Elk-M1PCSPIM M1 UPB Interface
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ELK-M1PCSPIM
| UPB Computer Interface
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USB Computer Interface Module |
 Model: UMC-USB-W Data Sheet |
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DESCRIPTION Computer Interface Module The UMC series are plug-in modules designed to convert serial USB signals into highly-reliable, Universal Powerline Bus (UPB) signals. They provide a bridge between the PC/controller to the powerline via the module’s plug-in AC connection. This enables computer-based configuration and control (use UMC-DB9 for control) of lighting scenes, switches, modules and other UPB devices, over the power line. UPB devices such as switches, multi- button controllers and schedulers are easily integrated in to a new home or can replace switches and timers in an existing home. UPB technology requires no new or special wiring, it provides a flexible, low-costs alternative to hard wired or RF home lighting and automation strategies. The UMC-USB-W is ideal for an installer configuring any UPB devices with a laptop personal computer (PC) using UPStart software, since it plugs in to the popular USB port. The UMC-USB is not recommended for connection of home automation controllers. The UMC-DB9-W is ideal for controller applications since it uses the highly reliable RS-232C serial interface; common to most desktop PCs, home automation controllers and alarm panels. The UMC-DB9 can also be used to configure any UPB devices. Two alternatives are available to the UMC-USB. First is the Scheduler-Timer (model UCS-01) with Computer Interface Module (CIM) mode. It provides all of the functionality of the UMC-USB plus it will control 99 scheduled events and links for up to 250 UPB devices. The scheduler is easy to use and has an impressive list of features including celestial clock and vacation mode, so it can control outdoor and indoor lighting while you are at home or away. Second is the Pocket Programmer (model UPP-20) with the CIM mode. It provides all the functionality of the UMC-USB plus a programming display – providing 80% of the UPStart configuration software capability without the use of a PC. The pocket programmer is only recommended for installers who are proficient with UPStart software. Installation of the UMC is simple: the module is plugged into a standard 120VAC outlet. The serial or USB port of the computer or controller is connected to the module using the standard cable provided. With the appropriate software, such as UPStart (available for download), the computer or controller can then be used to configure and control UPB devices in the home. There is a wide variety of third party PC programs and controller options available, all of which utilize the UMC series of modules (see FAQ for a current 3rd party listing).
APPLICATIONS The potential applications for the UMC series and UPB devices seem endless – “only limited by one’s imagination.” Custom scenes (connecting up to 250 switches) in your living, family or great room, kitchen, study, master bedroom/bathroom, office, patio or garage. Turn on all lights in your home at the touch of a button. Automatically (scheduler-timer, model UCS-01) turn on/off/dim outdoor garden or security lights, heating and AC, or provide night light convenience anywhere in your home. Timer functions enable bathroom fan, heat lamp, exit lighting or energy savings applications. From simply adding a multi-button switch and lamp module that provides more/multiple lights/controls in a room, or creating a virtual 3-way switch anywhere in your home, to turning on a group of lights when your garage door is opened, entertainment system is powered on, or doorbell or phone rings (I/O module, model UMI), Simply Automated offers a vast array of simple and flexible solutions. Residential security is enhanced by turning on one, two or a group of lights when there is an access/break-in alarm, fire alarm or panic button push. Door contacts and motion sensors can turn lights on automatically for convenience and safety (stairway/hallway). Energy savings is realized by automatically turning off/on lights and turning back the thermostat when arming/disarming the security system. Switches can now be pre-set for dimming levels to save energy and prolong bulb life. Compatible with a long list of home automation controllers, alarm systems and PC based software packages, see FAQ for a current listing and more home lighting automation and control solutions. |
Features:
• Compact interface requires small amount of space
• Easy hookup — requires only the 4-wire data bus connection. * NO 9-Pin Serial Cable *
• Includes UPB Status light (multicolored) AND a M1 Data Bus Status Light (Green) — enhances the ability to diagnose and troubleshoot
• Lower cost than purchasing separate and M1XSP and PCSPIM products.
• Removable 4-pin terminal block connection
Specifications:
-UPB Network circuitry – powered from the AC “Primary” Line.
