Insteon Signal / Noise Troubleshooting - Universal Devices ISY-994i User Manual

additional (third) AccessPoint in addition to the previously mentioned two
AccessPoints.
• Do not plug a PLM into a power strip that has any type of surge-suppression
incorporated, as this can weaken the INSTEON signals. Likewise, certain models of
GFCI outlets have also been reported to degrade INSTEON signals (this, however, is
not true for all GFCIs). To provide for surge protection for the PLM, ISY, and all of
your INSTEON devices, consider using a "whole house" surge suppressor. This can
often be supplied and installed by your electric power utility for a minimal charge.
The next points are probably some of the most important:
• Use power line filtering devices (such as the SmartHome Filterlinc) on all
potential signal "sinks" and noise generating devices in your home. Devices
such as computer power supplies, televisions, home theater systems, etc., can all act
as "signal sinks" that degrade the INSTEON signals on your power line network.
Conversely, devices such as low voltage halogen lighting, CFLs (compact fluorescent
light bulbs), etc., can generate interference patterns on your power line network
that can cause the PLM or even other INSTEON devices to miss INSTEON control
signals, which get lost in the background noise on the power line. Even if you have
previously installed some power line filters on your system, you may find that more
may be required if problems still persist. Also, remember that the bottom outlet on
the Filterlinc is the "filtered" outlet.
• For hard-wired halogen or fluorescent lighting, in-line noise suppressors can
be used (such as the Levition Noise Block model 6287).
• Some CFLs are prone to producing much higher levels of power line noise than
others. CFLs that are producing excessive line noise can be replaced with those that
produce less interference.

12.6 INSTEON Signal / Noise Troubleshooting

Our support department gets a fair amount of calls with question on INSTEON signal
troubleshooting. The problems that the customers are experiencing are related to noise on
the powerline and not an issue with the ISY. I wanted to provide a few points that you may
find helpful in troubleshooting communication issues to your INSTEON devices from the
ISY.
We tend to look to noise at the culprit when things start to become intermittent with device
communication.
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