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Guide to preparing the Smartthings app and hub for device integration.
Instructions for preparing and pairing ThirdReality Zigbee leak sensors.
This document outlines the setup and operation of the EcoNet Controls EVC200/Smartthings/ThirdReality Kit, a comprehensive solution designed for leak prevention in homes. The kit integrates a SmartThings Hub with an EcoNet Controls EVC200 Bulldog Controller and ThirdReality Zigbee Leak Sensors to create an automated system that can detect water leaks and shut off the main water supply. This is presented as an "Enthusiast level kit," suggesting it requires a degree of user engagement and technical comfort for successful installation and configuration.
The primary function of this device kit is to provide proactive water leak detection and mitigation. By combining smart sensors with an automated shut-off valve, it aims to prevent significant water damage that can result from burst pipes, appliance failures, or other unforeseen leaks. The system's core capability lies in its ability to detect the presence of water and, in response, trigger the EVC200 Bulldog Controller to close the main water valve, thereby stopping the flow of water and minimizing potential damage. This automated response is a key feature, as it eliminates the need for manual intervention during a leak event, which can be critical when occupants are away or unable to respond quickly.
The kit includes several components that work in concert to achieve its leak prevention goals. The SmartThings Hub serves as the central brain of the smart home system, facilitating communication between the various devices. It allows users to manage and monitor their smart home devices through a dedicated app on their iOS or Android device. The ThirdReality Zigbee Leak Sensors are the detection units, designed to be placed in areas prone to leaks, such as under sinks, near water heaters, or in basements. These sensors are battery-powered and communicate wirelessly with the SmartThings Hub. The EVC200 Bulldog Controller is the actuator of the system, physically controlling the main water valve. It consists of a controller unit, a power adapter, and a Bulldog Motor Assembly that attaches to the existing water valve. This motor assembly is designed to physically turn the valve to an open or closed position based on commands from the SmartThings Hub.
Usage features of this kit are centered around ease of integration with the SmartThings ecosystem and automated leak response. Users begin by downloading the SmartThings App and setting up their SmartThings Hub, following the in-app directions. Once the hub is operational, the leak sensors are prepared for use. This involves opening each sensor with a slot screwdriver, inserting batteries, and then putting them into Zigbee pairing mode by holding a small button until an LED turns red, then releasing it to blink blue. After the sensors are in pairing mode, the SmartThings App is used to scan for and add them. A crucial step is to rename the leak sensors to something descriptive, aiding in identification within the app. The SmartThings platform will then automatically download the latest EDGE driver for the water sensors, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility.
The EVC200 Bulldog Controller's setup involves physically connecting the 6-pin mini DIN (PS2) cord and power cord to the control unit. Integration with SmartThings follows a similar pattern to the sensors: using the "Add Device" function in the app, selecting "EcoNet Controls" and then "Valve." Users will then select their hub and a room, and follow prompts to press a button on the EVC200 controller three times quickly. The SmartThings App will then attempt to add the controller, a process that can take over a minute. The instructions provide troubleshooting steps if the controller fails to add, such as pressing the button again or restarting the app.
A key usage feature is the creation of automations, or "routines," within the SmartThings App. This is where the leak detection and valve shut-off functionality are linked. Users are guided to create a routine that specifies: "If a Water Leak Sensor is wet, then the EcoNet Shutoff Valve should close." The document even provides a sample routine screenshot, illustrating how this logic is configured within the app. This automation is designed to run locally on the SmartThings Hub for faster response times and continued operation even if the internet connection is lost, highlighting a robust design choice for critical home safety functions.
Maintenance features, while not explicitly detailed as a separate section, can be inferred from the setup and operational guidelines. For the ThirdReality Zigbee Leak Sensors, battery insertion is a setup step, implying that battery replacement will be a periodic maintenance task. The wireless nature of these sensors means they are relatively low-maintenance once placed, requiring only occasional checks to ensure they are in their intended locations and their batteries are functional. The EVC200 Bulldog Controller, once installed and configured, is designed for continuous operation. The motor assembly that attaches to the water valve is a mechanical component, and while specific maintenance for it isn't outlined, its robust design suggests it should require minimal intervention beyond ensuring its secure attachment and power supply. The reliance on the SmartThings App for monitoring and control also means that keeping the app updated and ensuring the SmartThings Hub has a stable power and network connection are ongoing "maintenance" aspects for the overall system's reliability. The system's ability to run routines locally on the hub also contributes to its resilience, reducing dependence on external cloud services for critical functions. The "Enthusiast level kit" designation also implicitly suggests that users should be prepared to engage with the system, potentially troubleshooting minor issues or reconfiguring settings as needed, which is a form of ongoing user-level maintenance.
General| Category | Industrial Equipment |
|---|---|
| Model | EVC200 |
| Manufacturer | EcoNet |
| Communication Protocol | Modbus RTU |
| Enclosure | IP20 |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Protection Class | IP20 |
| Type | Variable Frequency Drive |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C to 50°C |
| Voltage Rating | 240V |
