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[bt54]

This is a new installation of the security system.  I have two windows next to each other in the front of my home which are about 40 feet from the alarm console.  One DS10A works flawlessly.  The second will not connect with the SC1200.    I tried other DS10A's, changed batteries but no luck.  BUT...........AHP with a CM15A or CM19A registers the non connecting sensor with no problem.   Any Ideas???

PS - I moved the security console 10 feet closer and still no luck.

[dave w]

1. Was the CM15A/CM19A co-located with the SC1200 when you tested?
2. Is the window a metal frame?

[bt54]

Dave,
Thanks for the reply.

1 - Both the CM19a - CM15a (both tested - the CM15A is installed) is installed within one foot of the SC1200
2 - The windows is acrylic

The distance between the working (closer) and non-working sensors are less than five feet.  I did a walking test.  The two spare sensors I have fail 8 feet before the working sensor (sc1200 only).

[Brian H]

This may sound strange but as a test.
Try proping the SC1200A up on its side so it is closer to vertical and see if anything changes.
Since its antenna is wrapped around the case in the seam between the top and bottom halves. I want to see if antenna orientation makes a difference.

[bt54]

OK - now we're going crazy !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I did read about the antennae's position in the case but I did not try the test.

Relocating it from horizontal to vertical WORKED !!! - what's up with that -  maybe alignment of the antennae in the case??

I LOVE when people think outside of the box - KUDO's

[Brian H]

Actually I think it was my old two way radio repair theory leaking out. 

Well the PS561 security console has an external metal antenna and normally it is vertically oriented.
The SC1200 is horizontal unless you use the slots on the bottom of the case and hang it on the wall.

[dave w]

Actually I think it was my old two way radio repair theory leaking out. 

"Mother M" is proud of you!  General "musings" follow.
So are the antennas in the DS10s actual vertical antennas or the  loop antenna like we see in a Palm Pad? Bad antenna design in the SC1200 if they are vertical. But,  X10/Radio Shark  probably did not want a stick antenna on the SC1200 case, as with the DS7000...which makes sense esthetically but not from RF sensitivity standpoint.

[Brian H]

I was referring to the older console as it has a metal whip antenna on the back. It can be extended and I believe it can also be pivoted.
I have not see the older DS10As but suspect they maybe the small loop of wire protruding from the board. Along with LC tuning.
I know the DS12A has a PC run loop on it. Along with a SAW device for frequency determination.
The antenna wire for the SC1200 runs from the front edge of the board around where the top and bottom case pieces snap and screw together.