I'm wondering how X10 receptacles and appliance modules (and in-line modules, too) work. Are they mechanical relays, or some kind of SCR (or other semiconductor) switch? What I'm getting at is audible noise. I have seen other posts on this forum about noise, and am wondering about it.

I need to have on/off (don't need dimming) control for some devices in a media room. So, I'd like to consider the noise as part of the selection criteria for X10 devices. A single loud click when power on or power off is less bothersome than continual loud hum.

What can I expect from appliance modules, receptacles, or inline modules in the way of noise? Click or hum? Loud enough to be noticable during movie or music listening? Does it typically vary by manufactufer?

Thank you for any comments.

DG

I can speak for the appliance module. I use one to control my fireplace, and all u hear is a click when u turn it on or off. There is no hum, because all the unit does is either make a connection, or turn one off. Personally, the click doesnt bother me, its definitely not what i would consider silent, but i really barely even notice it if im watching tv. I use the X10 universal appliance module. I know there are more out there that might be quieter, but once again, its just a click...nothing that bothers me.

I have a couple of the X-10 pro modules and the click is loud, the new smarthome (I also have one) is much quieter. I don't think that any of them hum. Both perform the same, something else nice that smarthome has are scene capable 2 way modules.

The standard (UK) X10 appliance modules uses a relay (I've had one apart) - so the only noise you should get is the click when the relay changes state.

If this bothered me, I'd change it for a solid state relay (But I'm an electronic/electrical engineer and quite happy working on 240v kit - YMMV!)

Yes, the Smarthome appliance modules are 80% quieter.

Martin
Martin@AutomatedOutlet.com

Thank you all, for your helpful comments.

DG