Problem shutting things on/off

[pperez]

My aquacontroller isn't responding too well. When i use the manual control feature, nothing happens. Then sporadically it responds. The light on the control interface is always on and seems warm, is this normal? I think it might be getting stuck.

I also did the self test feature on the controller and it passed. So is it safe to say that it could very well be the interface module that is getting stuck? I am picking up a used one today to hopefully solve this problem. Anybody have other suggestions of what could be?

Thanks.

 

[Aquaduck]

The LED light on the control interface remains on until a X-10 command is received then it blinks off and back on.

Sounds like you have some RF interference like me. I am having trouble with a Maxkor ballast making my DC4 go crazy. I thought these direct connect boxes were supposed to be immune to noise?

 

[pperez]

Well i haven't installed anything new on the system. Right now i moved the interface to another power strip and it's holding on for now. I will keep trying to manually shut things on/off to see. I just hope that it's not interference ans that when that equipment comes on it doesn't cause a problem. Let me keep my fingers crossed.

 

[clp]

It sounds like X10 interference. Here are a few things to check/try:

- Make sure that the control interface is plugged into the AquaController with a 4 conductor telephone cord. The light should blink off when commands are sent out, but otherwise will be on.
- Make sure that the control modules x10 addresses match the configuration of the AquaController. The default AquaController program is listed in the back of the manual.
- The control interface and control modules should plug into the same circuit. If not, you may need to install a signal bridge.
- Do no use power strips with active surge suppression as they can attenuate the x10 signal. Use inexpensive powerstrips.
- With the AquaController try to turn on and off the control modules. Go to Control & Status -> Manual Control. Select the device you are having trouble with and repeatedly turn it on and off. Note that commands are only sent out when you press the select button.
- If you have added any new equipment to your tank, turn it off, and then repeat the Manual control test.
- Try switching to an unused X10 address on the control module and in the AquaController’s configuration.
- Try swapping the control module with a known good one and see if the problem persists.
- Try power cycling the AquaController. Remove the 9V battery and unplug the AC adapter at the same time.
- If nothing is working try shutting off all appliances around your tank, and then try the manual on/off test. If something is causing X10 interference around your tank, it is likely an electronic ballast.


Curt