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💬General Category => X10 Deal News & Alerts => Announcements => Archived deal news => Topic started by: birdzeye on September 22, 2009, 07:14:48 PM

Title: Have there been any lately?
Post by: birdzeye on September 22, 2009, 07:14:48 PM
Any deal news or alerts lately? I noticed they changed the format of the newsletter/email. It all looks regular if not overpriced. What happened to the deals? The old format seemed to have more stuff on it.
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: HA Dave on September 22, 2009, 07:58:01 PM
Any deal news or alerts lately? What happened to the deals?

I jumped on the 8 appliance modules for $49.99... and now they're including the TM751 and a PalmPad. Thats a deal!!
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: birdzeye on September 23, 2009, 07:45:50 AM
What do you use your appliance modules for, or are you just stocking up?
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: HA Dave on September 23, 2009, 11:24:34 AM
What do you use your appliance modules for, or are you just stocking up?

I use the appliance modules for CFL's, as well as electronics. Be aware when doing this.. as the modules will leak small amounts of current. I have found the appliance modules as less than suitable for many of my LED projects. I would like to try some green switching (cutting power to electronics that use small amounts of power when not in use) and will use appliance modules for this. I do have several [X10] light switches and even a few lamp modules [and SocketRockets] in service. But mostly I use appliance modules (I have 16 in service now I think). The only place I ever use dimming is in the Home Theater.

I keep a large plastic bin packed full of X10 supplies. Not all my trials end in errors... but many do. So I do like to have my own supply of X10 stuff on hand. I like to buy "deals" based on cost-per-item (I read about doing that here at the forum). That's really the way to go!! The deal I mentioned earlier is 10 items at $49.99 [with free shipping]... or 5 bucks per item. Try to beat that on eBay.

 
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: birdzeye on September 23, 2009, 11:08:21 PM
[/b] Be aware when doing this.. as the modules will leak small amounts of current.

Uh, could you explain this in a little more detail? I've got several appliance modules with non-x10 cameras plugged into them, and an old coffee maker, an old ghetto blaster, and my stereo too. Is there any danger in doing this?

Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: Brian H on September 24, 2009, 06:14:15 AM
Both the Appliance and Lamp Modules have a Local Control Sensing Circuit. The Appliance Module also uses this sensing circuit to detect if the mechanical relay is on or off.

Most devices connected to them will not react to this very low current. Some devices like LED bulbs use so little current, even the small sensing current keep them partially glowing. This current is also what caused some CFL bulbs to pulse when off and some to even turn back on by triggering the local control sensing.

The devices you mentioned should be fine. The small current should not be enough to have them try and turn on or run at a very reduced voltage. On the coffee maker. If it has a Neon Bulb 'On Indicator' there is a small chance it may glow dimly but no harm there either.

Rough measurements I made. Old LM465 1.56 ma AC and 0.16 ma DC; soft start LM465 0.36 ma AC no DC current.
AM486 Old style 2.37 ma AC and 1.69 ma DC. New version AM486 X10 calls CFL friendly .33 ma AC.
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: birdzeye on September 24, 2009, 07:00:12 AM
Both the Appliance and Lamp Modules have a Local Control Sensing Circuit. The Appliance Module also uses this sensing circuit to detect if the mechanical relay is on or off.

Most devices connected to them will not react to this very low current. Some devices like LED bulbs use so little current, even the small sensing current keep them partially glowing. This current is also what caused some CFL bulbs to pulse when off and some to even turn back on by triggering the local control sensing.

The devices you mentioned should be fine. The small current should not be enough to have them try and turn on or run at a very reduced voltage. On the coffee maker. If it has a Neon Bulb 'On Indicator' there is a small chance it may glow dimly but no harm there either.

Rough measurements I made. Old LM465 1.56 ma AC and 0.16 ma DC; soft start LM465 0.36 ma AC no DC current.
AM486 Old style 2.37 ma AC and 1.69 ma DC. New version AM486 X10 calls CFL friendly .33 ma AC.

Thanks!

Actually I think you answered this question for me on another post quite awhile ago, but I had forgotten all about it. It was when I had a device that converted any computer monitor into a TV, and that was plugged into a power bar which was plugged into an appliance module,  and it kept turning back on after I turned it off. That TV device got fried! I'm guessing now it may have had to do with the appliance module.

I've also been having a problem with swann security cameras that are plugged into appliance modules. Every so often they just fail to show any picture at all and I have to unplug the appliance module from the power and plug it back in and then the picture comes back.

