How to Install a X10 Lamp Module

The electronics revolution has progressed from the black-and-white television set to the microwave oven, all the way to full-blown wireless-controlled homes. One of the greatest accomplishments has been the introduction of the X10 wireless control standard to the consumer market. X10 is a standardized wireless protocol for the wireless control of devices in your home or office, and the controller modules are so very simple to install and use, it's a wonder more people aren't using these systems for the wonderful convenience they provide.

Instructions

1. Unplug the appliance which you desire to control with an X10 module from the wall socket. Select an X10 plug-in module that is rated for the device you will be controlling. For example: You want to control a lamp that has a 60-watt light bulb, so you select one of the wireless plug-in modules rated for at least 60 watts or more.

2. Set the X10 module's house and appliance code for the appliance you will be controlling. Each appliance in your house must be provided a unique code which is set on the module. Most modules have recessed dials to perform these settings, and must be turned with a straight-edged standard screwdriver. If you keep track of the appliance ID codes you've been assigning, assign the next available ID to the new device you will be controlling. Use a screwdriver, if necessary for your module, and set the device's unique ID by turning the dial to that ID number.

3. Plug the X10 wireless module into your wall outlet socket, and then plug the appliance into the receptacle found on the bottom of the X10 module.

4. Write down the appliance on the appliance list found on the back of your X10 remote control, if your remote has one, for easy reference. Press the button for the device on the remote control to turn the unit on and off. Depending on your remote control model, you may be able to check whether the device is on or off by pressing a button and then the device number on the remote. It will beep once if the appliance is on and twice if the appliance is off. You should then be able to turn the appliance on and off in a normal fashion using the remote control unit.

Tips & Warnings

• X10 systems require the use of a relay transceiver that re-broadcasts control information from the remote control throughout the premises of your home or office. Be sure the relay transceiver is plugged in and turned on, as the modules and the remote control won't work without it in operation.

References

• Using X10, Simple as 1 2 3