quote from: Bill- (of BXVC)
I beg your pardon for publicly venting my spleen at Dan!


I, for one , thought you showed great restraint in dealing with this situation and again making him a happy camper.

Jim
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on October 29, 2006, 04:02:54 PM
Wow! I go away for the week end and everything explodes! ::) ;) :D :)
Thanks for everyones praise of X0WavPlayer!
Even yours Dan! ;) :D
I wonder what I'll miss when I go away for a weeks Hunt! ??? ::) ;)
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on October 29, 2006, 07:06:07 PM
Tuicemen  made a nice little program, but "freeware" that makes people do what they don't really want to isn't worth it.
Just incase someone else feels this way!
Warning: [/color][/b]
 I hope I didn't forget something! I'd hate to create something that made someone do what they didn't want to! ;) :D
If your leary about exactly what this will do or won't do just Ask!
OH! And you can PM me, I do answer them! ;) :D ;D
Dan: If I was charging for this would that have made it worth it? ::) ???
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Dan Lawrence on October 29, 2006, 10:14:53 PM
With your red Warning!!! list, probably not.  When I downloaded it, it was very well done and the player itself worked fine.  It was when I found the macros had to be run from the PC as opposed to the CM15A, that's when I decided to delete it.  I use AHP to control lights in the house and have a single macro that turns all the lights on 3 housecodes off at the press of A5 off. AHP does what I want it to do.

That's why I'm not interested in any of the plug-ins for AHP. Don't need any.

Thank you for your work on it.

Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on October 30, 2006, 09:13:51 AM
As of yet NO Thirdparty software or add-on can download to the CM15A! :( ::) ;)
That may change down the road with a SDK update, but I wouldn't hold my breath! ;) :D :)
If it ever does happen I'll let you know Dan.
Quote from: Dan Lawerence
Thank you for your work on it.
Your welcome Dan! Sorry it didn't work the way you wished it to! ;) :D
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: -Bill- (of wgjohns.com) on October 31, 2006, 12:12:20 AM
Obviously, the obvious is not always obvious.   ;) ???

Otherwise, I wouldn't have had the fun of musing about the instructions on a prescription pill bottle this weekend.

The instructions stated; "Take one tablet daily by mouth."  and I thought; "Isn't that (by mouth) obvious?  Where else would you put it? ??? ::) :o"  then I thought; "Do they feel they have to specify, because someone got it... wrong?!!   ??? :-[ :o"

P.S.
This message is meant to be read by eye, text-to-speech reader or braille reader, etc.  It is not meant to be taken orally, or inserted in any other orifice!  Unless you really want to, in which case the author can not be held responsible for the outcome.

 ;D
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on November 23, 2006, 06:00:18 PM
I just posted An update to X10wavPlayer

Version 1.4 adds codding to stop x10Wavplayer from opening multiple copies of its self!

This should help when using it with X10dispatchers Flood detection  or save a flag for some! ;)
(I know you have few of these left Puck)

The link is still the same X10Wavplayer (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/index.html) ;)
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on November 28, 2006, 12:10:44 AM
***New version 1.5***
Fixed  bug:
When restarting Active Home Pro, x10wavplayer created batch files would no longer execute!

This should have fixed the problem of files stopped working after a period of time as well!
if not let me know! ;) :D

If you have x10wavplayer created batch files you'll need to recreate them! ::) :-[ ;)

Sorry

No added gadjets  :-[ :(
Can't think of every thing myself! ;) :D ;D

If you notice any other problems or wish for an option please PM me  ;) :D
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on November 29, 2006, 01:43:31 PM
I've now created an Installer for X10WavPlayer  .

However Anglefire won't permit downloading of exe files :'( ::) ;)

So you must rename the download to X10WavPlayer.exe

Once it is renamed just open it and follow the on screen prompts! ;) :D

Hope this helps those Having troubles or confused with zip files ;) :D
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: clunker on November 29, 2006, 03:31:54 PM
Warning:
  • X10WavPlayer Must be run from the PC
  • The PC must be turned ON
  • The CM15A Must be connected to the PC
  • You Need PC speakers the CM15A doesn't have any!
  • AHP must be running!
  • Macros which trigger the X10Wavplayer must be run from the PC
[/color][/b]
 I hope I didn't forget something! I'd hate to create something that made someone do what they didn't want to! ;) :D

You left out:

[/list][/size][/color][/b]
And "AHP must be running!" should be changed to "AHP must be running on the PC!" since AHP is always running somewhere in the world.

I would normally say "I hope this is helpful", but in this case, I kind of hope it isn't.  ;)
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: JMac on November 29, 2006, 04:42:08 PM
This is great!  Works fine.  Now if I could only figure out how to arm my security system (console) over the internet!
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on November 29, 2006, 11:25:17 PM
clunker:

I think even you for got a few things! ;) :D ;D

But since this program isn't  a magic bullet [/size]   it's bound to be short on its abilities ;) :D ;D

Thanks everyone for the High praises here in PMs and e-mail!

It made my day!
 :) ;) :D
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on December 03, 2006, 07:19:35 PM
New release/update: version 1.6
Very small improvements! ;) :D ;D
Adds:
[li]Added minimize on start option (thanks Puck for this suggestion!)
.[/li]
[li]Added link to sound recorder to speed up file edits/creation
.[/li]
[/list]
The link is still the same for both the installer and the zipped file ;)

***Tuicemen's Software*** (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/index.html)[/list]
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: DB on December 09, 2006, 08:24:09 PM
Well I thought I would throw my 2 cents worth and tell you how I added sound through MS Agent. I had an old copy of microsoft scripting helper(MASH the free version) and used it to generate small .exe files. I then a make a macro for each sound I want using the advanced functions. When a light is activated or a macro, James character pops up and notifies me. Using some other old freeware for msagent I turned James into a regular electronic butler who greets guests when they arrive, sounds off x10 events, interjects his own brand of butlerish comments etc. Maybe the poor man's version of homeseer. ::). It works pretty well but have amassed quite a few sound macros, each customized to what I want "James" to say. Occasionally multiple triggers cause an error message to appear on screen when they try to run at the same time, but you just click them off. By using the "pipe" character between different sayings, you can have James say different things at random in response to the same trigger. This gives it a less programmed feel.
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: TakeTheActive on December 09, 2006, 10:11:33 PM
TTA EDIT: Content reformtted into pseudo-article format.

Hopefully we can convince DB to " [/size]flesh it out " into a Complete HOW-TO![/b]
;)

Well I thought I would throw my 2 cents worth and tell you how I added sound through MS Agent. Maybe the poor man's version of homeseer. ::).

It works pretty well but have amassed quite a few sound macros, each customized to what I want "James" to say. Occasionally multiple triggers cause an error message to appear on screen when they try to run at the same time, but you just click them off. By using the "pipe" character between different sayings, you can have James say different things at random in response to the same trigger. This gives it a less programmed feel.

Any feedback is welcome, positive or negative.


THE POOR MAN'S VERSION OF HOMESEER
(Adding sound to AHP through MS Agent.)
December 9, 2006
DB
[/b]



Members Sharing Their Original X10 Home Automation Ideas [Updated: 2006/10/21] (http://www.x10community.com/forums/index.php?topic=10565.0)
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Puck on December 09, 2006, 10:19:04 PM
Any feedback is welcome, positive or negative.

positive or constructive

 ;)
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: TakeTheActive on December 09, 2006, 10:22:59 PM
Any feedback is welcome, positive or negative.

positive or constructive

 ;)


I used JimC's article as a template:

Adding a Voice to X10 - Posted: « on: 2006-10-21, 16:25:39 » (http://www.x10community.com/forums/index.php?topic=10699.msg60795#msg60795)
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: DB on December 10, 2006, 08:24:46 PM
To further add to the story above, adding sound events to the computer alone is great if your in the room, but I wanted to be able to hear "James" the butler elseware.

