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jdale
Advanced Member
USA
1012 Posts |
 Posted - 07/31/2011 : 10:11:26 AM
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Updated:
This is a user-generated list of Frequently Asked Questions (with answers). See the end of this post for notes about how to contribute.
The FAQ is located here: http://goo.gl/qNTNr
(It's hosted on Google Docs because this makes it easy for multiple people to edit.)
The current contents of the FAQ are:
GENERAL QUESTIONS
What kinds of questions can I have answered here?
How do I ask my question?
What components do I need for a working system?
What are dual-band devices / Access Points, and when do I need them?
Can I use an X10 coupler instead of dual-band devices?
What if I have multiple electrical panels?
Will Insteon work on a 3-phase electrical system?
Will Insteon work on any electrical system other than 110/220v 60hz?
Can I control my lights from a smartphone?
Where can I find full instructions for using my devices?
WHAT CAN I CONTROL?
Can I use an Insteon dimmer to control devices besides lights, like fans?
If I have a non-dimming device like a fan, controlled by an Insteon relay, is it ok to link a dimming device like a KeypadLinc Dimmer to it?
Can I use a dimmer with CFL lights?
Can I use Insteon to control LED lights?
SYSTEM CONTROLLERS AND SOFTWARE
Why would I want software or a system controller?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Smartlinc vs HouseLinc vs ISY?
Can I control the system with other software?
Can I write my own software?
WIRING
If I replace a 3-way switch with an Insteon switch, do I need to replace all the switches on the 3-way?
Do I need a neutral in the box?
What does that even mean? “Neutral in the box”?
I’m trying to install ____ but I don’t understand the wiring I see in the box.
RELIABILITY AND LINKING
My KeypadLinc buttons are not showing the status of devices they are linked to.
My Insteon devices can be turned on, but not turned off.
My Insteon devices can be turned off by linked devices, but not turned on.
My Insteon devices are erratically responsive, sometimes they work, sometimes not.
What kinds of devices create noise?
How can I prevent noise from interfering with my system?
I have lights plugged into a LampLinc or ApplianceLinc, and they never completely turn off.
My Switchlincs or Icon switches can be controlled by linked devices, but don’t work when I press the paddle switch on them.
SMARTLINC ISSUES
My SmartLinc is not keeping time accurately.
How can I change the Port my SmartLinc uses?
Why should I change the Port? What Port should I pick?
My SmartLinc occasionally stops communicating with other network devices (such as computers).
INSTEON HUB ISSUES
How do I set up port forwarding?
HOUSELINC ISSUES
If I want to back up my settings from HouseLinc, where are the files stored?
What is a half-link?
What is the difference between Triggers, Conditions, and Actions?
When setting up event statements in Houselinc, can I specify multiple triggers, conditions, and actions, in one event program statement?
Does the order of Actions matter? Or, how I can I control what happens first?
How do I set up a low battery notification from my wireless motion detectors in Houselinc?
How do I use HouseLinc with the Insteon Hub?
GLOSSARY
The FAQ is located here: http://goo.gl/qNTNr
I started this FAQ because I thought we should have one. Parts I wrote, parts I took from other people's helpful posts in the forum, parts have been contributed by others. It remains a work in progress, especially as the Insteon line-up changes.
Everyone is welcome to make suggestions and contribute text here.
Anyone who has answered questions on this board is welcome to edit it directly. Just contact me with your email address (click my username and then pick E-mail User from my profile, you don't have to post it here) and I will give you the necessary permissions.
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Insteon FAQ: http://goo.gl/qNTNr |
Edited by - jdale on 04/10/2013 9:34:46 PM |
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Tfitzpatri8
Administrator
USA
6866 Posts |
Posted - 07/31/2011 : 11:03:15 AM
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Excellent idea!
In the header of each message, next to the Posted timestamp, there's an icon that combines a piece of paper and an envelope. You can click on that icon atop jdale's message to send a private message directly to him via the forum.
Google does a great job of indexing this forum, so please don't post your personal email address in a public message unless you want it to come up in Google searches and attract lots of new spam emails! |
Volunteer Moderator & Home Automation Enthusiast |
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BLH
Advanced Member
3748 Posts |
Posted - 07/31/2011 : 1:21:50 PM
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All I get from the link is a page not found error.
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jdale
Advanced Member
USA
1012 Posts |
Posted - 07/31/2011 : 3:09:07 PM
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Odd. Supposedly when published, anyone can read a Google Doc, regardless of the visibility. But it was being restricted to people who were logged into a Google account (any Google account, with or without access). I changed the visibility and it appears to be visible to everyone now, as far as I can tell. Let me know if there are issues.
