X10 Community Forum
💬General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Francey on June 15, 2017, 05:00:09 PM
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Novice here.
I just purchased a Dakota Driveway Alert DCRH-2500. (Run over hose, Transmitter alerts Receiver, and Alert is sounded.)
I also have a receiver....RoboDog, used with DM10A outdoor motion detector. (since lost).
Robodog Frequency is 310.0. When someone walked in front of the Transmitter RoboDog would bark for 30 seconds.
My question:
How can I adjust the DCRH-2500 driveway Alert Transmitter so that it will trigger Robodog Receiver at the same time as it 'rings it's own bell' when a car comes up the
driveway. Robodog plugs into any electrical outlet.
I also have a Lamp Module X10 Powerhouse that worked from the DM10A unit which turned on the lamps when the Transmitter was triggered.
Please keep in mind I am a NOVICE... I know nothing about this complicated subject. Surely the wonderful people who takes to this stuff naturally will be able
to tell me how to connect Robodog to my security driveway unit. Thank you. Francey
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The driveway transmitter should have an FCC ID number on it. You can look up the details on the FCC site. What you need to know is what frequency the transmitter uses.
https://www.fcc.gov/oet/ea/fccid (https://www.fcc.gov/oet/ea/fccid)
Odds are against you as you not only need both tuned to the same frequency, you need the driveway transmitter to send a code recognized by your doggie.
Your best bet would be to look for a DM10A on EBay.
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=m570.l1313&_nkw=MS10A&_sacat=0 (http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=m570.l1313&_nkw=MS10A&_sacat=0)
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dhouston posted a link to the MS10A Security Motion Detector to use instead of a DM10A. I don't believe a MS10A can substitute for a DM10A as the MS10A transmits a "security code" rather than a standard X10 code which your Robo Dog and Lamp Module respond to. Instead you might look an outdoor motion sensor like the MS16A
http://www.ebay.com/itm/X10-ActiveHome-Active-Eye-Indoor-Outdoor-Motion-Sensor-MS16A-100-SOLD-/201399015980?hash=item2ee4511a2c:g:NpEAAOSwT6pVvUYl
to take the place of your DM10A.
What kind of alarm do you have for your driveway sensor. You might be able to trigger an X10 PowerFlash module from your driveway alarm.
https://www.x10.com/home-security/psc01-powerflash-burgular-alarm-interface.html
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dhouston posted a link to the MS10A Security Motion Detector to use instead of a DM10A.
Oops - grabbed the wrong link. Try these...
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Rex-10-Motion-Detector-Model-DM10A-for-Barking-Dog-Alarm-/262910429401?hash=item3d36aec8d9:g:Nl0AAOSwAPVZHJVS (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Rex-10-Motion-Detector-Model-DM10A-for-Barking-Dog-Alarm-/262910429401?hash=item3d36aec8d9:g:Nl0AAOSwAPVZHJVS)
http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-X-10-Outdoor-Motion-Detector-DM10A-C-/322535381176?hash=item4b189b58b8:g:SdsAAOSwjL5ZIlE0 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-X-10-Outdoor-Motion-Detector-DM10A-C-/322535381176?hash=item4b189b58b8:g:SdsAAOSwjL5ZIlE0)
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I would like very much to find a way to make the new Driveway Alert DCRH-2500 connect to Robodog. This Unit
has an 8 tab selection-choice on both transmitter and receiver that 'apparently' you can change the frequency
settings.. This, from the Manual: Quote: The first 8 dip switches are for the frequency setting (256 combinations). Set the first 8 switches
to match the 8 switches in the receiver."
As soon as I learn the Frequency of the DCRH-2500 I'll add it here, and perhaps that will help.
I don't have the Unit 'in hand' yet. It's due any day. On reading the online Instructions that the above Quote suggests-- that the
frequency can be changed, so long as it's done on both transmitter and receiver. SO, if Robodog frequency is 310.0, if I change
the existing DCRH-2500 transmitter and receiver to a frequency of 310.0...wouldn't that trigger Robodog, when Robodog is plugged into the house electric?
So then, 1) the driveway alert system sounds, 2) AND robodog starts barking. <smile> (I'm sure you will understand this, as I barely do.) Frances
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..... You might be able to trigger an X10 PowerFlash module from your driveway alarm.
https://www.x10.com/home-security/psc01-powerflash-burgular-alarm-interface.html
I looked for the manual for your (Dakota 2500) receiver. Here: https://www.dakotaalert.com/docs/DCR2500_Manual.pdf (https://www.dakotaalert.com/docs/DCR2500_Manual.pdf)
Looking at the manual.... it appears that you might be able to connect a PowerFlash Module to your Dakota 2500 relay contact points. Then set the X10 PowerFlash Module to the same unit/house code used by your RoboDog and light module.
