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🛡Home Security => Problems and Troubleshooting => Topic started by: sazzam on March 10, 2011, 11:16:54 AM

Title: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: sazzam on March 10, 2011, 11:16:54 AM
I have intermittent arming issues with my new SC1200 and the Windows/Doors sensors (DS12A). I get errors in different zones. I did not have this issue with the (DS10A) and the SC1200.

All I can do is to reset the SC1200, clear memory, remove backup battery then reinstall all zones and remote controls but this fix is good for 1/2 day only.

Please help.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 10, 2011, 11:27:26 AM
The manual tells you how to remove single sensors and remotes.
I would think a total reset and start from scratch should not be needed. Unlike the PS561 needed.

Is your power supply cable extended fully or is any extra bunched up?
We have had a report that reception is better with any extra cable not tied neatly.

Since you have DS10As. Was the SC1200A replacing a working PS561 console from the older D7000 kit?

Side note. Do you by chance have any PowerHorns and do they work correctly?
Any data on Powerhorns would be appreciated. If you have any.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: sazzam on March 10, 2011, 11:37:12 AM
The Power Cable is not fully extended. But the sensors are just 10 ft away from the console.

SC1200 replaced my DS7000 console (which worked without any issues).

Could it be that the new sensors are more sensitive to temperature change? I have those sensors attached to doors from the garage to the kitchen and the other sensor from the garage to the patio.


Thanks
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: sazzam on March 10, 2011, 11:55:59 AM
Just spoke to support and I was advised to put insulation between the sensor and the door (metal door that gets really cold at night). I will test it and post an update.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Jeff M on March 10, 2011, 12:08:34 PM
When the door is closed, are the magnets right next to the sensor?  My door moldings are curved, and I had to put some spacers between the door and the magnet, to get it closer to the sensor. 
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: sazzam on March 10, 2011, 12:18:08 PM
The door molding is curved. I will adjust the alignment. That could be the issue (I hope!).

Thank s anyway.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 10, 2011, 12:34:07 PM
If they are mounted on metal. It maybe the problem more than cold.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: sazzam on March 10, 2011, 12:53:52 PM
I will put padding as insulation under the magnet sensor and hopefully this will solve the issue.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: no57 on March 10, 2011, 11:56:50 PM
I will put padding as insulation under the magnet sensor and hopefully this will solve the issue.
  Actually, you want to protect the DS10A and DS12A from the cold. If they get cold, the battery will also get cold and deliver a lower voltage.
  The magnet and contact are not affected as much by cold, the contact is enclosed in a small sealed glass tube. 
  Keep in mind though that the contact for the DS12A is in the body itself, compared to the DS10A which dangles at the end of a wire.

  JC
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 11, 2011, 06:15:13 AM
Spacing the sensor itself off of the metal. May improve RF range greatly. As the antenna is on the PC Board itself and close metal can effect it.
Also if the SC1200 is on the opposite side of the door. The metal will decrease the range.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: dave w on March 11, 2011, 09:32:02 AM
FWIW and to buttress the feedback on the metal door. I do not have any X10 security sensors, but they, from a RF standpoint, operate the same as Palm Pad, Eagle Eye, Slim Line Switch, etc. My experience has been they do not work reliably when mounted on metal. And if the metal is between the transmitter (example, a Slim Line Switch) and the receiver (DS1200 or in my case CM15A) they do not work at all. IMHO "cold" should not be a problem, it's the shielding of the metal creating the unreliability.

You might need to mount the DS12 on non metal surface and use an external mag switch wired to the DS12's external switch terminals.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 17, 2011, 02:05:22 AM
Hello all

I just started having the same issue with one of my door sensors. I am reading what you are posting and the magnet sensor is on a metal screen security door and the main part of the sensor is on a wood frame. It was working fine sor over a week and out of nowhere the alarm when armed will see that sensor as "open" even though the door is closed. I remounted it and cleared the sensor but have the same issue. I am not sure what is wrong or what I need to correct. Any help would be appreciated! : )
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 17, 2011, 05:58:11 AM
Have you tried fresh batteries?

When the SC1200 is not armed and displaying Home Control. Does opening and closing the door make the chime sound and the zone display on the LCD screen?

Does the LED on the DS12A flash each time you open or close the door?

About how far is the magnet from the DS12As case and are the arrows on them lined up?
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: sazzam on March 17, 2011, 10:03:19 AM
I have noticed that the SC1200 is back to normal and working properly. (It's been almost 5 days). I did not do anything to the unit. The only thing that changed was the temperature (the weather got warmer).
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: dave w on March 17, 2011, 10:50:50 AM
I have noticed that the SC1200 is back to normal and working properly. (It's been almost 5 days). I did not do anything to the unit. The only thing that changed was the temperature (the weather got warmer).
How much of a temperature change was there? The DS10s or DS12s are inside aren't they?
Are you using high quality akaline (not the dollar store brand and not "standard" lead acid cells)?
Along with the temp change was there a significant change in humidity?

Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Jeff M on March 17, 2011, 11:19:30 AM
I had problems this morning with two of my doors (front and garage) showed open, even though they were closed.  The led on the sensors flashed when I opened and closed them, but the chime did not go off.  After opening and closing a few times, the chime started ringing and I was able to arm the system.  I am using rechargable NiMH batteries.  It is probably the temperture, but not sure if it was the batteries, electronics, or the reed switch that was actually affected. 
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 17, 2011, 12:30:15 PM
The LED flashes when the reed switch opens and closes. Also flashes if the tamper switch is tripped.
You may also want to make sure the two terminals of the second switch terminal block are snug on the jumper. Though it is a second zone that most will not use.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: sazzam on March 18, 2011, 03:30:01 PM
The temperature has increased about 15-20 degrees. I am using the Duracell batteries.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 18, 2011, 03:43:26 PM
Is the SC1200A sitting on a table or hanging on the wall?
With the antenna wrapped around the consoles edge. Horizontal or vertical will orientate the antenna differently.

Since your DS10As seemed to work and the DS12As seem to be more problematic. Could be the antenna in the sensor has a different orientation or the DS12A has a lower RF power out.

I may dig into my old files as I did compare the DS10A to the Radio Shack version of the DS12A.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: sazzam on March 21, 2011, 10:31:20 AM
The SC1200A is sitting on a table.
The antenna (power cord) is halfway extended and the rest is wrapped around itself.

Let's see what is going to happen this week. The temperature dropped again from 75 to 45.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 21, 2011, 10:46:40 AM
The power cord is not the antenna as some speculated.
It is similar to the CM15A. Antenna wire is wrapped around the inside of case. In a moulded slot to hold it.

Extending the power cord maybe extending the ground plane of the main board. Since the power cord does have a common connection on the board.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 21, 2011, 01:34:43 PM
Hello

I am still having trouble with my back screen door sensor. I tried new batteries and also a new sensor. I decided to leave that door out of my setup as I start setting up other zones. I had just involved the front door and another door to do some testing with yesterday. I cleared all sensors and added the front door and a second door. All worked great for about 8 hours and then just as the orginal screen door had problems, so did my 2nd door. The second door and surrounding area is all wood and no metal. The zone keeps showing open even though the door was closed and never opened after the initial install.

