Fireworks - A zero footprint FireCracker controller.

FireCracker is an X-10 radio frequency computer interface that attaches to your serial port. It's like a remote that controls appliances, lights and cameras. Instead of using your finger the computer manages the devices using simple instructions you enter into the computer.

The computer program that helps you enter the instructions and that operates the FireCracker is called the controller. You enter into the controller the commands and the times you want them to be executed . The controller performs the command at the requested time. In other words you tell the computer when you want to turn the light on and the computer does the rest. With this automation you can delegate mundane task to the computer. Like turn the outside lights on at sunset and off at 11pm. You won't leave the lights on all night long. You can give your home that live in look while you're away.

Most controllers must be running all the time to perform the tasks. They have a footprint, some small, some rival Sasquatch.  That is they are using precious computer resources while they are just waiting for time to pass. Fireworks is different. It uses no resources until they are needed.

The FireCracker documentation says that you won't lose a  serial port ( comm port ) because of its pass through design. That's true as far as the hardware is concerned. Since only one program can access the port at a time other controllers effectively disable it. Fireworks only uses the port briefly and then releases it so other programs can use it.

The large resource hungry part of the controller that enables you to easily enter the instructions has been separated from the lean mean part that executes the instructions. The former is run only when you set up the system. The later runs only long enough to execute the instructions. You may see its icon appear briefly in the system tray, by the time of day in the lower right corner of the screen.

Fireworks is really three programs:

• Fireworks.exe - This is the one you use to configure your system, define your X-10 devices, manage commands and schedules.
   
• Igniter.exe - This small program  It runs just long enough to execute your commands.
   
• Ephemeris.exe - This small program is started by the Windows Task Scheduler. It adjusts the start time for events that depend on sunrise or sun set.

Fireworks is easy to setup. But, easy is a relative term. So to make the learning curve less steep please read the User Guide.

I hope you find Fireworks worthwhile and decide to pay the small registration fee. Whether you do or not I want to hear your comments and constructive criticism. Please join the forum at the fireworks website, www.dippel.us/fireworks Thanks, Carl