intermittant module operation and cross phase problems

[weatherctr]

I have problems getting signals from one
room to another and extremely hard getting
across electric phases. I have used phase
bridges andthey don't work.

[Brian H]

Maybe a noise problem. Try selectively
unplugging things like TVs Computers Surge
Strips. All can generate noise or absorbe
signals. My APC BX1000 UPS has a surge
suppressor in it thet absorbed over 60% of
my signals. I had to add an X10 Type Line
Filter to it's AC Line Input.

[al]

Brian,
What is the X10 Type Line Filter and where
do you get them.  I have a floodcam with a
chime and the chime works during the day but
not at night when the flood light comes on.
Will the phase Coupler & Amp help these
problems?
Thanks,
AL

[Brian H]

I got mine from.
www.automatedoutlt.com
Mine is a Smarthome 1626-10 10 Amp one.
There is a 1626 that is a 5 amp. ACT makes
the AF120 that is a 15 amp and has an
external fuse if you accidently blow it. I
know that X10Pro also makes one but the part
number I don't remember.

[street]

This probably sounds like a stupid question,
but, how would I know how many amps I would
need in a line filter?

[Puck]

This probably sounds like a stupid question,
but, how would I know how many amps I would
need in a line filter?

An older question on the board, but certainly one that a lot of non-technical users would probably have.

All electric appliances have a power rating label.
So basically add up the maximum current totals:

• Some appliances state that maximum Current directly
• Some appliances state WATTS, so Current = WATTS / 120
• Some appliances state VA... this is basically another way of stating AC WATTS*... so Current = VA / 120

If the total is less than 5, then the 5 Amp filters will do fine, else use a larger one that your total will be less than.

*Worse case (as shown) is what you should use when determining current for a filter... VA Amps will actually be less than worse case depending on if the load is inductive or capacitive.

[Brian H]

Some filters have a built in slow blow fuse; Smarthome's for one. So momentary motor surge currents on startup should not be a problam.
Filters not made for the X10 signal band may kill the X10 signals while others here have used generic filters with no problems.

[gil shultz]

Your problem is probably relatively simple.  Most electronic appliances (toys) have input filters on the power line as do UPS s etc.  First pick several units that are very marginal or do not work.  Then unplug all of your electronics.  They work the X-10, it probably works just fine.  Then slowly start plugging in the electrons and keep testing the X-10, you will eventually find your problem(s).
Gil Shultz