SIGNAL RANGE
Range of Marmitek X-10 signals over the Power Line and
how to increase the range.
The Marmitek X-10 System is based on power line
communication. The range of the Marmitek X-10 signals very
much depends on the local circumstances. On average the
range is a cable length of 80 meters.
If you have difficulties with the range of your Marmitek X-
10 signals, please pay attention to the following facts:
1. When more than one phase is used for your electrical
system, it is necessary to couple these phases for the
Marmitek X-10 signals. For coupling you can use FD10 Phase
Couplers/Filters. You only need to install a Phase
Coupler/Filter when your wall outlets and light switches are
divided over more than one phase (more than one group is no
problem). For bigger buildings or longer distances we advice
you to use an active repeater instead of passive FD10’s.
2. It is possible that Marmitek X-10 signals are attenuated by
devices and lights which are connected to the power line. In a
normal home situation this effect is negligible (the Marmitek X-
10 system is using active gain control to eliminate the effects).
However, it is possible that a particular device in your house is
attenuating the signals so much that the range of Marmitek X-
10 signals is decreased significantly. When you have range
problems, it is wise to try to locate the device which is
attenuating the signals simply by unplugging devices from the
power line, and testing the differences in range for your
Marmitek system. When e.g. your conclusion is that e.g. your
computer monitor is attenuating the signal, you can use a
FM10 Plug-in Filter between the power line and the monitor to
eliminate the effects.
Known devices which can cause attenuation are:
PC Monitors
PCs with heavy internal power supplies
