Re: X-10, GFCI, outdoor lights & problems

["Robert Green" <ROBERT_GREEN1963@xxxxxxxxx>]

> I am not sure that if I install noise filters (Leviton 6287) on each of
> the circuits that it will fix the problem. I guess I can try...

Do the cheapest, easiest tests first:  Just use garden variety incandescent
bulbs to test.  If THEY work, and turn on and off with no problem, then it's
probably NOT the GFCI but the CF bulbs themselves or their interaction with
the GFCI that's giving you trouble.

If that didn't clear up the problem, I would then kill all the breakers at
the main panel except the one you're using to see if there's a serious
signal sucker somewhere on the electrical wiring.  I've pumped X-10 through
hundred foot extension cords without serious measurable signal loss.  But
put one serious signal sucker on the line and you can knock a whole house
into trouble.

A meter is essential for finding noise and attenuation in the system.
Otherwise you're going to spend a lot of time wondering what component is
screwing things up.  It's a rite of passage with X-10.  Most people having
to chase their tails for a awhile trying to solve mystery X-10 problems
before they can justify the cost of a meter but it's really a must have.

My attitude about X-10 reliability changed after getting the ESM1 and
finally being able to find out which devices were interfering with X-10 and
how much.  I pulled out 5 power strips, two PC's, two UPS's, some CF bulbs,
some 48" fixtures, a VCR, a laser printer, a laptop PS, an external HD power
supply and a few other things that caused anywhere from a .3 volt to a 2
volt drop of the X-10 signal.  A few fluorescent fixture put noise on the
line as well, and the ESM1 measured those at .1 volt.

--
Bobby G.