-M1 Data Bus Device circuitry – powered (12VDC) from the M1 Data Bus (+) & (-) terminals.
NOTE: Loss of AC primary power should not result in a missing data bus device trouble.
• Current Draw from M1: ~30mA @ 12 VDC
• M1 Bus Device Address: Preset at Address #7 [Requires bus module enrollment]
• Firmware required: 1.0.42 (std. firmware) or later
provides an inexpensive and reliable solution for residential and commercial powerline communications applications. While other powerline communication technologies exist, none compare to UPB in cost per node, functionality and reliability.
Highly Reliable — The UPB method of communication is 100 ~ 1000 times more reliable than current X-10 technology and 10 ~100 times more reliable than CEBUS or LONWORKS powerline technologies. UPB is 99.9% reliable versus 70%-80% reliability of X-10.*
UPB transmits farther (over a mile), is less susceptible to powerline noise and capacitive attenuation (signal reduction) than other technologies for three reasons:
Pulse Position Modulation is a highly reliable time based method of sending bits; it narrows the possibility of power line noise affecting communication, unlike X-10 and other carrier modulation technologies.
UPB pulses on the power line are approximately 40 volts; more than five times greater than the 5 to 7 volt signals of X-10.
UPB transmits at low (4 to 40 kHz) frequencies, carrying much more power than higher frequency technologies like X-10 that transmits at 120 kHz.
When put on one phase of a home’s two phase power line, the signals are so strong they go out to the street side transformer and are induced on the opposite phase, returning back to the home. Since UPB transmits at a low frequency, it does not affect other powerline devices or appliance/loads.
No New Wires – UPB dimmer switches are installed exactly like regular dimmer switches. They connect to a home’s standard wiring. Since no new or special wiring is required, they work great in retrofit applications too.
Affordable — UPB dimmer switches can be as affordable as high end non-communicating dimmers. When comparing costs of home upgrades (theater TV, remodeled bath or kitchen) adding lighting automation and control to a room or whole home provides a surprising improvement in quality of life at a comparably low cost.
Simplicity – Adding lighting control can be as simple as plugging in dimming modules or replacing dimming switches Pre-Configured Series. Unlike radio frequency (RF) wireless switches, where reliability is proportional to the number of ‘mess-networked’ switches installed, UPB provides reliability and performance anywhere in the home without the need of repeaters.
Peer to Peer – No host computer or central controller is necessary for single, point-to-point control or group (lighting scene) control. UPB is a no-host, peer to peer network. Interruption of power, or single point controller/repeater failure, will not affect a stand-alone UPB network.
Two Way Communications – Hardware, software and protocol design allows for two-way communication in all products. Status can be confirmed with polling or automatically transmitted upon local/manual load changes.
House Separation – Neighbors with UPB will not control each other’s lights. The UPB addressing scheme allows for 250 systems (houses) on each transformer and 250 devices on each system. It incorporates over 64,000 total addresses compared to 256 for conventional X-10.
Interaction – UPB communication can be used in the presence of all X-10, CEBus, HomePlug or LonWorks compatible equipment with no interference between either. The UPB technology uses a completely different frequency range than any of the wide-band, narrow-band, or spread spectrum technologies. The physical method of UPB communication is entirely different than the modulation-demodulation techniques of all X-10, CEBus, or LonWorks.
Higher Speed – 20 to 40 times the speed of X- 10 in terms of data transmitted. This is equivalent to over ten full commands per second. The average latency of command to action is less than 0.1 second.
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UPB System Description | |
X-10 to UPB Migration |
* Reliability is defined as the percentage of transmitter/receiver pairs that correctly operate upon initial installation. The UPB test units are randomly installed in the environment typical of the target market. This market is defined as the single-family residential market in the US, homes with a median size of 2500 Sq, Ft. This environment is defined to be the existing base of homes, without any modifications, which means there should be no “fixing” the electrical system of the residence by adding couplers, repeaters or filtering.
Use the Simply Automated PIM, half the cost vs PCS, better support.
This is apparently an important and helpful post for home automation Elk M1 security and lighting control using UPB. Thanks for sharing this post.
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