UPB Technology & Product FAQs

General UPB Questions

1. What is Universal Powerline Bus (UPB)?
2. What are the technical differences between UPB and X10?
3. What is the benefit of using UPB over other powerline carrier solutions?
4. Why is UPB better than RF-based communication?
5. How many devices can be used in a UPB system?
6. Can my neighbor operate UPB devices in my house through the powerline?
7. How do I configure a UPB system?
8. What are “scenes” and how does UPB address them?
9. What are “Links”?
10. How long has UPB been available?
11. Are there any interference issues with UPB?

Simply Automated UPB Products

1. Where can I buy Simply Automated products?
2. My laptop only has a USB port. I tried connecting a USB adapter to the Computer Interface Module
    (CIM   = UMC-DB9-W) and selected USB in UPStart but it would not work. How can I use your Computer 
    Interface Module?
3. Do I need a phase coupler?
4. Can I use an X10 phase coupler for UPB?
5. Can Simply Automated UPB products be used on 3-phase power systems?
6. Are Simply Automated UPB products available worldwide?
7. What is the warranty period?
8. What should I do if I have a question or a problem?

SimplyBrilliant ™ UPB Switches

1. How do the interchangeable faceplates work?
2. How do the multiple actuators operate when installed on a US2 universal base?
3. What if I just want to order a single rocker switch?
4. How is the power rating of SimplyBrilliant switches affected by multi-gang boxes?
5. What are the limitations on scenes?
6. How can I achieve 3-way operation using SimplyBrilliant switches?
7. Can I use SimplyBrilliant switches with remote switches from other manufacturers?
8. Can the indicator on the Dedicated Remote switch turn on and off with the load?
9. Why are there two multi-way traveler wire connections on each switch?
10. What about non-incandescent lighting?
11. What if there is no neutral wire available in the switch box?
12. In what colors are SimplyBrilliant faceplates available?

Home Automation Controller Interfaces

1. Which home automation controllers support UPB?
2. My controller documentation says I need a “PIM”. What’s that?
3. How does UPB’s 2-way communication work?
4. How do I configure a UPB system and an HAI Omni controller to work together?
5. Can I interface a UPB system with a Crestron control system?

1. Q: What is Universal Powerline Bus (UPB)?

A: UPB is a highly reliable, cost effective, 2-way communications technology that enables intelligent control of lighting and appliances with no special wiring. UPB utilizes existing powerlines to communicate control signals throughout the premises.

2. Q: What are the technical differences between UPB and X10?

A: Although UPB and X10 each use standard powerlines to communicate, the underlying technologies of each are significantly different. First, X10 uses a fixed carrier frequency to communicate data. Carrier frequencies traveling on household power wiring are subject to attenuation and noise interference, which can cause intermittent reliability issues. UPB utilizes a patented communications method called Pulse Position Modulation (PPM) that is based on timed pulses rather than a carrier frequency. Using pulses for signaling means (a) less attenuation on the powerline and (b) less susceptibility to RF interference. In addition, there is a difference in voltage strength: an X10 signal is 4 volts at its strongest level; while UPB is 40 volts, or 10 times stronger. The end result is faster and more reliable communication, especially when transmitting over longer distances. Another difference between the two technologies is that the transmission packet for UPB allows more data to be communicated over a much wider address space. This enables a higher level of control and far less potential of interference between adjacent homes. Lastly, UPB is a two-way communication protocol, whereas X10 is primarily unidirectional. Two-way communication allows the system to verify that a given message was successfully received.

3. Q: What is the benefit of using UPB over other powerline carrier solutions?

A: The increased reliability of UPB’s PPM communication methodology reduces the total cost of deploying a controlled lighting system, because it decreases the number of service calls and eliminates intermittent reliability issues. This is true for both new construction and retrofit applications. Most X10 installations require the use of filters and repeaters to address intermittent communications and reliability issues.