OR..... as you suggest... You might be able to use the pins/address used in the Dakota 2500 (for a direct X10 RF). But that would mean they [Dakota] were fully aware of the compatibility with X10 when they selected the frequency. And... looking at the manual I thought they used Frequency: 433.92 MHz. Give their tech-support a call and ask them.
PO Box 130 • 32556 East Main St. • Elk Point, SD 57025 www.dakotaalert.com • ph: 605.356.2772
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I hope this works out for you. I've recently purchased/installed a Mighty Mule Wireless Driveway Alarm (FM231). I love the unit! But it isn't compatible with anything else. I can easily hear it's beep anywhere on one floor of my home.... but sadly that's it. Adding an additional sensor or phone alert would be nice.
Or... on 2nd thought. I could leave well (actually excellent) enough alone... and look to my security cameras "object detection" for a phone/email alert. Actually... the cameras recording system also has contact/alert points that would (I believe) trigger a PowerFlash unit. I might even be able to set-up an emailed image (of car license plate?).
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if I change the existing DCRH-2500 transmitter and receiver to a frequency of 310.0...wouldn't that trigger Robodog, when Robodog is plugged into the house electric?
It's not likely as you not only need the frequency at 310MHz you also need the proper sequence of RF bursts for Robodog to understand it. The X10 RF Protocol is explained here...
https://www.laser.com/dhouston/rf.html (https://www.laser.com/dhouston/rf.html)
and the next to last paragraph explains the slightly different sequences used by X10 Security devices like Robodog.
X-10 security transmitters use a similar protocol but only one nybble of the first two bytes are bitwise complementary while the last two bytes follow the same pattern as standard X-10 RF codes.
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I discovered that YES, the frequency for the DCRH-2500 is 433.92 and Robodog is 310.0.
Can I do any harm to the DCRH-2500 if I change the 433.92 to 310.0 on both transmitter and receiver? Just to see what happens?
(The Unit still has not arrived, due 13th, but hasn't been shipped yet.)
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I checked out the HF Power Flash Module UM506 ($30) and perhaps that is a simple, but expensive
solution. Robodog has a dial set A for House. (Also, Run/Install switch, Vol., red light ON, & Test button.)
There is no visible means of connecting any wires. How would you connect the DCRH-2500 Receiver to the UM506?
Robodog has two indented Phillips head screws holding the case together. To be sure, if I unscrew it, there will be important wires holding the
two parts together inside. I was hoping any connection would be wireless. I don't want to damage Robodog.
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Correction:
How would you connect Robodog to the UM506?
Robodog has two indented Phillips head screws holding the case together. To be sure, if I unscrew it, there will be important wires holding the
two parts together inside. I was hoping any connection would be wireless. I don't want to damage Robodog.
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Unless Dakota designed in X10 support, you will have to use a 3rd component. I believe the Dakota receiver has a relay port (as was already mentioned). You will need to use a X10 component to trigger off of that relay port that will send an RF command that the RoboDog will receive. I'm not familiar with the RoboDog, but looking at the wiki, it appears that it can receive signals via any RF remote or via PLC.
http://kbase.x10.com/wiki/Setting_Up_the_Robodog_Alarm
If so, you can use a Power Flash module connected to the relay ports so long as it is installed in an outlet that the RoboDog can receive PLC from. If not, you might need to be creative with a RF transmitter mod.
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Just got a response from Dakota on request about X10. Will this information help? Frances
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It should be able to use X10 through the relays on our receiver. The 2500 series has four form C relays and a 12v output. Unquote
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Can I do any harm to the DCRH-2500 if I change the 433.92 to 310.0 on both transmitter and receiver? Just to see what happens?
If it's possible to set it for 310MHz, it won't do any damage and it's probably worth a try to see what happens before spending more money on something that will allow interaction.
As I'm not intimately familiar with Robodog and know even less about your DCRH-2500, I can't be certain, but doubt we'll find a way to interface them without additional hardware.
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I just received this reply from Tony, at Dakota...He's been very patient and pleasant...
Quote: All I can tell you is how our products operate. You can't change the frequency of our transmitters. The receiver does have 4 normally open or normally closed relays that can activate things, such as bells, security panels, sirens and whistles. So the only way our receiver could possibly work with that is if they could use those relays. Unquote
I replied asking for the Procedure for activating those bells, security panels, sirens and whistles... Maybe that's the key?
