Topic: Using an o'scope (Read 2578 times)

merkelck · « **on:** March 05, 2009, 03:42:51 PM »

Can someone give me some ideas as to how to connect a scope to the power line to observe valid X10 signals and check for noise or interference?
Thanks
Kent

Brian H · « **Reply #1 on:** March 05, 2009, 04:29:15 PM »

http://www.idobartana.com/hakb/index.htm
Near the bottom of the left side of choices is a scope adapter.
USE CARE PLEASE.
One incorrect connection or touch could bring a nasty surprise.

I believe ACT use to make essentially the same one shown in the How To.
http://www.act-solutions.com/PCC/pdfs/PCCInst/scopetest2_instr.pdf

Good X10 troubleshooting data links:
http://www.act-solutions.com/PCC/uncle.htm
http://jvde.us/x10_troubleshooting.htm

Brian H · « **Reply #2 on:** March 05, 2009, 05:56:00 PM »

Forgot to give you my test setup.

I have an X10Pro XPCP Coupler in a electrical box.
Line cord to one phase terminals and a set of Binding Posts mounted on the electrical box. Connected to the other phase terminals. I loaded it with a 10 Ohm resistor. Can't say if the voltage is accurate on the scope with that load, but with the sweep triggered by the Line I can see the signals clearly.

merkelck · « **Reply #3 on:** March 05, 2009, 10:05:08 PM »

Brian,
Great info including the web sites. The scope adapter will be no problem to build. In fact, my scope is the same one from the article.
My set up is the AHP with a modified CM15A connected to an XTB hooked on a line directly to the load center. I have the phase coupler in the LC as well as a 20amp line filter that goes directly to my computer setup/UPS systems. I have plugin filters on the wife's computer/UPS that is running her sewing machines. A four bulb fluorescent light in her room is causing intermittent operation of two different x10 devices running incandescent lamps. When that light is on, I really have no control over those two devices. But turn that light off and they work every time. Of course, those two devices are run by timers for security purposes, and if I am not there when they are commanded to OFF, they stay on all night unless one of us notices they are still on. I have a wire in filter installed right at the light fixture.
So I thought it might be interesting to look at the signal and see if it is a noise problem or is the light just sucking the signal away.
Thanks for the help

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Author Topic: Using an o'scope (Read 2578 times)

merkelck

Using an o'scope

Brian H

Re: Using an o'scope

Brian H

Re: Using an o'scope

merkelck

Re: Using an o'scope