Recommend new dimmer switch and GU10 LED floodlights

[mark_sd]

I'm installing new line-voltage (120v) track lighting and would like to be able to control and dim the lights via X10. I've found a lot of information here about "will this work with my old X10 switch" but what's best if I'm ready to buy all new (without having to upgrade to Insteon etc.)? Specs:

Switch

• Must be ivory.
• Must allow local dimming as well as through X10 control.
• Soft start would be nice.
• Prefer toggle style, but pushbutton or Decora style okay.
• Neutral wire is available in switch box.

Bulbs

• 120v LED.
• GU10 base, MR16 size.
• 50W Halogen equivalent.
• This is for a living room, so prefer a softer color temperature (2700K?).

If it matters, I use ActiveHome Pro and a CM15A interface.

Thanks for your tips.

Mark

[bkenobi]

I haven't tried them yet as they are new, but if dimming weren't a requirement, the WS469 switch looks like a nice option.  It's a relay switch but is apparently very quiet and has the same form factor as the WS467 switches.  If dimming is required, I've got no idea since I haven't tried LED's yet.  There is a thread here about known compatible LED's that might be useful.

[Tuicemen]

Authinx is currently updating switches and modules as current stock dries up.
Of the newer modules I've tested so far they work well with my LED lights as I've converted about 90 % to these in the city and 100% at the off grid place.
I haven't tested the WS469 yet however I did ask about it last time I was in contact with the owner.
I was told the switch is basically a XPS4 only a push button which would indicate it isn't dimmable.
I would go with the Pro line as these are being updated first however I don't believe a new/reworked dimmer has been created yet.

[mark_sd]

Of the newer modules I've tested so far they work well with my LED lights

Could you give some model numbers? I can't seem to find any three-wire dimmers (which I assume is necessary for use with LEDs that total about 13 watts on the fixture). Definitely want dimming so unfortunately the new WS469 is a no go.

[Brian H]

The X10Pro XPDI3 uses a Neutral connection. So the power to run the module is not stolen through the load.
Can do inductive loads and loads that do not play nice with the models that steal power through the load.
Decorator type paddle. I believe it has both an Ivory and White paddle and trim included.
Sales page says below 40 watt loads may flicker but since it is not stealing power through the load. I am not too sure why the limitation.
http://www.x10.com/x10-pro/switches/xpdi3-dimmer-120-vac-500w-inductive.html

[Brian H]

One more thought.
You mentioned maybe an Insteon Module. An X10 address can be added to some of them. Smartlabs has been systematically removing X10 support from their latest firmware in the modules. Also they use the Preset Dim command on their modules. X10 Controllers like the CM15A don't do that command and the extended X10 messages used by the later soft start models and CM15A are not processed by the Insteon module with X10 address added.

[mark_sd]

Thanks, I had missed the XPDI3. I may give that a try.

Re. Insteon, I spoke with SmartHome a couple weeks ago. None of their new stuff supports X10. He could only suggest eBay, which seems hit or miss in trying to find the right generation of switch.

[dave w]

FWIW I have dimmable (Sylvania brand) LED working on WS 467 dimmable wall switch. I think the key is a dimmable LED which need to "dribble" some pass through current to get even a standard wall dimmer to work.

[mark_sd]

Thanks Dave, good to know.

[bkenobi]

If there's a small current traveling through the LED, doesn't that mean that it could potentially buzz/hum, glow, or flicker?  I understand that it should be less of an issue with dimmable LED's, but is it universally not a problem for all dimmable?