 So I decided to run a wire to the living room as well (which is near my front door also). The output from the computer needs to be amplified, which you could do with self powered computer speakers.  But I was at a liquidation store and saw a futuristic looking kareoke machine with a small B/W television screen built in with inputs and outputs on the back for about $50. So in a moment of divine inspired geekness, I thought it could be a "presence" for "James" and also be able to constantly monitor the camera system I have and provide speech.

With an appliance module attached, "James" turns himself on in the morning with a greeting. A few minutes later he announces that he is going to open the drapes and see what kind of day we're in for. A little later yet, he announces that the mail has arrived by means of a washing machine lid switch in the mail box wired to a powerflash module.( I was thinking of adding an outdoor speaker near the mail box\front door to thank the mail lady; or have a sound file with a ticking count down but that would probably get me arrested - I am sure she wonders why my mailbox has wires coming out of it as it is.)  Later in the evening while I am at work, "James" closes the drapes, turns on lights, makes passes at my wife ( he keeps suggesting they run away together), reminds her when her shows are on, monitors the yard, winds up the dog, reminds my wife when it's time to make meals and is totally offended at the obscenities that follow, etc. Still later, he announces that he is getting tired and that he is going to retire for the evening if we have no further need of him.

Sadly, I believe Jame's days are numbered in his present form, as I believe my next computer will be a media centre PC.  I should be able to have James appear on the TV screen.  But for now, I think it was a good idea, as a good pair of computer speakers would probably cost somewhere in the neighborhood of $40.00 and the total effect would not have been as fun.  This way I also did not have to try and hide the speakers.

Recently, while we were away, the neighbor's daughter was over feeding out cats and was totally creeped out by James and his capabilities (turning on lights when she entered rooms, the drapes opening and closing,talking etc.) as she was unaware the house was automated.  It was good for a laugh.

I am having a problem with the flags and sound events. I have a motion sensor outside the front door (controls cameras and lights) and one inside (sounds chime in back yard if someone enters the house while we are in the back yard and is also used for greetings). By using flags I should be able to detect if someone is leaving the house or entering and play a different sound for each case. I think the problem lies in the fact that sound macros must be run from the PC and don't seem to respond to flag conditions. I think the flags are only used by the interface. If someone could think of a work around I would appreciate it.

Anyway, I just wanted to illustrate how much more fun and useful adding sound capabilities can be, so maybe X-10 can incorporate sound capabilities in a future update. (better yet ms agent)




waf = mixed as I spend quite some time keeping "Jame's" intellect sharp

Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on December 11, 2006, 03:25:16 PM
I too played with MS agent before using BXVC and started a thread MS Agent and AHP (http://www.x10community.com/forums/index.php?topic=11163.new#new)
DB:  Perhaps you can post in that thread which program your using so others that wish to do something similar will know where to start!
X10WavPlayer  was really only created to help those wishing to add sound with the On Alert plug-in although you don't need that for it to work!
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Vandalized Victim on December 30, 2006, 01:42:42 PM
Dear All,

I've downloaded both the installer and changed to .exe file and x10waveplayerV1.6.zip file and both are X10WavePlayer.exe anyway. After installation it seems no luck. The error message prompts "X10waveplayer failed to initialize properly (0xc0000135). Click OK to terminate the applation." Did I miss something? Appreciate your help.

Thanks,
VV

Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on December 30, 2006, 04:27:08 PM
You need Net Framework 2.0  (http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=0856eacb-4362-4b0d-8edd-aab15c5e04f5&DisplayLang=en)  installed for this to work!
Have you instaled this it is needed for most newer window apps and games! ;) :D ;D
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Nishant Pant on January 24, 2007, 05:28:13 PM
No offense to x10wavplayer. I am a programmer myself and love writing tools that help the community. But you can achieve the same thing without need of any software.

"C:\Program Files\Windows Media Player\wmplayer.exe" C:\alarm1.wav

WMPLAYER.Exe is nothing but windows media player, which is part of all Windows PCs.

-Thanks
Nishant
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Puck on January 24, 2007, 08:37:18 PM
"C:Program FilesWindows Media Playerwmplayer.exe" C:alarm1.wav

AHP will not allow you to call a program with a variable attached. X10WavPlayer simplified this task.  ;)
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on January 24, 2007, 11:10:34 PM
Actualy there are several methods for executing sound from AHP but as Puck mention this just simplifies things as well it adds the ability to repeat the sound X # of times. Many don't know how or want to write a batch file, X10Wavplayer (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/index.html) does it for them! But with the next release users will have the abliity to use TTS (Text To Speach) and play mp3's. ;) :D ;D
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Vandalized Victim on January 25, 2007, 05:42:35 PM
Tuicemen,

It works great. Here is my little experiment. Since Robo-dog has been discontinued. I downloaded your program as well as the demo barking wave file in the robo-dog web page. I put a MS14A in my front porch. Do up a macro. Now anyone walks in to my front porch, it chimes up the SC546A for two sequence of ding dong. If that person stays in my front porch for more than 8 seconds, that indicates he/she has no intension to leave, my another macro will trigger this X10WavPlayer batch file and starts to bark from my PC. My wife calls it Dolly. Pretending we have a dog at home. Stay away drunk kids. I'm thinking to put some speaker in the garage so it sounds more close to the front porch. But the wiring puzzles me cause I'm not a handyman. Anyone wants to share your little experiment?

VV
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on January 26, 2007, 12:52:47 AM
Vandalized Victim
It's always nice to hear from those using the software makes the effort worth while!
As for adding sound to the garage you could send it wireless and save the head ache of wiring but then you may have an RF problem (distance or interference). Try a cheep baby monitor! ;) :D ;D
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on January 27, 2007, 01:26:43 PM
*** New version Just released! ***
Version 1.8 is now out you can find it in a zipped version as well as the instaler here:
X10WavPlayer (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/X10WavPlayer.html)
(http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/X10Wav.JPG)
This is a big update:
[li]TTS is now supported and configurable, Ms Speech is required
.[/li]
[li]Any file format supported by your WindowsMediaPlayer is now supported it will even play the sound from a movie file!
.[/li]
[li]Your old batch files will still work as syntax is the same
.[/li]
[li]A batch file folder has been added please place your batch files you already have in that directory .X10Player auto places them here now on creation!
'[/li]
[li] Sound File drop down now shows all files in the sound folder hence the new BatchFile folder
[/li]
[li]You can now specify a name for your batch files on creation!
.[/li]
[li]Animated Faces similar to those in BXVC are supported.
.[/li]
[li]added animation to program when executed from a batch file if maximized on stared is checked!
.[/li]
[li]Added coding for smoother start and stop of Batch files
.[/li]
[li]removed option for Continuous file play,(sorry you'll have to edit those batch files created with that option) you must specify an number(new execution method only responds to a numeric value)
.[/li]
[/list]
X10WavPlayer 1.6 is still available @:
***Tuicemen's Software*** (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/index.html)
As always your comments and suggestions are welcomed!
Note: You still need the CM15A connected to the PC for this to work with AHP!
( I still haven't figured out how to get the CM15A to grow speakers) ;) :D ;D
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on February 15, 2007, 05:03:05 PM
I picked up some Sylvania 900 MHz wireless speakers  a week or 2 ago and have been playing with them using X10WavPlayer and BXVC.
Very cool !
While watching a good movie the phone  rang >:( ::)! Isn't it always the way!  ::)
As my father in-law was in the hospital I jumped up expecting some news, :o instead you guest it someone wanted to sell me something I had no use for! ::) >:(
Yes I have Caller ID but  with the room being dark it was hard to see the display (didn't have my glasses either)! ::)
I said out loud "wish that would speak the Caller ID through  some speakers"
My wife instantly said ya that would be great!
Thinking Hears my chance to build the WAF I leaped into action! ;) :D ;D
Since my PC had a modem in it capable of displaying Caller ID I went to modifying X10WavPlayer, I could have used Alertdialer for this but it needed some extra code for the wireless speakers (the transmitter auto turns off after a period of no sound)
Any ways X10WavPlayer now handles Caller ID if left running.  
I've coded it so 2 instances of the program can run at the same time (batch files triggered from AHP will still fire)!
I have tested on a machine without a modem and X10WavPlayer still worked without any problems.
So it appears Having no modem won't be a problem!

