Another X10 problem, but this one has me stumped!!!

[Markie Boy]

Ok so prior to today I have been using a X10 USB to RF transmitter, PC software and a TM13 transeiver, to switch on and off some lights around the house in 3 areas - in the living area two tabletop lamps on one appliance module, as well as a floor lamp a few metres away using its own appliance module( but set to same unit code as the table lamps, code 2). In the main bedroom two more appliance modules driving 2 lamps (sharing code 1) and finally a nother lamp in a guest bedroom on code 4. Using the supplied software I have been successful in switching on and off the lights as required.
So today my IR7243 arrives, which I bought to allow remote control capability of the lights with my Pronto TSU7000. As you can see the Pronto is a US unit, hence the need to use the IR7243 for control.
My problem is that today, having installed the IR7243 a few mins ago, all my lights work fine using the Pronto EXCEPT the third lamp in the living area. It refuses to switch on or off remotely. The only way to interact with the lamp is to physically turn it on or off via the footswitch. I changed over the appliance module thinking it may be faulty but no luck. I even assigned it a new code, but it doesnt want to talk to the rest of the X10 anymore. I noticed the lights work even with the TM13 disconnected, so I assume the IR7243 is a transceiver also?
So, any ideas? Ive also disconnected the computer interface as its no longer required, but before I did, that decided it didnt want to work either!

[adamentity]

I have experienced problems in the past with devices not communicating due to signal noise on the line (Mostly from transformers used on laptops or similar devices). This can also be the case lamps that have compact florescent bulbs installed.

Although you can buy a X10 signal tester that plugs into an outlet and allows you to send signals through the wiring to see if it is received. The easiest test would be to relocate the appliance module to another outlet and try the remote again. Often signal noise or outlets that occupy an adjacent circuit from the electrical panel do not hear the signal clearly or strong enough.

• What has changed since the last time it worked?
• Does it still work when activated by the X10 controls?
• Does the IR7243 control the module when plugged into another outlet?
• Do you currently have a CF bulb installed in the third lamp? Try switching the bulb to a regular one or removing it to test.

[Markie Boy]

Originally Posted by adamentity

I have experienced problems in the past with devices not communicating due to signal noise on the line (Mostly from transformers used on laptops or similar devices). This can also be the case lamps that have compact florescent bulbs installed.

Although you can buy a X10 signal tester that plugs into an outlet and allows you to send signals through the wiring to see if it is received. The easiest test would be to relocate the appliance module to another outlet and try the remote again. Often signal noise or outlets that occupy an adjacent circuit from the electrical panel do not hear the signal clearly or strong enough.

• What has changed since the last time it worked?
• Does it still work when activated by the X10 controls?
• Does the IR7243 control the module when plugged into another outlet?
• Do you currently have a CF bulb installed in the third lamp? Try switching the bulb to a regular one or removing it to test.

The only thing that changed was a move from the TM13 transceiver to the IR7243 as the transceiver. The third lamp has a standard BC lamp in it, so no changes there. Pluggin the IR7243 into another wall outlet around the house doesnt help, but everything else still works as described. I have a number of spare appliance (and lamp) modules and still no change.
Got me stumped that it worked for a month before this!

[m4rky_m4rk]

Originally Posted by Markie Boy

The only thing that changed was a move from the TM13 transceiver to the IR7243 as the transceiver. The third lamp has a standard BC lamp in it, so no changes there. Pluggin the IR7243 into another wall outlet around the house doesnt help, but everything else still works as described. I have a number of spare appliance (and lamp) modules and still no change.
Got me stumped that it worked for a month before this!

I think the IR7243 needs a stronger signal than the TM13

[Markie Boy]

Originally Posted by m4rky_m4rk

I think the IR7243 needs a stronger signal than the TM13

And what would be the solution for that? Seems odd though, the socket that the third lamp is plugged into is effectively the next socket in-line, positioned about 3 metres from where the IR7243 is located.
And if signal strength was the issue, how come the bedroom lights, situated over 10 metres away, work perfectly fine?

[m4rky_m4rk]

Just a thought. Have you tried sending the house code first and then the unit code and then the off or on command, with good long pauses between each?

I found with my 7243 that you need to 'send' it once eg after disconnection from the mains. After that it 'remembers'. I set a spare button on my remote to send the house code when things are not responding. Also noticed it can get a bit unreliable if sending commands in quick succesion.

You probably know but just in case......The house code on either TM13 or IR7243 needs to be same as house code for the lamp or set them to House code P and then they should transceive all house codes.