EPH Controls EMBER GW01

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Summary

Getting Started

WiFi Requirement

Details requirements for Wi-Fi connection and gateway placement.

Device Operating System

Specifies minimum iOS and Android versions for the app.

Gateway Positioning

Advises on optimal gateway placement for a stable connection.

Gateway Component Legend

Gateway Buttons and LEDs

Identifies and describes the function buttons and LED status indicators on the gateway.

Programmer Component Legend

Programmer Button Functions

Identifies the buttons on the RF programmer used during gateway installation.

Pairing Programmer to Gateway

Step-by-Step Pairing Procedure

Detailed steps for connecting the programmer to the GW01 gateway.

Resetting RF Connections

Instructions on how to reset RF connections if specific error codes appear.

Pairing Thermostats to Programmer

Thermostat Pairing Process

Guide to pairing RFR/RFC thermostats with the RF programmer.

Downloading the EMBER App

App Store Download Instructions

Steps to download the EPH EMBER App from iOS App Store or Google Play Store.

Setting up the EMBER App

Account Creation and Login

Process for opening the app and creating a new user account.

Email Verification Process

Steps for verifying the user account via email and confirmation code.

User Profile and Permissions

Completing user profile, setting password, and granting necessary permissions.

Pairing Gateway to Internet

Initiating WiFi Setup

Instructions on starting the Wi-Fi setup process via 'WiFi Setup' or 'Invite Code'.

Installer vs. Home Owner Roles

Explains the distinction between 'Installer' and 'Home owner' roles during setup.

Selecting System Type and Network

Choosing the 'PS' system and ensuring network connectivity for automatic SSID population.

Wi-Fi Connection and Synchronization

Entering Wi-Fi password and synchronizing the gateway with the mobile device.

Gateway Code Association

Associating the gateway with the mobile device by entering the gateway code.

Home Setup

Configuring Home and Zone Names

Setting up the home name and naming individual heating zones.

Setting Home Location

Entering postcode or address to provide accurate local weather information.

Inviting Additional Users

Option to invite other users to the system or skip this step.

Accessing Zone Control

How to select a zone from the Home screen to access its control interface.

Zone Control Interface Diagram

Diagram Labels and Explanations

Labels for target temperature, current temperature, mode, and boost functions.

The GW01 Gateway is a central component of the EMBER by EPH Controls smart heating system, designed to provide remote control and management of your home's heating from anywhere, at any time. This system allows users to set up and manage their heating zones, adjust temperatures, and monitor their heating system through a dedicated mobile application. The gateway acts as a bridge between your heating programmer and your wireless internet, enabling seamless communication and control.

Function Description

The primary function of the GW01 Gateway is to facilitate the remote control of your heating system. It connects your EPH Controls RF programmer and associated thermostats to your home's wireless internet network. Once connected, the gateway allows the EMBER mobile application to communicate with your heating system, sending commands and receiving status updates. This means you can adjust your heating schedules, change temperatures, activate boost functions, and even enable holiday mode directly from your smartphone or tablet. The gateway operates on the 2.4GHz frequency band for Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring compatibility with most standard home routers. It supports multi-zone heating systems, allowing individual control over different areas of your home, such as living rooms, bedrooms, and hot water.

Usage Features

The GW01 Gateway is designed for straightforward integration into an existing EPH Controls heating setup. The setup process involves pairing the gateway with your RF programmer, and then pairing your wireless thermostats to the programmer. Once these hardware connections are established, the EMBER app guides you through connecting the gateway to your home's Wi-Fi network.

Key usage features include:

Remote Heating Control: Adjust your heating settings from anywhere using the EMBER app. This includes setting target temperatures, switching zones on or off, and applying boost functions for temporary heating.
Multi-Zone Management: The system supports multiple heating zones, allowing you to customize the temperature and schedule for each area independently. For example, you can have different settings for your living room, bedrooms, and hot water.
Scheduling: Create and modify heating schedules through the app, ensuring your home is warm when you need it and energy is saved when you don't.
Holiday Mode: Easily activate a holiday mode from the app, which maintains a minimum temperature while you're away, preventing pipes from freezing and saving energy.
User Management: The EMBER app allows for multiple users to control the heating system, making it convenient for households with several occupants. An invite code system facilitates adding new users.
Installer Access: During initial setup, an "Installer" option is available, providing temporary access for professionals to configure the system without permanent home owner credentials.
Visual Feedback: The gateway features red and green LEDs that provide clear visual feedback on its connection status. A green LED indicates a successful Wi-Fi connection, while a red LED signifies no connection. Flashing red and green LEDs indicate a Wi-Fi connection issue, prompting a router reset.
Intuitive App Interface: The EMBER app is designed with a user-friendly interface, featuring clear icons and navigation for managing your heating system. The "Home" screen provides an overview of all zones, their current status, and target temperatures. Tapping on a zone allows for detailed control, including temperature adjustment, mode selection (e.g., ON, AUTO), boost activation, and access to schedules.
Gateway Code for Home Addition: Each gateway has a unique code located on its housing, which is used to associate it with your mobile device and home within the EMBER app. This ensures secure and correct system identification.
Tutorials and Support: The EMBER app includes access to tutorials, FAQs, and videos to assist users with setup and ongoing operation, accessible via the settings icon on the initial setup screen or through the burger menu.

Maintenance Features

The GW01 Gateway and the EMBER system are designed for minimal maintenance, focusing on stable operation and user convenience.

Key maintenance considerations and features include:

Router Restart Recommendation: To ensure a stable connection, especially after long periods of inactivity or before going on holiday, it is recommended to periodically restart your wireless router. This helps refresh network connections and can resolve potential connectivity issues.
Wi-Fi Signal Strength: Maintaining a good Wi-Fi signal at the gateway's location is crucial for reliable operation. The gateway should be installed in an area with strong Wi-Fi coverage, away from appliances that might cause interference (e.g., microwaves, televisions).
Router Compatibility: The gateway operates on 2.4GHz Wi-Fi. Users should ensure their router is configured to support this frequency and that the gateway's MAC address is not blacklisted by the router. Attention should also be paid to the number of devices connected to the router, as some routers may not function optimally with too many connected devices.
Firmware Updates (via App): While not explicitly detailed as a user-initiated feature, smart home devices like the GW01 Gateway typically receive firmware updates through the associated mobile application. These updates often improve performance, add new features, or address security vulnerabilities, ensuring the system remains up-to-date and functions optimally.
RF Connection Reset: In cases of multi-programmer system setup issues or incorrect pairings, the system allows for an RF connection reset on the gateway. This involves a specific sequence of button presses on the gateway to clear existing RF connections, enabling a fresh pairing process.
Troubleshooting Guidance: The app and manual provide clear instructions for troubleshooting common issues, such as unsuccessful pairing or Wi-Fi connection problems, guiding users through steps like repeating pairing sequences or checking LED indicators.
Location Permission for SSID Population: For Android 9+ and iOS 13+ devices, allowing location permissions for the EMBER app enables automatic population of the Wi-Fi (SSID) information during setup, simplifying the connection process. If permissions are not granted, the SSID must be entered manually.

The GW01 Gateway, as part of the EMBER by EPH Controls ecosystem, offers a comprehensive and user-friendly solution for modern heating control, emphasizing convenience, efficiency, and remote accessibility.