I am just getting started into the lighting controls of home automation and have a quick question. Will one CM15A controller be enough to cover my entire house or will i need another controller for every fuse? I read on a website that it would only work on the one circuit and when i tried it at my house, it didnt work.

some basic info on x10 would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks

Drabert

You should only need one controller.

It sounds like you may need a phase coupler. X-10 often has issues getting from one 110V branch to the other 110V branch.

This is what I use: [Link: smarthome.com]

I've tried the coupler type that plug into an outlet and didn't have much luck with that type.

What brand of lamp modules, wall switches are you using? Insteon, X-10? Knowing the brand may help with troubleshooting your problem.

Thank you for the response. I will look into getting a phase coupler (as soon as the wife lets me). The modules i purchased were from Fry's Electronics and is an X10. I just purchased one to do some testing with so i am not invested too much yet. Which brand do you recommend? Will one phase coupler be enough for my house? its about 2500 sqft.

Thanks again

On December 27, 2009 at 00:16, Drabert said...

I am just getting started into the lighting controls of home automation and have a quick question. Will one CM15A controller be enough to cover my entire house or will i need another controller for every fuse? I read on a website that it would only work on the one circuit and when i tried it at my house, it didnt work.

some basic info on x10 would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks

Drabert

Not sure if you are still having the problem, but to get my grid in-phase I simply added a 2-pole 220 circuit breaker, $14.00 from Home Depot, to my panel and placed a .1uf metal CAP, Digikey part #: P4603-ND ($1.44 + shipping) www.digikey.com , accross the 2 terminals and it cleared up the problem.

Remember: Electrical shock can kill!

do you have any pictures of this install?

Sorry for the delay. I will try to get one in this weekend.

For a 2500 SF house, I would recommend a coupler/repeater instead. It will repeat and amplify the signals to the other phase.