What is the minimum I need to test the noise level in my house before purchasing a bunch of UPB switches, etc. Can I just plug in a UPB PIM and pull up UPStart? Or do I need a phase coupler and a few switches to determine if it will work? I'm slightly concerned as I have two APC Smart UPS and a Backups RS. I also have a fish tank with an external pump that runs 24/7
UPB Noise Testing
- Thread starter rsw686
- Start date
pete_c
Guru
Purchase 2-3 UPB lighting modules, UPB PIM you can utilize as a floater and Upstart. Start testing first without a phase coupler or repeater and see what happens. If you do not want to spend the money on 2-3 UPB modules start with one. I've redone my fuse panel documenting it now with 60 breakers in it so I can get really granular with testing. If you are proficient with electrical and can borrow a phase coupler and phase repeater do so for your testing.
1 - document your fuse panel granularly knowing which breaker goes where in your house. (even check the phase if you can looking at the fuse panel in vivo).
2 - Make up a logical drawing of the circuits and where they go in the house.
3 - test a module per circuit and put the PIM close to the fuse panel to start.
4 - if your test Upstart computer is a laptop; it'll be easier.
1 - document your fuse panel granularly knowing which breaker goes where in your house. (even check the phase if you can looking at the fuse panel in vivo).
2 - Make up a logical drawing of the circuits and where they go in the house.
3 - test a module per circuit and put the PIM close to the fuse panel to start.
4 - if your test Upstart computer is a laptop; it'll be easier.
tmbrown97
Senior Member
Depending on the brand you want to go with, many have Starter Kits. Talk to Automated Outlet about their DKITS - that's Simply Automated's, and they have some that include a PIM (usb or serial - your choice), a phase coupler (your choice of style), and a couple switches. It's a great value and a good way to get your feet wet.
drozwood90
Senior Member
Agree with Work2Play. The kits are pretty much exactly what Pete described, but at a reasonable discounted price. Then if you get hooked...I mean when, you will already have the PIM.
I'd suggest making sure the PIM is the serial version. I believe more automation packages can use the serial PIM Vs. the USB one.
--Dan
I'd suggest making sure the PIM is the serial version. I believe more automation packages can use the serial PIM Vs. the USB one.
--Dan
Thanks for the input! I purchased HAI switches as I have the OmniPro II. I figured using PC Access to configure the switches would be easier to initially get the links setup. I have the phase coupler and three switches installed. The switches are working great. The PIM is in the basement with the HAI controller and shows a noise level of 1 to 2. The switches are on the main floor. I did notice when I went to the top floor Upstart gave a high noise warning and asked if I still wanted to work online. The noise level was showing 3-4 and some commands during programming would be resent once or twice.
fcwilt
Active Member
I always configure UPB systems, via UPStart, using the same outlet where the PIM for the HA controller is plugged in, since my primary concern is the HA controller working well.
But since any UPB device can send a link that may be configured in any other device, you may have times you will want to use the communication test feature of UPStart that allows device to device testing.
But since any UPB device can send a link that may be configured in any other device, you may have times you will want to use the communication test feature of UPStart that allows device to device testing.
If it was me, I would continue with the HAI route for now. You can get everything up and running qickly. If you later then want a bit more control with a bit more work you can go the UPStart route. You also could just pair one device with UPStart for some testing, then when you are done, let the panel program it.
With UPB there are two things to watch, noise and cross-phase coupling. Noise is really less of a problem then coupling problems, but still, if you have lots of noise, see if you can find the cause. Likely just one device, and with some time flipping off and on breakers, you should be able to find it. Could be a big motor, gas appliance, furnace, or other appliance.
With UPB there are two things to watch, noise and cross-phase coupling. Noise is really less of a problem then coupling problems, but still, if you have lots of noise, see if you can find the cause. Likely just one device, and with some time flipping off and on breakers, you should be able to find it. Could be a big motor, gas appliance, furnace, or other appliance.