4. Q: Why is UPB better than RF-based communication?

A: Although very reliable, RF-based automation has certain limitations. First, the radio waves are easily obstructed by physical structures made of concrete, brick or steel. Compensating for these obstructions requires multiple repeaters throughout the structure to assure reliable signal strength, which can make an RF system very expensive. Second, radio transmitters must be placed in plain site for optimal signal strength, and they are not always aesthetically pleasing. Simply Automated’s philosophy is that wireless solutions are ideal for untethered household devices (such as remote controls, telephones and laptops), while using wired solutions for fixed devices will help avoid interference related to RF oversubscription.

5. Q: How many devices can be used in a UPB system?

A: The UPB address space is a two dimensional array based on a Network ID number and a Unit ID number. The address space covers 250 networks per power transformer and 250 UPB devices per network. In a normal residential installation, the house would be assigned a single Network ID (analogous to a “house code” in X10 terminology), and the devices would then be assigned sequential Unit ID numbers from 1 to 250. Any device may communicate directly with other devices that share the same Network ID.

6. Q: Can my neighbor operate UPB devices in my house through the powerline?

A: The wide address space of UPB allows unique Network IDs to be assigned to adjacent houses to avoid interference. In addition, every UPB message contains a 4-character password that provides protection from unauthorized access.

7. Q: How do I configure a UPB system?

A: The most universal approach to configuring UPB networks is to use a software program called UPStart. UPStart is available as a free download from the Simply Automated website. The software requires a PC running Microsoft Windows, and a Computer Interface Module (CIM) such the Simply Automated model UMC-DB9. The CIM is only required for configuration, and it can be removed from the installation once the UPB system is in operation. The CIM can also be used as an interface to various home automation controllers, if desired.

8. Q: What are “scenes” and how does UPB address them?

A: “Scene” is a term used in the lighting control industry to describe specific lighting events. For example, you can create a “viewing scene” for your home theater or an “entertainment scene” in your dining room. When the scene is activated, a UPB command is transmitted on the powerline and the appropriate lights will respond by brightening or dimming to the proper level. No central controller is required to make this happen. Most UPB devices can be included in up to 16 different scenes.

9. Q: What are “Links”?

A: “Links” is a UPB term to describe a channel of communications linking transmitters and receivers in a lighting system. A link essentially represents a scene. A transmitter sends a “link command” over the powerline, which contains a “link number” from 1 to 250. Receivers within the network domain are programmed to listen for and act upon certain link numbers. Receivers can take different actions (i.e. dim a light to a certain level at a certain rate, turn the light on or off, etc.) depending on the link number received. Because of the “link” structure of UPB, one powerline command can affect up to 250 devices simultaneously.

10. Q: How long has UPB been available?

A: UPB has been in development for seven years, but has been deployed in commercially available products for two years.

11. Q: Are there any interference issues with UPB?

A: UPB overcomes most electrical noise that can be generated by AC-powered household lighting and appliances, and is far less susceptible to noise interference than any other powerline communication technology on the market. UPB can coexist with nearly all powerline carrier and lighting control technologies, with the exception of Lutron HomeWorks ®.

 

Simply Automated UPB Products

1. Q: Where can I buy Simply Automated products?

A: Simply Automated sells its products through a network of home automation distributors, dealers and installers. Please see our “Where to Buy” web page for a listing of authorized resellers.

2. Q: Can I use a Simply Automated RS232 Computer Interface Module with a USB adapter?

A: There are a couple of steps that are not obvious and may not be included as instructions with your USB-to-RS232 adapter. We have successfully tested several USB adapters, as listed below. Please follow these installation steps when using a USB-to-RS232 adapter with Windows XP:

1.       Plug the USB adapter into an open USB port on your computer.

2.       Open the Windows Control Panel.

3.       Open the System window.

4.       Click on the Hardware tab.

5.       Click on the Device Manager button.

6.       Click on the + sign labeled “Ports (Com & LPT)”.

7.       Notice that your USB adapter has been assigned a COM port. Take note of which port has been captured.

8.       Open UPStart.

9.       Select Tools > UPB Interface.

10.   In the Select Box:

1.       Select “Powerline Interface Module (PIM-R)” from the Interface drop down.

2.       From the Communications Port drop down, select the COM port noted in the Device Manager.

11.   Click on Test.

12.   A successful test will result with blue check marks and completed data in the Test area.

Depending on the brand of USB-to-RS232 converter and the operating system you are running, you may have to (1) load the software included with the converter, or (2) download a third party driver, as we had to do in order to get the Belkin F5U109-CU to work with one of our computers.

