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[Georgie]

A MiniTimer that both manually and automatically controls several Lamp Modules and an Appliance Module just fine, sometimes won't either manually or automatically control the Appliance Module, typically in the evening.  I have XPPF isolators at offending locations and a Dryer Outlet phase coupler installed.   

It seems as though there is some interference causing this, but an older Timer and several mini controllers function just fine!  Why is only the MiniTimer affected, and how might I fix this?

[Brian H]

Have you tried one of the relable controllers in the outlet the MiniTimer is connected to?
Maybe also trying the MiniTimer in question in an outlet where the relable one are being used.

My setup all of a sudden is also going down hill. So I will be on a mission myself. To find the problem causing events. 

[Georgie]

Yes, I've tried replacing the module with one I know works.

Does the MiniTimer send a shorter pulse than older timers and than manual signals?  Perhaps that would explain this.

If so, how can I get one of the original versions?

[Brian H]

I don't know if the new model sends a shorter message. I kind of doubt it as X10 usually sends messages twice to be more reliable.
Now maybe it has a lower signal strength, but that is only a thought. I have no idea of the old versus new modal signals.
I don't think X10 has the older models anymore. You may find them on other automation vendors web sites or EBay.

[Georgie]

Thanks!

Does anyone have any more ideas about how to make the MiniTimer more reliable?

Georgie

[Brian H]

This is the new MT12A with LCD readout?
Just wanted to make sure I had the correct Mini-Timer in mind.

[Georgie]

Yes, that's the one.... with a "brick" power supply.

[dave w]

Georgie,
My money is with Brian's thoughts that the new Mini Timer simply has a weaker signal output compared to the older stuff...especially since it uses a separate power supply. If it does have lower output (a signal level meter would confirm this) I can only think of four options, perhaps others can be more helpful.

Offered in no particular order:
1. Based on your thought of "interference", unplug stuff until things start working.. locate the  noise generator or "signal sucker" that is possibly causing the problem.
2. Move the Mini Timer to different outlets to see if a more centralized location (electrically central to breaker panel, not necessarily physical)  will work better.
3. Dump the poo-poo Smarthome Dryer Outlet coupler for a XTB II or an ACT amplifer/coupler.
4. It may be unique to YOUR unit, get X10 to exchange it.

[Brian H]

Well I see on the X10 web site there is now the one you have [I think] MT12A and a newer MT13A [has a dim capabilities]. 
Anyway short test today.
XPCP Coupler. One input on power line other on an oscilloscope with a 10 Ohm Load. ACT CR134 Repeater coupler off.

MT12A New MiniTimer  4.25 VPP
Radio Shack 49-1000 Security Console [OEM from X10 and has wall wart interface] 4.5 VPP
SC503A Maxi-Controller  5.5  VPP
TR16A Telephone Responder 5.0 VPP
PSC01 Powerflash 5.5 VPP
TM751 Old Style Tranceiver 5.5 VPP
TM751 New Style Tranceiver 5.75 VPP
CM15A Older revision 5.75 VPP
RR501 Tranceiver Tried two to verify. They may have a power supply that is limited. 6.5 VPP  With +4 V and clamped -2.5 V.

You could be correct. If the TM12A is in a system where the signals are marginal. The older MiniTimer may work and the new one not. I don't have the older MT10A to compare the new one to.

Added module: I just got my hands on the new MT13A Mini Timer. It has the exact same wall wart power supply XM18A; as the MT12A. So my guess is it also will have a lower output.

[Georgie]

Dave:

Thanks for the good suggestions!  I've tried some of them before and concluded my neighbor must be generating some interference, but (stupidly?) didn't think to move the MiniTimer closer to the Module I'm trying to control.  They are  now both plugged into the same (duplex) outlet. It works fine now (at 3:30 PM); we'll see hoe it does through the troublesome evening hours....  and I'll keep you tuned!

Brian:

WOW!  Thanks for doing all that testing and reporting the results! You've undoubtedly found the reason.  Those data suggest the output of the MiniTimer is a volt or so lower than a typical controller.  You don't list the ones I have (PHC01, IR543, and a RadioShack version of the older mini timer (with rocker switches and the 4-position RUN, PROG SET, PROG REVIEW and SET CLOCK switch), but you've tested enough of these babies to give strong support for thinking a weaker output signal is the culprit!  Many thanks!  As I mentioned above, I'll let you know if moving the MiniTimer does enough to overpower the interference.

Cheers to you both!!

Georgie

[Georgie]

I'm now officially a "happy camper"!

Moving the MiniTimer solved the problem.

Many thanks Dave and Brian!!

.........Georgie

[Brian H]

Glad it helped and you now have a spot where the new mini-timer works.