How X-10 Works

The X-10 technology is based on the X-10 Power Line Carrier (PLC) signalling "language" that enables control signals to be transmitted anywhere in your house over your existing 220/240V electrical lines. Simply plug in a controller (transmitter) at one electrical outlet and plug in a module (receiver) at any other outlet and you have remote and automated control of that module! This enables you to have the remote and automated control of lights and appliances from anywhere in your house.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION FOR THE PROFESSIONAL

X-10 transmissions are synchronised to the zero-crossing point of the AC power line. Power line interfaces provide 50Hz square wave with a max. delay of 100 µsec. from the zero crossing point to the AC power line. The maximum delay between signal envelope input and 120 KHz output bursts is 50 µsec.

 

A binary 1 is represented by a 1 millisecond burst of 120 KHz, at the zero crossing point and a binary 0 by the absence of 120 KHz. These 1 millisecond bursts are transmitted three times to coincide with the zero crossing points of all three phases in a three phase distribution system.
SETUP OF THE SYSTEM

The Eon3 X-10 system consists of Controllers and Modules/Receivers:

1. Controllers

These Controllers send a signal and send a command on the powerline to Modules/Receivers.
Controllers commonly used are Computer interfaces, Remote Controls (IR/RF), Telephones,etc.

2. Modules/Receivers

Modules control lights and appliances. Modules are available in 3 types: plug-in, built-in and DIN-rail.

Each module/Receiver has a House Code ( a letter A-P) and a Unit Code (number 1-16) that uniquely identifies it among 256 (16^2) different possible combinations. When a Module or Receiver "hears" its unique code, it responds by turning ON, OFF, dimming or brightening the light, appliances, devices,etc.
THE ADVANTAGES OF X-10

The X-10 system is unique in the world of Home Automation because it uses the existing 220V powerline to communicate its signals and is simple and amazingly affordable:
  • It is ideal for applications in existing houses
  • NO extra wiring is necessary which means low-cost solutions
  • Easy-to-install
  • For simple applications no intelligent units are necessary which makes the system cheap and efficient
  • For bigger applications Powerful Interfaces with easy-to-use software are available
  • The X-10  system provides 2-Way communication with possibility of status-control because the X-10 system is widespread (over 5 million installations worldwide) the systems are manufactured on a large scale which results in low prices.
  • Unlimited possibilities: switching, dimming, sunscreen control, integration with alarm systems,etc.
APPLICATIONS

An Eon3 X-10  system is very simple to install and immediately increases your convenience and security.
  • Automatic control of inside- outside- and security lights.
  • Simulate presence in your house while you are away
  • With radio Frequency Remote Controls you can turn on anything in- and outside your house.
  • You can program your system to perform a sequence of actions like "All lights on" or "Morning mode" to manage your house in a simple way
  • Wireless Switches make it possible to install switches at places where there are no wires.
    Also ideal for temporary installations.
  • Adapting homes for the elderly or disabled people becomes easy and flexible. By using wireless remote controls they have everything controlled by a simple button.
  • Economise your electrical costs by using the low-cost hours
  • Security for children
  • Automatic switching considering sunrise, sunset or at any given time.
  • The possibilities of the X10 System are endless...