X10 Community Forum

🖥️ActiveHome Pro => ActiveHome Pro General => Help & Troubleshooting => Topic started by: jclarkw on March 17, 2016, 03:05:02 PM

Title: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: jclarkw on March 17, 2016, 03:05:02 PM
I need help diagnosing a communication problem between my Windows 7 SP1 64bit computer and my CM15A.

I am using AHP 3.318 with Tucemen's AHP Lifejacket 1.0.1.3 (I think) since November, 2015; and I have been able successfully to program both this relatively old CM15A (in November) and a newer one in a different location (last weekend).  Since the spring DST time change I'm trying to download the "summer" version of my program to the older unit, but I cannot connect.  When I plug in the USB interface I'm getting messages like the following:

"USB device not recognized" or
"Installing device driver... Device driver was not successfully installed"

In Device Manager there is a USB device listed as "Unknown Device," and its Properties tab says "Windows has stopped this device because it has reported problems (Code 43)"
If I unplug the cable from the computer, the "Unknown Device" disappears from the Device Manager listing, so I believe it is the CM15A.

When I start AHP, it reports, "ActiveHome Pro device isn't connected to your computer"

Is there any solution to this problem other than purchasing a new CM15A?  (I note that the X10 Web site currently says the device is "Out of stock," so I guess there's no way to get another in the foreseeable future...)

Best Regards to All -- jclarkw


P.S. -- Should have mentioned I've tried two different USB cables and two different ports on my computer. -- jcw
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 17, 2016, 05:11:25 PM
Have you tried removing the batteries from the cm15a while unplugged, then after an hour plug it in without batteries and connect it to the PC while batteries are still out? ::) :'
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: jclarkw on March 19, 2016, 10:15:06 AM
Have you tried removing the batteries from the cm15a while unplugged, then after an hour plug it in without batteries and connect it to the PC while batteries are still out? ::) :'

Tuiceman -- How in the world did you come up with that bizarre algorithm?  Is this a standard reset procedure that I should have know about?

Anyhow I will try it and report as soon as my immediate need for the existing programming has passed.  (I can't afford to lose the program right now in case I won't be able to replace it!)

BTW, I found some apparent CM15A units advertised by a reseller on Amazon (although X10 claims to be out of stock) and ordered.  I hope they are the real thing.  I'll report on that too when it arrives...  Cheers! -- jclarkw


P.S. -- Am I using the most current versions of AHP (3.318 Unregistered) and AHP Lifejacket (1.0.1.3)?  Or has the situation with the official recommended procedure changed since November? -- jcw
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: dave w on March 19, 2016, 10:22:01 AM
"USB device not recognized" or
"Installing device driver... Device driver was not successfully installed"
(Noodling) Seems to me you need to troubleshoot a corrupt driver problem. You said at one time you programmed two CM15As, an old one and a newer one. So have you tried the other CM15A to see if it communicates? If it does not communicate with the PC as it once did, maybe doing a complete uninstall using a "complete" uninstaller such as iObit. Also use Task Manager to shut down anything X10 before Uninstall. Been a long time since I used AHP, so I'm just blindly throwing darts at the board. Tuicemen is the knowledge bank.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: jclarkw on March 19, 2016, 10:49:02 AM
...So have you tried the other CM15A to see if it communicates?  ...maybe doing a complete uninstall using a "complete" uninstaller such as iObit. Also use Task Manager to shut down anything X10 before Uninstall...

Thanks, dave w, for chiming in.  I can't try the newer CM15A because it's in another state.  I can wait until the new one on order arrives...

