Patent ID: 6970072
Filing Date: 2005-11-29
Classification: H04B,H04L

Abstract:
1. A home automation module having an externally powered communications port, the module comprising: an automation microprocessor for controlling the module; a communications port connected to the microprocessor, wherein the communications port enables the module to draw power in limited quantities from an external source; a transmitter having an input and an output, wherein the input is connected to the microprocessor; a power line carrier (PLC) coupler having a first connection and a second connection, wherein the first connection is connected to the output of the transmitter and the second connection is connected to a main having a hot and a neutral; a zero-crossing detector having an input and an output, wherein the input is connected to the main and the output is connected to the microprocessor; and a boost regulator connected to the microprocessor, wherein the boost regulator enables the module to derive sufficient power from the communications port to drive the PLC coupler during signal transmissions from the module to the main.