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[JeffVolp]

I have been working on an enhanced version of the plug-in XTB that will include a basic repeater capability.  It will also incorporate some of the features of the XTB-IIR, including command storm shutdown.

I am looking for someone who presently owns the plug-in XTB to beta test one in the near future.  Since there will only be one beta unit available, this should be used in a challenging installation.  The controller should be a CM15A that will be plugged directly into the XTBr.  A good “tuned circuit” passive coupler, such as the XPCP, should be installed at the distribution panel.

When the beta test is over, I would like the beta unit returned, along with a written summary report.  Assuming the test goes well, I will replace it with a “production” unit at no charge when it becomes available.

For anyone interested, please give me an overview of your system.

Thanks,

Jeff

[Don N]

Jeff,  I would be interested in beta testing your enhanced version of the XTB.  I have your current version of XTB.  My CM15A controller is plugged into the XTB.  However, I do not have an XPCP installed at the distribution panel.  Instead I have a 4816B2 SignaLinc Plug-In Phase Coupler plugged into a 220V dryer circuit.

[steven r]

My setup is similar to Don's.

[JeffVolp]

Thank you fellows for responding.  I will be responding to both of you by PM.

Jeff

[x10dude]

Hey Jeff,

I've read all about your amplifier. It's quite possible that that's what I need. I do have a larger home. I've moved all my non-240v lines to a single phase and have added a coupler/repeater to my circuit box, plus I've filtered just about everything I can think off.

Will this version of the XTBr allow me to amplify per phase? or is it still limited to a single "sender" connection?

I know you have your specific beta-testing requirements, but if you're looking for a larger house with more-than-average "noise hogs", let me know.

Thanks,

Frank

[JeffVolp]

First, I have three good candidates for the beta test.  It will be hard to choose among them, so I am afraid I don't need anyone else offering to help.  Sorry...

The XTBr will still do direct X10 Boost like the present unit, but it will also offer the ability to repeat any X10 commands received on its own phase.  Due to the size constraint, it will not have a digital port for TW523 emulation, and it won't have quite as much output power as its bigger brother.

Basically, it is intended to go between your CM15A and the wall socket like the present unit, but it will also boost commands sent by X10 transmitters located remotely.  With X10 devices on both phases, a good tuned-circuit passive coupler must be installed near the distribution panel.  And, because X10 signals quickly lose their strength as they propagate away from the transmitter, best performance will be obtained when the XTBr is relatively close to the distribution panel.

Even if the beta test goes well, this unit is still months away.  It depends on how much time I have available for this project.  Unfortunately, most of the next month must be dedicated to the IRS.   

Jeff


 

[JeffVolp]

I sent private messages to both of you fellows asking for more information.  I will have a beta unit ready to ship Monday, but the firmware does not yet support extended codes.  Since I only have one beta unit, I thought it could be shared by both of you - say a month in each installation.  I have to decide who gets it first, and will need a shipping address.

Please get back to me via PM or use my normal email address.

Thanks,

Jeff

[JeffVolp]

I wanted to issue a status report on this project.  Beta units have been used at several locations.  One issue was identified in a combined X10/Insteon system.  A firmware change that incorporates complete error testing before re-transmission has apparently resolved that problem.  Because all my X10 devices are on a single phase, I have been running the prototype in place of my XTB-IIR for several months with complete success.

The plan now is to phase in the XTBR sometime this fall.  When it is first introduced, it may only be available as an assembled unit, with the simpler XTB still offered as a kit.

Jeff