Re: How did they do it? (No neutral needed dimmer)

["BruceR" <brNOSPAM@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Like the original X10 wall switches, the circuit is completed through
the load. With those switches there is always a trickle current running
through the filament, hence the disconnect slider for UL approval.
That's why they specify a bulb with a minimum of 40 watts.

From:Robert Green
ROBERT_GREEN1963@xxxxxxxxx

> http://www.smarthome.com/manuals/2386W2_web.pdf
>
> give details about a:
>
> 2384W2 SWITCHLINC RX PLC 2 Wire Dimmer (White)
>
> which they claim:
>
>    * Installs just like a regular light switch ? no neutral wires are
> needed!
>    * Ideal for older homes that don't have a neutral wire in the
> electrical box
>    * Totally adjustable dim level and fade on/off speed
>    * Responds to preset dim X10 commands
>    * Use with 3-way or greater circuits with the addition of multi-way
> companion switches
>
> I thought for an X-10 receiving device to be "listening" it had to
> have current trickled through it and that required a neutral
> connection.  They say the status LED will not light if there is no
> neutral connection.   If I read the diagrams correctly they don't
> need a neutral, but they do need a ground.  How likely is it if
> electricians didn't run neutral to the box that they DID run a ground
> wire?
>
> --
> Bobby G.