So far all I can have is 1 door in 1 zone covered without any issues. This is not good. Anyone else have this issue with the SC1200?

Thanks guys!
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 21, 2011, 01:48:03 PM
I am still just letting mine burn in. As I am going to get some external magnetic switches for my rounded door mouldings. Using the external switch inputs on the DS12As. The one registered DS12A is sitting like 10" from the console right now.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: vlong on March 21, 2011, 05:08:29 PM
Hello

I am still having trouble with my back screen door sensor. I tried new batteries and also a new sensor. I decided to leave that door out of my setup as I start setting up other zones. I had just involved the front door and another door to do some testing with yesterday. I cleared all sensors and added the front door and a second door. All worked great for about 8 hours and then just as the orginal screen door had problems, so did my 2nd door. The second door and surrounding area is all wood and no metal. The zone keeps showing open even though the door was closed and never opened after the initial install.

So far all I can have is 1 door in 1 zone covered without any issues. This is not good. Anyone else have this issue with the SC1200?

Thanks guys!



I had the same issued with new sensor/Battery some how i had intermitten problem with different zone.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 22, 2011, 01:54:41 PM
Hello group

I am still having issues with more than one sensor installed. I gave up for awhile on the back door sensor that is on a metal security door and moved onto installing other sensors. Everything was going well with the 3rd sensor on another door constructed of only wood and wood framing. All was working great for about 8 hours. I then started having the same issue as the back metal door. The sensor on the wood door would be seen as "open" when the door was fully closed.

I have cleared the whole system and reset everything back up pnly to have the same issue. Right now the only sensor that has continued to work and not have false alarms is on my front door. That is the first sensor I ever installed and is not an issue. Not sure what is wrong but I would love to get this resolved. I should not be having these issues right out of the box.

Thank you!

Rob
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 22, 2011, 02:06:46 PM
Rob; Are your sensors the DS12A or the DS10A? As the parts in the kits seems to be a constantly changing thing.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Jeff M on March 22, 2011, 02:29:31 PM
I had a situation like this with one of the newer door sensors.  When the door was closed, the magnet went past the sensor too far making the sensor indicate that the door was open.  As the door opened, the magnet passed close enough to the sensor to make it think the door was closed, then open again, causing the chime to ring.  Since the chime rang, I thought everything was OK when the door was closed.  I ended up having to put almost 1/2 inch of spacing between the door and the magnet to get it to line up with the sensor properly when the door was closed.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 22, 2011, 03:01:35 PM
Jeff M;

Good catch.  >!

This information may assist others.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 23, 2011, 03:16:35 PM
Rob; Are your sensors the DS12A or the DS10A? As the parts in the kits seems to be a constantly changing thing.

Hello group! Thanks for your help. My new kit came with the DS12A door/window sensors.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 23, 2011, 03:39:07 PM
Have you tried fresh batteries?

When the SC1200 is not armed and displaying Home Control. Does opening and closing the door make the chime sound and the zone display on the LCD screen?

Does the LED on the DS12A flash each time you open or close the door?

About how far is the magnet from the DS12As case and are the arrows on them lined up?

Hello Brian

Thank you for your help. Yes I have tried brand new Energizer batteries and even a new out of the box sensor but I have the same issue. The display on the Home Control does chime and display the correct zone as being open when the door is opened. The LED on the DS12A does flash when the door is opened. I tried a few spacings on the DS12A but I have not gone to almost 1/2" yet, but I will try that spacing tonight. I am skeptical of that much spacing since my 1st installed DS12A has hardly any space and I have not had any issues with that door like the others.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 23, 2011, 03:56:27 PM
Is the message "Problem Zone#?" or an Open Zone message?

If it is a problem zone. The sensor did not check in for four hours and the console calls it a problem.
Open Zone would be the console thinks the door or window is open.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 23, 2011, 05:51:30 PM
Is the message "Problem Zone#?" or an Open Zone message?

If it is a problem zone. The sensor did not check in for four hours and the console calls it a problem.
Open Zone would be the console thinks the door or window is open.


Hello Brian

Thank you for your help. The message on the display is that the Zone is seen as "open". This will happen at random and I thought I had it cured with spacing but that lasted for 8 hours and then that zone was again seen as "Open". I will try spacing the sensor even more apart.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 23, 2011, 06:37:57 PM
If the RF signal was not reaching the console. I would think it would flags a Problem Zone.
You may want to make sure the magnet is not border line actuating the internal switch in the DS12A and vibrations are causing an open to be  sent.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 23, 2011, 08:26:58 PM
If the RF signal was not reaching the console. I would think it would flags a Problem Zone.
You may want to make sure the magnet is not border line actuating the internal switch in the DS12A and vibrations are causing an open to be  sent.

Brian

I am not quite sure I understand what you are asking for me to check. How can I see if the magnet is almost actuating the internal switch? Keep in mind I also tried a brand new out of the box sensor on another door in the house and after 8 hours that one also started to show as open when it was closed. That door is in a room next to the initial sensor that I first installed that is not having any issues at all in zone 1. Zones 2 and 3 are causing me grief.

Thanks again for your help.

Rob
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 24, 2011, 06:25:16 AM
I was just thinking on what another user had found.
They had rounded moulding on their door and the magnet was going past the sensor and going back open. Even when the door was actually closed.
The green LED on the DS12A flashes when the magnet opens or closes the internal switch.
Actually flashes if you use the external switch input also.
I was just thinking you could observe the LED and not see it flash when the door was closed. The console see it as still open.
If the LED flashed two sets of messages. The switch may have gone past the sensor and resent a open signal.

Others seem to be having similar problems and I hope X10 is investigating this.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 24, 2011, 01:07:45 PM
I did a test with a DS12A.
I disconnected the batteries so it could not report back after I cleared the Tamper message caused by taking the cover off.
After maybe four to five hours. The Zone 1 number on the LCD started to flash and trying to arm it resulted in a Zone Problem message not the Open Zone message. I am going to add a few more DS12As to the setup and see if anything happens.

So if a zone number showing on the display. It is an open zone.
A flashing zone number is a Problem Zone not checking in for around four hours.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 26, 2011, 09:48:16 PM
I did a test with a DS12A.
I disconnected the batteries so it could not report back after I cleared the Tamper message caused by taking the cover off.
After maybe four to five hours. The Zone 1 number on the LCD started to flash and trying to arm it resulted in a Zone Problem message not the Open Zone message. I am going to add a few more DS12As to the setup and see if anything happens.

So if a zone number showing on the display. It is an open zone.
A flashing zone number is a Problem Zone not checking in for around four hours.

Brian you are awesome! Thank you for going through all this trouble. I hope we can get to a resolution of this problem. I would love to finish the install.

Thanks again!
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 28, 2011, 12:19:53 PM
Well...out of nowhere, my zone #1, which has been working fine for 3 weeks now, is now doing what the other problem zones are doing. It is now showing as an open zone and flashing. I cannot set the alarm due to this issue. I am not sure why this has now changed to my only and last working zone. The main unit and the zone1 are only 15 feet awat form eachother. What a headache and I am about ready to send this new model back. Sadly I like the unit and I am suprised it is behaving this way. Anyone else having this much trouble with the new model?