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dhouston posted a link to the MS10A Security Motion Detector to use instead of a DM10A.
After reading the Robodog manual, it appears that it can be triggered by either a standard or security motion detector but I gather that a motion detector is not a good solution in this application.
Connecting the (costly) PSC01 Powerflash Module is straightforward but it would help if we knew more details about where the DCR2500 receiver is relative to where the Robodog is.
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-----I checked out the HF Power Flash Module UM506 ($30) and perhaps that is a simple, but expensive
solution.
Robodog has a dial set A for House. (Also, Run/Install switch, Vol., red light ON, & Test button.)
There is no visible means of connecting any wires. How would you connect the DCRH-2500 Receiver to the UM506?
I've never owned... or for that matter even seen a Robodog. I wished I had... I like the idea.
I realized when I read your description that the Robodog is trigger by an RF signal. I would guess you could modify a (maybe palmpad) X10 remote... so that the relay in the Dakota 2500 receive would trigger an X10 remote. It might be more than you want to bite off... would require a little soldering.
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Just got a response from Dakota on request about X10. Will this information help? Frances
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It should be able to use X10 through the relays on our receiver. The 2500 series has four form C relays and a 12v output. Unquote
A form C relay will have three connection points: Common, Normally Open, and Normally Closed. Connect the Common and the Normally Open contacts of one of the Dakota alarm relays to the PowerFlash input terminals and set the code dials on the Power Flash to the same setting as the Robo Dog (Robo Dog default is code A1) . If you set an X10 Lamp Module or Wall switch to the same code, the light will remain on for as long as you programmed the Dakota to time the relays.
http://cache-m2.smarthome.com/manuals/4060new.pdf
https://www.dakotaalert.com/docs/DCR2500_Manual.pdf
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I received my DCR 2500 Transmitter & DCR-2500 Receiver Alert Monday. The Dakota Install Booklet is beyond me, so for the start, I'll stick to whatever it's set on.
Affixed the Transmitter to a 4' post with a 5x8" wood backing for the Transmitter. Bungy-Corded it to
a small dogwood tree in the driveway entrance. Clear sight to the house where I set the Receiver, facing the Transmitter, 6' up from the floor.. Lay the hose across the driveway, painted it grey to match the concrete. Pinned it to both sides of the driveway with garden hose pins. Both Transmitter and Receiver are FACING each other 60' distance.
Inside: I plugged the power cord into the wall socket and it Test Sounded the Alert, which was very LOUD and CLEAR. Could be
heard in half the house.
Outside: When a truck rolled over the hose outside, 60' away, triggering the in-house Alert the same Alert sound was muted to 1/4th of the Test Sound.
I cannot hear this transmitted Alert from any other rooms beside the one the Receiver is in.
There is nothing between the Transmitter & Receiver except one outside wall and window.
I positioned the Receiver in different wall-places and that didn't help.
Would anyone care to offer comments on what I might do to amplify the sound being received from the Transmitter? If the
on/off switch sounds a LOUD CLEAR alert, why doesn't the trigger from the Transmitter trigger a loud alert?
DCHT-2500 Transmitter and DCR-2500 Receiver. Thank you. Frances
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Their PDF manuals leave a lot to be desired.
https://www.dakotaalert.com/manuals-downloads.php (https://www.dakotaalert.com/manuals-downloads.php)
It took me quite some time to realize that, in their references to Figure 1, the number after the dash referenced one of the numbers in Figure 1. For example, Figure (1-2) refers to the On-Off switch at the lower right. The manual has no reference to a volume control but my guess is the unreferenced object shown just above the On-Off switch.
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Would anyone care to offer comments on what I might do to amplify the sound being received from the Transmitter? If the
on/off switch sounds a LOUD CLEAR alert, why doesn't the trigger from the Transmitter trigger a loud alert?
DCHT-2500 Transmitter and DCR-2500 Receiver. Thank you. Frances
Like dhouston said, the unmarked widget above the On-Off switch might be a volume control. Perhaps another reader may have a DCR-2500 and give you an answer, or another call to Dakota.
If you were to connect a PowerFlash to the DCR-2500, besides turning on a lamp, as you originally asked about, you can also use it to trigger an X10 Chime Module(s). https://www.x10.com/sc546a.html
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Also, you might try it in a more central room. If it truly has 1/2mi range, extra walls should not be an issue.
