Re: Compact Fluorescent Noise

["Jeff Volp" <JeffVolp@xxxxxxx>]

"sylvan butler" <ZsdbUse1+noZs_0611@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote in message
news:slrneknku1.p3a.ZsdbUse1+noZs_0611@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
>
> I assume you are using X10-compatible switches WITH a neutral?  (As
> opposed to the typical X10-brand with no neutral, which must pass PLC
> thru the device under control.)

Yes, they are all the older Leviton "red line" switches (now discontinued).

> > It fit behind the X10 switches in each of those electrical boxes.  The 5
amp
>
> Wow, must have DEEP boxes.  :)

Yep.  All boxes are 3 1/2" deep, and oversize metal boxes are used for all
X10 dimmer switches.  For the few cents saved per box it didn't make any
sense to put in smaller ones.  Metal boxes are expensive, but they solve the
dimmer heat problem.

> I'm in process of trying to track down and exterminate a nasty X10 PLC
> gremlin.  Tracking noise sources, adding filters, adding signal
> suckers...  Painful doesn't begin to describe it...  But someday I hope
> to automate CFLs again, and my boxes are not nearly deep enough for a
> filter, much less two or three.  :(

It doesn't have to be at the switch.  The boxes on our ceiling cans have a
lot of room left inside.  If you can identify which light fixture is first
in the string, you can probably add the filter into its box.

> ( Something changed about 18 months ago (no, I don't work fast ;) and
> pretty much stopped all the X10 PLC on my property.  Prior to that I had
> no problem with phase coupling and signal strength was fine from
> anywhere in the house or barn (over 400ft away).  Now I've got all the
> plug-in modules working fine, but still the 'installed' stuff isn't
> working to any degree of predictablity.  I'm about to order a leviton
> 6284 or X10Pro PZZ01 because external cause is nearly all that remains,
> and this really needs to be working before Christmas this year!)

If you have access to a scope, it can be very helpful.  The ESM1 is great
for its price, but only a scope showed what was really going on with that CF
noise.  You might also give the XTB a try.  Good luck!

Jeff