Rob
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 28, 2011, 01:18:09 PM
I did a test with a DS12A.
I disconnected the batteries so it could not report back after I cleared the Tamper message caused by taking the cover off.
After maybe four to five hours. The Zone 1 number on the LCD started to flash and trying to arm it resulted in a Zone Problem message not the Open Zone message. I am going to add a few more DS12As to the setup and see if anything happens.

So if a zone number showing on the display. It is an open zone.
A flashing zone number is a Problem Zone not checking in for around four hours.

Brian... my last zone that has now failed was showing on the LCD in a flashing state. So as your tests concluded my sensors are not reporting back after a certain amount of hours. Not sure why since all sensors are new and they have new out of the package Energizer batteries.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 28, 2011, 01:27:01 PM
If it was one zone all the time I would suspect the DS12A or signal path to the console from where it is mounted.
If many are now faulting on problem or open. I would suspect the SC1200A console, but I can not be that certain.

You may want to use the search feature to find other threads on problems but they are all near the top of the sections. So you may just want to look at some of them.
I have seen zone problems, poor RF range, reception problems, answering machine and Powerhorn problems with the SC1200A reported.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 28, 2011, 04:40:41 PM
If it was one zone all the time I would suspect the DS12A or signal path to the console from where it is mounted.
If many are now faulting on problem or open. I would suspect the SC1200A console, but I can not be that certain.

You may want to use the search feature to find other threads on problems but they are all near the top of the sections. So you may just want to look at some of them.
I have seen zone problems, poor RF range, reception problems, answering machine and Powerhorn problems with the SC1200A reported.


Thanks for the help Brian. I am starting to think I should send back this console, keep the sensors and get one of the previous versions of the console. Doe anyone else here have the previous version? Is that console decent? I know it does not have the LCD, but what I see it looks like that unit was good.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Jeff M on March 28, 2011, 04:53:54 PM
Maybe you tried this already.  Take a sensor and magnet in your hand and line up the magnet to simulate the door being closed. Be sure that the arrow on the sensor lines up with the arrow on the sensor.   Do this near the console.  Move the magnet away from the sensor.  Did the chime ring?  If yes, walk a few feet away from the console and try this again.  Repeat.  Does this still work at the door that is farthest away from the sensor?  If this works, then the problem is the way the sensors are mounted.  I have found that if the magnet is marginally aligned with the sensor, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.   
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 28, 2011, 07:18:10 PM
Well I did have another thought.
I guess it could be the sensors themselves. I am not sure how well the internal magnetic switch works over time.
I have seen magnetic switches get cranky, but usually over a long period of time.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 28, 2011, 07:27:01 PM
Maybe you tried this already.  Take a sensor and magnet in your hand and line up the magnet to simulate the door being closed. Be sure that the arrow on the sensor lines up with the arrow on the sensor.   Do this near the console.  Move the magnet away from the sensor.  Did the chime ring?  If yes, walk a few feet away from the console and try this again.  Repeat.  Does this still work at the door that is farthest away from the sensor?  If this works, then the problem is the way the sensors are mounted.  I have found that if the magnet is marginally aligned with the sensor, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.   

Thanks Jeff! I will give that a shot. Is there an average spacing that I should have my magnets and sensors? I thought I saw someone post 1/2" spacing which is much larger than what I have.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Jeff M on March 28, 2011, 07:31:27 PM
I believe I posted the 1/2 inch figure.  That was the distance between the magnet and the door it was mounted to, not the distance between the magnet and the sensor.  Get the magnet as close as possible to the edge of the sensor, arrows aligned.  Because of the curved molding of one of my doors, the magnet went past the sensor when mounted directly on the door.  The 1/2 inch spacing was necessary to get them aligned properly. 
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 28, 2011, 08:49:36 PM
I believe I posted the 1/2 inch figure.  That was the distance between the magnet and the door it was mounted to, not the distance between the magnet and the sensor.  Get the magnet as close as possible to the edge of the sensor, arrows aligned.  Because of the curved molding of one of my doors, the magnet went past the sensor when mounted directly on the door.  The 1/2 inch spacing was necessary to get them aligned properly. 

Thanks Jeff I think I understand but can you possibly send me a photo? Or post a photo here of your setup for the door?
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Jeff M on March 28, 2011, 09:30:49 PM
I took a couple of pictures, but I think I have to have a place online to put them before I can display them here.  Experts, is that how it works here?   Send me a message with your email address and I'll send you the photos.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 29, 2011, 11:46:31 AM
Another thought...is there an X10 product to amplify and relay the sensors signals throughout the home?
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Jeff M on March 29, 2011, 11:59:28 AM
I believe there used to be, but not anymore.  I asked the same question.  Check out this article on adding a passive antenna to the sensor:

http://davehouston.net/passive.htm (http://davehouston.net/passive.htm)

I emailed you some pics of the sensor mounted on the big curved mulding.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on March 29, 2011, 12:32:59 PM
No the X10 RF repeater was discontinued awhile ago.
Some users reported it was a big problem for them.
The passive antenna is most likely the best way to go.

Unless someone is willing to mod the SC1200A to add an external antenna.
With all the problem reports with the SC1200A. I doubt many would attempt a warranty busting thing right now.

Though an Open Zone would be more like the Door Window Sensor didn't send a closed signal when the magnet was near the case.
I still have a nagging thought that it could be the sensor itself. Maybe a poor magnetic sensor inside the case. I am not going to be using the internal one in mine. My 1" large gap external ones should be here Thursday. I don't plan on registering the internal one just the external ones.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 29, 2011, 02:16:51 PM
I believe there used to be, but not anymore.  I asked the same question.  Check out this article on adding a passive antenna to the sensor:

http://davehouston.net/passive.htm (http://davehouston.net/passive.htm)

I emailed you some pics of the sensor mounted on the big curved mulding.

Thanks Jeff. Thank you as well for the pictures. I am begining to think maybe I should send back this new secirity unit and get the previous version to solve the range issues for the sensors.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 29, 2011, 02:19:46 PM
Hi Brian....Thank you for responding. Thank you as well for your tests. I wish my issue was a bad sensor. I have 16 of those sensors brand new in boxes. I tried several sensors and new batteries. No matter what door or config, at some point the SC1200 will all of a sudden see one of the sensors or all as being open. I cannot beleive X10 would sell a product like the SC1200 with such range issues and no fix or add-on for the device like an antenna. ... odd

Rob
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: vlong on March 29, 2011, 04:24:23 PM
Hi Brian....Thank you for responding. Thank you as well for your tests. I wish my issue was a bad sensor. I have 16 of those sensors brand new in boxes. I tried several sensors and new batteries. No matter what door or config, at some point the SC1200 will all of a sudden see one of the sensors or all as being open. I cannot beleive X10 would sell a product like the SC1200 with such range issues and no fix or add-on for the device like an antenna. ... odd

Rob

I had the same problem with sensor not talk to main console but now i got another SC1200 it seems to detect all sensors with out any problem so far so good.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on March 30, 2011, 11:33:06 AM
Hi Brian....Thank you for responding. Thank you as well for your tests. I wish my issue was a bad sensor. I have 16 of those sensors brand new in boxes. I tried several sensors and new batteries. No matter what door or config, at some point the SC1200 will all of a sudden see one of the sensors or all as being open. I cannot beleive X10 would sell a product like the SC1200 with such range issues and no fix or add-on for the device like an antenna. ... odd

Rob

I had the same problem with sensor not talk to main console but now i got another SC1200 it seems to detect all sensors with out any problem so far so good.

