X10 Community Forum
🔌General Home Automation => Other Automation Systems => Topic started by: brobin on January 01, 2021, 11:32:56 AM
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Here's the place to discuss the Smartenit Harmony controllers.
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As an almost 40 year user of X10 I was thrilled to be able to control my system with Alexa using a simple plug'n' play device that can also function as a full blown X10 controller.
The solution a growing number of us here are using is a Smartenit Harmony P2 with a bundled Insteon 2412U PLM. At $75 for both it's an economical solution that not only gives you Alexa skill supported control of X10 but an app and a sophisticated automation controller with email and text notifications. I've been using it for almost 3 years and it's rock solid. It's basically what X10's WM100 should have been but for a lower price and better functionality.
It's virtually plug 'n play so you can be up and running 30 minutes after you open the box. Everything is done through an Android/IOS app or web portal. In addition to X10, you can also use it to control Insteon and ZigBee devices should you ever wish to. It has it's own real time clock and does sunrise/sunset calculations based on where you live. There have been no server interruptions in the time I've had it and the company and support are in the USA.
The P2 does need to be plugged into an Ethernet port on your router or switch.
https://smartenit.com/shop/zigbee-insteon-x10-multi-protocol-gateway-hub/
If you order be sure to click the selection to include the 'Add Insteon/X10 powerline only PLM.' bringing the total to $74.99.
Feel free to ask any questions.
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Hey Brobin, I recently purchased the products you advised. I get that the SMARTENIT unit is cloud based and therefore there is not a lot of local control (app based), something that I do not like, but have become accustomed to as an Amazon EERO router user. My use history is similar to yours and I have over (80) X10 devices in a 6000 SF house. I also have the WM100 X10 WIFI hub and the very robust repeater developed and sold by Jeff Volp. I have great X10 signal coverage. The WM100 controls everything without issue. I bought the SMARTENIT Harmoney P2 because I wanted the Alexa voice interface.
My problem is I can't seem to get the PLM Module to issue X10 commands. The Smartenit hub records x10 activity as though it is executed; but, it is NOT executed. I note in the Device selection drop down there are only (2) choices for x10- a relay OR a Switch/Outlet. I have tried selecting various combinations of the two but cannot get the commands to execute.
Sent the Below to SMARTENIT Customer Service just now, can you help me?? Thank you for your time!! #:)
As Follows:
I am not a novice HA person. I built my own hub to control X10 with Alexa using a RasPi.
The problem I have is that I can find no documentation or user friendly web interface for the Harmony P2 Model 6007C Zigbee AG I recently purchased from you with the Powerlinc Modem USB #2412U Module. I am trying to control X10 WS469 pushbutton relay switch with LED (using as single switch so have capped off the red wire).
I think the problem is with the PLM as the hub itself records the x10 activity. I have tried resetting everything (Router, Hub, PLM) several times. I should also note that I have robust X10 signals within the house AND I have an X10 PL100 WM100 WIFI Hub that allows me to control all the X10 modules currently.
Please help me- I do not understand what the LQI and Relations settings are about -under Topology. I am excited about your companies capabilities as I have other needs you may be able to help me with professionally.
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Sorry to hear you're having a problem with the PLM. When you turn something on or off you should see the white LED on the side of the PLM flicker brightly. If not, and as in your case, the P2 indicates that the command was sent, the problem would be with the PLM or the USB cable connecting it to the P2. When you first plug the PLM in, the LED should flicker and stay dimly lit and flicker brightly as a command is sent. If the LED doesn't come on when plugged in (and you've tested the outlet for power) it is likely defective and Smartenit will replace it for you. However, the first thing I'd do is try a different USB cable. Cables - even new ones - are always suspect and over the years I've learned to check the cables first.
There are two choices for X10 devices under the Switches/Outlets tab; 'X10 Appliance Modules' and 'X10 Dimmers' and the WS469 should be set up as an X10 Appliance Module.
I don't know where you're seeing the Topology settings but they are not relevant to X10 use.
I hope this is simply a bad cable but if it's the PLM I'm know Smartenit will take care of it quickly.
Let me know what you find.
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I just purchased this item to control my x10 devices. Wish me luck?
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You shouldn't expect any problems. I've been running two of them for a few years now with no issues. Why two? I had two homes. Now that I just have one I plugged in the one from the other place but just use it for testing new ideas.
Give a holler if you have any questions getting it set up.
