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[chris]

Any tips for troubleshooting a WS4777.  I
installed the two switches according to
instructions.  The switches work fine when
switched on manually but the software will
not control the switch.  I'm a bit baffled.

Thanks

[Brian H]

Is this the newer AHP Software with the USB
cm15a? If so is the problem a remote will
not turn them on and off but maybe the
screen can?
If so double check in Tools; Hardware
Configuration; Tranceived House Codes. Turn
ON the House Code you are using. If even the
software can't from the screen. It could be
a phase problem as most homes are wired
split phase. X10 signals have trouble
getting to the other phase. Try the problem
switch with a 220 volt appliance like a
dryer ON. If they then work you need a phase
coupler. Also try unpluging things like
computers tvs and see if they start working.
If so you have a noise maker that needs a
filter on its AC line cord.
What type of bulbs in the switched sockets?

[chris]

Thanks Brian -- a good call.  With the dryer
running, the WS4777 works well.  Now my next
question is -- what the heck is a phase
coupler and where does it go?

[Brian H]

Phase coupler can be as simple as a
capacitor hard wired across a set of 220
volt breakers in the main box. You can also
buy couplers that again wire into the
breaker box. Many of them have tuned
circuits in them to pass X10 signals. Third
way that is the easiest. Smarthome and a few
other companies make a coupler that pluges
into your Dryer Outlet and has a socket on
its front to reconnect the dryer cable. Both
the three and four pin types are made. For
real bad problems a repeater can be bought.
Again hard wired and plug in type are made.
Any thoughs on what type you may like to
look at? Maybe we can give more data that
way.

[chris]

Thanks again.  I ordered a SignaLinc Plug
In phase coupler on ebay that I hope will
solve my problem.  If not, I can look into
having an electrician install the
capacitor.  I'll let you know how it turns
out when it arrives.  I was about to order
on smarthome but the $20 shipping price
seemed over the top.

[Brian H]

A cap would not do much more then the dryer
coppler. Actually the Smarthome Coupler has
a tuned circuit in it thet passses the X10
signal bands.
Yes the independent vendors actually have
the Smarthome [and others] cheaper than the
manufacturers site many times.
Except here on X10. When they have a 4; 5 or
6 for the price of one?