I assume you mean a complete uninstall of AHP (and AHP Lifejacket?).  I guess there's no way to uninstall and re-install just the USB driver that it's supposed to use? -- jclarkw
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 19, 2016, 11:13:29 AM
The batteries thing has been a known fix for none responsive Cm15s and is posted about in several places in the forum.
I actually have an old cm15 (on of the first release builds) that I couldn't upload to it or clear it.
Instead of throwing it out I removed the batteries and filed it in a parts bin.
After several months I attempted to revive it so I could use it at my off grid place.
Imaging my surprise when I first cleared the interface and it worked.
Next I attempted to download to it and that also worked.
I performed many routines of clearing and uploading to be sure it wasn't just a fluke, but it has been working flawless since.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 19, 2016, 12:37:05 PM
I guess there's no way to uninstall and re-install just the USB driver that it's supposed to use? -- jclarkw
start/ device manager/universal serial bus controllers/X10usb active home......
Right Click on it click uninstall
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 19, 2016, 12:51:33 PM
Download and rename the attached with an exe extension then run it to install fresh drivers
X10driver link (http://tuicemen.com/downloads/x10drivers.exe)
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: jclarkw on March 19, 2016, 03:03:02 PM
download and rename the attached with an exe extension then run it to install fresh drivers

Tuicemen -- This sounded great until I realized that your attachment has 0 bytes.  Or am I doing something stupid again? -- jclarkw
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 19, 2016, 03:33:16 PM
Nope nothing you did or didn't do looks like the file was rejected.
I fixed the post and posted a new link since the attachment thingy failed. >!
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: jclarkw on March 19, 2016, 10:06:15 PM
...I fixed the post and posted a new link since the attachment thingy failed. >!


Thanks!  I will report which was the problem... -- jclarkw
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: jclarkw on March 21, 2016, 02:55:48 PM
Have you tried removing the batteries from the cm15a while unplugged, then after an hour plug it in without batteries and connect it to the PC while batteries are still out? ::) :'

Yep, sure did work, but not for very long.  I had to do it again on the same unit the next day.  I guess the hardware really is failing.  Anyhow it's programmed now, and I have another one on order...

I suppose I should have know it was a "hardware" problem, not a driver problem, as soon as I got the message (without even AHP running) that the USB interface was not recognized. -- jclarkw
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 21, 2016, 03:03:45 PM
If the hardware memory doesn't get completely cleared it can and most likely will cause it to fail again.
If it goes again purge delayed macros then clear the interface make sure the AHP recycle bin is empty and clear the interface again before uploading to it.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: jclarkw on March 21, 2016, 05:11:13 PM
If the hardware memory doesn't get completely cleared it can and most likely will cause it to fail again.
If it goes again purge delayed macros then clear the interface make sure the AHP recycle bin is empty and clear the interface again before uploading to it.

I'm not sure how to "purge delayed macros," but I think you mean to go through the hardware reset procedure (unplugged battery removal as described above) twice, with an "empty deleted modules" (perhaps before re-connecting the USB?) AND a "clear interface memory" in between.  Right?  Or do I also have to clear the AHP program by opening a "New" file? -- jclarkw
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 21, 2016, 05:23:49 PM
yep with batteries removed >!
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: jclarkw on March 21, 2016, 10:37:23 PM
yep with batteries removed >!

OK, Tuicemen, I think I've got it now.  (I missed "purge delayed macro events" before because it is 'grayed out' with the interface disconnected.)

But what about "Hardware Configuration/Update Interface?"  Does that happen automatically when you "Download Timers and Macros" (at least unless you want to change some of the settings previously stored in AHP), or do you have to do that after every "clear interface memory" as I have been?

Sorry to badger you with so many questions, but the "help" is not that helpful, and the "owner's manual" is no better. -- jclarkw
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 22, 2016, 07:18:14 AM
The "Hardware Configuration/Update Interface?" I believe is only if you change something in the hardware configuration page.(dusk/dawn transceived codes location) I don't believe that step is needed however it wouldn't hurt I guess to go that extra step.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: jclarkw on March 22, 2016, 08:58:04 AM
Thanks!
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: jclarkw on March 22, 2016, 02:18:34 PM
yep with batteries removed >!

Tuicemen -- I'm sorry to report that the USB connection has again failed after the following interpretation of your recommended procedure:

1) Disconnect USB from computer (if connected) and unplug the interface from A/C; remove the batteries; let it sit for one hour.
2) Meanwhile clean up AHP Pro by emptying deleted macros from the recycle bin (and save the file that way?).
3) Plug the interface back in without the batteries and re-connect (preferably to an AHP with an empty file and nothing in the recycle bin?).
4) Purge Delayed Macros (requires interface) and clear interface memory.
5) Repeat Steps 1 through 4 (except that batteries are still out -- this may be overkill...).
6) Make sure the AHP recycle bin is empty and clear interface memory again.
7) Set up hardware configuration and update interface.
Eight) Download timers and macros.
9) Install batteries and then disconnect from computer.  Move interface to desired A/C outlet.

