Testing Insteon

[tonti]

Thanks for all your replies so far. I have tested some more utilizing your suggestions and used circuits that are not used with 'chargers' or 'computer equipment'. It seems to be working well as long as I do not have these consumers on the line. I even was able to switch this from the barn now in a few outlets and I am quite happy so far with the results. I think I am satisfied to go with Insteon unless someone really gives me a more stable alternative that is less prone for noise.
 
I only found the toggle switch as a "in line" device w/o RF. Do I miss something? I need the toggle because the barn has the encapsulated plastic housings (with the red flip switch) on the outside. 

 
 
I also ordered Insteon 2406H SignaLinc INSTEON Hardwired Phase Coupler. 
 
What about the FilterLinc 10-Amp Plug-In Noise Filter like BLH suggested earlier, although he mentioned it is on the 'unfiltered pass through'? Would this situation improve my situation if I plug the PLM into it? 
 
Is there any other filter or gadget that you recommend?
 
BTW - I have wired ethernet connections to the barn and the garage for my PoE cameras. If all fails my back up would have been to go through some direct control from within the buildings.

 

[BLH]

Will the ToggleLinc work with that switch actuator?
Unlike a standard wall switch. The paddle sits in the center and you push it up for On or down for Off.
 
A FilterLinc with the PLM in the pass through outlet. Could make a difference if the other electronic devices. That where originally connected to the same outlet as the PLM. Where causing issues.

 

[LarrylLix]

That cover is for an explosive environment. You should not violate safety code by exposing a switch to the environment.
 
Decora style switches cannot be used without some dust sealing cover, if available. Explosions in a dusty barn atmosphere are not fun. Keep your earplugs in.

 

[apnar]

You could go instead with a normal switch in that housing, but stick an Insteon Micro Dimmer in the same box.  Using its sense wire you could make it act like a reasonable normal switch.
 
http://www.insteon.com/dimmer-micro-module

 

[tonti]

That cover is for an explosive environment. You should not violate safety code by exposing a switch to the environment.

Larry - I do not understand your comment. The current switch in the barn is a tooggle and the pictured cover sits on top of the toogle switch. The red lever actually has fingers that manipulate the toggle switch that sits in the box. The cover is a fully enclosing cover for outdoor use and it is absolutely within code. And yes, thats why I am using this cover to keep the toggle switch away from the environment. What am I missing here?

 

[LarrylLix]

That cover is for an explosive environment. You should not violate safety code by exposing a switch to the environment.

It's exactly as I stated and you did too. You have to keep that cover on and not expose the switch by the code.

 

[tonti]

All,
I want to give everyone a quick update. 
 
Since the last post I purchased and installed the SignaLinc 2406H Phase Coupler directly next to the main breaker box. I purchased a small double 15 amp breaker to attach it to the main home breaker. I also went ahead and purchased the ISY994i to complement my PLM. Insteon had the LED light bulbs on sale and I bought 3 of them. The PLM sits now on an outlet that has a designated run from the main breaker box. 
 
The three LED's are outside lamps now and one is in the barn as far as 200 ft from the house. 
 
All works well! 
 
I will expand from here! Next is the thermostat for the house.
 
Do you have any recommendations for apps. I downloaded yesterday the "IntelliHome" and I am not impressed. 
 
Thanks for all your help!

 

[LarrylLix]

What type of apps are you looking for?
 
 
For really good support for anything ISY994i or Insteon related go to the UDI forum. Really smart people there and tonnes of help

 

[Del91574]

That cover is for an explosive environment. You should not violate safety code by exposing a switch to the environment.
 
Decora style switches cannot be used without some dust sealing cover, if available. Explosions in a dusty barn atmosphere are not fun. Keep your earplugs in.

Your information regarding code and specific requirements is flawed and should be much more conservative in what you state as fact before you put it out there.
 
That cover is not Explosionproof, nor is the housing. Plastic is not allowed for that. Barns are not classified in the enviromental section of code mandating explosionproof. Flour or grain mills, sure, but barns, nope. It's also doubtful the AHJ or HO would install an EP job unless mandated as it usually adds multiples to the overall job (5-10X over standard conduit). There is also a difference between explosionproof and intrinsically safe.or
 
That is a run-of the mill NEMA box cover/switch for a regular toggle switch installation. NEMA is far different than explosionproof (glamorous name that really doesn't accurately describe the term or reason why it's used). NEMA is only dust and moisture ingress.
 
Explosionproof would necessitate ridgid conduit, pour in hubs and the like.
 
In the case of what could or could not be allowable in a NEMA condition with "smart switches" generally a bubble type hood (look at in-use GFCI's for an example) would be a workaround and legal. The only place the cover shown would be mandated is a "wet" location as described by code, otherwise a lift up version and decora switch would be legal.
 
Larry, if you would like to discuss hazardous atmospheres, the extent of the install prescribed and methods, feel free to shoot me a PM, but armchair quarterbacking something that has not been physically performed by yourself with flawed knowledge of methodologies, hardware and execution is not helpful to yourself or others.