X10 Community Forum

🛡Home Security => Home Security General => Topic started by: mike on December 04, 2005, 08:53:27 PM

Title: sensors drop connection
Post by: mike on December 04, 2005, 08:53:27 PM
 I have setup and configured my X10
Powerhouse Security System and have had
only a couple of days where it works
without issues.
My house 1,000 sq ft.  I have 5 window,
door sensors, one motion sensor, the base
unit, and a powerhorn.  All the sensors
will recognize and work when I test them.
Then, one at a time throughout the day, or
randomly a sensor will stop communicating
with the base.  This is very frustrating.
Nothing is moved.  The base unit stays in
the same place, and nothing is moved in
front of the unit or the sensors.

What could cause this lack of
connectivity?
I am running a wirelss home network, and of
course I have a cordless telephone.

I read that there is a device that I can
buy to strengthen the unit, but my house
should not require that unit based on the
specifications.

Any help you can offer would be greatly
appreciated.
Title: Re: sensors drop connection
Post by: jk on December 04, 2005, 09:16:21 PM
a couple of thoughts:
- batteries may not be good or cold
temperatures
- metal object in the way of direct line of
transmission to base console
- too long distance sensor to console
- you may have a large
electrical "sinkhole", i.e. may need
dampler for electrical noise of some large
appliance nearby
- defective product
- ??
hope you find the solution
Title: Re: sensors drop connection
Post by: mike on December 05, 2005, 04:27:28 PM
The sensors that drop are on the front and
back doors.  The back door does see cold
temeratures throughout the day.  Could this
affect the signal?

And that sensor is right next to our
washing machine.  Its about 3 inches away.
Could this affect the signal?
How do I dampen electrical noise?

Thanks for your help!
Title: Re: sensors drop connection
Post by: jk on December 05, 2005, 07:16:24 PM
It may be the washer/dryer, you can use a
surge protector for damping (usually states
it on the surge protector carton).
There is some info at smarthome.com, you
may have to search through the website.
Good luck.