 (I only noticed this failure because I realized I had forgotten to reset the battery counter in the hardware configuration, so I though I would reconnect to do so.)

Note that the USB did not fail during the procedure above.

My re-connection procedure is complicated by the fact that I cannot just connect the USB directly because the wall outlet I'm using is too far from the computer.  Here is the procedure I use (which didn't used to cause problems):

A) Unplug interface from A/C outlet  (batteries still installed).
B) Hook up an extension cord to outlet and plug interface into that.
C) Connect USB to computer; USB connection fails as described at beginning of this thread.

I see three possibilities:
1) I didn't execute your reset procedure properly (see steps 1-9 near the beginning of this message).
2) Something I did after that procedure caused the problem (see steps 9 in first sequence and A-C immediately above).
3) There is actually a hardware problem in the CM15A, perhaps a deteriorating USB handler.

What do you think? -- jclarkw
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 22, 2016, 06:24:43 PM
It I possible the USB cable or port is bad or has a short have you tried a different one?
Until your able to test with your other unit it is hard to say what exactly is going on.
The fact that some times uploading works and sometime the USB isn't recognized or fails suggests a short somewhere to me.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: jclarkw on March 22, 2016, 09:57:35 PM
It I possible the USB cable or port is bad or has a short have you tried a different one?
Until your able to test with your other unit it is hard to say what exactly is going on.
The fact that some times uploading works and sometime the USB isn't recognized or fails suggests a short somewhere to me.


Tuicemen -- Sounds reasonable.  I have swapped out both the cable and the USB port on the computer (in fact, used two different computers) to no avail, but the CM15A is old and has had a rough life.  Odd, though, that your reset procedure (which I assume you agree I got right) seems to fix it for a while...

I have a new CM15A (or so they say) coming from Amazon this weekend and will report whether it exhibits the same problem. -- jclarkw
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: jclarkw on March 29, 2016, 12:33:51 PM
start/ device manager/universal serial bus controllers/X10usb active home......
Right Click on it click uninstall

In case it helps anyone else, I find (in Windows 7 SP1 anyhow) that universal serial bus controllers/X10usb active home is only listed in the device manager when the device is connected. -- jclarkw


Edited by: Tuicemen to fix quote(for readability)
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: jclarkw on March 30, 2016, 05:45:21 PM
I have a new CM15A (or so they say) coming from Amazon this weekend and will report whether it exhibits the same problem. -- jclarkw


Update -- I have now received additional CM15A modules, but now I can't get the original one to refuse the USB connection.  (As I recall, I last left it in the non-connecting state!)  I can't imagine what I might have done to correct his problem, but obviously I cannot troubleshoot it until it re-appears... -- jclarkw
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 30, 2016, 05:56:32 PM
Once I fixed mine the issue never happened again been well over 8 years of running now.
However it is mostly connected and the PC it is connected to is usually on.
I have to admit it has been at least2 years since I attempted to add anything.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: jclarkw on March 31, 2016, 01:30:17 PM
Once I fixed mine the issue never happened again been well over 8 years of running now.
However it is mostly connected and the PC it is connected to is usually on...

OPS! -- I just went to address questions in another thread, and now the bloody thing won't connect again.  I guess I spoke too soon!  Maybe you're right about a bad connection or short, perhaps in the USB connector.  Doing the reset procedure now... -- jclarkw
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on March 04, 2019, 10:06:45 AM
Are you guys still on here??? Need help.

I'm had a cm15a for probably 7 years and use it with an Iphone app called x10 commander by melloware. THis iphone program lets you use an iphone to control your devices with the cm15a plugged into your computer.