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Thank you. Will do
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Sorry to hear you're having a problem with the PLM. When you turn something on or off you should see the white LED on the side of the PLM flicker brightly. If not, and as in your case, the P2 indicates that the command was sent, the problem would be with the PLM or the USB cable connecting it to the P2. When you first plug the PLM in, the LED should flicker and stay dimly lit and flicker brightly as a command is sent. If the LED doesn't come on when plugged in (and you've tested the outlet for power) it is likely defective and Smartenit will replace it for you. However, the first thing I'd do is try a different USB cable. Cables - even new ones - are always suspect and over the years I've learned to check the cables first.
There are two choices for X10 devices under the Switches/Outlets tab; 'X10 Appliance Modules' and 'X10 Dimmers' and the WS469 should be set up as an X10 Appliance Module.
I don't know where you're seeing the Topology settings but they are not relevant to X10 use.
I hope this is simply a bad cable but if it's the PLM I'm know Smartenit will take care of it quickly.
Let me know what you find.
Dear Brobin-truly appreciate your time! OK here's my run down of testing
1.) First tried new USB cable - no difference
2.) I tried to hold down the reset button on PLM for extended period, this resulted in a consistent bright flashing LED on PLM. I then reset the P2 Hub- the bright LED stopped blinking on the PLM and the soft light glowed steady. I was hopeful- but same result, no X10 action. I mention that the events continued to be recorded on P2 and the X10 WM100 blinks as though some command was sent.
3.) Getting creative now - I removed the PLM and tried substituting my ACTIVEHOME PRO Model CM15A with fresh batteries in it - no luck
4.) Same as number 3 above but used ACTIVEHOME PRO Model CM11A with fresh batteries in it (and Serial adapter- it is what I successfully used with Raspi)- NO LUCK!
I would like to believe it is the PLM but I find it odd that it behaves normally as far as the lights are concerned and there is evidence that it sends out "something" due to the blinking of the WM100. Screenshot below is grid view of components. BTW I have other X10 Appliance warts that I have tried with same results. DO you still think it is PLM???
I discovered I can't send links so will email to you if possible, Craig
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The PLM and CM11A/15A are not interchangeable so I wouldn't expect any difference.
Verify you have the latest firmware by tapping the > in the Smartenit-HarmonyP2 device then UPDATES. The current version is 3.15.0-14.
Confirm that the correct X10 address is being sent by tapping the > in the device you set up. The MAC will be the X10 address.
Does the PLM blink brightly when an X10 command is sent?
What does the WM100 receive? Does the status of the device you're trying to control change?
For testing, I recommend unplugging the WM100 and any repeaters.
The PLM should be plugged directly into a wall outlet - not a power strip.
Try controlling an appliance module plugged into the same outlet.
If you PM me your username and password I'll be happy to look at how you have things set up.
Let me know what you find out. Happy to help!
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My Response -
The PLM and CM11A/15A are not interchangeable so I wouldn't expect any difference. - OK
Verify you have the latest firmware by tapping the > in the Smartenit-HarmonyP2 device then UPDATES. The current version is 3.15.0-14. YES ALTHOUGH IT REPORTS IN THE SOFTWARE WINDOW, FIRMWARE HAS A DASH
Confirm that the correct X10 address is being sent by tapping the > in the device you set up. The MAC will be the X10 address. IT IS NOT X10 ADDRESS, IT READS "temp-hwid-gyZ9KjfMJo8TGMzyLxFwJsmNhyXgmPm0a19SzHgRi2Sd1s3fCMxMC4"
Does the PLM blink brightly when an X10 command is sent? YES
What does the WM100 receive? IT JUST BLINKS-NO HISTORY
Does the status of the device you're trying to control change? NO
For testing, I recommend unplugging the WM100 and any repeaters. I TRIED THIS NO DIFFERENCE
The PLM should be plugged directly into a wall outlet - not a power strip. IT IS
Try controlling an appliance module plugged into the same outlet. GOOD IDEA! IT WORKS!! ON SAME OUTLET OR SAME ROOM. WHAT DOES NOT MAKE SENSE IS THE FACT THAT THE REPEATER AMPLIFIER I BOUGHT FROM JEFF VOLT ELIMINATED DEAD SPOTS IN MY HOUSE OVER A YEAR AGO. MAYBE JEFF WILL READ THIS AND GIVE ME SOME INSIGHT. ALSO NOTE THAT THE MAC ADDRESS FOR THE UNITS IS NOT A SIMPLE X10 CODE-IS IT ON YOUR SYSTEM??
If you PM me your username and password I'll be happy to look at how you have things set up.
Let me know what you find out. Happy to help!
