The ASC1 does not have a sleep function. It is always listening when placed in operate mode. If powering cycling the ASC1 causes the ASC1 to respond to a motor command, I would check if the sending device is initially issuing the DiSEqC command and if the signal path is correct with no pinches/kinks in the coax, corroded fittings, failing switches/splitters, and proper voltage levels. Deaf DiSEqC slaves are usually due to insufficient amplitude or missing 22KHz/DiSEqC signals. Power cycling the ASC1 will interrupt the satellite signal presented to the attached tuner and most tuner devices will reissue switch and motor commands to re-establish a signal path when it is interrupted.
A few months ago I experienced a similar problem with intermittent controller communication. It stumped me until I discovered that the coax had been kinked when I fished cables behind the test bench. Replaced the coax jumper between the receiver and the controller and the system started working again.
What tuner is connected to the ASC1? A STB, PCIE/USB tuner?
Do you have a meter or scope to verify the device is issuing 22/KHz DiSEqC commands?
Are there any splitters or switches (22KHz or DiSEqC) inline between the tuner and the ASC1? If so, does the problem occur if removed?
Does this happen on both vertical and horizontal transponders or only when tuned to one polarity? If one polarity, which polarity?