Weird Insteon behavior

Jul 07, 2006 23 Replies

Turms out the butt set we have is a Progressive Electronics (now Tempo) Model 385. I haven't tried it yet but the TBR button MAY be a last number redial button.

If I hit TBR once, the dial tone drops. If I hit it three times, I hear a rapid busy signal. WTF?

Thanks for finding the model number. I was tempted to open the case but I'm worried it might not close because some barbarian has weakened one of the edge clips. No, wait: that was me!

The amount of triple channel gasketing on the units really make me wonder. I've only seen that sort of care taken on marine electronics. It may not be submersible, but it's highly water resistant. Their PE945 unit is waterproof and floats as well. Don't ask me why I am obsessed with whether it's dunkable!

http://72.14.203.104/search?q=cache:Vqo3eJHgdeYJ:

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I found an Ebay listing Item number: 280002557888 for one that claims it's waterproof, but it's Ebay, so . . .

"Up for auction is a Used Progressive Electronics Model 385 linemen's telephone butt set. It has a Tone or Pulse switch, a talk or monitor switch, last number redial, continuous line polarity indication, waterproof shock-resistant case, belt clip and Mueller/ JS Popper alligator clips with red and black insulating boots."

No info yet on TBR - they seem to use the convention LNR for "Last Number Redial" so it may be for some other function. Highly possible that it's non-functioning, hence the low cost. I'll keep looking.

-- Bobby G.

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Is their current butt-set.

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The data sheet above calls it a "Timed Break Recall" which they call "Flash!"

Sounds as if these units may provide overvoltage warning and protection, as well.

The question is do I drown it first, or hook it up the 110VAC to test my hypotheses? ;-)

-- Bobby G.

Timed Break Recall! I would never have guessed that but that's what it is. 110vac won't hurt it since ringing can go almost that high - but not with as much current. As for "waterproof" I'd say more like splash resistant, IOW it's OK to work in the rain but I would'nt take it swimming.

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