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I assume you're looking in the browser but look in the app and you'll see the X10 address.
In any case, the good news is the Harmony P2 is working properly!
Now we can turn our attention to the signal issue. Which product do you have from Jeff and how/where is it installed?
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BTW, this is an example of what you would see when tapping > in a device:
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Wow-thanks for your help!! The unit I bought from Jeff Volp jeff@jvde.us is XTB-IIR+ Purchased October 2020-can send manual if needed.
:)% #:) >!
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-:) Oh yeah- it is on the main panel in my house 200 amp service. The outlet that the PLM is plugged into is in the new house addition that has a subpanel. I located harmony there as that is where my network router is. If I moved the PLM to the basement and plugged into the XBRII+ what would be best option for the ethernet connect? Should I run cable or could I get by with powerline data transfer??
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No need for the manual - I have one installed here and have been using them for many years in several homes. It plays nicely with my P2 so, unless Jeff has some suggestions, I don't think any mode changes are needed. I assume you have the XTB-IIR+ connected to a pair of circuit breakers so you could turn those off for testing just to eliminate it as a problem.
The signal has to get to the XTB-IIR+ in order to be repeated so I'm wondering if the circuit you have the PLM plugged into has a noise issue. Look for things on the circuit that could be generating noise. Six months ago I had the same problem where the signals from the P2 weren't working. It turned out to be a wall wart that powers a Tivo DVR. It had been fine for years but all of a sudden generated enough noise to block signals from ever reaching the repeater. So unplug as many things as you can on the circuit to find the culprit.
Try moving the PLM to another circuit for testing.
Is it on the same circuit as the WM100?
Does the XTB-IIR+ LED flicker when a command is sent?
Powerline data transfer shouldn't be a problem and is a lot easier than running a cable. Do you have any Ethernet cabling in the house that you can connect to?
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You don't need to plug the PLM into the port on the XTB-IIR+ just get it to another circuit - like where the WM100 is.
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Hi Brobin,
No cat 5 or 6 in house full stop. I do have a large sonos system about 30 units, and each Sonos Speaker has an ethernet port (ACTUALLY 2 ), i can try that vss PL Ethernet. Have not had time to move things, on vacation nd another project is underway Finishing construction of Greenhouse, weather in NY oddly Nild,, maybe we should brace for a N E ster!!
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If you have a good WiFi signal you can use a bridge rather than the PL Ethernet. The TP-Link AC750 WiFi Extender(RE215) for $24 would be a good choice.
https://t.ly/IlG0
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[quote author=Possum0425 link=topic=31415.msg188002#msg188002 date=1640824024
Hi Brobin,
No cat 5 or 6 in house full stop. I do have a large sonos system about 30 units, and each Sonos Speaker has an ethernet port (ACTUALLY 2 ), i can try that vss PL Ethernet. Have not had time to move things, on vacation nd another project is underway Finishing construction of Greenhouse, weather in NY oddly Nild,, maybe we should brace for a N E ster!!
[/quote]
PL Ethernet is really a crapshoot, but for low bandwidth applications, it's fie. I use TP-Link AV1200 for 6 Chromecast audio, a solar meter, energy meter, and printer. With all the electronics in the house, links between some room go as low as 11 Mbps physical rate over AV1200 according to the TP-PLC utility. And yet, it's still enough for those things.
For higher bandwidth apps, certainly anything video or backup, I use Wifi bridges - Ubiquiti Unifi NanoHD. If you use Wifi, my advice is not to try bridges, access points and routers from different vendors together. Use a mesh system and add matching components. Don't try to add a cheap 3rd party bridge to your existing setup. There are all kinds of issues with doing that. I have been there, and would never do it again. You can mix access point if you have ethernet throughout your home. But don't mix bridges. If you have no CAT5/CAT6, you are going to have several wifi devices acting as bridges.
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Gotcha-I have mesh, was using Orbi with two Satellites and had some issues, we moved to EERO Amazon Mesh- I will try that as we have 6 stations and I can plug into any. I will let you know!~
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:)% :)% :)% :)% :)% :)% :)% :)% :)%
Brobin, we did it. Thank you so much for the help. The Hub and PLM is now plugged into the same outlet that my Raspi (programmed for automation with Alexa) was lugged into. This is in the main part of the house where the 110v circuit reports directly to my enterence that has the XBRII+ installed.
The old Raspi (which worked) was connected to Router via WiFI. I plugged the SMARTENIT Hub into the ethernet jack on a Sonos Play5.
EVERYTHING NOW WORKS - KUDOS!!!! >! #:)
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Now that the X10 Problem is solved, I am excited to try other features of the HUB.