Tested devices:

·         ELK ELKUSB232 – Sold by Home Controls

·         SIIG JU-CB1S12

·         IO Gear USB-2930

·         IO GEAR GUC232A

·         Belkin F5U109-CU

·         Cables Unlimited USB-2920

·         BAFO Technologies BF-810

·         PCMCIA Card - Quatech SSP-100

·         Keyspan USA-19HS 

3. Q: Do I need a phase coupler?

A: In many cases, the UPB signal is strong enough to operate across phases in a split-phase residential wiring situation. However, some installations will require a passive phase coupler to achieve reliable operation. Since it is impossible to predict the need for a coupler in any particular situation, Simply Automated strongly recommends that a phase coupler be included in all professional installations.

4. Q: Can I use an X10 phase coupler for UPB?

A: No. UPB signals will not pass through a coupler made specifically for X10. However, Simply Automated UPB couplers will also pass X10 and broadband signals.

5. Q: Can Simply Automated UPB products be used on 3-phase power systems?

A: UPB devices, including those made by Simply Automated, can be used on 3-phase power systems only when a 3-phase coupler/repeater is installed. A repeater is required to time-shift the UPB pulses so that they will appear in the correct position on the AC sine wave of all three phases. Contact Powerline Control Systems (PCS) for more information on 3-phase coupler/repeaters.

6. Q: Are Simply Automated UPB products available worldwide?

A: Simply Automated currently manufactures products for the North American residential automation market. Its UPB products are designed to operate on 120VAC, 60Hz split-phase power systems. We do not currently offer powerline products for 220-240VAC, 50Hz.

7. Q: What is the warranty period?

A: Simply Automated UPB products are warranted for a period of two (2) years after date of shipment. Click here to obtain our complete Terms and Conditions of Sale.

8. Q: What should I do if I have a question or a problem?

A: Contact your local distributor or dealer from whom you purchased the product. In most cases, their customer service personnel should be able to resolve the issue. If you need to return or replace a product, contact your distributor to obtain a Returned Material Authorization (RMA) number.

SimplyBrilliant ™ UPB Switches

1. Q: How do the interchangeable faceplates work?

A: The SimplyBrilliant model US2-30 Universal Dimming Transceiver Base can accept any of our ZS series removable actuator faceplates. The faceplates provide various combinations of rocker and/or button actuators in various decorative colors. Installing a Universal Base makes it possible to change color and function to meet changing requirements, without having to untwist a single wire nut. To change a faceplate, you simply remove the wallplate, remove the faceplate, install the new faceplate and replace the wallplate. If the new faceplate has a different actuator configuration, UPStart software must be used to reconfigure the programming of the Universal Base.

2. Q: How do the multiple actuators operate when installed on a US2 universal base?

A: Each SimplyBrilliant US2-30 Universal Dimming Transceiver Base drives a single load of up to 1000W. When a multi-actuator faceplate is installed on the base, the top left switch is always the load-controlling actuator. All other switches (including the load controller) act as UPB transmitters, so they can be configured to activate other UPB devices or scenes. This feature is very handy when retrofitting an existing room with additional lighting, or simply as a strategy to reduce “wall clutter”.

3. Q: What if I just want to order a single rocker switch?

A: No problem. The SimplyBrilliant model US11 Standard Dimming Transceiver Switch comes as an assembled unit, including a single rocker faceplate. You can also purchase a fully-assembled Dedicated Remote Switch by ordering our model USR1. Please note that these single-rocker switches are not universal, so you cannot interchange the multi-actuator faceplates that are available for the US2-30 Universal Dimming Transceiver Base. You can, however, interchange colors of model ZS11 single rocker faceplates.