Hello... I as well may send my unit back and get another for one last shot. What a headache out of the box this has been! : )
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: sanjay92 on March 31, 2011, 10:23:58 PM
I do have same problem. I have only registered one Motion Sensor with SC1200 console. It works but after some time ( after night), in the morning when I press remote to ARM away then console says Zone Problem. It looks like console is not able to register it with devices.
I have tried with replacing motion sensor with another  motion sensor and it is same issue so it looks like it is console issue.
I have got RMA # to return console and I will get another one but I was wondering whether it is system issue or some kind of design flaw.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on April 01, 2011, 05:57:55 PM
Sounds like your unit is defective like mine. I spoke to an X10 technician and he is saying that my unit is defective. I am trying to arrange for me to send this one back for a new one. Hopefully this will resolve my issues. : (
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on April 02, 2011, 12:57:42 PM
Well I just installed three DS12As with external switches and not using the internal switch. As each can be registered as a separate zone. Used a wide gap magnetic switch with a 1" operation range.
Will see how it goes over the next few days and weeks.  :'
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: blang on April 02, 2011, 03:24:41 PM
I have seen the same issue not just with the door sensors but also with the motion sensors. They continually drop of from the controller and I have to re install them. I have not been able to use the system since I purchased it because of the issue and I am greatly dissapointed in my first X10 purchase.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: dave w on April 02, 2011, 06:32:46 PM
I have seen the same issue not just with the door sensors but also with the motion sensors. They continually drop of from the controller and I have to re install them. I have not been able to use the system since I purchased it because of the issue and I am greatly dissapointed in my first X10 purchase.
blang If you read this thread, appearently X10 has determined ROBERTH has a defective unit. IF you have the same issue, call X10. Posting complaints here without details doesn't help. X10 rarely responds to this forum.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on April 02, 2011, 06:33:40 PM
Some users got an exchange from X10 for the SC1200 and reported the replacement was fine so far.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ROBERTH on April 04, 2011, 05:07:40 PM
I have seen the same issue not just with the door sensors but also with the motion sensors. They continually drop of from the controller and I have to re install them. I have not been able to use the system since I purchased it because of the issue and I am greatly dissapointed in my first X10 purchase.

Hello Blang.. Contact X10 tech support and get your unit replaced. I just had to send mine back for a new replacement. I will let you all know the result once I get the new one. ... Rob
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: sanjay92 on April 25, 2011, 04:48:52 PM
After I got replacement unit, it is working fine. Although, I am unable to make it work "Operation from Outside Phone when you have answering machine". After my answering machine picks up and when it finishes playing outgoing message, I enter my PIN but it does not work.

I do have same problem. I have only registered one Motion Sensor with SC1200 console. It works but after some time ( after night), in the morning when I press remote to ARM away then console says Zone Problem. It looks like console is not able to register it with devices.
I have tried with replacing motion sensor with another  motion sensor and it is same issue so it looks like it is console issue.
I have got RMA # to return console and I will get another one but I was wondering whether it is system issue or some kind of design flaw.

Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: dave1700 on June 01, 2011, 01:21:54 PM
Have had my SC1200 installed for about four weeks.  I'll be returning it cause the range on the DS10a's isn't more than about 25 feet for me and I need more.   

Too bad about the range.   I've tried every type of passive antenna on both DS10 and SC1200 and every suggestion on the forum, but nothing will get enough range to work dependably.

I think I have every other gadget that X10 makes and they all work pretty well. 
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: JudyH on June 03, 2011, 10:58:50 AM
HELP Brian and Dave and anyone else with experience -  My two problem sensors are still not working consistently.  One is on a window that I NEVER open, and the other is on a door that I NEVER open.  They both have new sensors; the door has its 3rd sensor.  These sensors will go for a full week up to 2 weeks, and then suddenly in the night [when I am asleep and have the alarm armed], they will fail.  I will wake up to discover that one or the other sensor’s light is lit on the console.  WHAT can be done about this?  Judy
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on June 03, 2011, 07:13:21 PM
JudyH;
So the SC1200's display is showing the zone or zones that triggered the alarm and you are using the DS10A version of the Door/Window Sensor.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: JudyH on June 03, 2011, 09:03:41 PM
Yes
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: rhea on June 04, 2011, 11:43:51 AM
Having "error in zones"  including motion sensor too...MS18A..... all my sensors and motion detectors ARE of the new generation.. and still .. I have to clear the the "error" zone to arm the system, . Did partial reset for sensors, as well as total reset... but still the problem  shows up...

What does" extended" power cable mean? Do I have to fully extend the power cable and place the console on the wall for it to work properly?????
Sounds quite funny... maybe the next x10 console will work if You carry it with You???? >! >*<
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: dave w on June 04, 2011, 03:08:04 PM
What does" extended" power cable mean? Do I have to fully extend the power cable and place the console on the wall for it to work properly?????
Mounting on wall?  The SC1200 uses the line cord as an antenna, so coiling it or wadding it up will decrease range.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on June 04, 2011, 04:05:55 PM
Nope. The antenna is a separate wire wrapped around the case.
Though my thoughts are the common wire in the cable to the wall wart. Maybe extending the ground plane.
Wall mounting also changes the internal antennas orientation.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: rhea on June 15, 2011, 04:21:15 PM
Am still fighting the "error in zone...."//// Any other door/ window sensors  working with SC1200?  Looks like the ones they're selling with the console are not reliable....mine on back exit door blinks on opening /closing, works for some time , then goes back to no  again.....

Anybody tried other than x10 sensors?
 
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on June 15, 2011, 04:36:59 PM
What is the error message?
Open Zone?
Problem Zone? Console has not received a check in message in four hours.
Low Battery?

If you have the Chime feature Enabled. Does the SC1200A chime reliably when the problem sensors are opened and closed?

Only the X10 DS12A and DS10A will work with the SC1200A console.
Which model Door/Window Sensor are you using? DS10A or DS12A.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on June 15, 2011, 09:37:19 PM
I rarely can turn the system on without a zone not working.  Sometimes it will be "Open" the next time "Problem" and completely random.  I go to the random trouble zone, open and close the door or window and the system will arm.  Definitely some gremlins at work here.  The zones can be really close too.  Like only 10 to 15 feet away with not even a wall in between.  Console is hung about six feet high with the power cord fully extended.  There is the interference possibility though.  Multiple cordless and cell phones and a wireless router sometimes enabled.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: dave w on June 16, 2011, 08:35:09 AM
Multiple cordless and cell phones and a wireless router sometimes enabled.
The security remote for any X10 security system, or dialer system, transmit on 310MHz. Your cordless phones, cell phone, and wireless router all use much higher frequencies, so they should not be a problem. But there is always Murphy's Law. The wireless router is the only listed device that transmits all the time, so unplug it and try to arm the SC1200.