Since I'm limited to only a few modems all of which are voice I can only do a limited test!
If any one is interested in helping test this please PM me and I'll supply the installer!
Every time the Phone rings my WAF goes up a notch! ;) Maybe yours will too! .  ;)
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: steinie44 on February 25, 2007, 03:25:55 PM
:) I have written an X10WavPlayer and I would like to upload it for your evaluation.
Where can I upload it to?  ;)
Here are basic instructions.....................  ::)

Steinie's X10 WavPlayer (C) Instructions:
Simply place your .wav files into the same file folder as this program
and then ReName them with a 'Pxx-' at the beginning of the name.

Where 'P' MUST be the House Code and 'xx' is the Unit number

Example: P1-Alert.wav, P2-BADBOYS.wav, P12-Warning.wav
Send House/Unit Code P1 On and P1-Alert.wav will play.
Send House/Unit Code P5 On and P5-BADBOYS.wav will play.
Send House/Unit Code P12 On and P12-Warning.wav will play.

Steinie's X10 WavPlayer will send a X10 'Pxx' Off command
when the .wav file is finished playing.

You can use the Buttons to play your files locally if you like!

Note: This PROGRAM MUST BE RUNNING at all times, to function!!!
Note: A CM-15 MUST BE CONNECTED TO THE COMPUTER  to function!!!

Copyright (c) 2007 by James D. Steinbrecher
Permission is granted for Free use - Not for sale!
 :-*
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on February 25, 2007, 04:52:54 PM
You can't upload it to the forum but you can post a link to it! Perhaps get a free web page account from one of the many free places on the web.
Then once you have it hosted you can post a link to it in a post in the thirdparty software section or the SDK section. ;)
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on February 27, 2007, 01:36:01 PM
There is now a link to a new build of X10WavPlayer with Caller Id posted!
it is located under "Other Versions"
It is in and installer which must be renamed to an exe file inorder to install ;)
My Host won't allow exe files to be posted! :o
Un easy about an EXE file then scan it with an antivirus software ( You should be doing this with any file you down load) ;)
Title: Re: [Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on April 17, 2007, 12:39:42 PM
New Release: Version 1.9
I Just posted version 1.9 (You Don't need a modem to use this version)
Adds are:[li]Improved and new face sets
[/li]
[li]Ability to remove the border around the animated face
[/li]
[li]Ability to change the back ground color of the face set or have it transparent!
[/li]
[li]Added modem settings[/li]
[li]Fixed some Modem bugs
[/li]
[li]Caller Id will now show the Names of the people you have in your phone book as you have them listed not the way Caller id displays from the phone company[/li]

(you still need this service from your phone company and a modem that supports it to use this option)
[/list]
You can find it here: X10WavPlayer (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/X10WavPlayer.html)
Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Knightrider on November 04, 2007, 10:11:28 PM
tried to download the x10 wavplayer, but the download finishes prematurely. can't run the file because it's corrupt. what gives?
Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Knightrider on November 05, 2007, 08:02:50 PM
alright! this is really getting old.  I can only download about 218kb of the 1.8mb file before my downloads box tells me the download is complete. can someone just email the installer file to me?
Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Puck on November 05, 2007, 09:11:43 PM
Knightrider: Tuicemen has not been online since you first made the post mentioning a problem with downloading X10WavPlayer. As soon as he is available, he will see the post and I'm sure he will fix the problem.  ;)
Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: -Bill- (of wgjohns.com) on November 05, 2007, 09:16:09 PM
Knightrider: Tuicemen has not been online since you first made the post mentioning a problem with downloading X10WavPlayer. As soon as he is available, he will see the post and I'm sure he will fix the problem.  ;)


Yes, Tuicemen mentioned to me that he was going hunting for a couple weeks.
Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Knightrider on November 11, 2007, 11:48:05 AM
I did manage to get the program for Charles Sullivan (thanks Charles!).  I don't think the problem was on Tuiceman's side,  Something must be wrong on my end.  I love the program! Here's how I've used it.  I removed the direct link between the haeting side of my simple thermostat and replaced it with a powerflash/UM506 combination.  A listener in x10 dispatch (sorry Bill) logs my furnace activity.  Another powerflash monitors when my oil tank reaches around 20%.  dispatch alerts me of this condition as well.  using smart macros, the low oil condition limits the time my furnace funs and x10wavpayer is called from a duplicate macro(so the first macro can still run IF the pc is off.  this one alerts my that "Emergency heat is now engaged" at which to the first macro tuns on my electric heat, and another listener in bvc alerts me that "we are low on fuel oil." this happens every time the thermostat calls for an oil burn.  the emergency heat disengages when the powerflash on the tank level indicator tuns off with a refill.  Yes, there were timing issues with syncing up the three programs (AHP, BVC, and X10dispatch), and this is kind of an oversimplification of what really happens as I also have wood fired hydronic heat,  but you get the point. x10wavplayer was needed to alert my of the emergency heat being tripped in the ahp macro.  HVAC takes up a whole housecode in my system. You know, one of these days I'll post the whole 3 fuel heating system on the forum, but that would take up an afternoon.  let me just say that x10, AHP, X10dispatch, BVC and a velleman thermostat kit(s) make the whole thing happen. Thanks to all the software designers that helped make this all possible.
Title: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer and the weather
Post by: Knightrider on November 11, 2007, 11:59:49 AM
Is there any way that I could call a macro in the morning to get x10wavplayer to pick up a RSS feed and give me the Forecast as I wake up? I use Weatherbug now,  but this could get better.  BVC tells me the time,  how about the current temperature?
Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer and the weather
Post by: HA Dave on November 11, 2007, 10:56:52 PM
Is there any way that I could call a macro in the morning to get x10wavplayer to pick up a RSS feed and give me the Forecast as I wake up? I use Weatherbug now,  but this could get better.  BVC tells me the time,  how about the current temperature?

BVC (http://www.x10community.com/forums/index.php?topic=13870.0) tells me the weather! I use WeatherAloud (http://www.nextup.com/WeatherAloud/).