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If you were to connect a PowerFlash to the DCR-2500, besides turning on a lamp, as you originally asked about, you can also use it to trigger an X10 Chime Module(s). https://www.x10.com/sc546a.html
Or..... a quick, easy, cheap (or free) non-tech way to expand the alert sound.... is just dig through the old baby boxes and pull out that old baby monitor. Or buy one at a garage sale for 2 bucks.
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Yes, (smile) that baby monitor sounds like a great idea. I'll have to try that.
Item #2 on the above Diagram is the On/Off switch. The UNMARKED item is the Volume, already set on the highest.
Item 8, 9, 10... above them, I have NO IDEA what they do. Item #1 is where the wiring comes out of the Unit to the plug-in.
I contacted the X10 Powerhouse people with the website and nice as they are, they offered NO help in connecting up Robo to Dakota. (It's a discontinued item.) End of conversation. If X10 is somehow designed into Dakota Alert and Robo is X10, I can't imagine why they can't be connected. It would sure solve my problem.... All comments are read and appreciated... Frances
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If X10 is somehow designed into Dakota Alert and Robo is X10, I can't imagine why they can't be connected.
I do not believe X10 was ever designed into Dakota Alert.
Your best bet for integration with Robodog is by way of the Powermid as davew suggested previously. We can provide a simple connection diagram should you decide to pursue this solution.
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I doubt the Dakota Alert uses 256 RF frequencies. It uses an assigned RF frequency of 433.92MHz {from a assorted searches leading to the FCC ID Database.}
I suspect the 8 dip switches. Set an ID code that should be set to the same code for the receiver and sender to match.
Did you ever give us the FCC ID number on the Dakota Alert Receiver or the Dakota Alert sender. As the receiver console may not have a transmitter in it. The sender has to have an ID. I used DTC-2500 for my receiver transmit search.
The DM10A uses the normal X10 310MHz. frequency and can send an X10RF ON to the House Code and Unit Code its dials are set at. It also used the House Code Unit Code+1 address for Dusk Dawn detection. It was slightly strange as I don't believe it ever did a timeout and then sent an X10RF Off.
http://kbase.x10.com/wiki/DM10A
If the X10 RF frequency address was received by an X10 Transceiver. It could be put on to the power lines and control a Lamp Module if it was set to the same X10 address. I will look at the Robodog manual and see if it also could act as a transceiver.
You maybe able to modify an X10 Remotes buttons. To send an X10RF ON the Robodog can receive and be triggered.
I found some data on the Robodog in the X10 Wiki.
http://kbase.x10.com/wiki/Setting_Up_the_Robodog_Alarm
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ReX10 Manual.
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You maybe able to modify an X10 Remotes buttons. To send an X10RF ON the Robodog can receive and be triggered.
I found some data on the Robodog in the X10 Wiki.
http://kbase.x10.com/wiki/Setting_Up_the_Robodog_Alarm
That does look like the solution. I had modified a palmpad some years ago... if I remember correctly... as part of a Rube Goldberg (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rube_Goldberg_machine) like setup that allowed my PLC floodlight to control my RF controlled VCR commander.
The simple way to do this: At one end of the battery connection make a 2 foil and wire blocks. Separate the foil-wire blocks with a tape spacer. Run the two wires to the relay outlet on the DCRH-2500 (the relay will close the battery contact and activate the remote). Then use something like a clothes pin to hold down the desired button on the remote. The default would be to set the remote to A and lock-down button 1.
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Unless you have devices putting noise on the powerline or have phase coupling issues, the Powerflash is simple and straightforward with no soldering.
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Well, I did make some headway... This morning a car rolled in & the Alert sounded ONLY ENOUGH to hear in the living/computer area. Not around the open corner or down the hallway. Luckily, I was at the computer when it sounded.
Clearly, I want RoboDog to be the barking alert, but for this moment, just amplifying the sound will Alert me to current visitors when in the kitchen or laundry room.
After reading the suggestion about the Baby Monitor I got to thinking... I have a Roland Guitar Amplifier (Micro-Cube). It has a wire for an Acoustic Guitar....(with a stick-on button, wired to a 1/4" prong.)
I stuck the sticker (smile) onto the DCR-2500 speaker face.. Plugged in & activated the Micro-Cube and Wonderful! I can hear the Alert around the corner into the kitchen and down the hallway. That solves the need for hearing the Alert in a different room.
Now, Back to RoboDog, which is my preferred mode of Alert. This X10 Power device looks interesting.
