Electronics 2000

New to electronics, so I apologise if I am being dense.

I have a 4 way disco light controller from Maplins that switches 240v across 4 outputs on a variable speed chasing circuit. My question is this. I have a large christmas light display that I wish to control in the following way. Light set 1, Light set 2, Light set 3, All sets on. Currently, I can only have one set on at a time. Hopefully this make sense!

What is your level of electronics knowledge?
I can think of quite a few different approaches:
1) a DMX dimmer pack and a computer or controller,
2) a simple logic controller such as a Siemens Logo programmed up to have the outputs chasing (I'd avoid the mains relay versions and use a transistorised one driving opto relays)
3) an electronic circuit with pulse generator, counter and logic gates firing opto relays
4) modify the existing box to do what you want
5) buy a controller such as an NJD 8000 which looks like it will do something similar to what you want.

My electronics knowledge is very minimal.

I am thinking that the adaptation of what I have at the moment would be a better plan as I don't want to spend fortunes. I am assuming that my box will have a timer of some description (a 555??). Would I be able to adapt that to suit?

It will probably have some sort of adjustable clock pulse (like a 555 astable) and a PIC microcontroller which is programmed to do the chasing. Then something that allows it to interface with the mains switching triacs.
What make and model, can you upload a pic with the cover off? Make sure it is unplugged from the mains first.

Sorry for the late reply. Been very busy at work and organising a kids party.... I have been able to take these once I got into the loft.http://s1042.photobucket.com/user/benth ... ary/Chaser

It seems a quite simple thing to make one with a 555 a few gates and some transistors ...ish.
Tar&stuff.