And one of these swann cameras I had to return to the manufacturer because the picture went out of focus, but I think that may have more to do with the cable, at least that's what I'm hoping it is.

Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: HA Dave on September 24, 2009, 11:35:14 AM
Uh, could you explain this in a little more detail? I've got several appliance modules with non-x10 cameras plugged into them......

I am glad Brian H replied to this as I think he did a better job of explaining this than I could have (see below). I also use the appliance modules for cameras and haven't had any problems. I also use appliance modules for my BVC (http://www.wgjohns.com/bvc.htm) - babymonitor setup (http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=12202.msg67395#msg67395). The baby monitors draw 10 watts when in use.

Both the Appliance and Lamp Modules have a Local Control Sensing Circuit. The Appliance Module also uses this sensing circuit to detect if the mechanical relay is on or off.

Most devices connected to them will not react to this very low current. Some devices like LED bulbs use so little current, even the small sensing current keep them partially glowing. This current is also what caused some CFL bulbs to pulse when off and some to even turn back on by triggering the local control sensing.

Of course the old trick to getting past the "current sensing" of these modules is to use an adapter and a 7 watt (C7) nightlight in conjunction with your low current device. However... with something like a low wattage CFL or LED light... that would be silly. But might be a good idea for some very low wattage devices.
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: birdzeye on October 02, 2009, 07:55:01 AM
What's the all time best deal anyone has ever purchased?
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: HA Dave on October 02, 2009, 11:10:33 AM
What's the all time best deal anyone has ever purchased?

I don't think the best deals are purchased.... they are won.

X10 regularly has contests. The one going on now is the twitter contest (http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=18667.0). I joined twitter... and have tweeted 28 times (not bragging.. it's just a fact) . I won an AHP [with a full suite of software] that I received just the other day.

Before that (if you don't count the free Icon from the beta test) I won a Sentinel Camera (http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=13375.msg75769#msg75769) in a past contest. But what really got me hooked on the contests [and YouTube] was the long past X10 YouTube Contest. The prize was $500 of regularly priced merchandise. My video was the first YouTube video I ever made (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MANlRiyh8Eo)... and it still posted with over 5000 views so far.
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: birdzeye on October 03, 2009, 08:23:24 PM
x10 regularly has contests. The one going on now is the twitter contest (http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=18667.0). I joined twitter... and have tweeted 28 times (not bragging.. it's just a fact) . I won an AHP [with a full suite of software] that I received just the other day.

Yes I noticed that twitter contest but to tell you the truth I'm not even sure what in the heck twitter really is or how it works --I think I'm getting old  :-[


You sure do have a lucky streak though! I can't believe they actually gave you a Sentinel camera--- unbelievably lucky!
So what did you get with the $500 free merchandise?

Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: HA Dave on October 03, 2009, 11:18:19 PM
Yes I noticed that twitter contest but to tell you the truth I'm not even sure what in the heck twitter really is or how it works --I think I'm getting old  :-[

Best way to learn.... is get over to twitter... and tweet.

You sure do have a lucky streak though! So what did you get with the $500 free merchandise?

I'd rather be lucky than smart.... and thank God... that's how it worked out. With my 1st prize (the $500 of regular priced merchandise) I got a little of this and that. Including a security system.

I have a LOT of X10 stuff. But I still like the deals. I don't always need the extra parts... but sooner or later they have a use.
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: birdzeye on October 17, 2009, 08:15:55 PM
Whatever happened to the "midnight bandit"?
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: HA Dave on October 17, 2009, 10:01:38 PM
Whatever happened to the "midnight bandit"?

I don't know..... I think maybe X10 abandoned him when they used the soft-porn ads for a while. I made my 1st eBay purchase today... I am short of powrflash units here. Those suckers are NEVER on sale.
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: glb7272 on October 18, 2009, 05:56:30 AM
Dave_x10_L
Quote
I jumped on the 8 appliance modules for $49.99... and now they're including the TM751 and a PalmPad. Thats a deal!!
I could not pass on that one either.
BTW Dave_x10_L If i was in charge of x10 marketing I would donate product after watching the vids you posted. Its a really cheap way for them to promote products.



Can you post links here for affiliates? There is a person who sells on ebay who also has a e store that is separate. The prices are better than ebay and his store looks like a store with good info (Ie the products listed tell you if they have local control as well as a link to each manual with the product and most importantly no flash ads). I have never purchased from the estore but their ebay rating is good.
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: HA Dave on October 18, 2009, 09:57:23 AM
....If i was in charge of x10 marketing I would donate product after watching the vids you posted.
Can you post links here for affiliates?