The Receiver DCR2500 is less than 1" in width. It has to be gently pried open with a screwdriver. There are no openings to
insert two wires, so a hole would have to be drilled in the lower left hand side of the case or I could file a depression where the
case closes together to accommodate the wires. What size wires are needed? Walmart appears to carry that unit and with the understanding that I can return it if it doesn't work ...it might be the solution. (I won't drill any holes until it triggers RoboDog. (smile)) Sure is nice to get help this way. Frances
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What size wires are needed?
24ga (or bigger) insulated solid wire should be adequate.
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The DCR2500 has terminal blocks on it for relay contact outputs.
The X10 PF284 or X10Pro PSC01 Powerflash modules. Have a set of terminal blocks on then and can be triggered by the DCR2500. Using one if the Dry Contact Relay Outputs connected to the Powerflash Input Termainals.
DCR2500 C and NO contacts. Wired to the Powerflash Input Terminals. Set to Input B {dry contacts} and Mode 3 {Send an X10 On when triggered and send an X10 Off when released}.
Though it probably will not trigger your RoboDog. As it sends an X10 Power Line signal and the RoboDog uses an X10 RF command.
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Your suggestions for the setup were on target but this...
Though it probably will not trigger your RoboDog. As it sends an X10 Power Line signal and the RoboDog uses an X10 RF command.
is in error.
From...http://kbase.x10.com/wiki/Setting_Up_the_Robodog_Alarm (http://kbase.x10.com/wiki/Setting_Up_the_Robodog_Alarm)
ANY X10 controller such as the MC460 Mini Controller, SC503 Maxi Controller, MT522/MT10A Timer, and CM11A/CK11A Computer Interface, etc. can control the RoboDog. The default House code and Unit Code for the SD20A is A1 so A1-ON tells RoboDog to bark, and A1-OFF tells it to stop barking.
See...http://kbase.x10.com/wiki/Setting_Up_the_Robodog_Alarm (http://kbase.x10.com/wiki/Setting_Up_the_Robodog_Alarm)
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My error. :(
Dave is correct.
If you used a Powerflash triggered by the DCR2500 relay output. It should control the RoboDog.
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I just got the courage to take the Dakota Unit apart as it suggests: CAREFULLY, with a small screw driver. I closed and opened
it numerous times to overcome the fear of damaging it.
Now, I must make a correction.. After removing Dakota receiver from the wall, where the bottom was out of view... the major part of the bottom edge IS open. (No need to drill holes)
Exposed to view are the 14 'holes'...(as in the illustration of DCR2500). The first two being what connects the X10Powerflash as shown on the Powerflash illustration above.. You would then poke the designated bare wire directly into it's designated hole. Is this correct?
Whoo! What a complicated little piece of work inside! Frances
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I just got the courage to take the Dakota Unit apart as it suggests: CAREFULLY, with a small screw driver. I closed and opened
it numerous times to overcome the fear of damaging it.
MacGyver just came on TV.... and I thought of YOU. Your on your way to being a real X10'er.
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I just got the courage to take the Dakota Unit apart as it suggests: CAREFULLY, with a small screw driver. I closed and opened
it numerous times to overcome the fear of damaging it.
Now, I must make a correction.. After removing Dakota receiver from the wall, where the bottom was out of view... the major part of the bottom edge IS open. (No need to drill holes)
Exposed to view are the 14 'holes'...(as in the illustration of DCR2500). The first two being what connects the X10Powerflash as shown on the Powerflash illustration above.. You would then poke the designated bare wire directly into it's designated hole. Is this correct?
Whoo! What a complicated little piece of work inside! Frances
The photo in an earlier post. Showed terminal blocks with the dry contact relay connections. That could connect to the Powerflash. Is yours not the same as the photo you posted. If it has the terminal blocks. Why did you take it apart?
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When you first receive the Unit you are instructed to take it apart and check the 8 DIP switches in the Receiver to determine that they all match
the Transmitter's 8 Dip Switches. I was too uptight to take it apart at first, but finally did so last night. Obviously, all the dip switches were in their proper order, because the Alert did it's job before I got the courage to open it up & look. (smile) .
I just ordered the Power Flash X10 Pro and it will be here in about a week.
I'll find that #24 wire and be ready for it. I have GREAT enthusiasm that it WILL WORK GREAT and RoboDog will be my
watchdog for visitors, from any room of my house. Your help is wonderful. Frances
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Exposed to view are the 14 'holes'...(as in the illustration of DCR2500). The first two being what connects the X10Powerflash as shown on the Powerflash illustration above.. You would then poke the designated bare wire directly into it's designated hole. Is this correct?
