sudden and severe communication problems

[LeeG]

Try a less painful approach first if not already tried. Remove power from the ISY and the PLM for 1 minute. Restore power which will bring the ISY up from a reboot and the same with the PLM. There is a File | Restore ISY option if you have a current backup. There is also a Restore Modem (PLM) option which will rebuild the PLM link database.

 

After that before the KPL add bring the Event Viewer Change Level 3 and post the KPL add trace. Let's see why the KPL will not add.

[backinthelab]

LeeG, thanks for the help, but I think my PLM is toast. I tried all of your suggestions but was still getting the constant communication errors.

 

So, I decided to start fresh and format/rebuild the ISY. I did everything by the book, but when the ISY was back up I still could not add any devices. As a last resort, I restored from a backup file with the last known problem-free operation. Now, I'm back to the initial communication issues.

 

Looks like it's time to shell out for a new PLM.

[IndyMike]

Hello Backinthelab,

 

If your PLM is still partially functional (you can communicate with some devices) there is one more option. If you are using accesspoints they may have become "upset" by the power outage. Try removing them for a period and re-installing (power cycle).

[jwf]

I have this sudden loss of communication with some or most of my switches as well. It clears up just as mysteriously as it occurs too. I think it is line noise. What else can explain it?

 

It always amazes me that the switches never have a problem talking to each other. Just the controllers whether the PLM or or the PLC.

[LeeG]

Depending on the geography of the switch to switch communication perhaps they are on the same 120V leg and the PLM is not which suggests an Access Point plug point problem (not coupling).

 

Another common problem with PLM communication is it is generally on the same circuit as the computer, UPS and associated equipment. Not uncommon for the power supplies of these devices to attenuate the Insteon powerline signals. Isolating the UPS and computer equipment with a Smarthome FilterLinc normally resolves this.

 

Could also be something on the same circuit as the PLM, TV, cell phone charger, CFLs etc that are generating interference. Sometimes keeping track of when things become unreliable and see what other devices happen to be on around the same time.