Hello,
I replaced two Lightolier dimmer switches with X-10 WS12A switches. The existing switches each have two wires with a ground. The box has three sets of Romex coming in and all of the white wires are connected with a wire nut and not connected to the switches. Each switch has a separate black wire (coming out of wall) connected to it. The remaining wire on each switch is then connected to the third black wire. I connected my new switches in the same manner. The problem I’ve run into is that sometimes if I turn one on/off I can’t turn the other on/off with my MX-500. Sometimes if I turn one on/off both will turn on/off. Locally both will turn on/off. I’m assuming it’s the way they’re connected that’s causing this problem. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to connect the wiring to overcome this problem? Why don’t the WS12A switches have a ground wire? Also, I’ve noticed a buzzing sound from the switches. Is this normal?

Thanks,
Carter

The fact that they work properly locally says to me that the wiring is o.k. It sounds like you have signal problems. I don't know how many or what kind of X-10 devices you have installed in your house, but you need to run basic tests for signal and noise to try to find your problem. I first started with a couple of switch's and they worked perfectly, after adding more things down the road I began to have many problems. I installed a phase coupler/repeater and tested signal with a meter. I had to filter all tv's, power strips, and computers after these steps I have perfect results every time and I have over 25 switch's and modules at this time (all switchlinc) I searched for you model switch and they don't seem to be the best of quality, perhaps a switchlinc or pcs would work better for you.

Hello,
I'm beginning to think that I should have bought a better quality switch. I have three LampLinc modules (that work perfectly), four switches and two lamp modules of the cheaper X-10 stuff from X10.com. I didn't start having the problems until I bought the cheap X-10 stuff. I have three filters: one on my audio equipment, one on my computer, and one on a TV upstairs. I also have an ACT CR234 coupler/repeater. Yesterday I went out to the garage with my RF Radio Shack remote and every time I hit the button for one of the two new switches the error led would light up. I think it might just be time to go back to Bill at www.homeautomationnet.com and buy myself some quality switches for XMAS.

Carter

Sounds like your on the right track, You could even buy 1 switch just for a test and see if that is actually the problem. As I said before I have a rather large setup using the same ACT CR-234 as you and my system works 100% so there is hope. I had a lot of trouble in the beginning but now I could not be more pleased!