Poke each wire into its designated hole and then rotate the screw to secure the wire. At the Powerflash unit, form the wire into a hook, place it beneath the screw, then tighten the screw.
Below, I've updated the drawing to show the configuration, earlier recommended by Brian.
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I have GREAT enthusiasm that it WILL WORK GREAT and RoboDog will be my watchdog for visitors, from any room of my house.
There are still some potential troublemakers but we can help you deal with those if the time comes. Things like CFL lights, LED lights, cellphone chargers, some computer power supplies, etc. can interfere with the powerline communications used by X10 (i.e. between the Powerflash and RoboDog).
Also, your household wiring is divided into two subsystems (called phases) and X10 usually has difficulty jumping from one to the other so RoboDog may work in some rooms (or in some outlets within a room) but not others.
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The Powerflash will send an X10 On when the relay closes and an X10 Off when the relay opens.
I see each relay output has a Jumper J1 to J4. To set it to 1,10,60 Seconds or 10 Minutes of relay activation.
When the X10 On is received by the RoboDog it will start barking. When the X10 Off is received it stops the barking or time out of about 30 seconds. So you may have to set a longer timeout or it my just gave a small yelp.
I looked at the manual. Now I see if it was real tight you may have had opening issues.
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I received the Powerflash Friday and need to know more about the wiring.
I asked at Walmarts and Home Depot and they don't have or know anything about #24 wires.
Both RadioShack stores have gone out of business, unfortunately.
Would you be good enough to describe the wire needed... and where to obtain it. Thanks. Frances
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#22 would be fine and easier to find.
#20 maybe OK also. Though it starts to get heavier to work with.
I have seen wire for installing your own phone jacks. It is #24 if memory serves me. Could be 2,4 or 6 conductor.
Door Bell and Thermostat wire is #18. Maybe harder to run but if you see some you can figure out if it would be OK. Even local hardware stores have #18 bell and thermostat wire. As would a Home Depot or other home improvement store.
Home Depot is more for electrical wiring for the home. Though #18 wires for bells and thermostats would be carried.
Yes for the second time. Radio Shack has gone Bankrupt and all the stores area now gone. Not sure about Sprint who had taken over some of the Shacks the first time.
Walmart may have #22 speaker wire for the low end speakers. As may other shops line Best Buys.
If you are into eBay they have many dealers with both #22 and #24 wires.
Electronic distributors would also have a large assortment of wire. Newark, MCM Electronics, Monoprice, Moser to name a few.
They do come in two types. You can get stranded and solid. 300 Volt insulation would be fine. Even lower OK as the sensor is about 12 volts from the PowerFlash.
I believe both ends of your connections are terminal blocks. Stranded would be easier to route but you have to twist the strands together when you screw down the screws.
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Would you be good enough to describe the wire needed... and where to obtain it.
Any small diameter hookup wire will work. It can be solid or stranded but solid will be easier to work with for this purpose. It's available online although shipping costs may be prohibitive. Almost any of these will do...
https://www.amazon.com/24-gauge-hook-up-wire/s?ie=UTF8&page=1&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3A24%20gauge%20hook%20up%20wire (https://www.amazon.com/24-gauge-hook-up-wire/s?ie=UTF8&page=1&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3A24%20gauge%20hook%20up%20wire)
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I have a length of speaker wire consisting of 2 parts...one silver wire & one copper wire. I have connected the Powerflash PSC01 as indicated on it's screw positions...silver on the +side and copper on the -side.
I opened the Dakota Alert Receiver box and am confronted with THREE holes to use: NO, COM, NC .
Which hole do I insert the +silver wire and which hole the -copper wire?
Neither the Powerflash PSC01 nor the Dakota DCR2500 provide any wiring instructions.
To refresh memory: I have Dakota Alert2500 Driveway system. When car runs over hose, Receiver in house Alerts sing.
Powerflash Security PSC01 when connected to Dakota Alert activates X10 Powerhouse Lamp Module, which turns on a lamp, (or ROBODOG, which is set up like the Lamp Module).
Thank you for your help. Frances
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PSC01 + silver to Dakota Alert NO
PSC01 - copper to Dakota Alert COM.
PSC01 Input Type:B. Output Mode:3
Remember the Dakota Alert has jumpers to set how long the relay stays activated after a vehicle detection.
That will determine how long the PSC01 takes to turn the Robo Dog and Lamp Module back Off.
