DESCRIPTION
Universal Inverting
Phase Couplers
Boosts signals between split-phases
The ZPCI series of Universal Inverting Phase Couplers is unique
in many ways (patent pending). Unlike conventional phase
couplers, multiple ZPCI units can be used in a home (e.g. one
ZPCI per breaker panel). This is not the case for 'conventional'
phase couplers where only one can be used per home. Two or
more 'conventional' phase couplers will reduce (attenuate) signals,
as will a mix of 'conventional' and 'inverting' phase coupler types.
Phase couplers boost powerline signals by providing a bridge
between the two, 120 VAC electrical phases (A and B) in a split-
phase, 240 VAC home. Without a phase coupler signals travel out
to the street-side transformer on one phase and comeback in the
home 'inverted' on the other phase; usually at a lower
(attenuated) level. In homes up to 2000 Sq. Ft. and within 100
feet of the transformer, phase coupling may not be needed for
UPB. However, as the size of the home and distance from the
transformer increase, phase coupling becomes more important. A
Universal Inverting Phase Coupler is recommended in every main
breaker panel and sub-panel to ensure maximum signal strength.
The Universal Inverting Phase Couplers are 'universal' in the sense
that they pass UPB, X10 and other higher frequency signals. They
are unique because they use an internal transformer to invert the
signal between phases and isolate the internal capacitance. The
inverted signal, phase coupled at the breaker panel, adds signal
strength to the inverted signal returning from the street-side
transformer. Because the internal transformer of the inverting
phase coupler isolates the capacitance of the phase coupler, more
than one can be used in a home without the additional
capacitance attenuating signals. The net effect is higher signal
strength and less attenuation. The Inverting Phase Coupler avoids
the issues of conventional phase couplers: 1) avoids additional
capacitance that attenuates signals, and 2) avoids non-inverted
signals cancelling inverted signals. Inverting phase couplers can
eliminate the need of split phase repeaters.
Phase coupling is most effective at the main breaker panel and sub-
panels where models ZPCI-B and ZPCI-W fit. Both of these models
have surge suppression and status LEDs. For quick and easy installation
in small (one main breaker panel) homes, the plug in model ZPCI-Px0A
can be used. Models include:
- Model ZPCI-B – Breaker-box Mount Universal Inverting PhaseCoupler for most standard power centers (Murray/Crouse Hinds – MP;
Siemens – QP; Cutler Hammer / Eaton – BR, CL; GE – THQL, THQP;
SquareD – HOM) that have available space for a 220V circuit breaker.
- Model ZPCI-W – Wire-in Universal Inverting Phase Coupler is designed for mounting inside a junction box, beside the breaker panel.
- Model ZPCI-P30A or -P50A — Plug-in Universal Inverting Phase
Coupler connects to a 30Amp (-P30A) or 50Amp (-P50A), 220 VAC, 3
prong receptacle used for clothes dryers, air conditioning units or
stoves (see dimensions for plug difference).
For commercial, 3-phase power applications, refer to Model UTR,
Three Phase Repeater. |