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Insteon FAQ: http://goo.gl/qNTNr |
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BLH
Advanced Member
3748 Posts |
Posted - 07/31/2011 : 4:51:30 PM
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OK I still get the page not found error.
It maybe something in my IE8 or one of the security programs.
I just booted into a test before installation. UBUNTU 11.04 Desktop CD and the included Firefox found and displayed your doc pages no problem. |
Edited by - BLH on 07/31/2011 5:02:18 PM |
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jdale
Advanced Member
USA
1012 Posts |
Posted - 07/31/2011 : 5:21:34 PM
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| I did try it from IE8, without being logged into any Google account, and it now works for me. (I normally use FF.) So it's not IE8 in and of itself that is the problem. I blame Google. Googling the problem, I see lots of reports, no real fixes. It will probably clear itself up, possibly sooner if you clear your cache. |
Insteon FAQ: http://goo.gl/qNTNr |
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Oztronix
Average Member
USA
65 Posts |
Posted - 07/31/2011 : 6:29:18 PM
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I also am getting the "Sorry, the page (or document) you have requested does not exist" page. I tried earlier this afternoon as well with the same results.
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Oz |
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skydvrz
Senior Member
USA
252 Posts |
Posted - 07/31/2011 : 10:14:31 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by Oztronix
I also am getting the "Sorry, the page (or document) you have requested does not exist" page. I tried earlier this afternoon as well with the same results.
I just tried it with Firefox 5.0/Win7-64 and it worked fine. |
Best regards,
Kevin G. McCoy |
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BLH
Advanced Member
3748 Posts |
Posted - 08/01/2011 : 12:56:56 PM
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Just want to report. Now the pages load fine with IE8.
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Oztronix
Average Member
USA
65 Posts |
Posted - 08/02/2011 : 05:05:31 AM
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| Still not for me on IE8 |
Oz |
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art_lazarow
New Member
USA
21 Posts |
Posted - 08/02/2011 : 09:34:39 AM
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| I get the page does not exist error too. I'm using IE8 |
Art Lazarow |
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jdale
Advanced Member
USA
1012 Posts |
Posted - 08/02/2011 : 11:44:27 AM
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| Reading the Google support forums, it appears that there is a bug that published documents (which are by definition supposed to be accessible to everyone) can in some cases (unpredictably but maybe worst for IE8) only be accessed when you are logged into a Google account, or perhaps at least if you visited Google first. My guess is they broke something when they added Google+ support. I tried embedding it in a webpage but that seems to have the same problem. Hopefully to be fixed soon. |
Insteon FAQ: http://goo.gl/qNTNr |
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silverton38
Senior Member
Canada
272 Posts |
Posted - 08/02/2011 : 2:08:10 PM
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Your three phase entry is not that accurate;
I have been very successful with 3 phase electrical homes using Insteon. You need to bridge all three phases. I do this by creating a plug off of every phase positioned very close together and then put an access points in each plug. It works great.
Smarthome itself runs a 3 phase installation of Insteon.
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Oztronix
Average Member
USA
65 Posts |
Posted - 08/02/2011 : 4:22:56 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by jdale
Reading the Google support forums, it appears that there is a bug that published documents (which are by definition supposed to be accessible to everyone) can in some cases (unpredictably but maybe worst for IE8) only be accessed when you are logged into a Google account, or perhaps at least if you visited Google first. My guess is they broke something when they added Google+ support. I tried embedding it in a webpage but that seems to have the same problem. Hopefully to be fixed soon.
Thanks for the tip for IE8. I tried your webpage first then went to google.com then hit the back button and your page came right up!
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Oz |
Edited by - Oztronix on 08/02/2011 4:24:06 PM |
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jdale
Advanced Member
USA
1012 Posts |
Posted - 08/02/2011 : 8:13:55 PM
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Silverton38: thanks, I edited so it better reflects the range of reports I've seen, including yours.
I'm sure there are plenty more things that can be improved! More input is encouraged. Especially on wiring, the SmartLinc, and HouseLinc. I am not an expert on those. |
Insteon FAQ: http://goo.gl/qNTNr |
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silverton38
Senior Member
Canada
272 Posts |
Posted - 08/03/2011 : 1:45:38 PM
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| You have a great idea. Keep up the good work!! |
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jdale
Advanced Member
USA
1012 Posts |
Posted - 09/01/2011 : 8:42:30 PM
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Bumping this back up...