Now every few hours it stops working and commands don't work, unless I unplug the cm15a out of the outlet and wait a bit and try it again. It's gotten worse over time and didn't just instantly happen. But now I can only go 3-4 hours before it stops doing the commands. Ideas?
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 04, 2019, 10:21:47 AM
When X10commander was first released I believe it used the AHCMD.exe file to handle the x10 I'm not sure if this is still the case.
Using the AHCMD.exe is not stable enough for continued use. If you have not updated X10commander in 7 years it may be worth seeing if there is an updated version.
When x10commander stops does AHP stop working as well?
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Noam on March 05, 2019, 10:23:20 AM
When X10commander was first released I believe it used the AHCMD.exe file to handle the x10 I'm not sure if this is still the case.
Using the AHCMD.exe is not stable enough for continued use. If you have not updated X10commander in 7 years it may be worth seeing if there is an updated version.
When x10commander stops does AHP stop working as well?

I've been using x10commander (with a self-made website with buttons to trigger the commands) for many, many years. I rarely have issues with it locking up - and a reboot of the computer hosting it usually solves the issue (I've never had to unplug / replug the CM15A to fix it). As far as I recall, AHP continued to work just fine the whole time (other than when the computer was *actually* in the process of rebooting).

If AHP is not working when you have these issues, you could have a USB issue on the computer. Many years ago, I tried to use a USB extender (it used a CAT5 cable between the two ends) to move my CM15A farther from my PC. That was a total disaster. The extender was rather unstable, and was prone to resetting the USB connection when there was RF noise nearby. But while most devices would come back afterward, the CM15A wouldn't come back without unplugging /replugging it (from what I can remember), or restarting the X10Nets service. Perhaps this is a USB issue on the PC side, and not an actual problem with the CM15A? Have you tried using a different USB cable? Perhaps the one you have is getting flaky.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on March 08, 2019, 02:31:18 AM
Thanks,.  I haven't tried an new USB as the one i have looks unique, well at least the side that plugs into the CM15a does.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: HA Dave on March 08, 2019, 08:38:16 AM
…... Have you tried using a different USB cable? Perhaps the one you have is getting flaky.

Great idea. I've found most device-included USB cords (X10's included) to be marginal at best. I only use my CM15A as an interface with my Homeseer now-a-days.... but it still has a heavy duty, quality, USB connection. Jason B May also want to make sure any macros or other programming are deleted from the CM15A (and the recycle bin/Trash emptied.

PS I ran Melloware with an XP netbook at one time. Don't forget to update your Melloware too. Some of these old [server] programs as well as OS can have security issues. I've found the WM-100 (https://www.x10.com/wm100.html) to be an excellent replacement for the Melloware setup. 
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 08, 2019, 08:55:49 AM
I've found the WM-100 (https://www.x10.com/wm100.html) to be an excellent replacement for the Melloware setup.
Despite all the WM100 flaws I must agree, however for a more robust setup a better option would be the PiX10Hub (http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=30663.0) and a simple inexpensive RPi ZeroW.
Neither option will require a power hungry Windows PC running 24/7 ;)
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: HA Dave on March 08, 2019, 09:20:24 AM
….. a more robust setup a better option would be the PiX10Hub (http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=30663.0).

I am sure you're correct (too). Not yet being a PiX10Hub user myself.... I hesitated recommending it. I am just getting back to moving around well. Spent the entire week catching up with my chore/task list. But with snow still on the ground and freezing temps.... mean I still have lots of "Home Automation Season" left. And I am ready and anxious to try a memory card image and try out the PiX10Hub
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Noam on March 08, 2019, 10:19:54 AM
Thanks,.  I haven't tried an new USB as the one i have looks unique, well at least the side that plugs into the CM15a does.
Nope - it's a standard A-B USB cable. You don't see as many of those these days, most things are using Mini-USB or Micro-USB (or USB-C).
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: brobin on March 08, 2019, 10:22:00 AM
Thanks,.  I haven't tried an new USB as the one i have looks unique, well at least the side that plugs into the CM15a does.
The end that goes into the CM15A is a USB B connector commonly used with printers. A search for 'USB B printer cable' will work.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on March 08, 2019, 12:17:10 PM
I've had a cm15a for probably 7 years and use it with an Iphone app called x10 commander, by melloware. This lets you use an iphone to control your devices with the cm15a plugged into your computer.