P.S. I could also get a forecast.
Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on November 12, 2007, 03:51:00 PM
Knightrider:
Nice to hear you have X10wavPlayer now and running in your setup!
I always enjoy reading how users have put it to work! ;)
The program was originally created So you could add sound for security macros but many users have found other uses for it!
As for weather alerts I've been working on this for some time,X10dispatcher use to be able to do this!
As Dave stated WeatherAloud can do it with BVC, it will also work with X10WavPlayer! ;)
Unfortunately having to many apps running uses up precious PC resources  :(
I can pull temp readings from web pages but the problem is each city/country is reported differently on the pages I've found thus far! :(
I can get it to work with the Yahoo weather plug-in ,but there is a licencing issue! :(
Perhaps I'll have something for the next update! ;)
Title: AHP now speaks To Do's, the Weather, Phonecalls and more!
Post by: Tuicemen on December 02, 2007, 10:46:04 PM
**** ;) Finally An Update! ;)****
I finally have a release version of X10WavPlayer posted!  :-[ ::)
You'll notice the Name change! ;)
 I may drop the X10WavPlayer name and go with just Companion in future releases!
X10WavPlayer has morphed into much more then just a wave file player! ;)
New adds this version are:
[li]Weather Reporting, states current conditions  (Companion needs access to the internet for this)
 [/li]
[li]Reminders, speaks a reminder for that date if you've programed one (one reminder for each day is configurable)
 [/li]
[li]Time, tells the current time
 [/li]
[li]Sample batch files are included for Time,Weather Reporting, Reminders and Calls Received (so they can be called from AHP using the Windows Command option)
 [/li]
[li]Batch file creator has a face change (you need to enter the info for the batch file here,it pulls some info from the main page)
 [/li]
[li]Companion can now run with only the face showing in location you choose
 [/li]
[li]Clicking on the face will bring up an option screen
 [/li]
[li]Program can stay on top (opening another program will not hide it if you choose this option)
 [/li]
[li]Changed the way batch files display graphics (if not minized)
 [/li]
[li]You can choose the option for Companion to greet you each time it opens
 [/li]
[li]Some minor error checking
 [/li]
[/b]

[/list]
Thanks everyone for posting ideas for AHP  it helps me with Ideas for future releases! ;) :D ;D
As always the new release can be found here: X10WavPlayer (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/X10WavPlayer.html)
Selecting always on top makes Companion look more like it's part of AHP! ;)
Cheers!
[/size][/color] ;) :D ;D
Title: AHP now speaks To Do's, the Weather, Phonecalls and more!
Post by: Tuicemen on December 11, 2007, 05:56:09 PM
****New Update with bug fixes! **** :-[

New for Version 1.9.1.1:
[/color][/b]
Got any Good ideas for adds? ???
I'd love to hear them!
Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on December 11, 2007, 10:04:53 PM
For users that  are confused as to how to get AHP to use this!
here are the steps:
[li] Open X10WavPlayer[/li]
[li] Configer it to run the way you want set up your reminders and weather report options [/li]
[li] Click OK this will save your changes [/li]
[li] If you have a modem which can display caller Id leave it running else close it[/li]
[li] Now open AHP[/li]
[li] Create a macro [/li]
[li] If the only thing you wish to do is activate the batchfile add only a windows command from advanced options[/li]
[li] In the command window point to the bat file you wish in the X10waveplayer/BatchFiles Folder[/li]
[li] Each time this macro fires the bat file will execute[/li]
[/b]

[/list]
Hope this helps!
Cheers!
Title: Re: X10WavPlayer (Community input requested)
Post by: Tuicemen on January 06, 2008, 12:17:02 PM
Since X10WavPlayer has become much more then I originally intended it to I've decided to release a striped down version which the name more reflects!
Many are just looking for a simple way to play sound files from AHP(current version has to many options for them)!
I'll also continue to develop the version with more options calling it Simply "PC Companion"
I'll also open a thread for "PC Companion" once the striped down version is released and conversions to the current build are in place!
What I'd like from the Community is some input as to what your Ideas the striped down version should include!
Since it is you the Community that may be using this striped down version!
Once I release X10WavPlayer (limited option version) no new options will be added to it!(bugs will be addressed though) ;)
All new options will be added to "PC Companion" and everything X10wavplayer does now it will do!
You have a month to decide X10WavePlayers destiny! Without any input you may find it is missing a key feature.  ;) :D ;D
I know I can count on members of the Cheers Gang to chime in!
Title: Re: X10WavPlayer (Community input requested)
Post by: HA Dave on January 08, 2008, 07:37:47 AM

Since X10WavPlayer has become much more then I originally intended it to I've decided to release a striped down version which the name more reflects!
........................You have a month to decide X10WavePlayers destiny! Without any input you may find it is missing a key feature.  ;) :D ;D
I know I can count on members of the Cheers Gang to chime in!


How about including some sample wav files (chimes, sirens, doorbells, voice warnings) to help users on they're way.
Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: Tuicemen on January 10, 2008, 04:01:52 PM
Thanks Dave_x10_L!
I originally had sample sounds included in the first release of X10WavPlayer and dropped them to make the install program smaller!
I've since added a few back into the "Sounds" folder! ;)
I'll list all options I remove and what I've added before I post the final release  as some users may wish to stay with the current version of X10Waveplayer and not move up to PC Companion!
Installing the final release of X10WavPlayer will result in lots of options being lost! :(
Some of the options that will not be remove so far are:[li]Start minimized[/li]
[li]Play Text to Speech[/li]
[li]Playing of wav. and mp3. files[/li]
[li]Creating of batch files[/li]
[li]Repeat play X number of times[/li]
[/b]
[/list]
Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
Post by: HA Dave on January 10, 2008, 05:33:52 PM
.........
Some of the options that will not be remove so far are:
    [li]Start minimized[/li]
    [li]Play Text to Speech[/li]
    [li]Playing of wav. and mp3. files[/li]
    [li]Creating of batch files[/li]
    [li]Repeat play X number of times[/li][/color]
    [/list]

    Nice selection of kept options Tuicemen!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on January 26, 2008, 12:31:34 PM
    Here's a sneak peak at PC Companion (the big sister to X10WavPlayer)!
    Although still in the rough stages I'm looking for more options to add!


    It currently does everything X10WavPlayer does with the addition of
    Checking for e-Mail, Displays and reads the number of messages, Sender and Subject
    I also added a video viewer that displays current active cam (no cam switching as yet)
    As long as no other software has access to the cam it displays
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on February 15, 2008, 06:33:45 PM
    Updated or reverted? ::)
    I Just released the newest and most likely the last update for X10WavPlayer :(

    Besides removing:[li]Animated faces[/li]
    [li]Weather reports[/li]
    [li]Caller id and call logging[/li]
    [li]Reminders[/li]
    [li]Limited send of X10 commands[/li][/b]
    [/list]
    All of which can be found in PC Companion (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/PcCompanion.html) ;)

    I've added:
    [li]A new icon[/li]
    [li]Program runs hidden with only the ico showing in the system tray when activated from a batch file[/li]
    [li]A hide button (system tray icon still visible)[/li]
    [li]Double clicking on the system tray icon will bring up an option screen to: show the program, stop the sound, exit program, show about info, or cancel[/li]
    [li]Program will only allow one instance of its self to run at any given time[/li][/list][/b]
    Although I stated before I wouldn't remove the option to start minimized I thought running hidden was a better option! ::)

    The program still :
    [li]Plays Text to Speech[/li]
    [li]Plays wav, mp3, AVI (movie files) or any file containing sound that windows media player will play! ;)[/li]
    [li]Creates batch files[/li]
    [li]Repeats play X number of times[/li]
    [li]Auto closes when sound is finished playing when started via a batch file[/li]
    [/b][/i][/list]

    Even with the removes the link remains the same X10WavPlayer (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/X10WavPlayer.html)


    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on April 13, 2008, 09:35:49 AM
    For those that still use X10WavPlayer you have no doubtfully discover AHP fails to activate your sounds! Redoing a macro containing the windows commad option was the only way to get X10WavPlayer working with AHP again!
    A little bug with the windows command option makes firing batch files or even some exe files to stop short or not execute! >:( :(
    A royal pain as I originally designed this for use with the security plug-in ::) >:( :( (so much for security)!
    I think I now have a work around for this, currently in testing with promissing results: Problem with Batch files executing? (http://www.x10community.com/forums/index.php?topic=15010.0)
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on July 17, 2008, 11:37:37 AM
    Tried the X10 WavPlayer (latest ver 1.9.9.9) ...really a very nice program and exactly what I was looking for. It worked in my test computer (XP Home) just fine, but I have a problem when I installed it in the main computer (XP Pro, SP2):

    If I use a batch file with a quote and 0 replays e.g.:

       @echo off
       cd..
       X10WavPlayer "Testing" 0
       
    The player speaks the file once, but does not unload from the System Tray. It will then no longer work since only one instance of the player can be used. If, however, I specify 1 or more plays, they will play and the program then unloads as it's supposed to do.