Does anyone have experience adding IP Cams? I do not have FOSCAM units but have six X!) Airsight cams of various models and five Amazon Blink cams. Has anyone had any luck adding cams other than the Foscam listed in the Smartenit App????
I will also cross post to cam section of Forum.
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:)% :)% :)% :)% :)% :)% :)% :)% :)%
Brobin, we did it. Thank you so much for the help. The Hub and PLM is now plugged into the same outlet that my Raspi (programmed for automation with Alexa) was lugged into. This is in the main part of the house where the 110v circuit reports directly to my enterence that has the XBRII+ installed.
The old Raspi (which worked) was connected to Router via WiFI. I plugged the SMARTENIT Hub into the ethernet jack on a Sonos Play5.
EVERYTHING NOW WORKS - KUDOS!!!! >! #:)
Very happy to hear that! #:) It'd still be nice to find the noise source from the sub-panel but as long as you don't have any controllers there and the XTB-IIR+ blasts through it you can leave that for a rainy day. Happy New Year! >!
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Now that the X10 Problem is solved, I am excited to try other features of the HUB.
Does anyone have experience adding IP Cams? I do not have FOSCAM units but have six X!) Airsight cams of various models and five Amazon Blink cams. Has anyone had any luck adding cams other than the Foscam listed in the Smartenit App????
I will also cross post to cam section of Forum.
I haven't set up any cameras in the P2 as I use it primarily as an Alexa bridge and to send notifications, emails & texts. For example, I have an MS16 motion detector on the front porch that triggers the P2 to send an email and notification when someone approaches the front door. I also have a sensor on my package drop box that does the same thing.
For my 15 cameras I've been using IP Cam Viewer for Android by Richard Chou for well over a decade. It's well supported and handles just about any camera or DVR/NVR you might have including X10 Airsight cameras. I think you'll find it a more sophisticated choice for viewing your cams both for setup and operation.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.rcreations.ipcamviewerBasic&hl=en_US&gl=US
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Well, I just pulled the trigger for the P2 and X10. Since I just last week finally gave in and entered the Alexa ecosystem, I now want to try and integrate the voice capabilities with my old Cm15a which has reliably served me for decades. All I do is have lights (modules and switches) on timers for household lighting.
I added a pair of Alexa enabled switches (Amazon Basics) and 2 Dots to allow my wife to turn on the outside lights by voice when taking the dog out without walking to two different parts of the house to turn on lights. It's working so well, I thought I'd try and expand my limited knowledge and abilities...so will probably be back here for guidance ;-)
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Welcome to the Harmony P2/G2 world! Just holler if you need any help with setting it set up. While you're waiting for it to arrive you can install the app on your Android or IOS phone and set up your account. Then you can go into your Alexa app and get & enable the Smartenit Skill so you can hit the ground running when it arrives.
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Welcome to the Harmony P2/G2 world! Just holler if you need any help with setting it set up. While you're waiting for it to arrive you can install the app on your Android or IOS phone and set up your account. Then you can go into your Alexa app and get & enable the Smartenit Skill so you can hit the ground running when it arrives.
Thanks for the insight, I'll do the setups now and familiarize myself with them.
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Got a new P2? Here's how to get started.
Once you have the P2 and PLM connected and plugged in you can set up your account in the app. Don't forget to open your Alexa app and, under the 'Skills' tab get and enable the Smartenit skill.
Now let's add your X10 devices. In the upper right corner of your app screen tap the green '+' button.
Tap 'Devices' then scroll down to 'Switches/Outlets' and tap it.
Scroll down to and select either 'X10 Appliance Modules' or 'X10 Dimmers' as appropriate. Anything that doesn't dim is an Appliance Module.
Then tap 'Add Now' and enter the name for the device (i.e. Porch Light) and enter the House and Unit code then tap 'Save'
Rinse, Lather, Repeat for each X10 device.
Now if you tap the menu bars in the upper left corner and select 'Devices' you'll see a list of your X10 devices and you can tap the circle to turn them on and off or or adjust brightness by turning the circle.
You'll now be able to see events as they occur.
If you've enabled the Smartenit skill in the Alexa app now would be a good time to tell Alexa to 'Discover Devices' after which you can control them by voice.
By pressing the '+' button you can select 'Automation Rules' and set up whatever schedules/events you like. It's pretty intuitive and very flexible.
Any questions, just holler.
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Hey folks; the post above is right on the money!
