The XTB-523 is a high-power powerline interface designed to replace the discontinued X10 TW523/PSC05 interface modules. It provides the proprietary digital interface needed by controllers such as the Elk M1 and the WGL V572A transceiver. Its high-power transmitter delivers more than 10 times the power of the modules it replaces.
The XTB-523 accepts the same connector that would normally be plugged into the X10 module. Its opto-isolated digital interface is functionally identical to that of the TW523, but the TW523 emulation differs from the actual TW523 in several regards. The XTB-523 error checks all incoming data, and does not produce any output when a collision is detected. Since the XTB-523 does not need a gap to separate X10 messages, it will recognize all commands in a bright/dim sequence. And it will both transmit AND receive extended messages.
The XTB-523 is a polite interface, and will abort its transmission whenever it recognizes a collision with another X10 transmission. The XTB-523 includes a number of mode options to tailor its functionality to match the system needs, including the ability to function as a repeater. While not as capable as the XTBR and XTB-IIR repeaters, it can boost the output of other transmitters distributed throughout the system.
When used as a repeater, the XTB-523 should be paired with a good tuned-circuit passive coupler like the X10 XPCP to propagate its strong signal to the opposite phase. A coupler may also be needed to receive weak signals from transmitters on the opposite phase.
See the XTB-523 Mode Options document for a detailed description of the available mode options.
See the X10 Protocol document for details on X10 powerline control operation.