This has worked out great for years, 7 years. Now, every few hours it stops working and commands don't work, unless I unplug the cm15a out of the outlet and wait a bit and try it again. When I do that, all the commands that I tried to use from the iphone will happen afterwards (like it stored the command I pressed on the iphone in memory somehow, which then makes a lot of stuff turn off and on later) It's gotten worse over time and didn't just instantly start doing this. But now I can only go 3-4 hours before it stops doing the commands. Ideas?

I was going to get a new cm15a but after reading a few posts, it seems that may not fix it.

All I need installed for this to work was the host app, x-10 commander, on the pc, and the x-10 commander app on the iphone, which works over 3g or wifi. In task manager the only things I see are: X10commander.exe and X10nets.exe

Any advice is welcome as this is driving me insane. THe app also have it's on log file, but it doesn't show any errors for this type of problem it seems.

Also, I don't use the active home software, I don't need it with this, but I think there are files installed in the background of course to make my setup work.

 I recently installed this yesterday, but it didn't fix the issue. The below is from one of the authors of x10 commander that was trying to hekp me also. "Jackie install this http://melloware.biz/download/warez/ahsdk_install.exe

The above install, installs the latest Active HOME and DLL drivers.  You can 
see from the X10 Commander log you sent me here is the version of the 
DLL you are running right now.

12/15/2018 4:26:50 PM [ INFO]   INIT X10 COM Object found and being loaded
12/15/2018 4:26:50 PM [ INFO]   INIT X10 COM v313
12/15/2018 4:26:50 PM [ INFO]   INIT X10 DLL v3.0.0.313 "

I have also found if I unplug the cm15a for 10 sec (no batteries in it) then re-plug back in, then close you the x10 commander app and re-open it will work again, but maybe for only 1 hr, 5 hours, then it stops.....

Edit, some other things that we may not know about, not sure if I should try any of this:

https://forums.homeseer.com/forum/lighting-primary-technology-plug-ins/lighting-primary-technology-discussion/x10-homeseer/99169-x10-cm15a-plugin-beta-releases?postcount=3

https://www.hcatech.com/download/V13/Doc/TechNote_CM15_10.pdf
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 08, 2019, 01:58:12 PM
This has worked out great for years, 7 years. Now, every few hours it stops working and commands don't work, unless I unplug the cm15a out of the outlet and wait a bit and try it again. When I do that, all the commands that I tried to use from the iphone will happen afterwards (like it stored the command I pressed on the iphone in memory somehow, which then makes a lot of stuff turn off and on later) It's gotten worse over time and didn't just instantly start doing this. But now I can only go 3-4 hours before it stops doing the commands. Ideas?
The cm15 is a polite transceiver meaning it will not transmit until the PL is clear. Your statement above indicates to me your CM15 is seeing a fire storm of RF and or PLC signals. This could be caused from a remote stuck under a cushion or simple line noise or a looping macro. If you had AHP installed it would be a bit easier to weed out your issue however since you don't tracking down the culprit will be a little more difficult.
I'm unfamiliar with the X10Commander but the AHP SDK does have a incoming call monitor  found in the  the bin sub folder of the AHSDK folder the file is ahcview.exe you can run this and watch for incoming signals this may help find the issue.
 >!
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on March 08, 2019, 02:08:45 PM

 The cm15 is a polite transceiver meaning it will not transmit until the PL is clear. Your statement above indicates to me your CM15 is seeing a fire storm of RF and or PLC signals. This could be caused from a remote stuck under a cushion or simple line noise or a looping macro. If you had AHP installed it would be a bit easier to weed out your issue however since you don't tracking down the culprit will be a little more difficult.
I'm unfamiliar with the X10Commander but the AHP SDK does have a incoming call monitor  found in the  the bin sub folder of the AHSDK folder the file is ahcview.exe you can run this and watch for incoming signals this may help find the issue.
 >!

