I've just recently started 'playing' with X-10 stuff and am using only plug-in modules and an IR543. The lights and fan I have in my living room seem to work fine, but if I put a module in another room, I am unable to control it. Also, if I move the RF receiver module, I am still able to use the PalmPad to control most things, but my IR remote (MX-500) will only control things that are in close proximity - maybe on the same circuit? My house is OLD, about 80 years now and still has some knob-and-tube wiring. I have ran some new circuits (computer, a/c, microwave) but other than that most of the wiring is old. I'm assuming this is the reason for the bad signals, but wanted to know if other have had similar experiences. Would a coupler/amplifier be the way to go? or would new wiring be required for a reliable system? Any thoughts or suggestions will be appreciated.
thx!
-erk

anyone??

Most X-10 installations need a coupler - you can test whether you need one if you have any 220 volt appliances such as an electric oven or clothes dryer which, when turned on, will couple the two phases.

Repeaters are suggested in houses larger than 3,000 sq ft but when I installed one in my 1800 sq ft house I got much better X-10 performance.

Also, some devices such as computers, some TV sets, and things with electric motors can put noise on the power line and may need a filter for better X-10 reliability.

I think there is discussion about these matters in a few articles by Uncle Phil (Phil Kingerly) at www.hometoys.com.

Btw, some folks have reported problems with the new coupler/repeater from Leviton in the comp.home.automation news group.

Cheers, Jim.