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OK, received the P2 and X10 PLM. Got them installed and connected in my mess of a communications hole (literally a space underneath a stair landing, full of internet/stereo stuff with only one outlet)..discovered devices (X10) and Harmony saw all (only 6 X10 light module addresses and one WS467)
So far can turn on/off 5 of the 7 addresses in the app, app shows that all go to 100% but on two no action. These are A2 (module) and A6 (WS467). Interestingly neither A2 or A6 show activity (blinking LED) on the PLM all others do.
With Alexa, Those same two (A2 and A6) show as turned on/off in the app but no LED blink on the PLM, but also A1 gets a 'Living Room doesn't support that' response from Alexa even though A1 works fine in the app.
ETA: forgot to add that all commands, whether LED blinks or not and device works or not, are seen in the event log
Overall, quite easy to set up and happy to have the Alexa ability for X10 devices...probably wont use it much since really X10 is done by the CM15a for on and off at set times for household lighting.
Oh, and one more item...can Harmony control Amazon basics light switches? I just installed two of them but wouldn't know what they would be called in device listing for P2
OK, another ETA: just removed and rediscovered A2 and A6, I can now turn on/off A2 (module) and cn turn ON A6 (WS467) but not OFF. It is set at a preset dim, so wondering if since the app shows 100% whan turned on this affects anything? It does turn on to it's preset dim.
All things considered this has been a very successful hour or so spent to activate the P2 and Alexa integration!
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Make sure that A2 and A6 were set up as X10 Dimmers (assuming A2 is a lamp module). You can see how they're set up by logging into your account at https://console.smartenit.io/ and clicking on 'Devices' to see details.
I don't use Amazon light switches but I believe they are ZigBee devices. The P2 has the capability to control ZigBee devices with a ZigBee dongle from Smartenit but I have no experience with that. You might want to contact support about that.
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Make sure that A2 and A6 were set up as X10 Dimmers (assuming A2 is a lamp module). You can see how they're set up by logging into your account at https://console.smartenit.io/ (https://console.smartenit.io/) and clicking on 'Devices' to see details.
Yep, both set up as X10 dimmers (it's the switch - A6 - that still has issues, but nothing I can't live with)
I don't use Amazon light switches but I believe they are ZigBee devices. The P2 has the capability to control ZigBee devices with a ZigBee dongle from Smartenit but I have no experience with that. You might want to contact support about that.
Yeah, ALexa already controls them, so I won't be adding a Zigbee dongle...thanks though
Oh, and as others have mentioned, the Smartenit app does not register correct device state when commands come from another controller. My lights all came on tonight as usual with the CM15a and app shows all at 0% and nothing in the events log...
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I've tested mine several times and it always tracks the status of commands from other controllers successfully. I do have a very robust X10 signal throughout my home with an XTB-IIR+ installed. Do you have any type of X10 coupler/repeater installed? The issue you describe sounds like a noise problem. You may want to plug the PLM into an outlet on the same circuit as your other controller. For testing, try a mini/maxi controller plugged into the same out let as the PLM. Do NOT plug the PLM into a power strip as most of them reduce signal strength.
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Thanks, I'll try some other testing with a palm pad or even the WM100. It's not critical that I see the CM15a commands sent or the device states, just would like to open Harmony app and see correct status.
I do have a Smarthome 4816 SignaLinc.
My CM15a can control lamp modules 125ft away out in the yard on the end of an extension cord for Christmas lights, so signal generally travels well in my house
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This is a picture of My home screen for the p2 hub; does it look Ok as far as set up? I tried out the devices I set up. Some work, some don't.
I placed the file here as an attachment. Please let me know if it can be seen. thanks
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@brobin: I know you're working several member setups right now....
Commands sent from a palm pad (to CM15a for execution) are registered and the state of device is updated
Commands sent from the WM100 app (to WM100 for execution) are registered and the state of device is updated
Commands sent from CM15a as part of a timer setup in AHP are neither registered in event log nor updated in device state
And a new one...my wife went to bed early and I just noticed she had dimmed the bedroom lights from the bedside mini controller and the device state in Harmony shows 100%
Still some more testing to do but all in all I'm really satisfied with the Harmony/PLM setup and the Alexa integration. It will allow me to set up skills and routines for voice commands and also have something else to depend on for backup other than the WM100 if the CM15a dies or when away and needing remote control (that's actually why I bought the WM100, for remote access in the event of a power outage...after power back up I could access device status and command history since CM15a would not keep time....)
Thanks for the suggestion and assistance.
