Model UCS-01
Controller, Scheduler-Timer
Noise Log
The Noise Log lists up to 10 measurements of noise, as measured in the Noise View mode. To log
noise, select Noise View from the Tools menu and let it run for some extended period of time (e.g.
hours to days). When powerline noise is present the log will measure and record the noise, at a rate
of one log per minute. The first reading listed is the last minute the noise was present. The 10th or
highest numbered noise event listed is the first noise event recorded (i.e. when the noise was first
observed). For example, if noise is present for 1 hour the first reading was the last time noise was
measured, and the other 10 readings are the previous noise events. This allows the user to determine
when the noise started and how long it lasted.
Trouble Shooting Noise and Low Signal Issues
UPB is a robust and reliable powerline communication technology. It will operate in the presence of
powerline noise more reliably than most powerline technologies. However we do not recommend
programming devices (e.g. adding or changing device settings) when noise is present on the
powerline as it may adversely affect the unit’s programming.
If noise is measured it may be possible to find the source by turning off or unplugging various
loads/lights/appliances in the home. If the noise comes and goes at different times, or if you just want
to check the home for noise sources, turn on as many loads (e.g. lights, appliances, TVs, pumps,
motors, etc…) in the home as possible. This increases the chance of finding noise sources quickly. If
the noise source was not apparent when turning on/off various loads, then use the Noise View and
Noise Log functions to try an determine the times noise is present. This may help determine what
was turned on at specific time and the source of the noise.
For fastest identification of noise sources, once the noise is sensed and is constant, go to the home's
main breaker panel; turn off the circuit breakers one at a time (leaving them off) while watching the
noise meter - until the circuit breaker with noise is found (i.e. when the breaker is turned off/on/off, the
noise reading disappears/re-appears/disappears). Once the circuit with noise is identified, then it
becomes a process of elimination, turning off or unplugging those loads powered by the circuit until
the noise source is found.
For low signal levels, when phase couplers have been installed (see model ZPCI data sheet and user
guide), identifying attenuating (signal reducing), capacitive loads can be accomplished just like finding
noise sources (e.g. turn off breaker one breaker at a time and test signal level each time). The most
common capacitive loads include: rack-mount AV surge-suppressors, uninterruptible power supplies
(or battery chargers) and large (>40 inch) flat screen TVs. Each of these sources may knock a signal
down 2-5%, which is usually not significant. However, if the home is large with multiple breaker
panels and multiple capacitive loads, the cumulative affect can be significant and inhibit
communication.
To isolate and resolve issues due to noisy or attenuating loads, see the Noise/Attenuation Isolator
solution (model ZNF10A). Also note, using the Network Comm. test in UPStart (configuration
software) is usually a quicker and more effective way to identify noise or attenuation when there are
UPB devices spread throughout the home. For assistance with noise or attenuation issues, please
call Simply Automated Technical Support at 800-630-9234x138, or write Support@Simply-
Automated.com.
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