X10 and ring circuits

gerrowadat

Howdy,

I'm fiddling with x10 home automation at the moment, waiting for more gear to verify stuff, but wanted to ask something --

The X10 lamp adaptor I have can't be controlled over the power line from a socket (it's the kind that just plugs into the bayonet fitting). I'm starting to think the lights are on a separate circuit or phase to the sockets, which would explain this. X10 works over high frequency signals on the power lines.

Does anyone know if houses in ireland are generally wired like this? It's a reasonably new house, built in 2006. There's such a thing as a 'phase coupler', which goes on a DIN rail in the fuse box and bridges X10/HF signals between phases, would this be any use to me? The meter outside is single phase.

Thanks.

KoolKid

My house would be around the same age . My interface initially connects into a light circuit that feeds the alarm. I have no issues controlling bayonet fitting or socket modules. The only place it wont work is the socket that feeds a plasma TV . (too much interference I suspect)
what make of devices are you using?
This is the on I use
http://www.uk-automation.co.uk/products/Marmitek-X10-Bayonet-Lamp-Module-LM15EB.html

M cebee

lights and sockets are generally separate circuits

but not separate phases unless you have a 3-phase supply

gerrowadat

@kool Yes, I' using the marmitek LC15 and the PC controller. Maybe I'll try more experimentation with lamps in sockets, or closer to the controller.