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AFAIK, the only thing that would prevent the P2 from seeing the X10 commands would be weak or noisy signals. I can send commands from my Stagate or mini/maxi controllers and see the changes in the app. Since that's true for you from some devices but not others I'm wondering if the ones that don't update are on one leg and the others are on the same leg as the P2. That may also explain the A2 & A6 issue.
You may have mentioned it but what are you're using as a coupler/repeater if anything?
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One thing you may or may not have to take into consideration.
If the CM15A is using the X10 Extended command to set the dimmer.
The PLM may not process the message. From the CM15A.
The PLM is based on an "old" x10 protocol similar to that used by the PCS Smartswitches. These devices used "preset Dim" and standard "Dim" commands.
X10 brand, Leviton, and other manufacturers conform to a "newer" X10 standard that uses "extended code Direct Dim" and standard "Dim" commands.
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Brian H hit the nail on the head. Based on the test results that explains why the P2 doesn't update on CM15A dim commands but does for On/Off commands. The PLM ignores the X10 Extended Codes. Other than not updating the status in the app you can still have the P2 dim the devices.
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It should see the Standard X10 commands.
Like full on and dim down commands sent to dim it down.
I have no idea if the P2 could process it.
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This chilly winter evening (it's 69F here, brrrr) I did some testing on dimming status with the P2. The P2 status updates On & Off from other controllers correctly. It does NOT update Dim/Bright commands from my Stargate (TW523) or from a Maxi Controller. It DOES send all commands properly and will reflect the status from all commands sent from the P2. It would appear that the P2 just ignores received Dim/Bright. This may be a P2 firmware issue rather than having anything to do with the PLM.
So, if you tell Alexa to "Set Desk Lamp to 60%" the P2 will do so and the status and event log will update. If you have a timer in a WM100 or CM15A or just use a PalmPad then Dim/Bright commands will not be updated in the status or event log but On/Off will.
Smartenit never envisioned much of an X10 user base and concentrated more on Insteon and ZigBee. IMO, the only reason they did anything with X10 is that the Insteon PLM is X10 compatible and they've always supported X10 as part of the Insteon capability. They've been taken somewhat by surprise by the number of X10 users that have purchased the P2 to use primarily as an Alexa/GH bridge. With the number of X10 users they now have perhaps they could be convinced to update the firmware to accommodate dim/bright status if enough users care to send support requests for it.
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I will do some more testing as well and once I have a set of instances that I can easily repeat where the P2 does or doesn't do what's asked or does or doesn't log the correct command or status, either from WM100, CM15a or Alexa, I will craft an email to their support group. As you say, can't hurt to try and also to let them know how many of us are out here!
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Another thing I noticed about dimming is that when my Stargate sends a command to set a level at 60% the lamp will turn on at 100% then quickly and smoothly ramp down to 60%. The Stargate log then shows:
XMIT: B2
XMIT: B (Multiple) Dims
but when I tell Alexa to do the same thing the P2 turns on at 100% and then dims in discrete steps down to 60% and shows up in the Stargate log as:
RECV: B2
RECV: B DIM
RECV: B DIM
RECV: B DIM
RECV: B DIM
None of this matters to me since I use the P2 to trigger events in the Stargate rather than control anything directly. IOW, when I tell Alexa to "turn on Desk Lamp" the P2 sends X10 command 'N2-ON' which triggers the Stargate to turn on the Desk Lamp at 60%.
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I understand the SmartHome PLM is no longer being manufactured, and pre-owned units are expensive if they can be found at all.
For those of you using the Smartenit Harmony to control just X10 devices, I converted the XTB-232 to emulate the PLM's X10 protocol. I'm using it in our own home to provide an X10 interface for Alexa.
https://jvde.us/xtb-xm/
Jeff
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Hey Jeff-still using your equipment and the Smartenit Harmony, works like a charm. Glad to see all are still here.
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Does the Harmony G2 work with the CM15a PLM or would I need to order the Smartlabs PLM?
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You would need the Smartlabs PLM which they will bundle with the G2. Under "Choose an option" select the "Add Insteon/X10 PLM" for the bundled price of $204.99. The CM-11A is not compatible.
The Harmony PICO which does not require a PLM is in the works but no release date has been set.
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As pointed out.
You need an Insteon 2412U or 2413U. USB interfaced PLM.
Smartenit still has some in the options choices. Their choice to what they may have at the moment.
The PLM is very hard to find. As the company closed earlier this year but some of the employees are starting a new company. The 2413 style PLM also has a power supply issue. With poorly chosen capacitors in a switching power supply. Later revisions had better caps.
