Incandescent Switches and Fluorescent lights...

[Miykayl]

There are several X10 wall switch-replacement taht work only with incandescents because they need a complete circuit in order to detect the X10 signaling.

Has anyone tried to get these to work with fluorescent “bulbs?�

I have exterior bulb-based lighting (porch lights) that I leave on at night for security. I also have a DSC 5010 (832) and PC5580 (which among other things can control an X10 network). I want to place the exterior lights on the X10 “network�. Since I am using fluorescent “bulbs� in those sockets, a normal X10 wall switch will not work.

Of course, dimming is out-of-the-question, but…

Would, something like a 20Kohm 1 watt resister placed as a load parallel to the bulb sockets provide an adequate current-path for reception of the X10 signal?  This would look much like an End-Of-Line-Resistor for a normally-open switch, except that the resistance would be much higher than what we use in zone EOLRs.

…Or I could add an outlet (also controlled by the switch) and plug in a 7.5 watt night light? (Now I feel I must laugh).

Maybe it’s not that complicated. Maybe there is an X10 switch that does this already.

I’m new to the whole X10 thing, but fairly comfortable with electronics.

Thank you!  These forums are great!

[Old EW Tech]

If you're referring to compact fluorescent lamps (CFL), they will work with the standard X-10 controls.

If you are referring to standard fluorescent fixtures, X-10 switches are available for them (they are pricey).

We sent you a Private Message with a link to a source.

[Miykayl]

Yes, I was talking about the compact fluorescnet lamps.

I was not aware that they would conduct like incandescents (in some fashion) while not fully powered on.

Now, the task is greatly simplified and my gratitude is greatly multiplied!

Thank you.

[Nate00]

I know of a source for wall switches for flourescents for about $12.00 I have many in my home for my compact fluorescents. If you need help with a part number or the source let me know.

[Guyfromhe]

Yeah they are cheap...
The fluorescent switches don't have the dimmer and take a neutral line so they can get their own power source...

The other ones do support dimming and let a little current trickle through the light to complete the circuit and steal power so they can always have power to the microprocessor in the switch...

Your CFL may flicker when off or buzz if you use this kind of switch with it...

You can also get a socket rocket which screws into a standard socket and then you put a bulb in that... That's what I use for my front light because the electric box is too small to accommodate the big X10 switch.