I have made a few more revisions and I suppose it could be declared done. For those of you who are new to the board, anything else you think should be on the FAQ? Sections that are not clear? For those of you who have been around a while, any issues you've explained many times that aren't covered? Anything in there that does not seem entirely correct?
Anyone having trouble reaching it, try going to Google first. |
Insteon FAQ: http://goo.gl/qNTNr |
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jdale
Advanced Member
USA
1012 Posts |
Posted - 02/09/2012 : 8:31:12 PM
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Updated with information about the Fanlinc and other new dual-band devices, etc.
For reference, the current list of questions covered is:
GENERAL QUESTIONS
What kinds of questions can I have answered here?
How do I ask my question?
What components do I need for a working system?
What are dual-band devices / Access Points, and when do I need them?
Can I use an X10 coupler instead of dual-band devices?
What if I have multiple electrical panels?
Will Insteon work on a 3-phase electrical system?
Will Insteon work on any electrical system other than 110/220v 60hz?
WHAT CAN I CONTROL?
Can I use an Insteon dimmer to control devices besides lights, like fans?
If I have a non-dimming device like a fan, controlled by an Insteon relay, is it ok to link a dimming device like a KeypadLinc Dimmer to it?
Can I use a dimmer with CFL lights?
Can I use Insteon to control LED lights?
SYSTEM CONTROLLERS AND SOFTWARE
Why would I want software or a system controller?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Smartlinc vs HouseLinc vs ISY?
Can I control the system with other software?
Can I write my own software?
WIRING
If I replace a 3-way switch with an Insteon switch, do I need to replace all the switches on the 3-way?
Do I need a neutral in the box?
What does that even mean? “Neutral in the box”?
I’m trying to install ____ but I don’t understand the wiring I see in the box.
RELIABILITY AND LINKING
My KeypadLinc buttons are not showing the status of devices they are linked to.
My Insteon devices can be turned on, but not turned off.
My Insteon devices are erratically responsive, sometimes they work, sometimes not.
What kinds of devices create noise?
How can I prevent noise from interfering with my system?
I have lights plugged into a LampLinc or ApplianceLinc, and they never completely turn off.
My Switchlincs or Icon switches can be controlled by linked devices, but don’t work when I press the paddle switch on them.
SMARTLINC ISSUES
My SmartLinc is not keeping time accurately. |
Insteon FAQ: http://goo.gl/qNTNr |
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tracknut
Junior Member
40 Posts |
Posted - 02/10/2012 : 09:00:46 AM
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Great info, thank you. As a new guy, it's nice to see a FAQ.
I had a couple things...
1. Links from Q's to A's. It sure would be nice if the questions at the top were linked to the answer below. Right now you sort of have to read thru the whole thing.
2. On the discussion of powerline filters. I had a situation where my Insteon install completely "shut off" the power outlet where all my A/V is plugged in (on a surge protector strip). So to some extent, the reverse situation of what is usually mentioned here. The Insteon fixtures were working fine, but I couldn't even turn on the TV, Amp, Tivo, etc. Installing a SH filter on the AV power resolved this.
3. Distance of RF transmissions (ie for motion detectors). I have a motion detector which if installed in my foyer will work just fine, but if placed 10' over, outside the front door, will not transmit a signal to the nearest dual-band device which is about 10' away (but indoors). I don't know whether that's normal, but I was a bit surprised to find that the advertised "150' to nearest AP" wasn't quite what I got.
As I say, I'm completely new to this stuff, so feel free to edit out anything here that is not relevant or correct :)
Dave |
Edited by - tracknut on 02/10/2012 09:01:49 AM |
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jdale
Advanced Member
USA
1012 Posts |
Posted - 02/10/2012 : 09:26:24 AM
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1. I didn't think you could put links inside Google documents, but apparently you can. I will add these, I agree it would be useful.
2. That's weird, I've never heard of that happening before.
3. I've never heard of any radio device that actually got the advertised range. I think it's always based on straight-line distance with no obstructions in a lab situation with no other radio sources. That said, I don't know what the actual range in practical use is. To some extent it will depend on the amount of stuff between the two radio devices, how much metal that includes, whether the device is mounted in a metal box (e.g. switchlinc dual-band if you have metal boxes). But I don't know that there is enough information to provide a specific recommendation other than using the quad-tap test to make sure your dual-band devices are communicating, and then trial and error with everything else.