Like the CM11A the CM15A will not work. They are X10 controllers not a PLM interface to the outside world.
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Just to cover all options, the 2412S & 2413S serial versions will work with a serial-to-USB adapter. Best to get the 2412U with the G2 for best price and a warranty.
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Brian, Brobin, Thanks for the help!!
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Just to cover all options, the 2412S & 2413S serial versions will work with a serial-to-USB adapter.
So will the XTB-XM, which delivers a much stronger signal than the Insteon products.
Jeff
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There was a Smartenit server outage last night (1/15/24) - all good today.
Had me scratching my head but though it might be a server issue. I emailed them this morning and got the reply below. Everything came back as it should BUT I had to disable and reenable the Smartenit skill in the Alexa app.
From Smartenit:
"Hi Bruce,
The app is back up and running. Close the app and then open it again and all should be fine. The console is no longer available for some time now.
Huge apologies for the inconvenience.
Best regards,
Suzanne "Sammy" Korotie
Corporate and Sales Administrator
Smartenit, Inc.
1 Technology Drive, Ste D405
Irvine, CA 92618
Phone: (949) 429-3303 ext. 1
Fax: (949) 238-2552
https://smartenit.com/"
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There was a Smartenit server outage last night (1/15/24) - all good today.
Had me scratching my head but though it might be a server issue. I emailed them this morning and got the reply below. Everything came back as it should BUT I had to disable and reenable the Smartenit skill in the Alexa app
Hey, glad to see this post...wondering why Alexa was not finding devices! It's still happening to me as well and Alexa even said I have to reenable the skill....but I can't even find the skill in Alexa...I must have it or she wouldn't communicate with Smartenit, correct?
How do you do that in the app? Thanks!
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There was a Smartenit server outage last night (1/15/24) - all good today.
Had me scratching my head but though it might be a server issue. I emailed them this morning and got the reply below. Everything came back as it should BUT I had to disable and reenable the Smartenit skill in the Alexa app
Hey, glad to see this post...wondering why Alexa was not finding devices! It's still happening to me as well and Alexa even said I have to reenable the skill....but I can't even find the skill in Alexa...I must have it or she wouldn't communicate with Smartenit, correct?
How do you do that in the app? Thanks!
Wow, never mind...I just didn't find the skill in the app because I didn't hit enter when I searched....age related brain farts are getting more and more common....I did have to disable and reenable as well before I could control my X10 devices. Of course Alexa would control amazon switches, etc, just not X10 through Smartenit...
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It took me a minute to find it too. Every time I open the Alexa app they've changed things, generally for the worse!
To get to the skill:
1. Open the Alexa app and at the very bottom tap 'MORE';
2. Halfway down on the right side tap 'Skills & Games,';
3. Scroll all the way to the VERY bottom and tap 'Your Skills';
4 Scroll down till you find the 'Smartenit Skill.'
5. Click 'Disable and confirm then;
6. Click 'Enable,' enter your Smartenit login info and you'll be back in biz!
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It took me a minute to find it too. Every time I open the Alexa app they've changed things, generally for the worse! To get to the skill, open the Alexa app and at the very bottom tap 'MORE' then halfway down on the right side tap 'Skills & Games,' then scroll all the way to the very bottom and tap 'Your Skills' then scroll down till you find the 'Smartenit Skill.' Click 'Disable and confirm then click 'Enable,' enter your Smartenit login info and you'll be back in biz!
Thanks for the summary...interestingly enough, when I got to 'your skills' there were none listed, although it says 25 enabled...I had ended up searching for 'Smartenit' under the skills page and it came up then allowed me to disable and then enable and login...
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I had that happen too but they came up after about 20 seconds. Glad you found it and have it working again.
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Another user here PM'd me about problems he was having getting his P2 to reconnect after the recent server outage. I provided the following steps and he's up and running again so I thought I'd post them here for all to see:
If closing the app, rebooting the phone and reopening the app doesn't work do the following:
1. Unplug the P2/G2 from everything - power, Ethernet and the PLM.
2. Wait 1 full minute and plug everything back in. The IP address should show up in your router's connection list.
3. Open the app and see what's there.
4. If the P2/G2 isn't shown try adding it under devices by tapping the + button.
5. Wait 15 minutes. It took almost that long for mine to reconnect and display the green dot after the outage.
6. Open the Alexa app, disable the Smartenit skill and then re-enable it.
Everything should come back just as it was but the other user has the IOS version of the app and found that he had to re-enter his devices. I don't know if that was unique to him or not.
