Using Elk Relays to Control Outlet directly?

[gatchel]

There are ways to do what you want safely, even with some technical code violations. Safety First!

 

[hult]

All,

Wondering if this will work before I order the equipment:

I would like to be able to control some outlets located in the same utility closet as my Elk M1G (only one outlet per circuit, as they are used only for automation) WITHOUT using any third-party devices such as Insteon, UPB, etc. In fact, my initial need for this is to be able to "reset" my Insteon PLM (used with Homeseer) when the blasted thing locks up. However, I think I could also use this to reset my router if necessary, even if it were plugged into an Uninterruptible Power Supply (a UPS, which filters most powerline signals that could be used on an alternate technology plug-in device like an X10 appliance linc).

Here's my plan:

1) Connect an Elk-M1RB relay board OR a relay on an Elk-M1XOVR, OR an Elk-912 or 912B directly to the M1G (would really like to know if any or all of these would work for the purpose below, please).

2) Wire the AC power neutral leg directly to the outlet to be controlled, as is normal.

3) Wire the hot leg through one of the relays above, as a normally closed circuit, before connecting to the hot side of the outlet. The power line draw for either a PLM or a router would be much, much less than the rated 10A @ 125 VAC of these, correct?

4) IF the Insteon PLM locks up on me when I'm away (has happened, and shuts me down for lighting control), I could just turn on the respective Elk output for 30 seconds via the web using the M1XEP, which would open the circuit and allow the Insteon PLM to reset.

4a) The same could be done via either Homeseer or possibly even Elk Rules for the router if a ping failed repeatedly, except I'd plug this type of "outlet" into the UPS.

So... Is this something so obvious I should have seen it long before this? Are others doing it? Unless I completely misunderstand the use of these relays, it seems one could have hard-wired on / off control of outlets / circuits located very close to the M1, creating a good method of resetting other automation devices.

Am I missing something here? Do I misunderstand the use of these relays? Or can I just do it?

Thanks,

Joe

Cut the hot conductor of a extension cord and wire it through a SPST relay that is in an enclosure.

I've done this for years using the predecessor to the Elk M1G ( the Elk MM443s,) which has four 120VAC-rated relays built in. Plug the extension cord into an outlet and the AC device to be controlled into the other end of the extension cord. This way you have created a switching device that is not hardwired into your electrical system.

... Marc

 

[Neurorad]

I've been reading about relays, in relation to controlling some exterior lighting, with an alarm panel (likely the M1). (Or the M2...starting a rumor...)

What are 110v relays for, if not for controlling 110v loads?

How are outdoor security lights wired?

I really am just kidding about the M2, if anyone surfs in.

 

[icellama21]

If you want a relay-in-a-box solution, there are quite a few out there. The easiest to find are HVAC relays(24VAC coils), complete with their own junction box and terminals to wire into your circuit. Some home-depots have these, any electrical supply house will have a good selection of control relay modules. For the ELK fans, there are also the ELK 9200 and 9100 modules, but those may be overkill for an extension cord.

Since all of these reside in a metal box and usually have the proper spacing/wiring for their low-voltage lines, its an easier way to pass inspection. The next best thing would be a plug in module(put a J-box with your relay in an extension cord), no inspection issues there either. If you have the cash to spend, the home theatre guys have created a number of outlets that respond to 12V triggers. The russound ACT-1 comes to mind, but there are others. They are the same as the j-box on extension cord, but already build and safety certified.

 

[brotsten]

This uses an Elk output, not relay:

CocoonTech Post

Brian