Alternative to having a PC running always?

[arasem]

Hi all,
I have bought my X10 package and installed it and works like charming. Now I want to control lights, appliance, camera (and possibly garage door) from my iphone over the 3G network (lets say from my friend place). I find it extremly annoying to have a computer ALWAYS on just for this purpose. I have been searching the past  couple of days for ways to get around it (unless there is a string reason why I should leave my computer on the whole day).

I found what's called a SmartLinc which is a device that you hook one end to the router and one end to an electrical outlet and it listens for my commands from my iphone. Now this is something I find cool .It is 130$ though so it is fairly cheap. My question is, any alternatives out there? Any X10 similar device or even non X10 device that would be  compatible with my x10 modules?  Ideas....?
Please help as I am very excited to expand my automation
Thanks

[Brian H]

Which controller and software was in your kit?

[arasem]

I had the active pro and I have the firecracker... I am not using them currently as they require always on computer

[Brian H]

OK so your kit was AHP software with the CM19A Interface.
Yes that combination does need the computer running to do any X10 controlling.
The CM15A Interface for AHP allows timers and some macros to be downloaded to it and then the computer turned off.

Have you gone to the SmartLinc web page and looked at the manuals for information on how it works?

[arasem]

Yes smartlinc does not require computer, I can control my x10 devices from my iphone without having a computer running (by sending messages to the smartlinc device). However,
1- Is there an alternative for this device? like other brand or a way around it?
2-Can I view my x10 cameras using this device?

[Brian H]

1- I really don't know about any alternate devices. Others may have more information for you.

2- I don't think the Smartlinc can get you video. You may find more data in the Smarthome Forums. In the Insteon Section. As the Smartlinc is primarily an Insteon device that can also do X10.

http://www.smarthome.com/forum/default.asp

I you have not looked at the manuals for details. They may give you added assistance.
http://www.smarthome.com/manuals/2412nqs_v2.pdf
http://wiki.smarthome.com/index.php?title=SmartLinc_-_INSTEON_Central_Controller_Owner%27s_Manual_%28v2.0%2B%29