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[raster69273]

I tried a search and could not find this topic discussed. Sorry if it has been addressed before.
Could I use a digital multimeter( such as a FLUKE 12B) to test for signal strength if I set it to millivolts/ac? Is there anything else I could use that I probably already own? (signal meter/ swr meter for HAM Radio) I'm at a critically low WAF right now and trying to improve at minimal cost.

[dave w]

I tried a search and could not find this topic discussed. Sorry if it has been addressed before.
Could I use a digital multimeter( such as a FLUKE 12B) to test for signal strength if I set it to millivolts/ac? Is there anything else I could use that I probably already own? (signal meter/ swr meter for HAM Radio) I'm at a critically low WAF right now and trying to improve at minimal cost.

Ah, a Ham operator(?) 
No, Fluke won't work. Do you have an O'scope?

The X10 "signal" is 120KHz bursts,  imposed on the AC sine a few milliseconds past the 0 cross point. ELK used to make a nice signal level meter for under $80, you may still be able to find one on eBay. Jeff Volp may be bringing one to the market, but I think it is a ways off.

90% of X10 problems are either electrical "noise",  predominately from switching power supplies knocking out the X10 signal, OR signal coupling problems between the two 120V phases in your home,  and IMHO to a lessor degree,  "signal suckers" (surge strips, UPS's, some computer power supplies, etc. any circuit that has a very low impedance across the AC line at 120KHz). Search these terms on this forum, and you will get enough free information to find your problem.
http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=7951.0

[JeffVolp]

The X10 "signal" is 120KHz bursts,  imposed on the AC sine a few milliseconds past the 0 cross point. ELK used to make a nice signal level meter for under $80, you may still be able to find one on eBay. Jeff Volp may be bringing one to the market, but I think it is a ways off.

I do have the prototype hardware working, but there is still a lot of work to do on the firmware.  Unfortunately, that project is on hold right now while I concentrate on more urgent tasks - like income tax.  I hope to have the signal meter available sometime this fall.

Jeff

[Brian H]

Sounds like you know some electronics.
Do you have a scope?
There is a construction plan for a scope adapter but if not careful the scope can be 120 volts above ground if the thing is wired incorrectly.
Near the bottom left tab here: http://www.idobartana.com/hakb/index.htm

I believe ACT use to make a nice X10 scope adapter.

I have used an X10Pro XPCP with one line and neutral on a power cord and the other line and neutral on my scope input. Since it has separate tuned transformere in it. The line is isolated from the scope. I added a 10 Ohm resistor on the scope side to roughly load it.

[raster69273]

Yes, I have a scope and just enough electronics experience to pull this off. (A/C Technician by trade and amateur electronics enthusiast all the time, without any doubt when finished here I'll be an EXPERT at home automation). This forum has become my favorite and I'm gaining a wealth of knowledge every day. Thank You! I'll post back after I have some results.