Merlin Eco: Using the Mains Power Wiring to Switch Remote Devices

Merlin Eco uses the main power wiring to switch remote devices.

Xtra-Sense Ltd has recently launched the Merlin Eco product to enable the remote switching of devices, including mains powered units, using signals transmitted over the existing mains power wiring.

Merlin Signalling Technology

The key benefit of the Merlin signalling technology is the very long signalling range throughout a ring mains system, with the signal capable of crossing phases. Signal coverage can be achieved across large buildings, unhindered by walls.

Designed primarily for assisting the implementation of power saving systems based upon enquiries from customers, the Merlin Eco also offers a wireless solution to a wide range of control, safety, and security signalling requirements.

Merlin Eco

For organisations seeking to reduce power consumption, the Merlin Eco system can be used to switch lighting, heating units, fans, pumps and other items on and off from a control location in a building or complex, without the need to install extensive new control cabling. Applications to date have included switching of heaters in schools and illuminated signage on external poles.

Merlin Eco Transmitter

The switching signal is transmitted by a Merlin Eco Transmitter unit located at the control location, where it is either plugged or wired into the mains supply.

Merlin Eco Receiver

The switching is carried out by Merlin Eco Receiver units located throughout the building in proximity to the devices to be switched. The Merlin Eco Receiver is fitted into the mains power supply to the device and switches the 240V supply up to 16A, based on the control signals received from the Merlin Eco Transmitter.

A single Merlin Eco Transmitter can switch multiple Receivers, enabling one switch to shut down or start up multiple devices. The Receivers can be programmed to delay switching to prevent sudden power surges.

The system can be applied to a wide variety of control uses, such as switching electrically powered gates, watering systems, pump control systems etc.

For high power AC units or low voltage DC applications, the Merlin Eco Receivers can be fitted with a simple relay for switching DC control circuits. To enhance their use in control systems, Merlin Eco units can be built up as combined Transmitter and Receiver devices.

The system is not limited to switching mains powered devices. A recent application has been the enhancement of safety within a complex of flats by providing simple audible alarm devices for individual flats, as illustrated in the picture bottom right, to complement the main fire alarm siren.

For organisations seeking to develop products using long range mains power signalling, the Merlin Eco hardware provides a building block module, complete with processor, power supply and various input and output options.

It is capable of taking in custom signals and regenerating them at a remote location. However, to achieve the high reliability, data rates are slow.