X10 MT13A - User Manual

Mini Timer
Owner's Manual
Model MT13A

Summary

Introduction

How it works

Explains how the Mini Timer transmits signals to X10 Modules.

Before you begin

Offers crucial advice and warnings before operating the X10 system.

What it does

Outlines the functions and features of the Mini Timer.

Quick Tour

How to Program a Timed Event

Guides on setting up timed ON/OFF events for modules.

Special Programming Buttons

Details the functions of special buttons like Mode, Clear, Wakeup.

Mode Switch

Selects mode for setting events, housecode, or clock.

ON;OFF Buttons

Instantly control modules or set timed events.

Time Adjust Rocker

Sets clock time and programmed event times.

Alarm Function

Sets the internal alarm buzzer time for Module 1.

All Units Off Button

Instantly turns off all connected X10 modules.

Mode Button

Cycles through Daily, Once, and Security programming modes.

All Lights On Button

Instantly turns on all compatible X10 light modules.

Setting Up the Mini Timer

Initial Setup

Connects power supply and installs backup batteries.

Setting the Clock

Guides on setting the current time on the Mini Timer display.

Controlling X10 Modules

Details how to pair and control X10 modules with the timer.

Setting Daily Timed Events

Programs modules to turn ON/OFF daily at specific times.

Programming ON and OFF Times

Setting a Timed Event Once Only

Programs a module to activate for a single, specific instance.

Setting a Timed Event in Security Mode

Programs modules to vary ON/OFF times daily for a natural look.

Reviewing Timer Events

Allows checking existing programmed ON/OFF times.

Handling a Full Memory Display

Explains how to manage memory when it's full.

Selector Switch Function

Explains the function of the 1-4/5-8 selector switch.

Instantly Controlling Modules

How to manually turn modules ON or OFF instantly.

Alarm Settings

Setting the Alarm Buzzer

Configures the internal buzzer to sound at programmed times.

Suspending the Wake Up Function

Details how to temporarily disable the alarm and linked module.

Cancelling or Snoozing the Wake-up Alarm

Explains how to cancel or use the snooze feature for the alarm.

Changing the Housecode

Setting Up Modules

Setting The Lamp Modules Code

Details setting the House Code and Unit Code for Lamp Modules.

Setting The Appliance Modules Code

Details setting the House Code and Unit Code for Appliance Modules.

Troubleshooting

Module Control Issues

Addresses issues with individual modules not responding.

System-Wide Control Issues

Addresses issues where no modules respond to the timer.

Intercom System Interference

Explains potential interference from intercom systems.

Power Interruption Behavior

Describes how modules behave after a power outage.

Battery Backup Functionality

Explains the purpose and duration of battery backup.

Battery Indicator Status

Explains the low battery warning indicator.

Accessories

Available Modules

Lists types of compatible X10 modules.

Wireless Remotes

Mentions compatible wireless remote controls.

Additional Controllers

Lists other controller types like Touch-Tone or PC control.

Security System Compatibility

Notes compatibility with X10 Wireless Security Systems.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
4. Maintenance Features

The X10 Mini Timer (Model MT13A) is a versatile home automation controller designed to manage up to 8 X10 Modules automatically or instantly. It allows users to program lights and appliances to turn on and off at preset times, creating a "lived-in" look for homes, especially when away. The device can be kept by a bedside and features an internal alarm buzzer, making it suitable as an alarm clock with a snooze function.

Function Description:

The Mini Timer plugs into any AC outlet and transmits digitally encoded signals over the house wiring to X10 Modules. These signals control various devices such as Lamp Modules (for lamps up to 300 watts), Appliance Modules (for radios, fans, coffee pots, or other appliances up to 500 watts), and Wall Switch Modules (for indoor or outdoor security lights up to 500 watts).