4. Q: How is the power rating of SimplyBrilliant switches affected by multi-gang boxes?

A: One US11-30 switch or US2-30 base mounted in a triple-gang box is rated at 900W. Mounting two switches in a triple-gang box de-rates each switch to 800W. Mounting one switches in a single-gang box de-rates each switch to 600W.

5. Q: What are the limitations on scenes?

A: A scene can activate or deactivate up to 250 devices. Each SimplyBrilliant switch load may be included in up to 16 different scenes. The connected load can be programmed to respond in a different way for each scene, both in terms of dim level and fade rate. There is a limitation when using multi-actuator faceplates on a US2 Universal Base: any “transmit-only” actuator programmed for scene control cannot include the connected load in that scene. This is because the transceiver cannot transmit a UPB message to itself. If a scene is to include the connected load, then it must be activated by the load-controlling actuator.

6. Q: How can I achieve 3-way operation using SimplyBrilliant switches?

A: In a hard-wired 3-way installation, the SimplyBrilliant Dedicated Remote Switches and Switch Bases (model series USR) act as an extension of the switch actuator that is built into the UPB “master” switch. When you press a rocker on the remote, it has exactly the same effect as if you pressed the corresponding rocker on the master, in terms of both activating the load and transmitting UPB commands. You can connect multiple remotes to a single master for multi-way operation. You cannot connect a single remote to multiple masters, but you can achieve the same kind of operation by configuring UPB links among master switches. If the wiring is not in place to support a traditional 3-way circuit, you can still achieve 3-way operation by configuring one master to activate the load of another master. UPB is very flexible in its configurability, which makes it possible to achieve a lot of different lighting schemes without having to change the household wiring.

7. Q: Can I use SimplyBrilliant switches with remote switches from other manufacturers?

A: No. SimplyBrilliant UPB Switches and Transceiver Bases can only be wired in multi-way configurations with SimplyBrilliant Dedicated Remote Switches and Bases. However, there is no problem using SimplyBrilliant UPB Switches and Transceiver Bases in the same system with UPB devices from other manufacturers.

8. Q: Can the indicator on the Dedicated Remote switch turn on and off with the load?

A: Yes, the remote switch can be wired in such a way that the indicator tracks the load status. Please refer to the SimplyBrilliant user guide for wiring diagrams.

9. Q: Why are there two multi-way traveler wire connections on each switch?

A: When using multi-rocker faceplates, it is possible to hard-wire a 3-way circuit for both the load controlling switch and the 2 nd “transmit-only” switch. It is also possible to use a dual rocker faceplate (model ZS12) with a USR Dedicated Remote Switch Base, thereby allowing two remote switches in a single-gang box. Please refer to the SimplyBrilliant user guide for wiring diagrams.

10. Q: What about non-incandescent lighting?

A: SimplyBrilliant switches are capable of dimming some non-incandescent lighting, such as halogen and certain low-voltage systems. Low-voltage lighting can be dimmed if the transformer is either (a) magnetic or (b) specifically designated by the manufacturer for use with incandescent dimmers. Fluorescent, metal halide, and many types of electronic low-voltage lighting cannot be dimmed, but can still be used with a SimplyBrilliant switch in an ON/OFF configuration with dimming disabled. To disable dimming, you must use the UPStart UPB software to configure the switch operation as strictly ON/OFF. Once this is done, then there is no problem driving any kind of load up to the rated power of the switch.

11. Q: What if there is no neutral wire available in the switch box?

A: SimplyBrilliant UPB switches require both a hot and neutral in the junction box. If you are retrofitting an existing home and there is no neutral available, you can install a model UFD-30 or UFR-30 Fixture Module at the ceiling fixture and reconnect the two wires running to the switch box to deliver neutral and a control wire to a model USR1 Dedicated Remote Switch. Refer to the user instructions for the model UFD and UFR for more details.

12.  Q. In what colors are SimplyBrilliant switches available?

A: SimplyBrilliant transceiver faceplates are available in White, Almond, Ivory, Black and Borwn, all color-matched to Leviton® Decora® wallplates.

