Frequently Asked Questions

We've assembled a list of questions that we often hear from customers. They are grouped together under the topics:

Be sure to check out our How-To Wiki for answers and step-by-step instructions for common Home Automation questions.

Installation

What is my registration code? I lost my original registration email and now I need the code again.

Enter your email address and we will automatically look up your registration information. Alternatively, if you purchased Indigo from MacHomeStore.com then you can login to your user account on their site to review your order history.

Do I have to leave my Mac on all the time to use Indigo?

Yes. Most modern Macs use very little power when idle and with only the Indigo Server running the Mac will be idle most of the time.

Can I run Indigo Server under a non-administrator OS X user account?

The default installation of the Indigo Server requires that the admin OS X user account under which it was installed be logged in and running. However, as detailed on the online forum, it is possible to run the Indigo Server under other user accounts with some file/folder permission changes.

Is it possible to run the Indigo Server as a daemon before any users are logged in?

As detailed on the online forum, it is possible to run the Indigo Server before any OS X user account is logged in. There are limitations, however, to launching Indigo Server in this fashion. For example, AppleScript support will be disabled.

Another option is to setup a separate user account that runs Indigo. Then, with fast user switching, you can switch between individual user accounts while keeping the Indigo-specific account (and Indigo Server) running in the background.

Hardware

Can Indigo upload schedules and macros to the CM11 or ActiveHome Pro (CM15) interfaces so I can turn off my Mac?

No - Indigo needs to be running to control your home automation.

Does Indigo support ZigBee, UPB, or some other home automation hardware?

Indigo currently supports hundreds of devices via the Z-Wave (new in Indigo 6), INSTEON, and X10 protocols. In addition, there are dozens of 3rd party plugins, some of which support other devices and technologies. We continue to evaluate supporting additional home automation standards, but at this time have no public information available about other technology support.

Troubleshooting

When I try to turn on/off a particular INSTEON or X10 module (lamp, appliance, switch module, etc.) it does not work. But I can control modules plugged into other outlets. What is going on?

For some reason the signal cannot reliably get to that INSTEON or X10 module. Here are some common causes and solutions.

When I try to turn on/off a particular Z-Wave module (lamp, appliance, switch module, etc.) it does not work. But I can control modules plugged into other outlets. What is going on?

For some reason the signal cannot reliably get to that Z-Wave module. We've found that the orientation of your Z-Wave interface can often greatly effect the range of your network. Try using a USB extension cable to reposition your interface. For the Aeon Labs Z-Stick Series 2, we've found that positioning it vertically with the button facing the most distant device seems to help considerably with the range.

General

Which version of Indigo (Lite or Pro) should I buy?

It really depends on your needs. If you are new to Home Automation and have only a few (20 or less) devices, you should try out Indigo Lite. If you want to control an unlimited number of devices, high-end devices (thermostats, sprinklers, multiple I/O devices), integrate with other applications (iTunes, etc.), or have complex automation requirements, you'll probably want the full power of Indigo Pro. Indigo Pro also supports plugins from us and other 3rd parties that significantly increase the reach of your home automation system. If you purchase Lite and later decide to upgrade to Pro, you can purchase a Pro upgrade code that will unlock the Pro features in your current installation -- no new installation or reconfiguration necessary.

The feature comparison chart will help you decide which version is for you.

Does Indigo have a Web interface for controlling my house remotely from another computer or an iPhone?

Yes, Indigo includes a built-in Web server that will allow you to fully control your Home Automation system. Indigo Pro also provides easy-to-create graphical Control Pages. We also have created Indigo Touch, our native iPhone and iPod touch application, which is available for free in the iTunes App Store.

Will there be a Windows or Linux version of Indigo?

Our development efforts are currently focused on the Mac platform.

Have another question?

Search through our How-To Wiki for step-by-step solutions for common Home Automation tasks. If you don't find what you're looking for there, then join the Indigo user community on our searchable online support forum. You'll find hundreds of tips, suggestions, and great examples.

 

*NOTE: The 2414U will not work with INSTEON devices shipping after March 2012. These devices use a new firmware version that is incompatible with the 2414U. Smarthome has announced that they are discontinuing the 2414U and they have no plans to release an update.