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[csnet]

I used advanced search for "DVM" and found 3 references not related to this possibility.

In a lamp or appliance module, is there access to the analog 120 khz X10 signal received or is there just a sealed black box circuit?

Anyone know of a circuit to go between an AC outlet and a DVM that would allow using the DVM to measure X10 signal strength?   Could the leg of a phase coupler that is normally connected to the receiving phase be used?

If one could fashion a simple passive 120khz tuned filter (that would isolate the DVM test leads from 120 VAC), using a DVM to measure X10 signal strength would also require a continuous stream of repeated X10 commands as a reference signal because a single complete code transmission encompasses only eleven cycles of the power line.

Could these AHP macros work to generate a continuous X10 reference signal?

X10 Test Signal Start M1 ON
   Set Flag 10 ON
   Turn X10 Test Signal M2 ON

X10 Test Signal Stop M1 OFF
   Set Flag 10 OFF

X10 Test Signal M2 ON
   IF Flag 10 is ON
      Turn X10 Test Signal M2 ON (recursive call using a phantom module)

To turn on test signal, run macro X10 Test Signal Start M1
To turn on test signal, run macro X10 Test Signal Stop M1

[Brian H]

You sound like you know electronics so this maybe old news to you. Almost all of the X10 and many other brand modules use powerline derived power supplies. Many of the X10s have Line as the reference common with the supply being negative to it. So isolation of equipment is needed.

The older modules [X10 has updated some with modern components] schematics are on sites like IdoBartina's along with mods. I don't have the exact web address here at work. Will post later if no one provides it. Yes there are discrete and active components in the modules and places to observe the signals. I have even seen a project on tuning them to your sender for best reception.
I have used an X10Pro coupler and a scope to look at my signals. One phase input on the powerline and the other on the scope.

I have used my Smarthome 1132CU and software to send signals at 1 second intervals. I guess you could use a X10 Powerline interface like a TW523 and keep the Transmit signal low for a continuous signal. Though I have no idea how long it would run with out overheating. I have also used a PowerFlash module to send alternate On Off signals by shorting the terminals.

[csnet]

Thanks for the information.  It would be ideal for me to adapt an AM486 or LM465 for this purpose if you can direct me to any web articles.

I was thinking non-polarized capacitors for isolation for the DWM test leads would pass the 120khz with no problem while keeping the 120VAC away from my clumsy fingers.

[Brian H]

http://www.idobartana.com/hakb/index.htm
http://www.edcheung.com/automa/ha.htm
http://jvde.us/x10_troubleshooting.htm

[csnet]

Great links, thank-you!

[Brian H]

You are welcome.