X10 XPPF 5A Plug-In Noise Filter — Manual

Manual for the X10 XPPF 5A Plug-In Filter — a device that blocks electrical noise from appliances (TVs, computers, power supplies) from interfering with X10 powerline communication throughout the home.

Why Noise Filtering Matters

Electrical devices such as TVs, VCRs, stereos, low-voltage power supplies, computers, monitors, and power/surge protection strips all tend to "dump" electrical noise onto the power lines. Because X10 line-carrier products use the power lines as their communications path, they're susceptible to this interference. When noise is present, it can attenuate, corrupt, or block the X10 signals being transmitted or received throughout the entire house.

Typically, noise causes intermittent operation of receivers — for example, you might be able to turn a light ON from a transmitter but not OFF, or vice versa. The offending device doesn't even need to be powered on: a TV or computer still has its power supply connected to the line even when "off."

Troubleshooting Noise

The proper way to troubleshoot power line noise is with an XPTT Test Transmitter and an XPTR Signal Strength Indicator:

1. Plug the XPTT in at the transmission point — it transmits a constant line-carrier "P1" ON/OFF command.
2. Take the XPTR from outlet to outlet around the home and record a signal strength reading at each.
3. The XPTT transmits a 2V signal; the XPTR can detect from 2V down to 25mV. The lowest signal that can reliably trigger a module response is 100mV.
4. As you move around the structure, watch for fluctuations in signal strength — a drop may indicate a noise-producing device nearby.
5. With the XPTR still plugged in, systematically unplug candidate devices (TV, VCR, computer, low-voltage lighting power supply) and watch for a change in signal amplitude.

Fixing the Problem

Plug-In Filter (XPPF)

If unplugging a device increases the signal, you've found the offending device. Plug the XPPF into the wall outlet where the offending device was plugged in, then plug the device into the XPPF. X10 signal will now pass freely through the electrical system; the noise generated by the device is blocked from reaching the power line.

Wire-In Filter (XPF)

If the offending device is hard-wired (not plugged in), shut off its breaker to "unplug" it from the system, then install an XPF Wired-In Filter between the switch and the offending device, or at the breaker panel ahead of that circuit.

Installing the XPPF

1. Unplug the offending device and plug the XPPF into the 120VAC wall outlet.
2. Plug the offending device into the bottom of the XPPF.

Note: Do not exceed the 5A load rating.

Support

Technical Support: 800-832-4003 (Tampa, FL 33618).