While automating with X-10 PLC is relatively a piece a cake, it always pays to read the instruction accompanied each modules. Always exercise care when working with or using the electrical system. Read about the Safety Notes if you are not sure what to do.

5 Easy Steps to Install an X-10 System
Please refer to X-10 PLC Technology for background understanding of the technology.

Here are 5 easy steps to install an X-10 system:

Plug in the 3 pin lamp or appliance module to the standard 3 pin switched socket outlet.

Plug in the lamp or appliances to the receiver module.

Use a small screwdriver to set the "house code" and "Unit Code" dials to create a specific address for the module for e.g. B1.

Plug the transmitters such as the desktop controller to another 3 pin/2 pin switched socket located at other locations convenience to you.

Set the "house code" to match your receiver module, in this case "B".

That's it! You can now control your lamp/appliances via the remote transmitters.

Installation of Transmitter/Controller Modules
Generally, there are two versions of connection arrangement for the transmitters. For either version, simply plug in each unit to the switched socket outlet and switch on the supply.

One that come with an extension power cord One that come with an adapter for direct plug in to switched socket outlet.

Installation of Receiver Modules

3 Pin Plug Version
Installation for 3 pin plug version is very straight forward where you only need to plug in the 3 pin module to the switched socket outlet and plug in your lamp/appliances to the module (refer 5 Easy Steps).

In-Line Module
In-line module are generally used for installation on existing ceiling or wall mounted light fittings controlled by a standard wall switch.

Installation for in-line module requires good understanding of electrical system. You should not attempt to perform the job yourself if you are not trained to do electrical wiring.

Following instructions are only meant for people competent in handling electrical wiring.

The suggested position for the module is at the light fitting itself, at the point where the existing cable is connected to the lamp. The in-line module comes with two sets of live & neutral cable. When looking at the front, the right hand side (240V input) is to be connected to 240V AC input while the left is the output to be connected to the lamp.

Positioning
Start by identifying best position where the module should be positioned. Due to the amount of heats generated by the bulb, you should not position the module too close to the the bulb.

Suggested mounting position for standard fluorescent lamp.

Wiring Connection

In most cases you can disconnect the existing live & neutral cable that goes to the lamp and connect it to the input (right cable) side of the receiver module by using a pair of wire connector. Follow by connecting the output cable (left cable) to the lamp unit. If there is an earth cable connected to the the light fitting, check if it is securely fastened.

Manual control (via the existing wall switch) is possible if your switch is installed as per following configuration (refer diagram as shown below). In most cases it is far more easier to control the lights via the remote controllers and leave the existing electrical wiring arrangement undisturbed.

Setting The Address and Secure the Module
After you have connected the cable, use a small screwdriver to set the desired "house code" and "unit code". Complete the installation by securing the module by using a good double sided tape.

Note: Maximum number of combinations are 256 addresses (16 house codes x 16 unit codes). Remember that the X-10 signal travels through entire house wiring and so it is possible to get into neighbors electrical. If you experience your devices turn of or off by itself, it is possible that your neighbour might be setting the same house code as yours. If that happen, just change the entire system to other house code to see if it solves the problem. There are devices you can purchase to isolate your house system from others. Contact Smart House for more information.

Operation
Remember that the wall switch where the module and light fitting is connected to must be on at all the time if you wish to control it remotely. If your house is a 3 phase 415V system and you are experiencing unreliable controls of the devices, please contact Smart House for assistance.