problem using x10 to control lighting

[david]

I am attempting to use a 3-prong x10 appliance module to control my aga twin-tube light. The problem is that when the x10 module is off, a small leakage current flows to the lamp resulting in a little lightning effect every four seconds. I tried another x10 module with the same result. My outlet tester also glows dimly when the x10 module is off.

Anyone successful at using x10 to control their lighting?

[RTR]

I have the same issue with X-10 on anything with inexpensive electronic ballasts, but I have not yet contacted the company with an inquiry. A couple of the fixture will come fully on, not just the little flashes (which I assume are not good for the tubes anyway). I've switched those units to mechanical timers (the old clock-like things which physically trip an on/off switch).

A PITA.

[slipknottin]

Simple solution is to buy one of those cheapy little 5 watt night lights. Wire it in with the ballast. The electricity will go to the path of the least resistance and will be burned off by the night light. I doubt the night light will even light up at all.

[RTR]

Thanks for the suggestion slip, but to me it is an X-10 issue. If their technology is not capable of handling electronic ballasts without user modification, it is not up-to-date home automation. I have many hundreds of dollars invested in their products, and if they are out of date technology, this need to be known a bit more widely.

[slipknottin]

Nahh, X-10 isnt the best out there any more. I doubt X-10 would even work on a new timer for electronic ballasts, there too busy making cameras and other high-tech type things.

Anyways, look at PHAST automation systems. These things are awesome.

http://www.ees1.com/Phast.html

[RTR]

Again, thanks for the suggestion, but I would foolish to rip out and discard all my existing equipment (and investment) and move to an unknown without at least first dealing with manufacturer of the existing and otherwise fully satisfarctory equipment, don't you think?

[david]

I had a little extra time today so I figured out a solution. I made a minor modification to the X10 module to eliminate the leakage current entirely. Now I have X10 control and no mini-lightning show.

See my BLOG for details and please note the disclaimer.

Thanks,

[RTR]

I'm waiting for a response from X-10 before I do anything.

[david]

Have they responded?

[RTR]

I got an acknowledgement of the original email in <24 hours, but nothing since, despite an additional email in the meantime.

I getting more than a little annoyed. The next email may ask if they want to see a substantial collection of X-10 controllers and modules offered on Ebay as they cannot work with current technology - at least not without absurd bandaids such as multi-plug jacks with night lights for each module - which is absurd when you have many modules, talk about waste! Some of the modules operate only one or two 15W fluorescents - I should add extra equipment and burn up an additional 25-50% of the power requirement? I think not.

[david]

I am interested in their response.

I did some searching and found out that my mod is a common one that others have also used successfully. After two weeks it is still working great.

Hope you find an acceptable solution.

Thanks,

[RTR]

David - they even suggest adding small lights on the web site. But with dozens of modules, that is a a non-trivial undertaking and a non-trivial power waste - which I will not do. If they have no better, non-wasteful solution, I will search for other brands which are compatable with more modern equipment.

I have been, as I said before, happy with them for years. But if they cannot keep up with technolgy changes, they are antiques and impractical.