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Hey @brobin do you know if the Smartenit servers went down again? Just got home and Alexa is asking me to run through the restart of the skill again...
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EDIT: I had to the same thing but server appears have remained up.
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Hi Brobin
My smartenit-P2 is not working again for last few days. I have unplugged and re plugged many times but no effect. this is what is happening:
after re plugging, I try to add Harmoney-P2. After a while could be even longer than 30 min., it appears in the app. I start to add other devices and after the 2nd device, it says, the hub is of line, when in reality it is connected. I just wont let me add any more devices.
I tried to test the device that is added, Nothing happens except the dot turns red and icon goes dim.
I don't know what else to do. May be P2 is gone bad!
Would appreciate your help.
Thanks.
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You may want to see if the power supply is OK.
I have seen some of them go after years of working.
Killed in my case a DSL Interface, ISY99i, ISY994i.
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I can tell you that it's not a server issue because mine is working. As BrianH suggests, try a different power supply as one that's failing could be the issue.
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Well just to let you know the system is back on. It stared working just as it had stopped working. All i did, instead of getting frustrated, left the system alone for couple of day. Left a message for smartenit. By the time they replied, every thing came back on line. I did not have any problem adding devices.
It is working better than before. I have no clue what happened.
Thanks.
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That's good to hear. No idea why that happened.
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Saturday 10:25PM Eastern....wondering if the Smartenit servers are down again.
Lost Alexa X-10 interface, hardware checks out but cannot re enable the skill due to connection to Smartenit
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Same thing here. Will call 949.429.3303 on Monday morning and I emailed sales@smartenit.com. Please report it as well so they see it.
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>*<
here since last night. Smartenit-P2 is not connecting.
Smartenit claim to have so many good reliable home automation products. I hope they are not like P2.This is the third time that in about a month that it is down, I am seriously thinking of switching to some more reliable system.
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I just sent a email to Smartenit. Hopefully they can take care of it soon.
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Right now, it's a server outage. The problem you had before appears to be something else. Could have been a local internet or router issue but if everything else was good, I'd try a different power supply as wall warts can and do fail while still appearing to work.
I bought a Broadlink RM4 Pro that transmits to a CM15a (any X10 transceiver will do) to use as a backup. Since I don't use it daily I don't know if they've had any server issues.
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Where do I get Broadlink RM4? Does it work with Alexa?
Is your system back? Mine is not yet.
Thanks for your response.
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As of the time of this post the Smartenit server is back up and all is working normally! :)%
This the RM4 Pro that I bought as it states that it works with 315MHz:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B096TXWMPV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Use a Palm Pad to teach X10 codes to the RM4 Pro through its app. Any X10 transceiver will receive the signals. I had a CM15a on hand so I used that as it receives all housecodes. The CM15a needs no set up - just plug it in near the RM4 Pro. Once the RM4 Pro learns the codes tell Alexa to discover devices and you're in business.
NOTE: Not all RM4 Pro's handle 315MHz (which has a wide enough bandwidth to cover the 310MHz used by X10). I recommend buying the same one I did at the above link.
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I received a response to the email I sent to Smartenit last night and they said it was an AWS server issue (Amazon) and is now resolved. I'm impressed that they responded and fixed it on a Sunday.
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I got a response today as well, with the same AWS info. Glad they took care of it and responded as well, shows they care.
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I suspect that this may have been a more far reaching issue with AWS as my iAqualink Jandy pool controller had the same issue starting and ending at about the same time.
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I''ve generally been very pleases wih Smartenit Service and Apps. I use an Android Samsung phone and have no difficulty accessing the interface by the App;BUT, no so much luck trying to access the interface from my desktop computer :(
When I point my brower to the URL I getg the login page, put in my information, but when I hit login it just sits ???? Is the URL site down? I get the graphics, with nothing "behind the curtain". >*<
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Yes, it's gone. The 'console.smartenit.io' function stopped working months ago and, from what I understand from the last time I asked, it's not coming back. :-[
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Yes, it's gone. The 'console.smartenit.io' function stopped working months ago and, from what I understand from the last time I asked, it's not coming back. :-[
That's the problem relying on anything that requires communication outside the home. I gave up with Alexa controlling our theater lighting through Smartent. A simple PalmPad triggering a gradual dim macro has the reliability back to 100%.
Jeff
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Where do I get Broadlink RM4? Does it work with Alexa?
Is your system back? Mine is not yet.
Thanks for your response.
@ips sent you a PM
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HEY GUYS - IT's Back .....................................
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Good to hear. I don't use the web console often but I'm glad they fixed it.