Understanding X-10
X-10 is not just a name of products we install in our walls and plug into our outlets; it is a name for the information that controls them. X-10 is a signal that is passed through the electrical wires of our homes. This signal has no effect on computers, TV's and other electrical devices. This signal is transmitted when the voltage is at 0 volts. Alternating current ,A/C, works is by alternating the phases 60 times per second. This is why we sometimes hear a hum in electrical devices. This hum is a 60 Hz hum caused by the alternating voltage. If we could see this fast and light filaments didn't dim off, we would be able to see the lights flashing 60 times per second. This cycling allows a period of time when X-10 signals can be transmitted. Most X-10 transmissions are less than 1 volt. Most X-10 receivers need at least 100mv to respond. If there is excess noise in your electrical system, this will cause problems. Such things as computers, surge supressors, TV's and many other devices may cause excess noise. If the noise is at a higher level than the X-10 signal, then the signal cannot be seen and responded to. Signals can only be transmitted one at a time. If two signals are transmitted at the same time, they will collide and no action will take place.
Controlling X-10
There are several methods to control X-10. There are devices that can turn IR commands into an X-10 signal. RF remotes allow remote operation of X-10 for distances of 100's of feet. Desktop controllers are a popular method of controlling. X-10 makes a clock that can be used for simple timing of lights. Some new alarm panels have X-10 capabilities. X-10 makes motion sensors that transmit wireless signals to RF receivers, the same ones as the handheld remotes that can be used to turn on lights in a bathroom at night or turn on the outside lights when someone approaches the house. You could use them in you Halloween decorating to create some cool effects! Also there is a switch that is made to look like a regular wall switch but will transmit to other X-10 switches. There are really too many transmitting devices to list but searching can reveal most.
Computer Interfacing
There are several computer interfaces that allow you to link your X-10 to a computer to allow automation. Price ranges are from under $10.00 to $1000.00's Listed below are a list of some makers of these computer interfaces.
www.x10.com Many interfaces to choose from
www.smartlinc.com Makers of Touchlinc and Houselinc
http://www.csi3.com/ Makers of Homevision
[Link: jdstechnologies.com] Makers of JDS Stargate and other controllers
www.smarthomeinc.com Sellers of the Adicon 2500
There are many more to choose from, this is just a few!
Couplers and Amplifiers
One thing that most people try to get by without is a coupler or an amplifier/coupler. A coupler is a device that connects both phases of A/C voltage in your home. An amplifier/coupler is a device that amplifies the X-10 signal up to 20 times and also couples the phases. In most applications at least one of these is needed to insure X-10 signal completions. The X-10 you install may work fine for a few days, weeks or even months but chances are, you will have missed commands unless you have a coupler or amplifier/coupler. The amplifier/coupler is the best, and most expensive choice but is the most desirable. The problem with the passive, or non-amplified coupler is it has to cut the signal in order to cross it over to the other phase of voltage. This is not a desired alternative as you can figure. The more noise producing devices you have in your home, the more you need an amplifier/coupler. At least one of these devices should be installed in your home.
X-10 Filters
Filters do just what they sound like they would. They install between noise producing devices to clean up the noise they produce. Most of today's electronics have clean power supplies in them. In order for them to be clean, they must put the garbage, or noise, somewhere. This noise is reintroduced into the power lines of your home. This noise has to be cleaned up to allow the X-10 to function properly. Installing a filter in line with a noisy device can do this. These filters can absorb the noise and clean up the electrical lines in your home. There are two easy to find filters available. One is rated at 5 amps and the other is rated for 15 amps. The 5 amp is a plug in style while the 15 amp is an in line model. The inline can be placed into a project box and have ends placed on it for easy installation. If you are unsure of the rating you need, here is a quick guide. If you know the wattage of a device, device it by 110 to get the amperage it draws. Example: A computer that draws 400 watts would need about 3.7 amps of current. This does not include any surges at power up so factor a little extra in there. One question I have is, how effective is a surge suppresser is a filter is installed in line with it. I know most companies like Panamax, will not honor warranties if the surge suppresser is not installed to there specifications.
In Closing
I hope this helps anyone who had or has any questions about X-10. X-10 is a safe and fun way to create a Smarthome. If you choose to endeavor into X-10, PLEASE use caution when installing electrical devices. Although 110 volts will probably not kill you, it can hurt you real bad.
Chris Couture
