Do you have a question about the POWER USB SMART and is the answer not in the manual?
Calendar-based power on-off for weekdays and weekends, controllable via PC software.
Outlets switch on when master load exceeds a threshold; monitors TV usage.
Outlet 1 always on for DVRs; measures DVR power load and compensates.
Countdown timer for outlets; customizable off times via button press.
Powers all controlled outlets on; functions as a normal power strip with monitoring.
Configure voltage, price per unit, smart mode trigger load, and off delay settings.
Set timed on-off schedules or frequency settings for outlets via PC software.
Displays TV on times for the week and allows TV limit mode settings.
The PowerUSB-SMART is an advanced programmable power strip designed for both standalone operation and integration with a computer. It offers a range of intelligent power management features, allowing users to control and monitor power consumption for various devices. This SMART model builds upon the capabilities of the Basic PowerUSB, incorporating an LCD display for standalone operation and additional modes.
The primary function of the PowerUSB-SMART is to provide intelligent power control and monitoring for connected devices. It can be programmed to switch outlets on or off based on various criteria, including calendar dates, time frequencies, load thresholds, and countdown timers. Beyond simple power switching, the unit also measures real-time power consumption, tracks total accumulated power consumption (with cost estimation), and monitors "TV on" times, particularly useful in its SMART modes.
The device features an alpha-numeric LCD display that provides crucial information at a glance. This includes the day of the week, current time, the currently selected operating mode, real-time power consumption in milliamps, total power consumption in dollars (based on user-defined unit price), and mode-specific information such as the next on-off time in TIMED mode or "TV on" time for the current day in SMART modes.
The PowerUSB-SMART is equipped with a reset switch, providing overload protection for up to 8A. In the event of an overload, controlled outlets will switch off, and the unit will enter an "OVERLOAD MODE" indicated by flashing outlet LEDs. To recover from this state, the unit must be powered down, the USB cable removed, and the reset switch engaged.
The PowerUSB-SMART offers several distinct operating modes, which can be selected using a push-button switch on the side of the unit or configured via the accompanying software when connected to a computer.
In this mode, outlets can be programmed for calendar-based power on-off operations. Users can set up to two on/off times per day for weekdays and two for weekend days. By default, outlets are off and only power on during these programmed periods. The resolution for time settings is 2 seconds, and the minimum on-time for an outlet is also 2 seconds. Outlets can also be configured to switch on/off with a specific frequency, rather than fixed times. The LCD in TIMED mode displays the time of the next scheduled power change.
This mode is designed for intelligent load-based control. All controlled outlets are off by default and only power on when the "master always-on outlet" (Outlet 1) detects a load exceeding a user-defined threshold. For example, if a TV connected to the master outlet is switched on and its power consumption surpasses the threshold (default 700mA), then devices like a DVD player or set-top box connected to the controlled outlets will automatically switch on. Once activated, controlled outlets remain on for at least one minute to allow the master load to stabilize, even if the master load fluctuates during this initial period. The mode-specific LCD display in SMART mode shows the accumulated "TV on" time for the current day in HH:MM format. This data is stored internally for the past seven days and can be reviewed via the PowerUSB software.
Similar to SMART mode, SMART2 mode also uses load-based control but with a key difference: controlled outlet 1 remains continuously powered on. This is ideal for devices like DVRs or satellite dish receivers that require constant power. The power load consumed by the device on outlet 1 is measured during the first 4 seconds of entering SMART2 mode and is then compensated for in the overall load calculation. The "TV on" time for both SMART and SMART2 modes is displayed on the LCD.
The TIMER mode provides a countdown timer for all controlled outlets. Upon entering this mode, all controlled outlets power on. The unit then begins counting down from a preset time. Once the countdown reaches zero, the controlled outlets automatically power off. The countdown time can be adjusted by holding the push-button switch for more than 5 seconds, which cycles through predefined off times (10mins, 20mins, 30mins, 1hr, 4hrs, and 8hrs). Releasing the button at the desired time sets the new countdown duration for current and future use.
In ALL ON mode, all controlled outlets are continuously powered on. This effectively transforms the unit into a standard power strip, but with the added benefit of load monitoring. This mode is also suitable for direct computer control, allowing the PowerUSB software to manage outlet states.
When connected to a computer, the PowerUSB-SMART uses the same software application as the Basic model, but with enhanced features specific to the SMART model. The software interface allows for detailed configuration and monitoring.
The PowerUSB-SMART incorporates several features that contribute to its maintenance and troubleshooting:
The PowerUSB-SMART is designed for users who require sophisticated power management beyond a basic power strip, offering both standalone intelligence and comprehensive computer-controlled functionality.
| Input Voltage | 100-240V AC |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | 5V DC |
| Protection | Over-current, Over-voltage, Short-circuit |
| Output Current | 2.4A |
| Ports | 2 |