Thank You. I am a fan of Home Automation and openly sharing my interest has won me some X10 contests. And I was selected to be part of the Icon Remote beta test as well.
Iam sure X10 has more than a few affiliates. I think if the moderators allowed them all to post ad's here... soon thats all the forum would be. 
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: birdzeye on October 19, 2009, 09:22:09 AM
I made my 1st eBay purchase today...

Well I guess congradulations are in order! :)% I've always wanted to order from eBay but have been leery....so let us know how it works out.

Speaking of sales, I saw a "sale" package on x10 which includes a wired low light cam+ the VA12A + Vanguard software for $50. But would one have to upgrade their AHP to the newer "buggy" version in order for the VA12a to work? Also, would one have to get the CM19A for VAnguard software and is Vanguard really much better than AHP iwitness which i already have? 
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: HA Dave on October 19, 2009, 10:47:21 AM

Speaking of sales, I saw a "sale" package on x10 which includes a wired low light cam+ the VA12A + Vanguard software for $50. But would one have to upgrade their AHP to the newer "buggy" version in order for the VA12a to work? Also, would one have to get the CM19A for Vanguard software and is Vanguard really much better than AHP iwitness which i already have? 

Sounds like a good deal to me birdzeye! I am not sure you can't use the VA12A... although if your already using the AHP suite [with iwittness] why would you want to use the Vanguard. I've used BOTH [of both] with some of my info posted here (http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=16829.msg98222#msg98222).

I did at one time install the latest version of AHP... then uninstalled (I followed Dan Lawrence's process)... then reinstalled the older AHP and then did the update (Dan Lawrence has posted directions).

I am currently using the old VA11A... as it works best with my old (recused from rubbish) P3.
 
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: birdzeye on October 20, 2009, 06:24:48 AM
Has anyone seen a package deal with a vk46a receiver? I already have a platinum sender and receiver but need another receiver. Just the receiver. And for a deal price  ;D
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: HA Dave on October 20, 2009, 10:43:38 AM
.... need another receiver. Just the receiver. And for a deal price  ;D

Well... I don't think deals work that way. I think generally speaking... you have to buy several items. All the items in the "package" will be drastically reduced... so you get a lot for a little price. I like to purchase based on per-item cost.
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: birdzeye on October 20, 2009, 10:55:52 AM
I think generally speaking... you have to buy several items. All the items in the "package" will be drastically reduced... so you get a lot for a little price. I like to purchase based on per-item cost.

Exactly...that's what I meant. So has there ever been a package with a receiver in it as one of the items?
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: HA Dave on October 20, 2009, 11:26:31 AM
Exactly...that's what I meant. So has there ever been a package with a receiver in it as one of the items?

Have you checked out cnpalmer's tip:  http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=16935.msg93331#msg93331

By following cnpalmer's directions... I found this deal:  http://www.x10.com/promotions/xx20a_ed_autumn_wireless_camera.html
 Same price as a receiver plus a free camera, remote, and TM715... and free shipping. And since your getting the shipping for free... it's a good time to review those $19.99 deals in the newsletter in case there is one or two of those you've been wanting.

I do this to myself all the time.
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: birdzeye on October 20, 2009, 01:04:00 PM
Dave_x10_L,
I tried that search method and could not find anything. It's the VK46A round silver disc-like thingy that sends TV/Cable to a second TV. Seems only to come as a unit sender/receiver + 5-in-1 remote, for $49.99  :(
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: Brian H on October 20, 2009, 02:22:06 PM
I saw the 8 appliance modules; TM751 and HR12A deal today.  ;D
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: HA Dave on October 20, 2009, 07:17:14 PM
... It's the VK46A round silver disc-like thingy that sends TV/Cable to a second TV... for $49.99 

I bought two sets of those at Radio Shack, when they where sold there. I paid the $99.99 a set sale price at Radio Shack.
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: HA Dave on October 20, 2009, 07:18:52 PM
I saw the 8 appliance modules; TM751 and HR12A deal today.  ;D

Yeah.... I jumped on the appliance module deal BEFORE they threw in the TM751 and HR12A.
Title: Re: Have there been any lately?
Post by: birdzeye on October 22, 2009, 10:20:32 AM
I bought two sets of those at Radio Shack, when they where sold there. I paid the $99.99 a set sale price at Radio Shack.

I'll bet you could get credit for them at Walmart...if not a refund  ;)