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Uh Oh! What does your 3rd item mean... Input type B and output mode 3?
and
Remember? Uh Oh! Jumpers? Ummm...Where do I find them?
By the way, the Powerflash has an All Units Off button, which I assume means if the Lamp is lit or Robodog is barking, this switch will shut
them both off... ????
What is NC used for?
Thanks, Frances
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Look at Reply #37 of this thread.
It shows the PSC01 with the Input Switch set to B and the Mode Switch set to 3.
Here is the manual link though it probably is in a sheet in the PSC01 box.
http://www.authinx.com/manuals/X10/PSC01.pdf
#37 also shows the Dakota Alert board. With 4 rows of jumpers. Marked 1-2-3-4.
Each relay 1-2-3-4. Has a set of timeout settings.
If you are using relay#1 use the relay 1 timer jumpers. The settings are 1-10-60 seconds or 10 Minutes.
I believe the Robo Dog has a default time out of 30 seconds. Selecting 10 seconds for the relay will give you a 10 second bark and light. 1 second would be too short. 60 second would give you 30 seconds of bark and a 60 second light.
The relays in the Dakota Alert have a NO {normally open} and NC {normally closed} contact with reference to the COM common connection. When the relay is not active NC is connected and NO is not connected to common. When activated NC is open and NO is closed to Common. You want the PSC01 to see the closure when activated. So you use the NO contacts that close when activated. In your application NC is not used.
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The All Units Off button on the PSC01 will turn off all the X10 modules set on its House Code Dial. Unit 1 through Unit 16.
So lets say you have it on the default A1. When the All Units Off button is pushed.
Any module on House Code A will go off. Possibly including things you didn't expect. Like a fan or other device on a addressed A10 Appliance Module.
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OK..
I just set the PSC01 to B and Mode 3. Both units are connected and plugged in.
Now I have the Alert's schematic in front of me.
I have no idea what Jumper my unit is set on. Assuming I have ONLY one outdoor Transmitter, then am I already set on J1?
J1, J2, J3 & J4 must be the Jumpers you are describing.
As I understand your directions:
Observe vertical choice of J1: Select Ch1
Observe vertical choice of J4: Select 10 secs.
Is that the correct procedure?
The Schematic doesn't title Relay on anything shown.
I don't know what your instruction of Relay indicates, unless J1, J2, J3, J4 (Jumpers) are also titled Relays...Yes?
(Please be patient, I'm learning...-smile-) Frances
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I have no idea on the Alert Transmitter and Receiver.
I have never used one and only have the users manuals for them.
Someone with one maybe able to give you a much clearer designation of the Jumpers and what each does.
I see some of the switches select the code used and both have to match. Some of the switches also select which melody it plays.
I also noticed the labels on the time jumpers are not called out the way I described them. yes they do set how long the relay stays on after being triggered. They look confusing and maybe mislabeled in the uses manual I downloaded.
Why don't you do some tests to see how it is presently set up.
On the PSC01 is a TEST button. If you push and hold it. If the X10 address and communications between the PSC01 and the Robo Dog are OK. It should start barking when you hold the test button and stop when you release it. If the Lamp Module is also in the setup. It should go On and Off with the test Button on the PSC01.
If you trip the Dakota Alert Transmitter. You can see if it is receiving and may hear one of the melodies playing.
You may also see the Robo Dog and lights go On then back Off. That may give you a sense of the time set. Also any changes you make in the switches or jumpers do not take effect until the receiver power is turned off then back on again.
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I think the DCR-2500 User Manual is the worst I've ever seen.
The text indicates there are 10 switches on Fig 1-3 (upper left) but the drawing only shows 8. From the text, setting switches 9 & 10 ON selects Channel 1 which is the channel I assumed in my earlier schematic.
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Good Morning everyone...
After spending last night studying the Alert manual and discovering how BADLY written it is and using the advice here, I finally
understand the operation of the Alert and the usage of the Powerflash.
For such a nice little Driveway Alert System to be muddied up by such an idiotic Instruction Manual defies logic...However, it is known
that some inventors can invent a remarkable item, but have no idea how to teach it to someone else. Some big thinker said and has
been quoted by many.."If what you are teaching can't be understood by a ten year old, then you need to let someone else do the teaching."
(or something to that effect.) -smile-
Thank you everyone for the kind help.
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Thank you for the progress update.
Keep us in the loop if you have further questions or issues.
The Alert Manual reads almost like an experiment. Set a jumper or switch. Cycle the power so it is found. Then test and see what the changes did.
