The X10 ActiveHome Computer Interface works in conjunction with free downloadable ActiveHome software to provide remote control over your home through your computer. The interface module serves as a transceiver, passing X10 signals between the PC and your X10 modules. You can control lights, appliances and more right from the desktop! The module connects to a USB port on your PC via the included USB cable, and plugs into a power outlet. Timer events, macros and other functions are downloaded to the interface when the ActiveHome software runs. This allows the interface to control your home on a schedule you set. Once the interface is programmed, you can unplug it from your PC and move it to any outlet in your house without losing settings. In case of a power outage, the interface is powered by backup batteries for up to 500 hours (over 20 days). The clock keeps running and your timed events are preserved. ActiveHome Software: The ActiveHome software, which can be downloaded for free from the X10 website, offers extensive control over X10 modules. Sit at your computer and turn on/off any X10 module. A standard scheduler also allows easy programming of timed events, so you can schedule lights, appliances, and groups of modules to turn on/off automatically. ActiveHome also provides an advanced LifeStyle Feature, enabling the software to actively learn the usage patterns of connected lights and appliances. Once enough data is collected, you can make your home look occupied while you're away by setting ActiveHome to replay your Lifestyle pattern. ActiveHome offers a Dawn and Dusk Feature that automatically calculates dawn and dusk times for your location each day. No matter the time of year, lights can be turned on or off automatically at dawn or dusk. NOTE: The ActiveHome software no longer requires registration. You will be asked to register each time you use the software, but you do not need to complete this registration. CONTENTS: Computer Interface, USB Cable.