The timer offers several programming modes:

• Daily Mode: Programs modules to turn on or off at the same time every day.
• Once Mode: Programs an event to occur only once within the next 24 hours, after which it is automatically cleared from memory. This is useful for single events like waking up for an early morning flight.
• Security Mode: Automatically varies the programmed time each day within a programmed hour, making the home appear occupied and less predictable to potential intruders. For example, if programmed for 7:35 PM, the event might occur between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM on subsequent days.

The Mini Timer also provides instant control over modules. Users can manually turn modules on or off with the press of a button. It includes an "All Lights On" button to instantly activate all Lamp and Wall Switch Modules and an "All Units Off" button to turn off all X10 Modules, including Appliance Modules.

The internal alarm buzzer is activated when Module number 1 is programmed for an ON time. It features a snooze function, allowing users to temporarily silence the alarm by pressing any key, which will then reactivate the alarm in 10 minutes. The alarm can be permanently canceled by sliding the Buzzer switch to "OFF."

Important Technical Specifications:

• Module Control: Controls up to 8 X10 Modules.
• Power Supply: Requires the specific power supply that came with the Mini Timer, as it contains necessary X10 control circuitry. Cannot be replaced with a regular 12V power supply.
• Battery Backup: Uses two AA alkaline batteries to protect time and programmed events for up to 48 hours during a power outage. The backlight and buzzer do not operate on battery backup.
• Lamp Module Rating: Controls incandescent lamps up to 300W. Not suitable for fluorescent, energy-saving, low-voltage lamps, or lamps with dimmer control.
• Appliance Module Rating: Controls appliances up to 500W. Can also control fluorescent, energy-saving, low-voltage lamps, or lamps with dimmer control.
• Wall Switch Module Rating: Controls lights up to 500W.
• Programmed Events: Can store a total of 64 ON or OFF times, distributed among the 8 unit codes.

Usage Features:

• Mode Switch: Used to select between "Run" (normal operation), "Prog Set/Review" (for setting or reviewing timed events), "Housecode Set" (for changing the system housecode), and "Clock Set" (for setting the current time).
• Time Adjust Rocker: Used to set the clock time and the desired time for programmed events. A quick press advances time by 1 minute; holding it down speeds up the adjustment. It also functions as a bright/dim control for Lamp and Wall Switch Modules after selecting a number button.
• ON/OFF Buttons: Four sets of ON/OFF buttons control Modules 1-4 or 5-8 (selectable via a switch). These are used for instant control and for programming ON/OFF times.
• Selector Switch (1-4/5-8): Toggles control between Unit Codes 1-4 and 5-8, allowing instant control or programming for all 8 modules.
• Clear Button: In "Prog Set/Review" mode, this button cancels the displayed ON or OFF time. Multiple presses can clear all events for a module.
• Wakeup Switch (ON/OFF): Activates or deactivates the internal alarm buzzer for Module 1.
• Low Battery Indicator: Displays when batteries are low, dead, or not installed.
• "FULL" Display: Indicates that the memory for programmed events is full, requiring existing events to be cleared before new ones can be added.
• Housecode Setting: Allows users to change the system housecode (default is A) to match their X10 Modules.

Maintenance Features:

• Battery Replacement: It is recommended to check and replace the AA alkaline batteries at least once every 6 months to ensure program and time protection during power outages.
• Troubleshooting: The manual provides guidance for common issues such as modules not responding, inability to control any modules, and interference from intercom systems. It advises checking power to outlets, module settings (Housecode and Unit Code), and trying the Mini Timer and modules in the same outlet.
• Power Interruption Handling: Appliance Modules have a "latching relay mechanism" and will retain their ON/OFF state after a power interruption. Lamp and Wall Switch Modules will normally be OFF after power is restored.
• Support: For further assistance, users can contact X10 support via phone, website, or email.

The X10 Mini Timer is a comprehensive solution for basic home automation, offering both convenience and security features through its flexible programming and instant control capabilities.

X10 MT13A Specifications