Home Automation Controller Interfaces

1. Q: Which home automation controllers support UPB?

A: The following home automation controller companies have either developed a UPB interface or are in the process of developing one. We recommend that you contact these companies directly to determine status, version numbers and required components:

• Aegis

• Destiny Networks

• Elk M1

• HAI Omni series

• HomeSeer Technologies (PRO-100)

• I-Touch

• DS Stargate

• RCS CommStar

• Web Mountain NetPlace

UPB-supported software:

• Home Automated Living (HAL)

• HomeSeer Home v2.0

• Omnipotence ECS

2. Q: My controller documentation says I need a “PIM”. What’s that?

A: “PIM” stands for Powerline Interface Module, which is another term for our Model UMC-DB9 Computer Interface Module (CIM). This is also the same device required for use with UPStart UPB configuration software. Our model UMC-DB9 incorporates v4.15 firmware, as is required by many controller interfaces.

3. Q: How does UPB’s 2-way communication work?

A: When an intelligent controller sends a command to one or more UPB devices, the command message can include a request for one of three types of acknowledgements. It is also possible for the controller to request the status of a specific UPB device. If you are interested to know how a specific controller supports UPB’s acknowledgement and status reporting features, please contact either the controller manufacturer or the provider of the controller's UPB interface software.

4. Q: How do I configure a UPB system and an HAI Omni controller to work together?

A: To use UPB with an HAI Omni, you must purchase an RS-232 serial daughter card and UPB upgrade ROM from your HAI dealer. The Omni serial card can then be connected to a Simply Automated Model UMC-DB9 Computer Interface Module (CIM) using the supplied serial cable. Install all of these items per the manufacturer’s instructions. UPStart UPB configuration software is required to initially setup your UPB system. Configuration will be easier if you use separate CIMs for the Omni and for UPStart, although this is not required.

• Configure your UPB system using UPStart. Write down the Network ID and Network Password you are using, and make a list of all Unit IDs that are assigned by UPStart. If you will be using UPB links to activate scenes from the Omni, make a list of the link numbers as well.

• If you are using the same CIM for both UPStart and the Omni, follow the instructions to reset your CIM to MESSAGE mode after you are finished using UPStart. This must be done because UPStart automatically resets the CIM to PULSE mode, and this is not compatible with the Omni interface. You do not need to perform this step if UPStart is connected to a separate CIM.

• From the Omni Installer Menu, set the serial module type by selecting “7” (EXP) and scrolling down to the module address set by the jumper on the Omni serial daughter card. Set the type to “5” for UPB.

• From the Omni Installer Menu, program the assigned UPB Network ID and Network Password into the Omni by selecting “1” (CTRL) and scrolling down to UPB NETWORK ID and UPB PASSWORD.

• From the Omni Setup Menu, enable enough “House Codes” for UPB operation to cover the range of Unit IDs for all UPB devices in the system. This is done by selecting “6” (MISC) and scrolling down first to HC1 FORMAT, followed by HC2 FORMAT, etc. Each House Code encompasses 16 devices. UPB Unit IDs 1-16 are enabled by setting HC1 to “3” for UPB, Unit IDs 17-32 are enabled by setting HC2 to “3”, etc.

• You should now be able to activate UPB devices and UPB links from the Omni. To activate a device, press “1” (CTRL), followed by the Unit ID (UNIT), followed by “#”, followed by the action code as displayed. To activate a link, press “4” (ALL), followed by “3” (LINK), followed by the link number, followed by “#”, followed by “1” (ON). Note that links can affect multiple devices, and the action taken by each device is defined by the configuration that was programmed using UPStart.

5. Q: Can I interface a UPB system with a Crestron control system?

A: Yes. Third-party interface modules are available that will allow a Crestron system to monitor and control UPB devices.  For more information, visit the ControlWorks Consulting, LLC website.

 

 

 

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NOTE: Not affiliated with Simply Automated Control Systems Inc. (DBA Simply Automated) a Canada-based supplier and installer of "smart home systems." simplyautomated.com

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