Other users have had similar complaints and seemed to have solved by replacing the suspect sensor. Because of the number of similar stories, I wonder if X10 does not have some "bad build" units in the field(?).
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on June 16, 2011, 12:17:01 PM
Multiple cordless and cell phones and a wireless router sometimes enabled.
The security remote for any X10 security system, or dialer system, transmit on 310MHz. Your cordless phones, cell phone, and wireless router all use much higher frequencies, so they should not be a problem. But there is always Murphy's Law. The wireless router is the only listed device that transmits all the time, so unplug it and try to arm the SC1200.

Other users have had similar complaints and seemed to have solved by replacing the suspect sensor. Because of the number of similar stories, I wonder if X10 does not have some "bad build" units in the field(?).
I knew I was forgetting something!  A Davis weather station 6' away and at the exact same height too.  As far as bad sensors, it would have to be all of them as it has happened with most.  I only really ever used the system once, although I do periodically test it.  We left here at 8:00 am on a Thursday and returned on Monday.  Sunday at 3:15 pm I received an alarm (system dialed my cell).  The 1200 did not answer so I don't know what zone it was.  I wasn't very concerned since it was a Sunday afternoon and there has never been a burglary in our neighborhood.  We do have woods behind our house and for that reason I felt a security system may not be a bad idea.  So the question begs to be asked!  Prior to ordering from X10 I was looking at wireless systems on ebay.  They kind of all look the same.  I then remembered seeing X10 systems and ended up with this.  Are the ebay systems decent?  Trust me, I have no intentions of sending anything back, other than an individual component if necessary sometime.  I'm just curious if those systems may have been more reliable. 
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: dave w on June 16, 2011, 03:05:13 PM
I knew I was forgetting something!  A Davis weather station 6' away and at the exact same height too.  
Oh, thats worth looking in to.
Current Davis units are in the 800MHz - 900MHz spectrum. Older units might be down in the 300MHz band,(?). The current 900MHz equipment should not cause a problem but 900MHz is a multiple of the X10 frequency, plus at least one Davis unit uses frequency hopping. The outdoor sensors are  transmitters, I don't know if the base station polls the outdoor units which would make it a transmitter also. It might be worth removing all the batteries for a day or two to see if the SC1200 still acts silly.  
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on June 16, 2011, 03:34:55 PM
I knew I was forgetting something!  A Davis weather station 6' away and at the exact same height too.  
Oh, thats worth looking in to.
Current Davis units are in the 800MHz - 900MHz spectrum. Older units might be down in the 300MHz band,(?). The current 900MHz equipment should not cause a problem but 900MHz is a multiple of the X10 frequency, plus at least one Davis unit uses frequency hopping. The outdoor sensors are  transmitters, I don't know if the base station polls the outdoor units which would make it a transmitter also. It might be worth removing all the batteries for a day or two to see if the SC1200 still acts silly.  
edit:  I just checked the Davis manual, 902 - 928 MHz!  Even states on the console it causes interference. 
I agree!  The moment I thought about this, I decided the next time we are away I was definitely going to take the batteries out of the weather station, although it is probably at least seven years old so it probably is not 900MHz.  The other thing I'll do is completely take the answering machine off line, including the phone line.  I let it on (via timer) for several hours during the day and off the rest of the time but my experiment didn't work as I could not access the 1200 during the periods when there wasn't any power to the answering machine.  
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: dave w on June 16, 2011, 04:08:25 PM
although it is probably at least seven years old so it probably is not 900MHz. 
You are right. If you have had it that long, it could be a much older design. Which may put it down in the old UHF "garage door controller" spectrum of 300MHz.

My LaCross weather station updates about every 3 minutes, so similar periodic updates from the Davis could be the root of your problem, but I think it could also be attributed to some X10 problems.

Good luck with your troubleshooting!
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on June 16, 2011, 06:15:05 PM
If it has an FCC ID on it.
You can look up its frequency in the FCC Database.
http://transition.fcc.gov/oet/ea/fccid/
https://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas/reports/GenericSearch.cfm
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Knightrider on June 16, 2011, 08:19:30 PM
what's the third harmonic on 928 mhz?
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: dave w on June 16, 2011, 08:35:40 PM
what's the third harmonic on 928 mhz?

2.784GHz     ;D

but the third sub harmonic is 309.33Mhz     -:)     h-m-m-m, pretty close to 310MHz.
Power would be very low, but the proxiimity is so close.  Might be on to something there, Knight. Especially if the base station polls.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Knightrider on June 16, 2011, 08:39:02 PM
sub harmonic, potato potahto.  My thinking was right, my typing was wrong. 

I'm kinda doubting that there's enough ERP to worry about such things, but you know how Murphy likes to operate.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: dave w on June 16, 2011, 08:42:51 PM
 rofl
Sorry, 28 year at Motorola makes me do that.  

Did you make the Dayton Ham feast?
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on June 16, 2011, 09:21:59 PM
If it has an FCC ID on it.
You can look up its frequency in the FCC Database.
http://transition.fcc.gov/oet/ea/fccid/
https://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas/reports/GenericSearch.cfm
I did and it's 902 - 928!
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: dave w on June 17, 2011, 09:22:20 AM
edit:  I just checked the Davis manual, 902 - 928 MHz!  Even states on the console it causes interference.  
Interesting, especially if they are using spread spectrum - frequency hopping. The radiated power has to be very low otherwise the FCC would not have issued a "Type Acceptance" for the transmitter.

If the problem turns out to be the Davis, maybe a few feet more separation will fix the problem(?).
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on June 17, 2011, 12:34:24 PM
Well I found out someting else kind of by accident.

I registered all of my DS12As in a short time. Started registration and opened each door and window. Doing a mass registration.
While doing some tests on what they send when checking in. They sometimes where like less than a second apart in sending. Also the DS12A has TWO Zones in it even if one is not registered. Both send I am open or I am closed during the check in.
I saw lots of opens for the unregistered internal ones I was not using. I think most users will have the supplied external zone jumped by default and see it always closed.

I guess in theory they could step on each other if the timing was just right.

I have not see any open zone message when they where closed. Though I have never used the internal ones either and the externals are all Large Gap {1.75"} magnetic switches.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on June 17, 2011, 05:27:13 PM
Perhaps it was just a coincident, however, I did disable the weather station and the 1200 armed without any zone issues, truly a rare occasion.  Later I armed again with the weather station up and it still armed fine.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on June 26, 2011, 09:01:24 AM
I just read this monumental thread (again) and I'm beginning to wonder if X10 is just re-shipping the returned 1200s.  I mean I'm rather late in this game, purchasing the 1200 in June, yet experience the same "mystery" problems as those who purchased in March.  Or, are all of the 1200s bad?  Also, I wonder what ever happened with ROBERTH's issue as he was going to replace his 1200.  I guess there were some others also.  How long do the batteries last by the way?  Some doors are opened and closed (with system off of course) numerous times/day so they are transmitting each time.  Relative to the message machine issue, would be possible for them to do some kind of firmware update if they get that issue resolved?   
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on June 26, 2011, 09:29:57 AM
I doubt they would reship returned units as new. They could show up in one of their "Certified Like New" or "Scratch and Tent {not a typo that is what they called it} sales.
If there where any improvements made to the hardware. Most likely the ones in the supply pipe line would just be sold as they where received.