    It also works perfectly when I specify a wav file, e.g.:
       @echo off
       cd..
       X10WavPlayer ATT-Sample.wav 0

    Any thoughts would be appreciated.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on July 20, 2008, 02:15:30 PM
    I just got back from holidays so I'll look into this once I get things straightened away!
    It should run ok in XP sp2! ::) :'
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on July 20, 2008, 03:39:05 PM
    Tnx for the help, Tuicemen. Have since downloaded PC Companion...will let you know how that goes, too. Welcome back!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on July 20, 2008, 03:59:19 PM
    Tuiemen- Same problem in XP Pro machine as with X10Player...plays but the program will not unload. (The test bed machine works fine except for a couple of hiccups.) Unless you can think of something, all I can do is reblow the Pro computer, reinstall all, and cross my fingers. Fell in love with PC Companion! Tnx!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on July 20, 2008, 04:04:27 PM
    Since your having the same issue with PC companion I'll look at that first as many have move to that program and code is simular! Worse case is I'll have to add a line of code as a back up to close program! :'
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on July 20, 2008, 05:33:24 PM
    The XP Pro machine has often given me problems with new programs...all except AHP! If you think it best, I'll redo the whole thing. (Really annoying the test bed works fine!) Tnx, again Tuicemen.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on July 20, 2008, 05:35:37 PM
    PS--Yep, PC Companion is the way to go. Excellent work, Tuicemen.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on July 20, 2008, 08:44:13 PM
    Do the sample bat files included in PC Companion also refuse to close?
    I have had occasion when one will refuse to close but thats usualy when I'm multi tasking and over loading the PC with tasks!
    How much memory is in the Xp machine? ??? Maybe not enough!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on July 21, 2008, 09:04:31 AM
    Tuicemen-
    The batch files also hang. 1GB of memory. Tried PcCompanion all by itself as well and it still hangs. (Sorry to take so long answering your question: Comcast went down last night.)
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on July 21, 2008, 06:16:26 PM
    humm 1 gig should be fine thats what I have in my XP sp2 machine!
    which version of net framework are you running? I'm using 3.5, if your not running that try it before you redo Windows! ;)
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on July 21, 2008, 08:09:16 PM
    Net Framework 2.0. Thought I downloaded the latest version, but I guess not. I'll give it another shot and let you know how it goes. Tnx!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on July 22, 2008, 02:41:55 PM
    Tuicemen-
    Went to version 3.0 (didn't see 3.5???) on the XP Pro machine. Also reloaded PcCompanion fresh. No luck. The program works as a standalone, but the moment I manually (without AHP running) double-click a batch file, such as Time, the program speaks the time but does not unload and the icons begin to fill the tray. The first and second work, the third is ignored and I have to manually exit each one. (Repeating the process repeats the problem.) More thoughts?
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on July 22, 2008, 03:12:40 PM
    Humm can't seem to recreate the problem here on my Xp machine ??? Heres the lnk for Net Framework 3.5 (http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=333325FD-AE52-4E35-B531-508D977D32A6&displaylang=en), the only other difference maybe, I have Pc Companion loaded in the AHP folder ::) not its own! C:\Program Files\ActiveHome Pro batch files are in C:\Program Files\ActiveHome Pro\BatchFiles
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on July 22, 2008, 05:09:23 PM
    Will try them both and get back to you. Tnx, again!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on July 22, 2008, 07:59:34 PM
    Tuicemen-
    Put in 3.5 and reloaded PcCompanion in the AHP folder. Same problem. I also tried reloading X10Player (in its original location) with the same results. Both programs start and play, but will not unload. How do you say"Grrrrrrrrrrrr." More to try?
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on July 22, 2008, 08:22:35 PM
    I don't think this matters but which version of PC Companion you running?
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on July 22, 2008, 08:37:14 PM
    Version 2.0.1.2
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on July 22, 2008, 08:47:35 PM
    humm
    Email me your mysettings.xml file (address in about screen)
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on July 22, 2008, 09:03:48 PM
    on its way.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: tomh on September 14, 2008, 01:29:25 PM
    Hi,

         I attempted to download the WavPlayer program today and encountered a snag.  I used the WinRAR program to run the program without success.  I receive an error message stating it is an unknown format or the file is damaged.  It downloads fine, it just doesn't execute the actual program.  Any suggestions?  Has anyone else experienced this?

    Thanks,

    tomh
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on September 14, 2008, 03:50:05 PM
    If you have windows XP use it to extract I've not tried it with winrar.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on October 02, 2008, 11:40:33 AM
    Tuicemen-

    It’s been a while, but I’ve been busy:

    Reinstalled my entire X10 system on another computer and added PcCompanion (we call her Maggie) with better results.

    Instead of running twice and not unloading from the system tray (causing it to fail virtually all the time), Maggie will now go for hours, a day, or more sometimes, with no problems: she will load, speak, and unload as designed. However, suddenly she will stop unloading and eventually fail.

    Most of my time has been spent trying to make her fail under specific situations to help you pin down a potential answer. Unfortunately, I can’t find any combination that causes the malfunction.

    The only significant difference between computers is that the original one has SoundBlaster Audigy 5.1 surround; this new computer has a conventional Turtle Beach sound card. Both machines are running XP Pro.

    Could the fact it’s allowed to run twice (the first for phone monitoring, which I don’t use) be missed in some situations so it doesn’t close down? Could the software call to the sound card be a source of the problem? (You said yours works fine.)

    Maggie has become a family member and she needs your help desperately…or she might have to "byte" the bullet! Seriously, any help you can give is much appreciated. Tnx!

    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: hpdrifter on October 11, 2008, 11:13:05 PM
    I have tried to download X10WavPlayer over the course of a few days and all I get is 620~mb and the file is corrupt.

    I tried to just "Open" it and it gave me a corrupt message box.

    Any help?
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on October 14, 2008, 12:14:52 PM
    Bill H  I've been on a extended layoff  so Have been at the cottage most of the time It will be a while before I have a chance to look into this I'll see about  adding a forced close after Xnumber of seconds if started via a batch file! but it may be mid November be fore I get that added!
    hpdrifter is it X10WavPlayer your having problems with or PC Companion?
    I can e-mail you the installer  just let me know which one!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on October 14, 2008, 01:46:16 PM
    Tuicemen-
    Sounds like a plan...enjoy the time off! And thanks, as always!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on October 14, 2008, 04:16:21 PM
    Tuicemen-
    Had a thought: Am I the only one with this problem? (Everyone seems to be OK, but I thought I saw it elsewhere as well.) If I am the only one, let me know and I'll do more troubleshooting before you spend any more time on it.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on October 14, 2008, 06:53:09 PM
    I'll dig a little deeper into this If I recall the program did not close for me using an old batch file!
    I think I've deleted or rewrote it :' is it just one batch file that causes this or is it random?
     -:) If it is one particular batch file that continues to cause the problem send it to me It might help me nail down the issue! ::)
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: hpdrifter on October 14, 2008, 09:12:36 PM
    Tuice, it was wavplayer.  Must not like dialup. PC Companion wouldn't even start, file unavailabe or something. Was able to download it(wavplayer) at work and transfer it to my computer at home.

