The X10 Transmit Booster (XTB) was designed to improve the reliability of X10 automation systems.  The XTB simply plugs between any X10 control module and the wall socket, and will amplify the 120KHz X10 signals generated by that module.  The XTB has a 6-watt transformer power supply, and is capable of generating a much stronger X10 signal than other X10 transmitters with inexpensive transformerless supplies.  Depending on line characteristics, its high-power FET driver can output over 20Vpp at 120KHz onto the AC line.  The XTB also includes an amplifier to boost low-level X10 return signals.  While originally designed to augment the TW523 or PSC05, the XTB can also be used with most other X10 signal sources such as the CM15A, CM11A, RR501 RF transceiver, or Maxi-Controller.  It will not work with Insteon products, and is not compatible with the PowerLinc 1132B.  I also do not recommend using the XTB to boost the output of a Lynx-PLC running under XTension because two such installations exhibited problems.

A single XTB located a short run from the main distribution panel should provide strong X10 signal levels throughout houses in excess of 5000 square feet.  When X10 devices are used on both phases, an inexpensive passive coupler should be installed near the distribution panel to propagate strong X10 signals to the opposite phase.  In the fall of '06 the XTB-II will become available to drive both phases directly.  That unit will connect to a 125/250VAC receptacle at the main distribution panel.

In most XTB installations, an active repeater or multiple amplifiers spread throughout the house should not be necessary, and may not work as well.  A side benefit is that some of the quirks associated with a repeater are eliminated.  For example, after replacing our Leviton 6201 repeater with the XTB, our Ocelot is now capable of micro-dimming standard X10 lamp modules to achieve a very gradual dimming effect.

After installing the XTB near our main power distribution panel, I measured 2.5V or better signal levels on most circuits throughout our house.  One “problem” circuit containing a large number of X10 receivers and transmitters has come up from a marginal 100mV to about 1V.  Another circuit at the far end of the house read a marginal 100mV when feeding a signal-sucking UPS, and 1V with that UPS fed through a filter.  That shows the large impact a single electronic device can have on X10 signal levels.  But it also shows the XTB has sufficient drive to get an acceptable signal level to the end of a long cable run even with a major signal sucker plugged into that outlet.

The X10 input receptacle on the XTB is rated for 24 watts maximum, and more than one device plugged into it will degrade the signal level at that interface. However, the XTB has been successfully shared by more than one transmitter. It is important to never exceed the 24-watt limit because that can damage internal components. A typical X10 transmitter consumes less than 3 watts, so the 24-watt limit is more than adequate for its intended application.

The XTB is being offered as a bare printed circuit board, or a complete parts kit.  Recently some of the components have increased in price, but the present XTB prices will be maintained until the existing inventory is depleted.  Assembly requires an understanding of component values and color codes, and should only be attempted by someone skilled at soldering high-density printed circuit boards that contain some small surface-mount components.  An assembled and tested unit will be available upon receipt of a signed Liability Waver.

The XTB is a DIY project, and is not a commercial device with UL approval.

Bare PCB                     $12 postpaid in US and Canada
Parts Kit                       $49 plus $8 Priority Mail shipping in USA & 1st Class to Canada
Assembled & Tested    $79 with receipt of signed Liability Waver.  Shipping: $8 US & Canada
 

For your convenience, you can order the XTB through PayPal by making payment to: JeffVolp@att.net  Please enter your shipping address into PayPal so I can print a shipping label directly through them.  You should automatically receive an email shipping notice when the label is printed.  Units are normally shipped the next business day.

Please contact me if you have any questions at: JeffVolp@att.net
If you don't receive a response within 24 hours, try: JeffVolp@beyondbb.com