I thought I would create this new thread because so many people have asked questions (via posts to this forum and through e-mail) related to this topic.
This is a very common problem, with a fairly simple solution. The reason an X-10 signal may not get from point A (transmitter) to point B (receiver), is due to either AC line noise that conflicts with the X-10 signal, because the signal has weakened along its journey because of the distance, or a combination of the two.
When these conditions exist, it doesn't mean that the X-10 transmissions will be affected the same way every time. Some people have reported that the X-10 signal gets through only some of the time and they can't figure out why. This is a normal symptom of the two conditions I described in the prior paragraph (i.e. unreliable or inconsistent operation). Since AC line noise that affects an X-10 signal can get introducted at any point along the power line, there are many variables involved in this problem.
The good news is that there are easy solutions. These solutions involve the purchase of products. It is possible to "work around" the conditions if you have only a few X-10 receivers but if you expand the system you will be back in the same place. Also, a "work around" solution probably will not result in the best reliability.
First Step: Install an amplified signal bridge. All homes need a signal bridge (for reliable operation), to allow an X-10 signal to "jump" from one electrical phase to the other(s). A passive signal bridge allows the signal to "jump", but it is not amplified. So if the signal is already a little weak when it gets to the passive signal bridge, it will "jump" to the other phase, and continue to weaken and may not be strong enough when it gets to the intended receiver (especially if there is line noise inolved). That is why an amplified signal bridge is so much better. It amplifies the X-10 signal over 5,000 percent to ensure that it is strong enough to reach the reciever. In addition, the strength many times will overcome moderate AC line noise.
Step Two: This step is only necessary if step one didn't solve the problem, which means you have more than "moderate" AC line noise that is affecting the X-10 signals. This is normally caused by an older TV, printer, surge supressor, or rechargable razor or similar. You can identify the offender by unplugging it to see if it solves the problem. Keep in mind that the results of this procedure are only conclusive if you have already completed step one and installed the amplified signal bridge. If unplugging the electrical device solves the problem, you can purchase individual noise block modules that will filter an noise that would affect an X-10 signal. These modules are about the size of a lamp module.
RCI Automation carries both of the "solution" products mentioned in this post.
Robert
RCI Automation
rciautomation@csi.com[Link: ourworld.compuserve.com]