Edit: I just opened the thing you said, ahcview, and had it running after I unplugged the cm15a and closed out x10 commander, when I plugged it all back in, see attached. (all the codes I hit when it wasn't responding all came at once)

One other thing I forgot to mention, I do have an IR543 hook up somewhere else that I do not use anymore... Should I unplug that?
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 08, 2019, 02:19:40 PM
ahcview will not show anything until a command is seen since it isn't seeing anything now leave it running and send a few commands to be sure it is seeing what you send from your phone. Do some testing with it running.
One other thing I forgot to mention, I do have an IR543 hook up somewhere else that I do not use anymore... Should I unplug that?
if you no longer have that in service locate it and remove the batteries. I had a simular firestorm from a remote I put away in a tote. If the tote got bumped a button got pressed on sending a stream of signals locking up my system. :-[ It took me days to find it as I was sure I remove all batteries from remotes not used before putting them away. B:(
Once I discovered it I went threw all my packed up X10 stuff and double checked even my boxed up keychain remotes. ::) :'
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 08, 2019, 04:21:22 PM
I didn't realize your Cm15 had locked up again. Go around and check for any sensors which may be setup and anything else that may not be in use but still plugged in. Keep the ahcview running as it should see any calls now that the cm15 isn't locked up.
once it has been running for a while if your getting a firestorm of X10 signals they will be detected. However it may also take a specific call that triggers it as well.
Sometimes repeaters can trigger firestorms or a sticky button on a remote.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on March 08, 2019, 09:14:36 PM
Nothing is plugged into the usb on front of the computer except this. In the back, just mouse, keyboard and printer that have always been there.

I then found a brand new printer usb cable that takes the same end as the cm15a, and it worked for a while, then stopped again. I also unplugged and IR543 that wasn't in use. Same thing.

I did try the device manager to see the connection for the cm15a in there, and sometimes it says "unrecognized"

Now, the last thing is, I have the cm15a plugged into a battery backup that goes to the pc without other things plugged into it of course. I did replace this battery backup like 6 months ago and this new one is a different brand. The ONLY thing I didn't try yet it plugging in the cm15a into a stand along outlet, but I don't have one close, that's why I have the battery backup, which everything is plugged into. Maybe I need an extension cord to bypass the cm15a from being plugged into the battery backup???
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: brobin on March 08, 2019, 09:38:19 PM
The CM15A should NOT be plugged into the UPS. The UPS has EMI filters that can attenuate the X10 signals from ever reaching the rest of the house. Whether that's the problem or not, it should be plugged int a wall outlet directly or with a simple extension cord (not a power strip with surge protection).
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on March 09, 2019, 05:52:56 AM
The CM15A should NOT be plugged into the UPS. The UPS has EMI filters that can attenuate the X10 signals from ever reaching the rest of the house. Whether that's the problem or not, it should be plugged int a wall outlet directly or with a simple extension cord (not a power strip with surge protection).


Darn! Tried a new outlet with it not plugged into the battery backup, it worked for like 5 hours, then stopped again. New outlet. Crap... THen I unplugged it, waited 10 sec, plugged back in, and then the commands I had hit earlier all happened after plugging back in. I thought this might have fixed it, but no... Now what? I can try another outlet since I have this extension cord, but just tried it....
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: brobin on March 09, 2019, 06:13:59 AM
It looks like you might have something that's stuck transmitting. I once had a mini-controller that would do that sometimes even though the button wasn't pressed. After the second time it went in the trash.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Brian H on March 09, 2019, 06:25:22 AM
How about a lost X10 remote. Stuck into a seat cushion. In that case eventually the batteries would die.  :'
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on March 09, 2019, 06:39:04 AM
I’ve never owned an X10 remote. This is one frustrating thing when you use this every day, you get really spoiled when you can use it.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: dave w on March 09, 2019, 11:03:11 AM

I did try the device manager to see the connection for the cm15a in there, and sometimes it says "unrecognized"


I think that is your problem.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 09, 2019, 11:11:25 AM
Nothing is plugged into the usb on front of the computer except this. In the back, just mouse, keyboard and printer that have always been there.