I don't think X10 has much of a rework facility here in the US.

When we had the Soft Start Lamp Modules that only turned on to 50% problem. They just replaced them as users called in. The warehouses didn't really have a good way to test them before shipping.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on June 26, 2011, 06:18:43 PM
I may have cracked this (I shouldn't have said that)!  I believe the most important thing is absolute perfect alignment of the arrows with these 12As.  Lets assume the encased magnets aren't exactly all in the same location and your sensor alignment is off down or left a 32nd and the magnets off up or right a 32nd, you end up off a 16th.  My zone 4, which is a window about 12' away and in the same room as the console, would keep flashing after every disarm.  Then I'd have to open and close the window several times before it would re-arm!  I've made a minor adjustment and so far so good!   
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on June 26, 2011, 06:35:41 PM
That could be a valid point with the magnets aligning with the sensor body.
I have seen a report where the door and the sensor on the frame where not flush with each other. The user found the door went past closed enough to go back open. Even when the door was closed.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones--what the heck???
Post by: rhea on June 28, 2011, 10:22:16 PM
H Brian,
 I am using DS10A... all ,   sometimes it shows the "---zone is open",   ... the problem is like , it seems to me, the closeness to the sensors... I just took the console, unplugged it, and tried EVERY sensor at the max closeness... they ALL WORKED ...  sometimes I had to open and close the door 2x...?????..... so, the distance is the main problem for " problem in zone...."..... What do I need to use to make them all work...I have RR501 scattered around the house....they seem to help on the level floor, but lower down  to the entrance and basement I keep getting those error messages....

  Looks like x10 invented ALL this to keep minds working and never be at peace?????
 Thanx
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on June 29, 2011, 06:21:54 AM
Can't speak for X10 as we are mostly volunteers here.

When you open a zone. The sensor sends an RF signal to the console. The information is the Zone ID Number and if it was an Instant or Delayed Trigger message.

When you close the zone. It sends the Zone ID Number and Sensor Closed message.

About every hour it sends the Zone Triggered or Zone Closed message depending if it is open or closed.  So the console knows it can still receive the sensors. If it misses the hourly messages after four hours it shows a Trouble Zone message for that zone.

If you have to open and close the zone repeatedly and the LED flashes everytime on the sensor. To have it be received by the consloe. You do have an RF distance issue from the sensor in question and the console. If the LED didn't flash everytime. Then the magnetic switch or magnet have issues.

Are you getting any Trouble Zone Messages?

The RR501 does not process security sensor RF signals and the consloe does not use power line signals for zone messages. So the RR501 in this case has no bearing on your situation.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: pseeker on June 29, 2011, 11:28:58 AM
I had similar issue: Thinking I installed the DS10A in a location with solid RF connection but finding it was marginal after a few weeks via problem zone.  In some cases I have solved using passive antenna/relocating/reorient. For all this effort, I have lots of extra holes in my wall and less hair on my head. I think SC1200/DS10A combo will work in small homes or small store with wide open spaces but I would have hard time recommending this system to anyone not willing or not capable to go through the above steps especially for larger homes. 

On the more positive note, I get a relatively inexpensive system that sends text message on ARM, alarm trigger and delayed entry.  Once the warranty runs out, I'm hoping to hack and extend the SC1200 antenna to reach my last 8 DS10A sensors.   When it gets cooler in the attic, I'm hoping to run long 50 ft wires from the DS10A to the magnetic switches to deploy to unreachable locations.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on June 29, 2011, 12:51:29 PM
First of all, I shouldn't open my mouth (so to speak), as X10 always seems to prove me wrong!  Zone four with it's "Trouble Zone" problem is now stable as heck but it makes no sense.  I actually took some measurements before posting.  First of all, distance/range was never in question here as I have sensors upstairs and in other rooms in this 48'x28' home and a motion detector in the basement without any issues.  The 12A sensor is/was mounted on the lower window and the magnet on the upper window.  I only ever open (lower) the upper window so for all intents and purposes the sensor is in a stationary location.  At a hight of 55" it was diagonally located 17' from the console (which is mounted 61" high) in the same room.  I've moved it (27") from the right side of the window to the left side and it is now 16' from the console.  You can see the old mounting tape and the new location in the image.  Should not have made any difference!  I was going to try a different magnet, then batteries, then sensor but I set the sensor and magnet on top of an entertainment center for a day and it was stable so I thought I'd just try this minor relocation first.  The TV could not have been involved since it was never in direct line with it and now the location is even closer but still not in line.  I've come to the conclusion that the sensors are just very finicky.  I had one that was continually registering "Tamper" and was I about to return it but instead daisy chained it for a double vertical window location and have not had a peep from it for weeks.  I guess my one concern would be that the setups decide to act up later.
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Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on June 29, 2011, 01:11:19 PM
Location is everything.
The antenna in the DS12A is on the PC Board and laying down as you have it. The signal radiates differently than if mounted in a vertical mode.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on June 29, 2011, 02:48:33 PM
Location is everything.
The antenna in the DS12A is on the PC Board and laying down as you have it. The signal radiates differently than if mounted in a vertical mode.
Not sure if you were replying to my post but my 1200 is hanging on a wall.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on June 30, 2011, 06:19:10 AM
Yes moving it that small distance could change the SC1200's receiving the DS12As signal.
My antenna theory is getting real rusty from lack of use.
With the SC1200 hanging on the wall. Its antenna is in the vertical plane and the DS12As antenna is in the horizontal plane when it is on the window sill. Making reception more critical.

The tamper reporting. Could have been the small switch on the DS12As circuit board. When the cover is closed. There is a small extrusion in the cover that pushes the switch. The same switch used to initialize it when first installed.
Maybe it was just about switching sometimes. When you moved it. It probably changed position slightly and now is being pushed correctly.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on June 30, 2011, 10:26:37 PM
Yes moving it that small distance could change the SC1200's receiving the DS12As signal.
My antenna theory is getting real rusty from lack of use.
With the SC1200 hanging on the wall. Its antenna is in the vertical plane and the DS12As antenna is in the horizontal plane when it is on the window sill. Making reception more critical.

