This comprehensive review delves into the features and functionality of a smart Zigbee relay with integrated energy monitoring. We examine its design, installation, and integration with popular smart home platforms like Tuya Smart, Smart Life, and Home Assistant. The review covers both the basic operation and advanced automation capabilities, highlighting its versatility and ease of use for both novice and experienced smart home enthusiasts. Particular attention is paid to the accuracy and usefulness of its energy monitoring capabilities, a key differentiator in the crowded smart home relay market.From unpacking and initial setup to advanced Home Assistant integrations and automation examples, this review provides a thorough assessment of this smart relay's performance and value. We explore its compatibility with various protocols, including Wi-Fi and Zigbee, and discuss the benefits of each. Ultimately, we determine whether this device lives up to its promises and justifies its position as a compelling option for enhancing any smart home ecosystem.
Pros And Cons
- Energy monitoring allows tracking of energy consumption and expense management.
- Compact dimensions (40x40x41 mm) for easy installation in standard switch housing.
- Two connection types: Zigbee 3.0 and Wi-Fi.
- Tuya compatibility (works with Tuya Smart and Smart Life apps).
- Multiple restart modes (default on, off, or remember last state).
- Timer function to set on/off times.
- Device grouping for convenient control of multiple devices.
- Compact and minimalist design for easy installation.
- Can be used with or without a smart home connection.
- Supports Home Assistant integration.
- Supports Zigbee2MQTT integration.
- Kit does not include DIN rail mounts (may be included in other versions).
Read more: AMI Meter Reading Guide: Understanding Your Smart Electricity Meter
Unboxing and First Impressions
The relay arrived in a compact cardboard box, featuring a schematic image on the front and key specifications on the back, clearly indicating support for both Wi-Fi and Zigbee protocols.
Inside, I found the relay itself and a concise instruction manual. The manual includes a wiring diagram and step-by-step instructions for integration with Tuya Smart and Smart Life.
The relay's design is minimalist and compact, ensuring easy installation even in smaller wall boxes. A small button on the front allows for manual on/off control and pairing mode activation, complemented by an LED indicator.
Technical Specifications and Internal Components
The relay operates on a voltage range of 100-240V and supports a maximum current of 16A, suitable for most household appliances.
Its compact dimensions (40x40x41 mm) allow for easy installation in standard switch boxes. Connectivity options include both Zigbee 3.0 (requiring a gateway) and Wi-Fi (gateway-free).
Internally, the relay utilizes a BL0932 energy measurement microcircuit for accurate power consumption monitoring, a ZTU controller for data processing and app control, and a Fanharf 17-1A2 TLE relay for load switching.
Installation and Wiring
The installation process is straightforward. Ensure the power is off before connecting the wires.
Connect the phase (L IN) and neutral (N IN) wires from your mains supply to the appropriate terminals on the relay.
Connect the load (L OUT, N OUT) and optionally, an external switch (S1, S2) according to the provided wiring diagram.
Smart Home Integration and App Control
Integration with Tuya Smart and Smart Life apps is seamless. Put the relay into pairing mode by holding down the button.
Add the device through the app, following the on-screen instructions. The app provides a simple on/off toggle, along with timer functions, energy monitoring statistics, and settings.
The app allows for scheduling, countdown timers, and monitoring of energy consumption (voltage, current, power, and total energy consumed).
Home Assistant Integration
The relay integrates well with Home Assistant using the Tuya integration (cloud or local).
Once added, Home Assistant provides access to relay status, power monitoring data (voltage, current, power), and configuration options.
Direct connection via Zigbee2MQTT offers even more granular control and data access.
Automation Capabilities
The relay excels as both a trigger and an action within Home Assistant automations. Use the relay's state, timers, power failure mode, and external switch status to create various scenarios.
Advanced automations can monitor power consumption and trigger actions based on current, power, and voltage thresholds (though this requires more advanced integrations like Zigbee2MQTT).
Automations can easily control lighting, appliances, and more complex systems.
Conclusion
This smart relay offers a compelling combination of affordability, functionality, and extensive smart home integration capabilities.
The built-in energy monitoring is a significant advantage, allowing for precise tracking of energy consumption and optimization of device usage.
Its compatibility with Tuya, Home Assistant, and Zigbee2MQTT makes it a versatile choice for various smart home setups. The relay's ease of use, coupled with advanced automation features, makes it highly recommended for DIY smart home enthusiasts.