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[Gatman]

After reading a few posts on the forums, it appears that I am not alone when I say that I am not happy having to replace a socket rocket everytime a bulb burns out and shorts the rocket with it.  So here is my question.

The socket rockets are in locations that currently have 3 way switches, which are obviously left on to allow the socket rocket to function.  I would like to install a wall switch module in one of the 2 switches to replace the socket rockets.  I would like to use a wall switch module that will allow 13 or 20 watt CFL's to be used properly.  Do I have to buy the companion to make the light switch work.  Understand it will be controlled completely by palm pad or motion sensor, no dimming required.

<http://cgi.ebay.com/3PK-X-10-XPS3-FREE-SHIPPING-/170403041244?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item27acd00fdc>

Will this work without needing the companion switch?

Thanks for your time.

[Dan Lawrence]

Firstly, what addresses do the Socket Rockets have?   It's very strange to have X10 controlled Socket Rockets that are in a circuit controlled by standard 3-way switches, why did you do that?

[Gatman]

Maybe I am confusing you, and I apologize if I am.  At the bottom of the steps to the 2nd floor is a light switch on the bannister and a light fixture mounted on the ceiling.  At the top of the steps is another ceiling mounted fixture and light switch.  Traditionally, either light switch would turn on BOTH light fixtures.  In my current configuration, I have 2 socket rockets configured a G7 and G10.  Despite being on the same switch, they turn on and off independently.  I have motion sensors at the top and bottom of the stairs to turn on the respective light.  It is nice for those late night bathroom visits.

Since I am using 2 socket rockets with incandescent bulbs, I do find myself replacing the bulbs and rockets at the same time.  I would like to remove the rockets and replace both incandescent bulbs with CFL's.  I am OK with having both lights come on simultaneously rather than independent if that creates a cost savings by using CFL's and not replacing parts as often.

Does my current setup seem like it should not work?

Will the above ebay link work for my scenario?

TIA

[Brian H]

Maybe not as common as a table lamp on a outlet using a Socket Rocket.
Having them in fixtures that are controlled by wall switches should be fine if you leave the switches on.

Now CFLs need a non dimming type wall switch like the X10 WS13A or X10Pro XPS3. They need a Neutral power wire in the switch box besides the Line and Load.

Many switch boxes do not have the Neutral wire but depending on the exact wiring in your. Sometimes you can rearrange the connections to get a Neutral where it is needed. 

You do  need a slave switches in the other position.
Two masters WS13A or XPS3 can not be used together as a pair.

The companion X10 WS14 or X10Pro XPSS can be used.
http://www.x10pro.com/pro/pdf/xps3.pdf
ftp://ftp.x10.com/pub/manuals/ws13a-is.pdf

I will mention that some here do use CFLs in Socket Rockets with great success.

In a CYA X10 does say Socket Rockets are for incandescents only.