The tamper reporting. Could have been the small switch on the DS12As circuit board. When the cover is closed. There is a small extrusion in the cover that pushes the switch. The same switch used to initialize it when first installed.
Maybe it was just about switching sometimes. When you moved it. It probably changed position slightly and now is being pushed correctly.
Actually, when I was having that trouble, I mentioned that I put two slivers of duck tape on the + that pushes the switch (although it wasn't in my "Tamper" thread), as I had the same thought.  You help a gazillion people on here so I wouldn't expect you to remember!  Thanks as always.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: azgdds on July 07, 2011, 11:21:48 PM
I have had my system for about 2 weeks, my motion and door sensors won't stay paired.  I cannot arm my system, because there is always a problem or seven!  I pair everything no problem, but they just won't stay "checked in"  B:(. Time to call x10 I guess... Glad I am not alone.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on July 08, 2011, 06:03:49 AM
What error are you getting? Problem Zone, Tamper in a Zone, Low Battery or Open Zone when it is closed?

I got a Open Zone one time when it was closed. I have an unproven theory. I opened and then closed the zone, but the closed message was missed. Now if I had waited for it to do its checking message. It should have corrected back to closed and I would have had an error for at least an hour.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on July 08, 2011, 04:59:39 PM
Another glitch worth paying attention to!  The following occurred at least one other time while setting sensors.  Normally after the batteries are positioned and you press the button to select the random code, the green light illuminates once and then after holding it down for a few seconds it will flash several times.  I finished the last of the 16 door/window installs this afternoon and one sensor started flashing during the instant I depressed the button.  I removed the batteries, waited about a minute and it did it again.  I'm wondering if the zone(s) that give me occasional issues have the sensor(s) that did that?  At least now I'll be able to monitor this sensor.   One other possibility is that for some reason, when the button was depressed, it immediately selected a code that had already been used.  The reason I even suspect this is after it did the multiple flashing, I registered it and it registered a zone I have out (3), even though I set the console to register it as zone 14.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on July 08, 2011, 09:00:06 PM
In theory.
Trying to register a sensor that has the same ID as another one. Should not happen.
I tried to re-register one and it was not added to my SC1200A and On-Alert flagged it as a duplicate. Asking are you sure you activated the correct sensor?

Are you using DS12As or DS10As? If memory serves me you have both styles.
Was one model more prone to your problems?
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on July 08, 2011, 10:19:59 PM
In theory.
Trying to register a sensor that has the same ID as another one. Should not happen.
I tried to re-register one and it was not added to my SC1200A and On-Alert flagged it as a duplicate. Asking are you sure you activated the correct sensor?

Are you using DS12As or DS10As? If memory serves me you have both styles.
Was one model more prone to your problems?
All 12s!
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on July 09, 2011, 06:08:08 AM
So you set the ID with the internal button.
Then closed the cover on the DS12A.
Closed the zone.
Started the SC1200 add a zone.
Opened the zone to add it.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on July 09, 2011, 11:13:46 AM
So you set the ID with the internal button.
Then closed the cover on the DS12A.
Closed the zone.
Started the SC1200 add a zone.
Opened the zone to add it.
I'll attempt to replay!  I inserted the batteries, instead of the green light illuminating once and staying off until the button was released, it kept flashing while the button was held down.  I replaced the lid and either when I placed it and the magnet together or when I separated them (probably the former, as I probably hadn't set the console to install (zone 15) yet, but not sure!) it registered zone 3.  I removed the batteries for a minute or longer and after removing zone 3 (which was originally out) replaced the batteries and the same green light issue occurred.  Eventually it did register as zone 15 and no problems there yet!  As I'd mentioned, I had at least one other sensor's light act like that during setup.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on July 09, 2011, 12:31:50 PM
Could be the sensor. As that doesn't sound like the normal chain of events.
I wounder if the small switch used for tamper detection and setting the initial ID is flaky or the processor just doesn't see the button pushed.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on July 09, 2011, 12:58:20 PM
Could be the sensor. As that doesn't sound like the normal chain of events.
I wounder if the small switch used for tamper detection and setting the initial ID is flaky or the processor just doesn't see the button pushed.
I was thinking it could be something (anything!) like that with the sensor.  I wish I had kept track of the other(s) sensor that had the same light thing going on.  Of course at that time I had no idea it could be an issue.  So far this questionable sensor has been working.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: azgdds on July 11, 2011, 08:57:44 PM
What error are you getting? Problem Zone, Tamper in a Zone, Low Battery or Open Zone when it is closed?

I got a Open Zone one time when it was closed. I have an unproven theory. I opened and then closed the zone, but the closed message was missed. Now if I had waited for it to do its checking message. It should have corrected back to closed and I would have had an error for at least an hour.

Well today zones 5 and 6 (doors) are "problems."  I have had some as open and some motion sensors have been "problems.". Basically, I cant ever set my alarm. 
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on July 12, 2011, 08:31:27 AM
What error are you getting? Problem Zone, Tamper in a Zone, Low Battery or Open Zone when it is closed?

I got a Open Zone one time when it was closed. I have an unproven theory. I opened and then closed the zone, but the closed message was missed. Now if I had waited for it to do its checking message. It should have corrected back to closed and I would have had an error for at least an hour.

Well today zones 5 and 6 (doors) are "problems."  I have had some as open and some motion sensors have been "problems.". Basically, I cant ever set my alarm. 
Don't get discouraged!  Try minor location adjustments.  I have a motion detector as far away as any component could be from the console and in the basement and it has been fine so I assumed their broadcast ability (for a better word) was better than door/window sensors, perhaps not.  The sensor in the images is only 16' from the console and in the same room and has continually troubled.  Several days now with this bell wire contraption without issue.  You might want to give it a whorl!
(http://img811.imageshack.us/img811/8904/picture001pm.jpg)=http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/811/picture001pm.jpg/](http://img811.imageshack.us/img811/8904/picture001pm.jpg[/IMG[/url]

[url=http://URL=http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/16/picture003lfn.jpg/][IMG]http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/2817/picture003lfn.jpg)]URL=http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/16/picture003lfn.jpg/](http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/2817/picture003lfn.jpg) (http://=http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/811/picture001pm.jpg/)
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on July 12, 2011, 08:49:08 AM
Thanks for the findings.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: azgdds on July 12, 2011, 10:01:21 PM
I am happy that works, but why do we have to do this  ??? Seems like this thing should be made to communicate through walls and at reasonable distances... 16 ft., that is and should be a small distance for a security system.

Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on July 12, 2011, 10:43:06 PM
I am happy that works, but why do we have to do this  ??? Seems like this thing should be made to communicate through walls and at reasonable distances... 16 ft., that is and should be a small distance for a security system.


Definitely no argument from me on that!  However, having said that, considering that the customer service is probably worst than the components, I chose to try to make thinks work as opposed to waiting weeks for exchanges or refunds.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on July 13, 2011, 05:55:03 AM
All depends on antenna orientation.
With the DS12A sitting horizontal. The signal is beaming up to the ceiling and down to the ground.
Depending on how the SC1200 is mounted also effects the reception pattern as the antenna is wrapped around the case from front to back. In a gap between the top and bottom covers.