    It wouldn't build bat files tho.  So, I just opened up your sample; "hello world" into Notepad, filled in my file name and it worked ok.

    But, I still get the dreaded crash on AHP for some reason, then I've got to re do the macro to supply the link for the "Windows procedure".

    something might flakey about the AHP software.

    Thanks
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on October 14, 2008, 10:55:01 PM
    Tuice, it was wavplayer.  Must not like dialup. PC Companion wouldn't even start, file unavailabe or something. Was able to download it(wavplayer) at work and transfer it to my computer at home.

    It wouldn't build bat files tho.  So, I just opened up your sample; "hello world" into Notepad, filled in my file name and it worked ok.

    But, I still get the dreaded crash on AHP for some reason, then I've got to re do the macro to supply the link for the "Windows procedure".

    something might flakey about the AHP software.

    Thanks
    Yes others with dialup have had download issues. I'll look into the batch file build process and hopefully get that fixed by Nov.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on October 16, 2008, 09:30:12 AM
    Tuicemen-
    It appears to be random. Re-wrote many for trials and also ran them as EXE files using the program you once suggested earlier. Also tried changing locations. One thing forgot to mention: "@ echo Off" produced weird error code when any batch file is run. Too fast to read, but it looked something like: "Cannot read LL (graphics characters)."  Removed "@ echo off" with same results. File ran, however.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Bill H on October 16, 2008, 09:44:33 AM
    Tuicemen-
    Forget about the "@ echo off problem." Seems to be fine on the new computer (my brain was on the earlier tries before I switched computers). So: No problems reported, mostly everything works fine, but after a few days or less, it hangs.

    Again, if this is a known issue, let me know and I'll continue testing.  :)
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Knightrider on October 16, 2008, 07:50:33 PM
    I, too, once had a problem downloading wavplayer.  Yes, I'm on dial-up.  That's when a friend recommended that I get "GetRight" or some other suitable download manager.  Worked like a charm.  Thank's TT  ;)
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: thejfk on October 21, 2008, 09:47:21 PM
    Hey Tuicemen,
    I downloaded your wavplayer.
    I can get as far as listening to the test sounds, but when I try to create a macro,I just get a short chirp.
    When I try to create a batch file nothing happens when I click OK.
    Any help would be appreciated
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on October 22, 2008, 06:15:21 PM
    I just posted an update  for x10wavplayer V2.0.0.0 which fixes the batch file builder and adds some fail safes when creating the files!
    thejfk if you still have problems with the sound executing let me know!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: hpdrifter on October 24, 2008, 11:46:26 PM
    Tuiceman, really appreciate all of your work on this.  The program works  great, except for the file generator.  I see you have a new revision up.  I'll try to download it when I get back to work with a highspeed connection.

    I just have one more question at the moment, and it is not meant to be derrogitory  or to imply any negativity.  In fact, it's probably AHP that is the culprit.

    Whenever I have to shutdown AHP, because of the dreaded "Encountered Problem" message; which I have been able to keep to a minimum here lately, upon reopening I have to reinstall the file into the macro thru use of the browse button.  No big pain, just takes a second.  But, I was wondering if anyone else has run across this phenomenon?

    I just had to reOpen AHP because my menu bar was missing and the Modules(to select from for adding to a room) would not open.  Strange stuff, this AHP.  had been running for 4 days without interruption; a record so far.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on October 26, 2008, 08:43:59 PM
    The issue is AHP related the way I get around it is to create a script file which starts AHP and points to a file!
    there is a link to such a script file creator in the smartmacros section I even posted a walk through on how to create a file since many use the windows command option in AHP!
    check the tips and helpful suggestions thread in the smartmacros section! ;)
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on January 22, 2009, 09:39:26 AM
    I Just posted a new update for X10WavPlayer!
    It is now Windows 7 compatible.
    Also Fixed a issue with the Batch file creator.
    (Adding full path was creating issues for a few users)
    the file can be found on the X10WavPlayer (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/X10WavPlayer.html) site.
    Since AHP has yet to fix the windows command bug many of you will have to use the workaround I posted here: Problem with Batch files executing?  (Read 4454 times)    (http://www.x10community.com/forums/index.php?topic=15010.0)
     >!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on January 16, 2011, 11:44:12 AM
    I was A little apprehensive about posting in this thread as I no longer support this Software.
     PcCompanion has replaced this adding add more options to expand a AHP setup! (http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=14508.0)
    However I'm constantly reminded that many still use this even those running PcCompanion.
    X10WavPlayer can make use of the AHP version 3.304 commandline paramiter option.
    OK It always could using batchfiles which many shyed away from!
    those did used it complained of the CMD window which popped up.
    Well now that doesn't happen using the paramiter option in AHP.
    Playing sound files is a simple matter of adding the sound file and the repeat value to the paramiter box.
    Playing TTS is a little more work. You can't use spaces between the words as X10WavPlayer sees that as the next paramiter.  However if you place a forward slash instead of a space between the words followed by the repeat value it should work like it does in PcCompanion.
    Update: I noticed with XP a forward slash is seen and make the TTS hard to understand as the PC says slash for each forward slash.
    PCC has been coded to remedy that!
     >!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on March 10, 2011, 09:41:56 AM
    I'm constantly surprised by how many users still use this simple app.
    And the number of hits(reads) this thread gets in a day
    So much so that if there is the demand I may start to support it again. ::) :'
    Don't expect it to become anything more then a sound playing app as PCC will get thouse adds.
    What I would like to know is:
    What issues if any need to be addressed?
    How can it be improved?
    Are you using this primarily as a wav/mp3 sound player or TTS sound player?
    Are you using the repeat function?

    It is possible this could be turned into a single instance program as I've done with PCC.
    This would allow sounds to be passed to it while open and  sounds would play one after the other as they are received. ::) :'
    This may improve the issue of missed sounds. ::) :'
     >!
    Title: X10WavPlayer
    Post by: ricquelle on April 11, 2011, 03:31:46 PM
    Great little piece of software - Thanks for creating it.  Could someone please help me to get it to work?  Everytime I try to create a batch file in X10WavPlayer, it tells me an unhandled exception has occurred and that access to the path was denied.

    Update:  Actually, I solved the problem by "Running as Administrator".


    Yet another question:  X10WavPlayer Macro is working when I hit the run macro button.  It is not working when the door is opened...I have the Macro set as follows:
    Trigger = Front Door  Sensor Triggered

    The macros is execute windows program with "C:\Program Files (x86)\X10WavPlayer\BatchFiles\Security Warning(5).bat" typed in Command and nothing in Argument, am I missing something?
    Title: Re: X10WavPlayer
    Post by: Tuicemen on April 11, 2011, 08:09:16 PM
    Most users have moved up to PCCompanion as it has more options and I no longer support this.
    I beleive there was a issue with the batchfile creator and XP.
    You may have to edit the batch file manualy!
    Is the sound file a tts or wav file?


