Keypadlinc action group?

Hi, I'm trying to program a keypad link to turn off multiple devices. For example, I want to turn off all the downstairs lights with a touch of a button. The problem is, I don't know if it's better to use an action group, or to program it into the device powerlink itself. What's the best way to turn off all the downstairs lights? Thanks

I like having an On Action Group and an Off Action Group programed to a virtual switch that’s linked to a keypad. The on/off logic ‘fits’ with the keypadlinc, and I’m always changing things and it’s easier to edit an Action Group.


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I favor anything that skips over using indigo, so individual links. My reasoning is that I won’t own the house forever.

[jay (support)]

As you can see, there are pro/cons to either approach...

If all your lights are Insteon, I'd recommend doing direct links for a couple of reasons: 1) if Indigo is down for some reason they will still work, 2) linking directly would cause less Insteon network traffic (though if you take the Action Group route you could make one action to execute an Insteon group that contains all the lights which is basically the same thing).

If you have a mix of Insteon and other devices, then the Action Group is really the only option. Action Groups are also somewhat easier to manage IMO, but it's also somewhat rare that you have to add/delete devices from a group like that. And, as rehafer points out, if you put them all in a Device Group, then keeping the KeypadLinc button in sync is somewhat easier.

Thanks for all the replies. All my switches are insteon, but I do like the action group idea. I'll try both and see now much traffic I get...