When there isn't a clear answer, I figure it's better for people to ask on the board, where we will be happy to give a wide range of opinions.... ;)
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Insteon FAQ: http://goo.gl/qNTNr |
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foxtail22
Average Member
USA
87 Posts |
Posted - 02/11/2012 : 11:18:39 AM
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| This FAQ link should be put up as a Sticky on the forum |
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jdale
Advanced Member
USA
1012 Posts |
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jdale
Advanced Member
USA
1012 Posts |
Posted - 03/12/2012 : 12:52:10 PM
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Here's the latest table of contents. Thanks to those who contributed, and also to those who posted useful stuff in the forums so I could copy and paste it. :)
GENERAL QUESTIONS
What kinds of questions can I have answered here?
How do I ask my question?
What components do I need for a working system?
What are dual-band devices / Access Points, and when do I need them?
Can I use an X10 coupler instead of dual-band devices?
What if I have multiple electrical panels?
Will Insteon work on a 3-phase electrical system?
Will Insteon work on any electrical system other than 110/220v 60hz?
WHAT CAN I CONTROL?
Can I use an Insteon dimmer to control devices besides lights, like fans?
If I have a non-dimming device like a fan, controlled by an Insteon relay, is it ok to link a dimming device like a KeypadLinc Dimmer to it?
Can I use a dimmer with CFL lights?
Can I use Insteon to control LED lights?
SYSTEM CONTROLLERS AND SOFTWARE
Why would I want software or a system controller?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Smartlinc vs HouseLinc vs ISY?
Can I control the system with other software?
Can I write my own software?
WIRING
If I replace a 3-way switch with an Insteon switch, do I need to replace all the switches on the 3-way?
Do I need a neutral in the box?
What does that even mean? “Neutral in the box”?
I’m trying to install ____ but I don’t understand the wiring I see in the box.
RELIABILITY AND LINKING
My KeypadLinc buttons are not showing the status of devices they are linked to.
My Insteon devices can be turned on, but not turned off.
My Insteon devices can be turned off by linked devices, but not turned on.
My Insteon devices are erratically responsive, sometimes they work, sometimes not.
What kinds of devices create noise?
How can I prevent noise from interfering with my system?
I have lights plugged into a LampLinc or ApplianceLinc, and they never completely turn off.
My Switchlincs or Icon switches can be controlled by linked devices, but don’t work when I press the paddle switch on them.
SMARTLINC ISSUES
My SmartLinc is not keeping time accurately.
How can I change the Port my SmartLinc uses?
Why should I change the Port? What Port should I pick?
My SmartLinc occasionally stops communicating with other network devices (such as computers).
HOUSELINC ISSUES
If I want to back up my settings from HouseLinc, where are the files stored?
What is a half-link?
What is the difference between Triggers, Conditions, and Actions?
When setting up event statements in Houselinc, can I specify multiple triggers, conditions, and actions, in one event program statement?
Does the order of Actions matter? Or, how I can I control what happens first?
How do I set up a low battery notification from my wireless motion detectors in Houselinc?
Here's that link again: http://goo.gl/qNTNr
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Insteon FAQ: http://goo.gl/qNTNr |
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Commander Balok
Junior Member
USA
56 Posts |
Posted - 12/02/2012 : 09:46:44 AM
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quote:
3. Distance of RF transmissions (ie for motion detectors). I have a motion detector which if installed in my foyer will work just fine, but if placed 10' over, outside the front door, will not transmit a signal to the nearest dual-band device which is about 10' away (but indoors). I don't know whether that's normal, but I was a bit surprised to find that the advertised "150' to nearest AP" wasn't quite what I got.
In my new house (built 2009), I cannot use Insteon wireless remotes outdoors (on the front porch), even well within the 150' range (about 20' range, actually). If I step inside the front door, I have no problems.
My house was advertised as "Energy Star" compliant by the builder. The windows are all coated, and the house is very well insulated. It is my theory that these materials interfere with other EM signals as well. I know the coating on windows will block low power EM, because I can't put a satellite radio antenna in the window and listen, as I could at my old house with older windows. I have no real basis other than experience for assuming the rest. But maybe that's your issue. |
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jdale
Advanced Member
USA
1012 Posts |
Posted - 04/10/2013 : 9:36:32 PM
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| Added a glossary to the end of the FAQ. Thanks primarily to Jerry for putting it together (I just did some editing). |
Insteon FAQ: http://goo.gl/qNTNr |
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Insteon FAQ project
