How to Build a Phase Coupler Filter

Most homes have two separate signals of alternating current (AC) power coming off the power line. These two signals, called phases, operate separately from each other. This is problematic for home automation applications, such as X10, which send their signals over the power lines but are frequently unable to send the signals between the two phases. As such, people who want a whole-home signal can use a phase coupler filter to connect the two phases and let the home automation signal pass.

18 micro-Henry (uH) inductor
0.1 micro-Farad (uF) polyester capacitor rated for 630 volts
0.25 amp inline fuse with holder
Circuit board
Soldering Iron
Rosin core solder
Extra wire

Instructions

- 1
  Insert the 18 uH inductor into the circuit board. Solder a wire to one of its ends as it protrudes to the back side of the circuit board, attempting to make your solder connection as close to the board as possible. The wire should be long enough to be connected into your AC circuitry.
- 2
  Place the 0.1 uF capacitor into the circuit board and solder a wire between the other end of the inductor and one of the capacitor's terminals. As with the previous connection, solder the wires to the leads as close to the board as possible.
- 3
  Place the fuse in its fuse holder and solder one of its leads to the unconnected terminal of the capacitor
- 4
  Solder an additional wire to the unconnected end of the fuse holder if it does not already have a lead connected.
- 5
  Snip off any connectors or terminals that protrude below the solder points close to the circuit board.

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