I then found a brand new printer usb cable that takes the same end as the cm15a, and it worked for a while, then stopped again. I also unplugged and IR543 that wasn't in use. Same thing.
I have found the USB ports on the front of PCs to be unreliable for lots of things though I never had issues with them and a mouse keyboard radio stick.
You've never stated that you tried a different USB port on your PC (unless I missed that post) try moving your CM15 Cable to a USB port at the back of the PC. Maybe swap out the printer with the CM15 if you don't have a free USB port on the back.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on March 09, 2019, 11:42:08 AM

I did try the device manager to see the connection for the cm15a in there, and sometimes it says "unrecognized"


I think that is your problem.

See below... If  would unplug the usb cable before, and then re-plug in, it would say unrecognized. But if I would pull power to the cm15a and plug back in, it would also find it... Just can't pull the usb plug, always have to pull power to the cm15, then plug back in and it finds it....

Nothing is plugged into the usb on front of the computer except this. In the back, just mouse, keyboard and printer that have always been there.

I then found a brand new printer usb cable that takes the same end as the cm15a, and it worked for a while, then stopped again. I also unplugged and IR543 that wasn't in use. Same thing.

I have found the USB ports on the front of PCs to be unreliable for lots of things though I never had issues with them and a mouse keyboard radio stick.
You've never stated that you tried a different USB port on your PC (unless I missed that post) try moving your CM15 Cable to a USB port at the back of the PC. Maybe swap out the printer with the CM15 if you don't have a free USB port on the back.

I’ve only tried the two front ports. Now just unplugged the printer on the back, done even use it anyway. Ok, after plugging in to the back usb it said unrecognized, which it's done before, and pulling power to the cm15a would force it to recognize, but this time didn't have to pull power to it, and then it found it. Let’s see what happens now after a few hours.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on March 09, 2019, 11:51:32 AM
Well, crap, stopped working after 3 min with usb in the back.... Now before sometimes I'd get a few min, most of the time a few hours. But a few months ago it would work for 60 days straight if the computer wasn't shut off.... Crap, don't know what else to try. Someone mentioned updating the usb software? Not sure how to do that. It's just windows 7 HP pc, with stock usb's...

I'm open to try anything else....
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: brobin on March 09, 2019, 12:26:22 PM
With the cm15A USB cable unplugged, reboot the PC and try reinstalling the AH drivers. Then reboot again and plug the CM15a back in.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on March 09, 2019, 12:34:39 PM
With the cm15A USB cable unplugged, reboot the PC and try reinstalling the AH drivers. Then reboot again and plug the CM15a back in.

Ok will try. I'm using this, this is what the author of the x10 program said to use. I don't know who to tell what version it is, assuming last one that was avail...

http://melloware.biz/download/warez/ahsdk_install.exe 9.9 mb
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 09, 2019, 01:59:24 PM
There were only two versions of the SDK released, if x10commander sends then your using the correct one.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on March 09, 2019, 02:06:11 PM
There were only two versions of the SDK released, if x10commander sends then your using the correct one.

Ok, well after unplugging, reboot, install, reboot, now nothing works. I can send the commands from the phone, but nothing. I don't get it. WHo's in PA that i can pay to come here and help :) WHen you use this stuff every day of your life for 7 years, and now can't, you lose it.

EDIT, after unplugging 2-3 times from power, etc, 10 commands I hit from many minutes earlier when on/off, and it worked for maybe 3 min of trying other commands and now nothing. Now I can only get about 3 min of use it seems after installing the software. Does anything have a link to the older files?
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 09, 2019, 02:33:12 PM
Here is a link to the old SDK though I doubt that is the answer.
http://tuicemen.net/downloads/ahsdk_Oldinstall.exe
Note: it may stop X10commander from working altogether!
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on March 09, 2019, 04:40:13 PM
Here is a link to the old SDK though I doubt that is the answer.
http://tuicemen.net/downloads/ahsdk_Oldinstall.exe
Note: it may stop X10commander from working altogether!

installed, it made a 2nd folder, but nothing changed. IF I can get it to work, it's only for 2 min, then it stops taking commands.... Any other ideas?? Is the cm15a bad?? What else could be wrong?

