Would this scenario work? In my Home Theater area I found out that I have lights and outlets from each 'side' of my main power panel. Instead of using a 'phase coupler' on my main power panel, couldn't I just put 2 IR-543's next to each other?

I have 2 seperate outlets where I would be plugging them in(the outlets are only 2 feet apart and each outlet is from a different side of my main power due to a bit of remodeling). I just feel this would be a more simple installation and more cost effective. Any ideas?? Thanks

No you should NOT!

A phase coupler is to Guarantee a proper transmission of X-10 signals from one phase to the other. I does not mean that without one the signal stays on only one phase. I do not use a phase coupler and generally have no problems transmitting throughout the house.

If you install two IR543's in your home , both on the SAME house code letter, you risk having the signals cancel themselves out.

You can, of course, install more than one, but with different house code letters.

The same thing goes for the Transceiver modules. Do Not install one at each end of the house on the same letter to "surround" the home with RF reception. They risk cancelling themselves out. Instead you should use a "Smart Repeater" that retransmits the RF signal.

-CL

-CL

Chris, what I planned on doing was to set the house codes differently for each 'phase' and IR-543.

I had found that the only x10 module I have in the system so far will only work if I had plugged the '543 into one of the outlets and not the other - that is the reason I thought that the signals only stay on the phase that it is plugged in to. this module is only about 3 feet away from where I have the '543 plugged in.

Chris, I'm new to this, and thought this might be the way to go.

Steve,
I have exactly the same problem as you and am considering buying the XPCR coupler/receiver. My home theater lights are all on the same phase, but I just have too many electronic devices in the house loading down the X10 signals. Any X10 receivers more than 50ft from the transmitter just don't work reliably.

The only problem I see with your idea is that both IR-543 will be transmitting at the same time, even if they are on different house codes. The transmissions may interfer with each other as CL stated. But if they are on different phases of the house wiring I think it would work if you don't install a passive coupler.

SteveK

You'd get a "signal collision", which means nothing will happen. Phase separation, even in the worst cases, is not absolute. For instance, if a 220v device starts up, in most cases your phases will suddenly be "joined".

Daniel, so you're saying that my best bet is to get a 'phase coupler'??

Steve,

I truly believe that in your situation, with the added info that you supplied, you do not have the choice but to get the Coupler. It costs about US$30.

If you do not want to install it in the circuit panel (the best location as "All Roads Lead to Rome", or in this case, Wires to Panel) then wire it inside the junction box where your Dryer or Stove outlet is located. The closer one to the circuit panel is the best choice. That way you can shut off that particular breaker only and wire it in.

For you to be having such a problem I can imagine a few things as mentionned previously:
Your connections are a fair distance from the panel, so for example if it is 50 feet of wiring, it represents 50x2=100 feet (from IR543 to panel and back on the other phase), which is quite far.

Noise on the wiring by different devices from a simple fan to a refrigerator to an aquarium filter or fluorescent light. not to mention electronics such as a PC.

Good Luck.

-CL