For devices that have a video output, using the video sensor for power detection makes sense. But I'm really not sure how the voltage sensor, which has tolerances of 5-25 volts, is supposed to be used. What devices have terminals with voltages in that range when they are turned on? Real world examples of how to properly implement the voltage sensor (like for detecting if a television is on) would be greatly appreciated.

I've read that the URC voltage sensor is supposed to be able to be connected to third party sensors. Were there particular sensors in mind?

I've found the Xantech Current Sensing Module ([Link: smarthome.com]) and the Magnetic Field Sensor Module ([Link: smarthome.com]). These are plugged into the Sensor Connecting Block ([Link: smarthome.com]) one for each sensor, which is powered by the 12-Volt Power Supply ([Link: smarthome.com]). On the block is +12VDC, GND, PULL DOWN, and PULL UP terminals. I assume the URC voltage sensor would be connected to those in some way?

Well the Xantech method adds up to $135 for the ability to sense ONE device's power state. That's ridiculous. Please, please tell me that's NOT how the URC voltage sensor is intended to be used.

I use the voltage sensor with the 12v out of my pre-amp directly (most mid to high-end gear sports these outputs), and I have a cheap DC wall wort plugged into my cable box switched outlet to power another one.

I also picked up the Elan magnetic current sensor (was much, much cheaper than the Xantech price you qoute) for my TV, but I haven't had time to plug it in yet.

Jeff

Elan builds a current sensor that a power cord wraps around.

How about a wall wort power supply plugged into the back of a switched cable box, strip the ends, and wire it into the URC voltage sensor? That'll tell you when the cable box is on or off and with if/then in the MSC you can send the appropriate power commands to the cable box.

Wire it to a doorbell transformer and when it's rung, it sends voltage to the URC sensor to switch the TV input to the front door camera.

Security motion sensor can activate lights?

Spending too much time with that new guitar, I'll bet!

I did at CEDIA, but now that I'm back in New York I've been abusing my Seagull instead.

...For non-guitarists (and PETA members), Seagull is a brand of acoustic guitar...

Jeff

...and for those who weren't at CEDIA and didn't hear me talking about it, I got a new Martin Mini guitar (Felix the Cat special edition) that I was amusing myself with...

Well my main concern is the TV. I've found the ELAN Magnetic Field Sensor ([Link: elanhomesystems.com]) which looks nearly identical to the Xantech model ([Link: smarthome.com]). But that leaves me with the same problem as before. The minijacks for the MSC-400 have 4 contact surfaces, whereas the models from Xantech and ELAN have only 3. So how exactly do I hook it up to the MSC-400? Aside from the sensor, what else did you buy to hook it up to the MSC-400, where did you get it, and how much did it all cost?

Also, could it be that URC will soon be releasing additional sensor types that will plug into the MSC-400? In that case, I'd just wait for that to happen.

Again, sorry for all the questions. I know a lot of CI's frown on do-it-yourselfers, but I get too much enjoyment out of doing it myself, not to mention that it's the only way I can fit it into my price range.

Thanks again.

You would cut the mini-plug off the Elan piece and just plug it into our voltage sensor - the voltage sensor will detect the voltage from the current sensor.

We offer voltage and video sensors, but you can use anyone elses sensors as long as they output 3-25v AC or DC - just plug that output into our voltage sensor.

Jeff

Ah, interesting. Although it's unfortunate to have to use two separate sensors for a single device. Do you recall the wiring scheme for the ELAN sensor? Which colors are 5v, data, and ground?

Is the Elan wire a 2 conductor to their pin?

The minijacks for the Elan sensors have 3 contacts, just like the Xantech sensors.

Again, is the WIRE a 2 conductor or 3?

I think the Xantech sensor gets its power through the three contact plug. If that is correct, than the wire almost has to have three conductors for Ground, Voltage, and Signal lines.

I can't be certain these can be rigged up to avoid having to purchase the connecting block and regulated power supply. I suspect that they can, but hard to say without buying one to play with, or at the very least getting more detailed information on the pin outs for the cables.

Is there a data sheet PDF for this? I don't see it on Xantech's site. Smarthome also doesn't show one, and they are usually good about that if it is available.

Sean

Sorry justarep, but I haven't received my Elan sensor yet, so I can't look at the wires. However, through other sources I've been told they have three, 5v, data, and ground. I think I see where you're going, though. If the sensor requires external power to work, how could it be simply attached to the to contacts of the URC voltage sensor, since all they do is detect the voltage potential and don't actually provide power?

I agree splogue. More detailed information on these sensors would be great.

Hopefully, once I receive more equipment, I'll be able to conduct more thorough tests. In the mean time any additional information or ideas would be appreciated.

It looks like Elan sensors got Xantech makeover. Look at
[Link: xantech.com]
Only difference between Elan and Xantech is name on the sensor...
No schematics yet.

My bad, some of the sensors do have manuals. Actually one listed under magnetic has info on all:
[Link: xantech.com]
Now as most of you expected, it requires external power. If done by the book it will be supplied by Xantech connecting block CBCSM1. Can that be avoided with external 12VDC power for all sensors? Someone has to do hands-on testing.
Hope it helps.
Plug info:
1/8” (3.5mm) mini-plug, Tip: +12VDC, Ring: Signal, Sleeve: Ground.