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[ssteig]

I am admittedly new to X10; however I consider myself an intelligent person with electrical and mechanical skills beyond the average homeowner. I thought I could figure this system out. But after reading all the extremely helpful responses on this forum, I can’t figure out if the cm15a is bad or if it is a known problem.

Background: I started very simply to get a good understanding. I have active home pro with cm15a and many wall switches, appliance and lamp modules. I am not currently using any remotes or motion/light sensors. I have programmed most of the modules with timers. Originally they were largely set for the same times to turn on and turn off. I found one writer who felt the number of commands being sent roughly simultaneously was fraught with problems, so I changed them all to start and stop one minute apart from each other.

Problems. I have one wall switch that has a mind of it’s own turning on and off (mostly on) all times of the day and night and only rarely at the correct times. Sometimes the lights turn on by the timers and sometimes they turn off with the timers. So far, never both. Many times the position of the switch in the computer does not agree with the status of the light (and this is with no one touching the light switch).

I have read many people say that the cm15a with active home pro is not consistent and I should not expect all the programs/modules to work every time. I would love to hear what you all would do next.
Thanks,

[Puck]

I would first suggest you look at phase / line noise / signal suckers. Check out TakeTheActive's MAP / MEASURE / CORRECT post (as well as the whole thread... lots of info and links there )

Many times the position of the switch in the computer does not agree with the status of the light (and this is with no one touching the light switch).

This is normal if the switches are not 2-way and they get turned ON & OFF manually.

I have read many people say that the cm15a with active home pro is not consistent and I should not expect all the programs/modules to work every time.

With time, patience and understanding you can get a very reliable set-up.

[Tuicemen]

Check out this link Topic: Having X10 AHP Problems? Please Read This First!  (Read 11069 times) as well as the link Puck posted!
There are many useful links in that thread that will help explain & solve many issues.
Understanding your wiring layout in your home is also helpful there is a link to a good post from Puck linked at the above post that will help you map your electical system.

Because of all the different building materials used over the years in house construction there are many things that could cause you headaches.
Also newer electrial codes now require ark fault breakers for bedrooms these as well as different outlets require in kitchens can introduce noise into the lines.
 
If your willing to tinker you can get a Very reliable system!