Re: bizarre x-10 dead zone

[J Miller <reply@here>]

David White wrote:
> Mark Chambers wrote:
>> Hi All,
>>
>> Here's one that really has me scratching my head.
>>
>> Recently I lost the ability to control two incandescent lamps
>> connected to an LM465 lamp module.  I replaced the module but the
>> problem remained.  I tested both modules at my bench and found that
>> they worked fine.  I tried an AM466 appliance module but it too would
>> not respond.  I got frustrated an installed an RR501 module which
>> works because it receives the RF control signal via its antenna, not
>> the AC line.  I figured my passive coupler had failed and that it was
>> time to replace it.
>> I replaced the passive coupler with an XPCR active coupler and sure
>> enough I can control the RR501 from mini-controllers or my CP290.  I
>> replaced the RR501 with an AM466 but found that I lost the ability to
>> control it.  Replaced the appliance module with a lamp module and
>> control is back.  So a lamp module works, the RR501 quasi-appliance
>> module works, but appliance modules won't work.
>>
>> Now it gets bizarre.  The problem only occurs in the last two outlets
>> on the circuit.  In any other outlet on the circuit, any of the
>> modules can receive X-10 signals and work as they should.  I don't
>> actually know where the affected outlets are on the circuit and don't
>> have access to the wiring to confirm their location.  Any ideas as to
>> why only AM466 appliance modules are affected and only in these two
>> outlets?  Note, there are no CFL bulbs involved.
>>
>> Thanks, Mark
>
> Mark,
>
> I had something similar recently. Let me ask, have you plugged-in
> anything new on that circuit? In my case, it was my new LCD TV. I
> purchased a filter unit that sits between the TV and the wall plug and
> all was well once again. Your mileage may vary but it was great for me.
>
> David

I was going to say that this sounds like a "signal sucker".  Something
(probably something new) is clobbering the signal.  Could be a
combination though, so start unplugging stuff and see if it starts working.