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[Graphics Guy]

I have Makita Drapery that I can open and close via a handheld remote control.  I would like the drapes to automatically close at sundown and open at dawn.  I have AHP Version 3.236 with the Smart Macros module installed.  Is there an economical way I can have AHP control these actions or send the desired remote control signals?  Respectfully,  Graphics Guy

[HA Dave]

I have Makita Drapery that I can open and close via a handheld remote control.  I would like the drapes to automatically close at sundown and open at dawn.  I have AHP Version 3.236 with the Smart Macros module installed.  Is there an economical way I can have AHP control these actions or send the desired remote control signals?  Respectfully,  Graphics Guy

I don't know anything about the Makita Drapery you mentioned. Is it an IR or a RF remote? If it's IR the code can likely be learned and sent using BVC [with the IR USB-UIRT]. If the remote is RF... you may need to hack or mod ether the remote or the receiving unit. Which could be easier than you think.

Almost anything can be automated. If you search the forum (use the search function) you will see an excellent post here about a automated drapery configuration. The creator also added temperature control if my memory serves me correctly (if it got too warm in the room... the drapes would close).

[Brian H]

Does the Makita Drapery interface also have a local set of control buttons?
That may give you another way to connect something.
If it is RF from the remote it is very doubtful X10's 310 MHz and protocol would match you needs.

[dave w]

Getting X10 to send Mikata IR codes will be very difficult. One way would be to purchase a second remote control and hack it so two Universal Modules could be wired across the OPEN and CLOSE buttons then use AHP for your logic.

Addendum: After reading about the IR USB-UIRT  I take back the comment that it would be difficult to get AHP transmit Mikata IR code. The IR USB-UIRT looks like it can do it. Scripting AHP to do it might be ground breaking for the forum.

Sorry Dave X10, I didn't mean to step on you.   

[Graphics Guy]

Thank you to all that replied. 

Let me try to answer some of your questions.

The drapes are operated by a Makita RC10 drapery controller. 
By going to RemoteControl.com I found out that it is an IR system.

There is a local set of control buttons but I have never been able to program them and always found the RC10 is more convenient.

Using BVC appears to be inconvenient for my purpose.  I want the AHP program to open and close the drapes at dusk and dawn automatically without me having to use a voice command. push a button or even be home, or don't I understand its functions? 

The suggestion of the USB-UIRT seems promising but:
1. How can it be programmed with AHP's timers to operate at dusk & dawn?
2. Is it capable of learning Makita's codes?
3. Since it connects to a computer via the USB port does the USB-UIRT have to be in the same room as the drapes (line of sight) or can a PowerMid be used?
I have requested information from the seller.

Thanks again to those who took the time to try and help me.  Respectfully, Graphics Guy

[HA Dave]

By going to RemoteControl.com I found out that it is an IR system.

Using BVC appears to be inconvenient for my purpose.  I want the AHP program to open and close the drapes at dusk and dawn automatically without me having to use a voice command. push a button or even be home, or don't I understand its functions? 

AHP can trigger BVC commands [and the other way around] so timers and other conditional commands would work fine (Voice Commands would be optional). But I am a big fan of BVC myself. To use the USB-URIT [and BVC] the computer must be on and running and you will need a program [like BVC] that also communicates with the CM15A and AHP Software. It should be able learn the codes used by your remote... but there is always a chance it won't.
 
The simplest easiest option is often the best. I think.. the cheapest easiest way would be to buy a 2nd remote and hack it with a couple (X10) universal modules... and then use your AHP macro and CM15A interface to control the drapes via timers (that can also be based on calculated sunrise/sunset).