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[BoyntonStu]

Experience the ultimate in convenience with X10 control of low-voltage devices such as sprinkler valves, door strikes, garage door openers, thermostats and more. The X10 Universal Module can receive a command from an X10  controller and create a momentary contact closure when an ON signal is sent, or indefinitely until an OFF signal is sent; it even responds to an ALL OFF command. As an added feature, the module can be set to beep when responding to signals. This device is rated for 5A, 24VDC (15A, 120VAC if properly insulated). To create the opposite action of having a low voltage contact closure trigger an X10 controlled light or appliance,..

What does "properly insulated" mean?

My plan would to have multiple UM's connecting a 110 VAC source to the primary of a 24 VAC transformer.

Using UM's would eliminate the separate Omron relays that I ordered for my prototype.

I can't foresee any problem if all the NO contacts to the black 110 VAC source or the closed contacts to the transformer are connected in parallel.

I have to double check with you guys first.

[dave w]

Better ask X10. Everything I read clearly states 24V DC or 30V AC max.

You can get 120V coil relays for as cheap as $1.75 so why go to Universal Module?

[BoyntonStu]

Better ask X10. Everything I read clearly states 24V DC or 30V AC max.

You can get 120V coil relays for as cheap as $1.75 so why go to Universal Module?

The universal module would be more sleek and compact IF it will operate at 110 VAC.

Fewer connections are your friends for reliability.

[Brian H]

The output screws are exposed and are rated for low voltages. Mainly because of the exposed connection can be touched and a shock could happen.
I believe it has to be Low Voltage rated for UL or one of the regulatory agencies.
ftp://ftp.x10.com/pub/manuals/um506-is.pdf
http://kbase.x10.com/wiki/UM506

There is a better users manual in the X10Pro web site.
Under Installation Manuals.
Their number is a PUM01
http://www.x10pro.com/

[Dr.Fiero]

FCC listings might show what the actual contacts are rated for - then at least you could narrow it down to 'is it just a safety thing', or 'is it an electrical thing'. 
(or you could take one apart and hope for part numbers!)

Company I last worked for, we built a unit that output 600V 3ph.  It failed inspection until we put a simple cover over the 600V terminals that stopped fingers from getting within a certain distance from them.  Could be the same here - but it'd cost an extra $0.05 to make a cover!

[Brian H]

Like most X10 modules with no RF Transmitter. The UM506 or PUM01 are not in the FCC database.

I have looked inside one and it is hard to see the switch subassembly.
It is in a translucent case that you can vaguely see through.
Has a coil on each end. One when activated, by a pulse, pulls a large slide switch On. The other pulls it back off.
The switch contacts are brought out through the two square posts on the front panel and you remove the contact screws so that the subassembly can be pulled back through the front case.

Since X10 has been updating modules with presently available components. My data from an older one may or may not apply now. 

[bitman]

Stand back, Try it and let us know.

 

[Brian H]

  Maybe I could put on on my test stand and cycle it with a 120 volt load. 

[Dr.Fiero]

Like most X10 modules with no RF Transmitter.

Oh yeah!  No RF, no FCC.  Forgot about that. 

Do these have to go through UL/CSA/EA/FBI/EIEIO or whatever since they're 120V?  Would they release dwg's?

I also approve the 'test stand' idea!  Heh....
Maybe put a variable load on it with an ammeter, and just let us know when it goes *bang*, then we'll know to go about 10% under that next time. 

[Brian H]

I have not checked every X10 model module, but they all have the same UL E63636 or Listed 340F Remote Switch on the label.
I looked at the E63636 number on the UL site. All you get is a few pages with all the approved model numbers. Including the OEM ones from B&D and Radio Shack etc.
So I would doubt any information would be available or knowing UL very expansive to purchase. 

[Brian H]

I don't have any heavy loads.
It had no problems with a 200 Watt Light Bulb.
I didn't see any arcing in the case or hear any popping noises.

[BoyntonStu]

I don't have any heavy loads.
It had no problems with a 200 Watt Light Bulb.
I didn't see any arcing in the case or hear any popping noises.

Helping post!

Thanks for you efforts.

For just a few more bucks I can eliminate the relays by using  UM's in parallel to control a 24VAC transformer.

We learn from each other and that makes it fun.

[Brian H]

Just be careful.
They are not officially rated 120 volt use.

My tests where not long enough to test for possible deterioration of the switch when used with 120 volts.
Just keep an eye on them. If you decide to use them with 120 volts.

[BoyntonStu]

Just be careful.
They are not officially rated 120 volt use.

My tests where not long enough to test for possible deterioration of the switch when used with 120 volts.
Just keep an eye on them. If you decide to use them with 120 volts.

Good warning.

In my application the 110VAC load is very low.

Door bell transformers don't use many Watts.

My guess is under 10 Watts.

Another advantage of the UM is the screw connections.

A 110 VAC plug is not needed for the short wires to the transformer.

A UM is on its way for evaluation.  ($8.00 eBay)

You are a very valuable contributor.