I've been working on this for 10 hours today. Nothing has changed except it works for shorter amount of time when I can get it to work, after removing cm15 from power, multiple times, then it will send but only for a short time... Where is the disconnect at?
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: brobin on March 09, 2019, 06:45:14 PM
Do you have another PC or laptop you could test with? If you install the software first, then plug it in and still have a problem, I'd suspect the CM15A to be bad since you will have then replaced both the computer and the cable.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on March 09, 2019, 07:17:42 PM
Do you have another PC or laptop you could test with? If you install the software first, then plug it in and still have a problem, I'd suspect the CM15A to be bad since you will have then replaced both the computer and the cable.

Stay tuned. Doing that in a few hours. Going now to borrow a laptop
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: brobin on March 09, 2019, 07:25:52 PM
Maybe bring the CM15A with you and test in a different house while you're there. That'll eliminate some strange signal generator at your place.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on March 09, 2019, 07:26:39 PM
Can’t as no X10 in that house to test.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: LostDog88 on March 10, 2019, 11:01:51 AM
Can’t as no X10 in that house to test.

Take one light module and the CM15a.

:-)
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: rickkel on March 10, 2019, 09:51:44 PM
By some freak of nature, today I'm having similar problems with my CM15A.  I noticed that the timer was off by one hour due to Daylight Savings Time, so I thought I'd plug it in and refresh the time, etc.  Big mistake.

I've never had any problems in the past having my Windows 10 computer recognizing my CM15A when I plug it in, until today.  It does not recognize the device at all, even as an "unknown device" in Device Manager.  I've tried all of the unplugging and battery removal steps to no avail.  That was probably a big mistake because I'm sure it cleared the interface and I can't reload it.

I've also tried to attach it to my laptop (also Win 10) which I have never done.  I installed a fresh copy of ActiveHome and still, the CM15A is not recognized at all in any way.  Is there a way to install it manually?
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Noam on March 11, 2019, 11:27:58 AM
By some freak of nature, today I'm having similar problems with my CM15A.  I noticed that the timer was off by one hour due to Daylight Savings Time, so I thought I'd plug it in and refresh the time, etc.  Big mistake.

I've never had any problems in the past having my Windows 10 computer recognizing my CM15A when I plug it in, until today.  It does not recognize the device at all, even as an "unknown device" in Device Manager.  I've tried all of the unplugging and battery removal steps to no avail.  That was probably a big mistake because I'm sure it cleared the interface and I can't reload it.

I've also tried to attach it to my laptop (also Win 10) which I have never done.  I installed a fresh copy of ActiveHome and still, the CM15A is not recognized at all in any way.  Is there a way to install it manually?

You might try a different USB cable. They can go bad.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: rickkel on March 12, 2019, 01:55:18 PM
You might try a different USB cable. They can go bad.

Thanks for the tip.  I'll dig up another one from a friend and see if that's the problem.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: dave w on March 12, 2019, 03:04:50 PM
*musing*
I wonder if the last Windows 10 forced update broke something?  I have been thinking of disabling "Windows Update" service in all our computers.  Or maybe just changing Network Settings to "metered". Although Windows will likely try and stop or throttle any streaming activity when network is metered. Anyone know for sure?
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Tuicemen on March 12, 2019, 03:22:43 PM
*musing*
I wonder if the last Windows 10 forced update broke something?  I have been thinking of disabling "Windows Update" service in all our computers.  Or maybe just changing Network Settings to "metered". Although Windows will likely try and stop or throttle any streaming activity when network is metered. Anyone know for sure?
I had issues with XP and 7 auto changing the USB driver for the Cm15A to what It thought was the newest and best.
I never had a problem with Win 10 doing that but that may have been that I disabled automatic driver updates.
I suspect this may be the issue here you'll have to change the driver by manually telling windows which driver to use.
Since I no longer use AHP or have the CM15A connected to a PC my days of fiddling with AHP are over.
Title: Re: CM15A USB Problem
Post by: Jason B on May 14, 2020, 04:13:50 AM
Just wanted to update this and many don't ever update what their fix was. GOt a new cm15a off ebay and that fixed all my issues! Thank you all.