Ed,

Dimming a lamp to 0 percent brightness via X-10 commands still allows current to flow through the bulb fillament, even though it is not always visible. This sometimes creates a slight buzz or humming, and decreases the life of the bulb.

Since the low cost modules do not have a "soft start" feature, the module can't be in an off state if it can brighten from 0% without going to 100% first. If it was actually off (no current flowing), it would come on to 100% when it was sent either a "bright" or "on" command. This is the design of the low cost modules.

Just for the benefit of other readers, I don't recommend this practice. But if you choose this approach, remember to send OFF commands to all of the modules that you have dimmed to 0% when away from the house for an extended period.

Robert
RCI Automation
rciautomation@compuserve.com
[Link: ourworld.compuserve.com]