There are also FCC limits on how much transmit power the sender can use.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: pseeker on July 13, 2011, 01:13:23 PM
Other wireless alarm systems (more expensive) spec their wireless range at over 300ft.   Never seem an official X10 range spec for the DS10A (product wiki says 100ft) or DS12A.  So I would guess this is one of quirks purchasing X10 security system.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: JudyH on July 14, 2011, 04:54:33 PM
I'm trying to reply to Brian.  I'm not very good at navigating around this site.  I HAVE changed the orientation of my SC1200 console, and thus far I have no zone failures.  BUT, as we all know, it is probably just a matter of time.  Sure appreciate having others to chat with if for nothing more than consolation with this fringin' machine!  Judy
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on July 14, 2011, 09:05:30 PM
I'm trying to reply to Brian.  I'm not very good at navigating around this site.  I HAVE changed the orientation of my SC1200 console, and thus far I have no zone failures.  BUT, as we all know, it is probably just a matter of time.  Sure appreciate having others to chat with if for nothing more than consolation with this fringin' machine!  Judy
Honestly, I think it is possessed!  So my crazy zone four has been stellar for about five days now since I added the crazy antenna.  The window has been down (sensor separated from the magnet) as have 10 other zones.  None of them ever registering "Trouble".  Just for a little test I decide to close the place up.  I close all the door/windows downstairs and check the console.  All the downstairs sensors are registered (i.e. their numbers not showing on the console).  I pay particular attention looking for the digit 4 and indeed it is not there.  I go upstairs, close all the windows, come back down, look at the console and there, all by itself is 4 flashing.  ugh!  I open and close the window and I arm.  So why did "activating" the upstairs zones cause 4 to suddenly "Trouble"?  I'm telling you, the fringin' machine is haunted!
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on July 15, 2011, 06:14:54 AM
If you have DS12As.
Make sure you initialize them with the tamper button.
Then close the cover and have the magnet next to the DS12A.
Then start the registration process.
Some one found out and I verified. If you use the tamper button during the registration process. BOTH zones in the DS12A will register as a separate zone.  ???

To make things different. The Older DS10A uses the Test button for registration and it is also the one that generated the ID.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: sazzam on July 25, 2011, 04:29:45 PM
Hello Brian,

If I install the DS12A windows sensor on the bathroom window, will DS12A function well with extreme humidity? If not, is it better to install on the same window but from outside?

Thank you,
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: dave w on July 25, 2011, 05:46:03 PM
Hello Brian,

If I install the DS12A windows sensor on the bathroom window, will DS12A function well with extreme humidity? If not, is it better to install on the same window but from outside?

Thank you,

My $0.02

What does "extreme humidity" mean? Assuming "extreme humidity" does not mean you can shake moisture out of the sensor or big drops of moisture forms on the case, it should be OK for a while. But constant internal condensation will cause circuit board degradation after a while.

Is the window in the shower enclosure? If so, you might want to use an external magnetic switch and mount the DS12A in a dryer area of the bathroom.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on July 25, 2011, 06:46:22 PM
The external Zone on the DS12A is a separate zone from the internal one.
I have a few DS12As mounted on a wall and an external magnetic switch.
Just registered the external one and left the internal one unregistered. Even have its magnet in the shipping box unused.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: tom j on July 25, 2011, 11:37:36 PM
I will put padding as insulation under the magnet sensor and hopefully this will solve the issue.
  Actually, you want to protect the DS10A and DS12A from the cold. If they get cold, the battery will also get cold and deliver a lower voltage.
  The magnet and contact are not affected as much by cold, the contact is enclosed in a small sealed glass tube. 
  Keep in mind though that the contact for the DS12A is in the body itself, compared to the DS10A which dangles at the end of a wire.

  JC


One other thing these things aren't hardened for the cold I had one on a back porch that was unheated and it would only last a few winters before failing just wouldn't recommend for reliability.


Tom j.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: dave w on July 26, 2011, 09:41:42 AM
FWIW
Lithium disposables are much less influenced by the cold. But fresh, high quality, akaline batteries should maintain normal terminal voltage to at least 20 degrees.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: dave w on July 26, 2011, 10:01:13 AM
One other thing these things aren't hardened for the cold I had one on a back porch that was unheated and it would only last a few winters before failing just wouldn't recommend for reliability.
Tom,
Did you try a second unit on the porch? Or a different mag switch? I disagree with "sazzam's" statment that mag switches and magnets are not effected by the cold. My experience with mag switches and a PowerFlash in an unheated garage is the magnetic switch fails over time, not the electronics. The tines of the mag switch are magnitized, so when a "biasing" magnet comes close, they close. It doesn't take much seasonal thermal cycling to effect the strengh of these tines. Howver I was buying "cheap" N.O./N.C. mag switches. I'm sure X10 uses much higher quality switches....
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: bt54 on July 27, 2011, 06:53:39 PM
I have the same problem.  Out of the blue Zone 10 showed low battery.  I only have 9 zones.  I deleted Zone 10 then zone 11 showed low battery.  I deleted up to zone 35.  Currently Zone 30 shows as low battery even though it is not installed and cannot be uninstalled.
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: Brian H on July 27, 2011, 07:52:20 PM
Zone 35?
It only has 30 wireless zones and two hard wired zones.
Should not go over 32 zones or you have found another quirk.  :'
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: ratchet on July 30, 2011, 09:18:46 PM
Tough case to crack!  For a refresher, relative to distances from console to sensor, go to post #93 (with image) in this thread about zone #4.  Every time (moved the sensor from the right to left or added an antenna) I think I've found a work around, zone four eventually troubles out.  Keep in mind though that it is always while the window is open, i.e. the sensor and magnet are not together.  The problem with this being I'm going to get a false alarm if the sensor doesn't call home during a four hour period while armed.  The offending sensor has been directly across from (but much lower than) the console for four days without a nag, jerry rigged to an air conditioned window.  I put a different sensor (still lying horizontally) over at the zone four window and it will eventually trouble.  So I now suspect it has to do with the horizontal position as Brian mentioned.  I have sensors upstairs on the windows horizontal and downstairs above the doors without a problem so it has to do with just being three inches lower than the console, even though it is in the same room.  Hard to believe!  I may just get a switch and magnet set from Big Johns for $3.  Before I do that I'm going to keep the sensor vertical for several days and see what happens.  I can actually arm the window that way by taping the side of the magnet to the side of the upper window but I wouldn't be able to open the top or bottom.  I could screw in 1"x 2" on the upper window like I do on the air conditioned one if I am really concerned about securing it.  Honestly, at this point I feel I'm going to be more stressed about false alarms than an actual break in!
Title: Re: SC1200 display errors with zones
Post by: tom j on August 07, 2011, 05:44:08 PM
One other thing these things aren't hardened for the cold I had one on a back porch that was unheated and it would only last a few winters before failing just wouldn't recommend for reliability.
Tom,
Did you try a second unit on the porch? Or a different mag switch? I disagree with "sazzam's" statment that mag switches and magnets are not effected by the cold. My experience with mag switches and a PowerFlash in an unheated garage is the magnetic switch fails over time, not the electronics. The tines of the mag switch are magnitized, so when a "biasing" magnet comes close, they close. It doesn't take much seasonal thermal cycling to effect the strengh of these tines. Howver I was buying "cheap" N.O./N.C. mag switches. I'm sure X10 uses much higher quality switches....

Hi just saw this sorry for the late response, well I tried a couple and then decided to just run the wire into the house Problem Solved!!


Tom j.