    Title: Re: X10WavPlayer
    Post by: ricquelle on April 11, 2011, 09:00:38 PM
    I believe it was a .wav.  It was one that was included with the software.
    Title: Re: X10WavPlayer
    Post by: JMac on April 11, 2011, 10:59:56 PM
    I use this in my Command and it works fine:  "C:\Documents and Settings\Justin McNeill III\My Documents\X10WavPlayerV1.5\Sounds\ufo(1).bat"
    I also have a 1 second delay prior to the command.

    My macro is triggered by a time on a "pseudo switch", but I don't know why yours on a security trigger doesn't work.
    Title: Re: X10WavPlayer
    Post by: Tuicemen on April 12, 2011, 08:07:15 AM
    ricquelle, x10wavplayer was created before x10 had the windows command option working correctly.
    it is possible to use it without the use of a bat file.
    In your AHP macro place the path to X10Wavplayer in the command line
    C:\Program Files (x86)\X10WavPlayer.exe  
    in the Arguments line place the file sound file name followed by the number of times you wish it repeated
    SercurityAlert.wav 5
     See if that will work for you!
    Title: Re: X10WavPlayer
    Post by: ricquelle on April 12, 2011, 01:03:55 PM
    ricquelle, x10wavplayer was created before x10 had the windows command option working correctly.
    it is possible to use it without the use of a bat file.
    In your AHP macro place the path to X10Wavplayer in the command line
    C:\Program Files (x86)\X10WavPlayer.exe  
    in the Arguments line place the file sound file name followed by the number of times you wish it repeated
    SercurityAlert.wav 5
     See if that will work for you!

    Thanks for the suggestion, I tried it but still no luck.  It works fine when I hit the macro button.  When I trigger a door sensor the macro button flashes like it is going to work; and something briefly flashes like it is trying to open the player, but it never opens.  I have tried it with putting a delay before the windows command and I have also tried it with the keychain fob and they all work when I hit the macro button but not when the trigger event occurs.

    This wouldn't have anything to do with monitored and tranceived house codes would it.  I have my monitored house code as B (this includes all my cameras, motion sensors and lamps)  My Securilink Security Console is set to House Code C as the X10 tech told me to set it to a different House Code than my other equipment and I believe someone on this board told me the same.  My transceived House Codes is set to Auto.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on April 12, 2011, 01:15:36 PM
    That shouldn't have anything to do with it but selecting auto sometimes doesn't pick up all your house codes.
    Choose specific then specify all your house codes in use even the security console.
    Also as a test create another macro that turns on a light you can monitor.
    trigger it with the same security device your trying to get X10WavPlayer to trigger with.
    if the light turns on then add the X10wavplayer sound trigger to that macro  and test it there.
    Sometimes a macro can get corrupt.
    Also empty the AHP recycle bin and reload to the CM15A sometime AHP has triggered old macros in the recycle bin instead of the correct one.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: JMac on April 12, 2011, 01:28:48 PM
    I have version 1.5.0 and the wav and bat files are located in the program, for what it's worth.  I also have version 2.0.0.1
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on April 12, 2011, 01:38:48 PM
    I have version 1.5.0 and the wav and bat files are located in the program, for what it's worth.  I also have version 2.0.0.1

    JMac
    Since you still use this little app your probably more qualified then me to be helping! ;)
    I know there are a good many users still running this app as well as PC Companion.
    However the sound play is basicaly the same I thought  :-[
    I must admit I've never ran it on Win7 64 bit and older versions weren't compatible with a 64bit OS
    However since it works manualy pressing the macro button the issue is in AHP or at least thats my thinking! ;)
     >!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: ricquelle on April 12, 2011, 01:49:23 PM
    O.K. I created a macro to turn a lamp on with a triggered event (keychain fob) for this test.  I did not add the X10WavPlayer to this macro yet.  However, the strange thing was not only did the macro to turn the lamp on work, but the originally created macro for the X10WavPlayer worked on the triggered event also.  If I go back and delete the lamp macro, once again the originally created WavPlayer macro does not work again.

    Have never created a phantom module, but have read here about them.  Looks like this might be a good place to use one since I really don't want to have to turn on a light to play the .wav.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on April 12, 2011, 02:00:21 PM
    Before you create a phantom add the X10WavPlayer to the new macro and delete the old macro.
    Remove the light from the new macro.
    Then empty the recycle bin and update the cm15a.
    Test the macro. The old one may have been corrupt.
    At least your getting somewhere! :)%
     >!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: ricquelle on April 12, 2011, 09:29:02 PM
    Finally I had a chance to get back to this...First I added the X10WavPlayer Command to the Lamp Macro and deleted the originally created X10WavPlayer Macro.  When I did this the lamp still turned on; however the X10WavPlayer would not triggered.  Then I deleted the Lamp portion and left just the X10WavPlayer portion - still would not work.

    So I then created a P1 Phantom Switch using a 2 Way Lamp Module on one Macro and created a seperate macro with the Windows Command for the X10WavPlayer both being triggered by the PANIC on the Security Key Chain.  Voila - it is working again!  So I guess I will have to stick with that method.

    I am guessing I will have to do the same for the Front Door Sensor and the Back Door Sensor seperately.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on April 13, 2011, 07:52:26 AM
    Good to know you have it working.
    One point though. You shouldn't use lamp modules as Phantoms. Use appliance modules as your only watching on/off not dims/brights ;)
    You could get some unexpected results using lamp modules.
     >!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: ricquelle on April 13, 2011, 07:59:07 AM
    Thanks for the tip - I will change that!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: webrod on May 08, 2011, 05:03:26 AM
    Hi,

    I am wondering what is the best option to hear the voice everywhere in the house (or at least some important areas).

    Which kind of speakers should I use?

    Bluetooth is not an option, as my PC is not in the middle of the house, so it will not go through all the walls.

    I was thinking about a WIFI speaker? really based on WIFI (ethernet) not a wireless speaker based on a dongle as I would face the same issue.

    My box (ADSL) is in the middle of the house, so WIFI speakers would work.
    Do you see other options without cables?
    Do you have links with cheap speakers like that?

    Do I have the possibility to send sound X to speaker A only, sound Y to speaker B only, and sound Z to both speakers A and B??

    thanks a lot
    Rod
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Noam on May 08, 2011, 07:16:29 AM
    Several people have used either wireless intercoms, or baby monitors (which are really just one-way wireless intercoms).
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: webrod on May 08, 2011, 01:27:55 PM
    Hi,

    you mean a wireless intercom that can be link to a PC thanks to a USB cable right? or to the audio connectr of the PC??

    Actually I have just found something called an "audio extend".
    Like here from Devolo:
    http://www.harakiwi.net/nouveautes/utilisation-et-conclusion.html
    (it's in french but you can see the pictures)..

    It's a kit, one is plug on the PC with Ethernet or USB, it is seen as an audio card, and convert it to ethernet through CPL!!
    The other one can be connected in any other room, or in the garden (though CPL), then you can connect any speakers like if it was connected to the PC!

    Looks nice.
    There is an utility to swap between the audio card of the PC and the one from the Kit. I need to check if it can be done by a script, so it can be done automatically when a specific message has to be said through the external speaker (through the kit) and not on the speaker of the PC, then it is swap back to the speaker of the PC at the end of the message (for normal use)...

