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[unclebob1469]

I installed the SC1200 system today but the system won't recognize the sensors more than 12 feet apart. Will installing the Signal Amplifier improve this issue? Sorry guys I'm from Nassau Bahamas. I just don't want be buying stuff and they don't work...

[lviper]

Other more knowledgeable should chime in soon, but I can think of a couple things. One is interference. I believe the sensors run on the 2.4Ghz band and if you are running WiFi or 2.4Ghz cordless phones, make sure they aren't too close. I have a wifi access point that blows away one of my sensors so I ran wire from the magnets on the door to move the sensor closer to the console.

Another thing you can try is a reflective antenna. I think that's what you call it. Anyway, it's basically a piece of copper wire cut to a certain length for the wavelength and placed to the left of the sensor. I don't remember the exact length but it something like 17 inches I think. Search the forms for antenna mods.

Hopefully someone with more experience then me will chime in and correct me if I'm wrong or have other ideas.

[Brian H]

The SC1200 and the Security Sensors use a 310MHz RF Frequency. Some of the X10 Wireless Cameras and Video Senders used the 2.4 GHz frequencies.
You may want to see if 310MHz is used in your country for something else that maybe interfering with them.

What Model X10 Security Sensors are you using?

You can use our search function to find threads on these issues.
The SC1200 has been reported to have poor RF reception range.
One antenna modification is in this thread. http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=26293.0

Any metal between the sensors and the SC1200 can reduce the reception range. Mounting the sensors directly on metal can also greatly reduce the range.

There are tips in the X10 Wiki. Here is the SC1200 section. http://kbase.x10.com/wiki/SC1200

Some data on the passive reflector here. http://www.davehouston.net/X10_feng_shui.htm

[unclebob1469]

I'm using the DS12A window and door sensors... My Cordless phone and wifi router is within 10 feet of the console panel. I guess the antenna mod is the way to go... Same the manufacturers haven't corrected this issue... Thanks for your advice, I will let you know how it works out.

[dave w]

I'm using the DS12A window and door sensors... My Cordless phone and wifi router is within 10 feet of the console panel.

I think Brian mentioned the frequencies the SC1200 uses. It is unlikely your cordless phone or your router is having any effect on the SC1200. As the old forum points out, the SC1200 RF design is crap. Plus poor manufacturing at the old X10 didn't help. As I recall antenna polarization also had an effect on range. If your antenna on the SC1200 console is pointing straight up, try laying it down, or vice versa. Aside from that, attaching a longer wire to the antenna makes the biggest change.

[unclebob1469]

Thanks Dave. I will try attaching the wire and let you know how it works out...

[Brian H]

The antenna in the SC1200 is in a small channel between the bottom and top cover.
I believe one of the modification threads has a photo showing the original antenna wire wrapped around the case.
You could try placing it on its edge as a test.

[dave w]

Thanks Brian, I was thinking the 1200 had an external stick antenna. I was thinking of the older unit.