This document describes the STS300 Wi-Fi Landscape Light Transformer, a 12V landscape light specialist product designed for both indoor and outdoor applications. It emphasizes safety, optimal performance, and user-friendly operation through both manual settings and a smartphone app.
Function Description:
The STS300 is a 300-Watt low-voltage landscape light transformer designed to power 12V landscape lighting systems. Its primary function is to convert standard household voltage to a safe 12V output suitable for outdoor lighting. The transformer offers versatile control options, including manual settings directly on the unit and remote control via a smartphone app, allowing users to customize lighting schedules and modes of operation. It is engineered to be weatherproof, ensuring durability and reliable performance in various challenging weather conditions. The device is designed for direct connection to a properly grounded power outlet, with a strong recommendation against using extension cords to maintain optimal performance and safety.
Usage Features:
The STS300 transformer offers several usage features to enhance convenience and control over landscape lighting:
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Manual Setting Options: The transformer itself has a control panel with buttons for various modes:
- On/Off/Auto (Photo Sensor) Mode:
- On: Keeps connected lights continuously illuminated, regardless of ambient light.
- Auto (Photo Sensor): Utilizes a built-in photo sensor to automatically turn lights on at dusk and off at dawn, providing efficient and automated lighting control based on ambient light levels.
- Off: Keeps connected lights continuously off.
- Countdown Timer Mode: Allows users to set lights to turn on at dusk and remain illuminated for a specified duration (e.g., 2, 4, 6, or 8 hours) before automatically turning off, conserving energy and offering customized lighting schedules.
- Timer Mode: Provides the ability to set specific on/off times for the transformer's operation. This allows for multiple on/off cycles throughout the day, offering greater flexibility in controlling lighting functionality.
- Astronomic Timer Mode: This mode automatically turns lights on and off based on local sunset and sunrise times. Users can also customize this mode to turn lights off during a first period (Astro1) and on at a specific time in the early morning during a second period (Astro2), if continuous night illumination is not desired. The app ensures that the city/location is correctly set for accurate astronomic timing.
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Smartphone App Control (Smart Life - Smart Living App):
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: The transformer can be connected to a home Wi-Fi network (2.4 GHz) and controlled remotely via the "Smart Life - Smart Living" app, available for both Apple iPhone and Android devices.
- Device Pairing: The app guides users through the process of adding the transformer as a device, including selecting the Wi-Fi network and entering the password. A blinking LED on the transformer indicates it is in pairing mode.
- Remote Configuration: All manual setting options (On/Off/Auto, Countdown Timer, Timer, and Astronomic Timer) can be configured and saved through the app, providing convenient control from a smartphone.
- Real-time Status: The app allows users to monitor the status of their lighting system and make adjustments as needed.
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Installation Considerations:
- Mounting: The transformer should be mounted on a wall near an electrical outlet at a level where controls are readily visible and accessible (between 12" to 48" from the ground). It's crucial to avoid obstructing the dusk-to-dawn sensor's line of sight for optimal functionality.
- Wiring: The manual provides clear instructions for preparing landscape wires (stripping insulation, twisting ends) and connecting them securely to the "COM" and "15V" block terminals using the integrated levers.
- Low Voltage Wire Selection: A detailed chart helps users choose the appropriate low-voltage wire gauge based on wattage and distance to minimize voltage drop, with a recommendation not to exceed 80% of the wire's current capacity.
- Power Up and Testing: Instructions are provided for plugging the transformer into a GFCI outlet and setting the mode switch to "ON" to test connected fixtures for proper illumination.
Maintenance Features:
The STS300 transformer is designed with minimal maintenance requirements, but the manual highlights key aspects to ensure its longevity and safe operation:
- Durability: The transformer is engineered to be weatherproof, offering enhanced protection against the elements and making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Safety Guidelines: The manual emphasizes critical safety measures that contribute to the device's maintenance and user safety:
- Professional Installation: Recommends installation by a qualified professional.
- Power Disconnection: Advises turning off all power connections before installation.
- Code Compliance: Requires installation in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.
- Proximity to Water: Strictly prohibits installation within 10 feet of a pool, spa, or fountain.
- No Disassembly: Users are explicitly warned not to disassemble the unit, as this could void the warranty and compromise safety.
- No Parallel Transformers: Advises against connecting two or more transformers in parallel to prevent complications and optimize performance.
- No Dimmer Switches: Recommends against using the device with dimmer switches to prevent malfunctioning and potential risks.
- GFCI Outlet Use: Strongly recommends plugging the transformer directly into a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet for enhanced protection against electrical shocks.
- No Extension Cords: Advises against using extension cords to maintain optimal performance, prevent electrical inefficiencies, and reduce the risk of overheating.
- Capacity Limit: Crucially, users are warned not to exceed the transformer's maximum output capacity of 300 Watts (and ideally to utilize only up to 85% of its capacity) to prevent overheating, reduced efficiency, and potential damage, thereby extending its lifespan.
- Secure Connections: Regular verification of secure wire connections in the terminal blocks and proper closure of the casing is crucial to prevent disconnections, electrical issues, and protect internal components.
- Warranty: The product comes with a 2-year warranty from the date of purchase. Users are advised to keep proof of purchase for warranty claims. The warranty is voided by improper usage, modification, or failure to comply with the instructions in the manual.
- Troubleshooting Tips: The manual includes a troubleshooting section for Wi-Fi connectivity issues, advising users to:
- Ensure the Wi-Fi network is 2.4GHz.
- Test the Wi-Fi network with other devices.
- Move the transformer closer to the Wi-Fi router for better signal strength.
- Double-check the Wi-Fi password for case sensitivity.
- It also refers to the app user guide for more information, indicating that software updates or app-specific guidance may be relevant for ongoing maintenance.
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