Print

Please login or register.
1 Hour 1 Day 1 Week 1 Month Forever
Login with username, password and session length

[Dodge]

 
I have had an X-10 system for years and last night the system locked up.  I am using a CM15A, a wireless remote control and a wireless controller.  I also have an old direct plug in controller.  I am using wired in units as well as plug in appliance and lamp modules.
Last night the system locked and the modules turned on can not be turned off and those off, can not be turned on.  I tried removing the modules from the outlet and reinstalling them and they are still dead. I tried removing all the units and working one of them in the same outlet the remote and direct plug in unit with no luck.  I have reset the CM15A and tried re-download the info to the CM15 but the PC (XP) will not download.  BUT if I remove the CM15 from the AC outlet (running on batteries) it downloads just fine.
I am out of ideas.
Any help out there?

[JimC]

Start up AHP on your computer and look at the activity monitor. are you seeing a content stream of data. If so you will need to find the source. Could be the CM15a has gone bad or it could be a stuck button on one of your devices.

[Dodge]

If I remove the CM15 from the AC outlet, the system should work with the wirless remote or the old direct plug in unit?  It does not.

[Bill H]

If you are using a phase coupler/amplifier in your system, some will "loop," causing constant data to be duplicated (also called a data storm). The problem prevents all other commands from being sent over the line (seems to lock up) and the AHP will have no affect (although you should see the commands running in the Activity Monitor). The only cure is to change the coupler
or, if possible,  change the characteristics of the coupler you're using. Suggested models have been discussed elsewhere.

[Dodge]

Thanks, that makes sense and will do what you suggest.......
However, at 4:30 pm all systems came back and all works well at this time.
Thanks   

[Bill H]

That happens--the system suddenly stops duplicating commands as quickly as they started. Next time as it happens, check the Activity Monitor to prove the problem. Good Luck!

[dave w]

FWIW
A stuck button on a controller will also make the system appear to be locked up.

[Brian H]

I think we even saw a post from someone that had their remote slip into the chairs back. Sticking the signal on until the batteries died. 

[dave w]

More FWIW

I use SmartHome model 4071,  X10 controllers which are very nice controllers if one has a large system spanning several House Codes.  With the door closed the 10 buttons protruding through the cover can be programmed to send any X10 code. When the cover is opened, a plethora of buttons allows one to select any HC and UC followed by the command. 

http://www.smarthome.com/4071.html

However I have had two of these fine instruments accidentally flood the lines with X10 DIM codes when the lid jammed down a button when closed. A delicate  re-alignment of the cover lid with a hammer fixed the problem(s). However since I had the same problem with two units (out of six) it might be worthy of passing on in the event others own this controller also.

[Waynemor]

I have seen another cause for exactly what you describe. If you are using Hawkeye style motion sensors they can cause problems.
When the Hawkeye's batteries start to weaken this can cause a data storm on the house code it is set for. Don't ask me why, I just know that I have seen it more than once, so now when things stop working, checking the Hawkeyes is on my list of must do's.
I hope this helps.