    Also could be nice to check if 2 kits could be plug on the PC, so you can decide to use one or the other according to whether you want to play the sound on speakers in a specific room (like inside the house), or for instance in the garden (outside, like when there is a thief)!!

    if someone did test that already, please give your feedback.

    thanks
    rod
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Noam on May 08, 2011, 03:29:43 PM
    No, actually I meant that some people have modified wireless intercoms or baby monitors to connect to the speaker/microphone jacks on the PC, and used them that way as remote speakers or mics.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: HA Dave on May 08, 2011, 07:20:28 PM
    I use an old cheap power PC speaker system as a pre-amp. Then from that (powered speaker/pre-amp) I run (hard wire) to other powered speakers. With the cheapie plug-in power speakers costing $6 each I add voice announcements house wide for nearly nothing.

    I use cheap Baby Monitors to get my voice to my computer so I can run Bills Voice Commander (http://davesdomainonline.com/bvc/bvc.htm)

    Baby monitors could also ne used as wirless speakers... but I think intercoms would work as well.. or even better.
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on May 08, 2011, 09:41:48 PM
    webrod  
    You say Bluetooth won't work for you!
    Have you tried it?
    If so were both the Dongle and speakers class 1?
    Both Dave_x10_L and myself experimented with Bluetooth headsets and a dongle.
    With a class 2 headset and class1 dongle I could hear my PC from anywhere in the house.
    However I couldn't talk back to it.
    Infact 2 way communication was limited to less then 10 feet when going threw walls or floors.
    Switching to both class1 devices alowed me 2 way communication with the PC from anywhere in the house and lot.
    Infact I could hear my PC 2 houses away. I never tried communicating back at that distance but your not looking to do that anyways. ;)
     >!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: webrod on May 09, 2011, 04:28:29 AM
    Hi,

    I think I read too much information for my small head!!
    I'd like to mention this link really interresting!!!
    http://davesdomainonline.com/microphone/mystory

    Now I am trying to gather all the information, assuming I want to hear some sounds inside/outside my house (like "INTRUSION DETECTED" inside the house, and "WARNING! THIS HOUSE IS UNDER WATCHING, LEAVE THIS AREA IMMEDIATELY bla bla bla") and assuming that speech recognition could be a nice option
    SPEECH RECOGINITION
    1) I can use a baby monitor. The cheapest one I found (in France) is around 35$. What are the requirements so I am sure it will work? It has to be "VOX" compliant? right? so no need to push a button if I understand well? any other requirement to know before I buy?
    2) I can use intercom. At that time, I found some information about how to mod an intercom, but it looks a bit too difficult to me  ::) I think an intercom always need a button to be pushed, that's why I undertand it's a bit more complex
    => actually, I'm a bit afraid doing speech recognition, as it is not secure. It means that my neighbours can hear me 7/24 !! There are things that I want to keep secret   :'

    HEARING:
    There are plenty of solutions
    1) I can use bluetooth or wifi speakers. Unfortunatelly my walls are really big, and I guess there are metal or whatever that broke the signal. My current internet box (ADSL) is on the first floor, and I have difficulty to get the signal upstair. Outside, it's even worst, I have the signal only 1-2 meter around the house. Actually I did solve the problem for outside, I added a router in the garden, so now it's OK. For bluetooth, as it is supposed to work only within 10m, I do not expect it will work , but I will do some test as Tuicemen said. BTW, even with RF X10 I have problem, I need to buy 2 additional receiver, one for upstair, one for the garden (for the sensors outside...)
    2) I can use CPL (actually I think it's PLC in english). This is actually what I use now for internet in my house and work like a charm!!! I found those DEVOLO products that broadcost the signal on the PLC, then you have receivers (30$ each) that you can plug wherever you want. Then you need a cheap standard speaker per receiver.
    3) If I understand I could also use a baby monitor. If I do speech recognition, then It woud come for free. Actually the baby monitor needs to support bi directionnal communication right? Have you tested this already? Any link on internet to such a product (even in US)?
    4) thanks to dave website, I also find this kind of products: http://www.x10.com/products/x10_vk59a.htm. It's a X10 WIFI speaker. It's a bit like 2) above but through WIFI, and has X10 features.  Which is nice. I understand you can set the volume through X10.
    5) do you know if I can redirect the sound to one speaker or another? Like inside/outside? Assuming I have 2 soundcards, is it possible to use one or the other with X10WavPlayer?? It would be a nice option to satisfy this requirement. Specially you Daven I was one of your video with a speaker outside that spoke when there is an intrusion right? Do you play the sound also in the house?? BTW which speaker do you use outside???

    Thanks for your help.
    Rod

    PS: sorry, I realize there are a lot of questions...

    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on May 09, 2011, 08:12:04 AM
    There are 3 classes for Bluetooth http://bluetoothinsight.blogspot.com/2008/01/bluetooth-power-classes.html
    Make sure you use the class for the distance.
    It is true large metal objects metal will degrade any radio signal.
    The X10 audio video set your looking at is no different and will also be effected by your wireless routers as they use the same frequency.

    You shouldn't need a separate sound card to hear X10WavPlayer I designed it and PCCompanion to work with BVC.
    Many use multiple sound programs in order to use different voices for each needed event.
    If this is what your thinking of doing you may wish to look at PC Companion (http://www.angelfire.com/in2/ontkoi/X10AHP/PcCompanion.html) as it can now do this.
    As for turning a speaker on/off this can be done with X10.
    How ever I find you need to add a small delay for the speakers to power up.
    Without the delay you may miss the first part of the announcement.
    I believe this is how Dave does it for his microphones (babymonitors)
     >!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: webrod on May 09, 2011, 09:47:01 AM
    the need for the 2 sounds cards is to send a sound to specific areas only.
    Like a sound inside only, OR a sound outside only.
    If you have only one card, then how can you choose between the speakers?
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on May 09, 2011, 11:01:28 AM
    You turn on the speakers you want for the anouncement and back off once the anouncement is finished using X10.
    It is a simple matter of using an appliance module connected to the outlet and your wireless speaker power supply plugged into it. ;)
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: webrod on May 09, 2011, 02:55:12 PM
    ok I understand, so this is a new requirement for the speaker.

    It has to be able to "SWITCH ON" automatically when it is plugged on the outlet.
    You know some products have a kind of button with 2 positions "ON" and "OFF".
    If you move the position to ON, then if you unplug and plug back it is still ON.
    Some others have a kind of "digital" button.
    You push it's on, you unplug and plug back, it's off. You need to manually push the button again.

    Am I right?

    I think the baby monitor I have has the digital button, I will check.
    Hopeffuly I can find one with a real button with 2 positions.

    any link to a cheap baby phone with all these features and good quality? even in US?

    thanks again.
    Rod
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: Tuicemen on May 09, 2011, 05:44:04 PM
    Yes the power button must stay on!
    If the Speaker has a power button you leave it ON so once x10 sends a on signal to the appliance module the speaker comes on.
    I believe Walmart sells this type of baby monitor Dave_X10_L Got his there!
    The wireless speakers I have work this way but are discontinued.
    If you plan to use the X10 audio/Video sender it has a slide switch to keep it on/off
      >!
    Title: Re: [AHP Add-On] X10WavPlayer (Add Sound)
    Post by: HA Dave on October 09, 2011, 11:08:24 AM
    ............... I think the baby monitor I have has the digital button, I will check. Hopeffuly I can find one with a real button

    I found the cheapest baby monitors are the simplest and easiest to use. You could even pick up a baby monitor at a yard sale ($2-$5).

    Also you can use an X10 Universal Module (UM506), to simply connect and/or disconnect a speaker.... or use any type of amplifier connected to an appliance module. For my outside speaker... I ran wire to a powered computer [amplified] speaker with a connection for a 2nd speaker, then I ran the 2nd speaker wire to a speaker outside. To broadcast the sound outside my macro merely turns ON the apliance module that controls the powered speaker.