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[eagle]

Hi,

Just thought I'd share something that works for me.

There is a module that sometimes doesn't respond to off commands via PLC.

I have a lamp controlled by an appliance module that responds fine from an ActiveEye sensor On command.

It however responds intermittently to the sensor Off command. 

I've confirmed this by performing multiple tests and closely watching the Activity Monitor report.

In those instances when it doesn't respond, we have to use a PalmPad to turn the lamp off.

To overcome that, I've created a simple macro that sends an RF Off command triggered by a sensor Off command.  For good measure, I parallel it with a PLC Off command also.  By doing this I've essentially created a virtual signal repeater.

The appliance module now responds flawlessly.

I need to add that I have a couple of TM571s strategically located in the house away from the CM15A.  I'm surmising that the CM15A which is closest to the source sensor is not generating a strong enough signal to reach the target appliance module.  So, by sending a macro generated RF off command, one of the TM571s receives it, transmits a PLC off to the appliance module which it receives "loud and clear" and turns the lamp off.

ymmv.

r,
eagle

[HA Dave]

........... I need to add that I have a couple of TM571s strategically located in the house away from the CM15A. 

It could be... that your solution is your problem.

Those TM571s are such a dependable little unit... I understand it can be difficult to pull them all from a system. But the same thing that makes the TM571 so robust... makes them to difficult to work with on a smarter (CM15A) system. The TM571 is pron to causing signal collisions. If you do feel a need to use one (or two) at least don't transceive that same house code with the CM15A as the TM571.

I messed around with TM571's and the nicer (polite) RR501 for way longer than I like to admit. It wasn't till I fixed my phase issue.. with a $20 (on sale) passive phase coupler. And then performed a much needed antenna modification to my CM15A that my setup became 100% reliable.

I've only recently added a couple filters. One for the wife's desktop PC and another for a small LCD TV. And that wasn't until I reviewed the XTBM for This Automated House. Being able to "see" the noise problem (and solution) made cleaning up my powerline a comman sense preventative measure. Jeff also makes a nice (I've read TONS of great reviews) repeater. My home doesn't seem to need more than what I have. But if my home was larger... I think I'd jump for a good strong repeater as well.

[eagle]

Thanks Dave.

I actually only had the CM15A when I started the installation.

After much testing with limited success, I then added the TM571s.

Voila!  The system worked as planned.  I was thinking about investing on a phase coupler and an XTBR, but no longer.  I have excellent performance from every component in my installation.

Every installation is unique in that every house is built differently with the materials used for walls/insulation, wiring distances, outlet and breaker panel locations, proximity to utility transformers, electronics/appliances, etc.  And that is just the house itself and not including the external factors that may also impact the x10 system performance.

Like I said, ymmv.   This may not work for others but it does for me.



r,
eagle

[Brian H]

Also depending on how old the TM751 is. The newer ones have the same receiver board in them as the CM15A and unlike the CM15A mine has a great receiving distance compared to an older TM751.

[eagle]

Thanks Brian.  I got them not too long (Dec timeframe). 

I realize that my solution and setup probably aren't perfect or ideal, but fortunately it works and works well.  Is there really a perfect setup?  There's always more than one way to skin a cat right? 

But if anything new crops up that negatively impacts the system as I'm sure there will be like the contants of death and taxes, then I'll pursue other possibilities including but not limited to the RR01s, phase coupler, XTBR, etc.

That's what makes this a fun little project I suppose.  It's a work in progress project. 

r,
eagle

[HA Dave]

.... Every installation is unique in that every house is built differently with the materials used for walls/insulation, wiring distances, outlet and breaker panel locations, proximity to utility transformers, electronics/appliances, etc.  And that is just the house itself and not including the external factors that may also impact the x10 system performance.

Your so right! I only meant to point out.. as a troubleshooting guide.. you may need revisit this part of your setup again at some point.

.... That's what makes this a fun little project I suppose. It's a work in progress project. 

That is the hardest part of my Home Automation projects... for me to remember. I can very easily forget that a uncompleted project isn't the same as a nonworking household appliance. Taking the time to enjoy the process of creating my setup is something I have to continually work on. Often I can get so involved in a project... it can consume my time and energy till completed.

[eagle]

Yes, sir.  I've got that logged on my data bank of items to investigate if/when a problem arises.  I think I'm finally getting a handle on the troubleshooting flow.   

And affirmative on the work in progress.  A single instance of a cantankerous module can consume one's time to an excess.  Confident that you can fix it, you become almost hilariously obsessed with your drive to find that elusive solution.  Present company included.    But it's all in good clean fun. 

Right now, the only remaining project that remains on my plate is the F-connector mod/DIY antenna.  I simply haven't tackled it because the system is working just fine, so it is spoiling me to laziness. 

r,
eagle