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Good Morning, all...
Back to Square One. The PSC01 does not communicate with the Alert 2500. Both work perfectly by themselves.
I emailed Dakota and their replies are similar to the Instruction Book.
Email sent:
Tony: Should I change something in the J1, J2, or J3 columns to connect to the X10?
I have changed nothing to the inside of the Receiver or the Transmitter, except for
installing the batteries.
This is the reply I received:
You have to set your transmitter outside off to get the relays to work. The power button or the test button won't activate them.
He lost me here. Can anyone translate this for me? .
There is no Test button. I'm assuming by Power Button, he means the On/Off switch, which does sound the TONE when I switch it on and off.
Any insight you can offer here will be appreciated. Frances
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The reply you got was not for the Dakota Alert as it has no Test Button. The PSC01 has the Test Button.
If the PSC01 will not control the Robo Dog when the test button is pushed. In its normal location.
You may have a communications problem or an address issue.
If the Lamp Module is in the setup right now. Does the Test Button on the PSC01 control it?
As a test. Put the PSC01 in the same outlet as the Robo Dog and hold the Test Button. It should start barking and stop when you release the Test Button. If not verify the House Code Dial is on A and the Unit Cod Dial is on 1 and try again.
Let us know what happens. The Dakota Alert relay has no voltage on it. So you can disconnect it from the PSC01 and not worry about the bare wire ends.
I believe the Dakota Alert has a tone when tripped. If the transmitter is triggered. Does the tone sound on the receiver?
That is probably what the Dakota Alert support was asking. Does the Dakota Transmitter trigger the receiver?
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PROBLEM SOLVED....
Just received a messaged from Tony. This time I understood the message.
Went to the driveway entrance Dakota Alert TRANSMITTER BOX.
RESET the tone to what the instruction book labels as CHANNEL 1
(on, on, Classical)
Drove my car over the hose.
Drove back to the house and checked the lamp, and EUREKA! the lamp was ON.
If the lamp is on then Robodog barked his 10 seconds.
The light stayed on for 60 seconds.
I am delighted. THANK YOU for you help. Frances
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Good to see the Dakota Alert did work with a vehicle.
Just being cautious. Did you actually hear the Robo Dog?
Holding the Test Button on the PSC01 would verify the Robo Dog actually barked.
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In retrospect I should have looked at the transmitter manual (which does show all 10 switches) but also in retrospect I would have just used a real dog. ;)
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-smile- I do have a 'real' dog... but she's in her shady spot during the summer. If car enters driveway 60' away, she barks but I cannot
hear her in the house...it's brick and deadens sound from outside. When the lawnmower man comes, I always bring her in, knowing how
mowers can throw rocks and such. However, 2 weeks ago....I did not hear the man arrive and he had mown half the lawn before I knew he was there. That is when I decided to install the Driveway Alert hose and utilize the Lamp Module & Robodog.
Most folks have great hearing, but I do not. With the 2 second Alert in the living room, it is heard clearly...while in the room. But, around the corner into the
kitchen or the Laundry room... I was unable to hear the 2 second tone... Thus, Robodog came into mind. I can hear Robodog down the hallway because he barks
for a longer period of time. I can SEE the lamp in the dinette when it lights, even if I were to miss Robo and and the driveway Alert.
It's tough being hearing impaired, but that's life...-smile-
The TEST button does trigger Robodog for 10 seconds and the light for 60 seconds. Went out today & on return when entering house, light was
on for it's designated time. As soon as someone enters my driveway, I'll be able to verify that Robodog is indeed barking...
You'd be surprised
at what a wonderful feeling it is 'knowing' what's going on outside & who might be there. This Springtime, two 'uninvited' logging
men stopped by and thought no one was home, looked in windows, etc., and were coming around the back of the house when I just happened
to be outside and 'met' them...a surprise, for both. I'm sure they meant no harm, but it was alarming to me. Simple security is great!
Thank you all for your kind input. Frances
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I just wanted to verify the Robo Dog and the Lamp Module both triggered.
If the Dakota Alert turned the Lamp Module on for 60 seconds and the Test Button triggered both.
I am sure a car triggering an alarm will also sound the Robo Dog. When it triggered the PSC01.
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In retrospect I should have looked at the transmitter manual (which does show all 10 switches) but also in retrospect I would have just used a real dog. ;)
rofl
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Thank you all for your kind input. Frances
Sorry it took so long.
If you encounter more problems, post here. Most of the nerds here enjoy solving puzzles like this.