SMS socket: how a GSM-controlled socket works and is installed

Smart appliances that provide comfortable conditions for human life, fill the house, office, cottage. They help to control certain processes, take on the implementation of part of the functions, reducing the amount of daily hassle. For example, an SMS outlet with GMS control itself turns off the equipment at the scheduled time.

We offer you to get acquainted with the principle of operation, device and features of the operation of a smart outlet. Here you will learn how to use the smart device correctly. We will talk about popular types among consumers and advise on how to choose wisely.

What is it - sms outlet?

The time when it is no longer necessary to leave keys to neighbors when leaving on vacation / business trip has come. Now a smart device can control the air temperature in an apartment, office or in the country - SMS socket.

She not only reacts to changes in temperature conditions, but also notifies the owner of this by sending a message of the appropriate content.

Design features of the device

Among the rich assortment of outlets, models controlled by GSM stand out. They are one of the representatives of smart devices designed to make human life more comfortable.

You can send commands and receive answers about their implementation from any distance - the main thing is that there is a gsm connection

So, if suddenly electricity disappeared in the country, the assistant socket will send SMS to the owner about this event. There are models that in this case will ensure the inclusion of backup power. And this is not all the possibilities of sockets controlled by SMS.

To remotely control an SMS outlet, it is enough to have the simplest mobile phone with a working SIM card (+)

GSM controlled socket is a device that visually resembles an adapter. Her appearance is quite presentable. This device from any manufacturer looks stylish and neat - you can safely use it in any interior.

A variety of models from various manufacturers allows you to choose the most stylish option for your interior

SMS controlled device has the following components:

• housing;
• internal components;
• additional sensors.

The case of a smart device of this type, regardless of the manufacturer's company, is made of high-quality plastic. This material is able to withstand high temperatures. But it does not protect the internal contents from moisture.

The operating temperature and humidity level that the device can withstand is indicated by the manufacturers in the instructions

Most SMS sockets have an IP20 rating. Therefore, it is strictly contraindicated to include such models if it is possible to irrigate them with water, dust or direct sunlight.

On the front of the case is a connector for connecting the plug of an electrical appliance with grounding and at least 3 indicators that signal:

• the inclusion of the outlet itself;
• GSM connection availability;
• about applying power to the output.

Depending on the model of the device, there may be other indicators, the purpose of which can be found in the instructions that come with the kit. There are devices controlled both by SMS and via the Internet. Here you can’t do without a Wi-Fi indicator.

The number of light bulbs signaling certain processes that occur with an SMS outlet depends on the model and manufacturer

On the back of the case there is a plug for connecting to the network, a slot for installing a SIM card of a mobile operator, closed with a lid and additional buttons or switches are possible.

The button for manual control of the device, the input for switching on additional sensors and the service connector for data exchange can be located on the side or on the front side. It completely depends on the modification and imagination of the designer.

A mandatory component of gsm models is a SIM card slot. Its location is determined by the developer

The internal content of SMS outlets also depends on the model and its capabilities. Mandatory for SMS-driven models is the presence of a GSM module. Some versions have a built-in battery, temperature sensor, or other functional modules.

The number of built-in components and modules and sensors depends on the functionality of the smart device

Often, additional sensors are supplied in the kit - temperature, humidity, movement, noise level and others. Depending on the model, these sensors can be either physically connected to the device or non-contact.

Those wishing to equip a smart home in addition to SMS outlets will probably need smart switchesthoroughly disassembled and described in the article presented to your attention.

Types of devices controlled by SMS

Remote-controlled outlet manufacturers delight their customers with new and more advanced models. They leave the best features, adding additional useful features to the updated versions. Yes, and technological progress dictates its own conditions.

All SMS sockets on the market differ from each other in terms of functionality, appearance, number of managed connectors, power, control method, number of slaves and cost.

Any device for remote control must be delivered in an individual package. Included with it is an instruction manual with technical specifications and features for setting up and managing this model and a warranty card

Depending on the number of functions performed and the available control methods, the price of the device will vary. More skilled and capable models are much more expensive than their reasonable counterparts with a GSM control channel.

By the method of controlling SMS sockets there are:

• with the possibility of manual control and without it;
• with control via SMS messages and phone calls;
• with an additional Wi-Fi control channel.

The most convenient models, which provide the ability to use all 3 control options.

If you plan to connect several electrical appliances in one room, it is better to choose the option of SMS sockets for 3 connectors or more

SMS controlled sockets are of different types:

• network extension cord, each socket of which can be controlled separately;
• controller block with terminal blocks mounted on a DIN rail. It is also often called a GSM socket, because it has 3, 6 or more lines controlled via SMS;
• single outlet in the form of an adapter with one connector for connecting one device;
• single device or unit with sockets for connecting 3 or more devices having a universal connector for various types of plugs.

The block with the terminal blocks can hardly be called a full-fledged socket, because it has a completely different appearance and installation method. This GSM controller allows you to control the operation of devices connected on controlled lines.

It is completely incorrect to call it an SMS outlet. First you need to connect a conventional outlet to it, and then you can control its operation via GSM communication.

The SMS block with terminal blocks is designed for a larger maximum load than independent sockets. This will allow you to manage a group of more powerful electrical appliances.

Depending on the control option, there are:

• independent models;
• controllers or they are also called master sockets;
• subordinates - slave sockets.

Up to 10 slave models can be subordinate to the master outlet. They require one SIM card, because subordinates receive commands from the controlling via Wi-Fi channel.

It is advisable to use the master + slave kit to control devices in different rooms or on different floors

All about varieties and features of operation sockets with remote control You will learn from the article, which we recommend for review.

Features of using a smart device

Having an SMS-controlled device at home, you can turn off the light without getting out of bed, or turn on the coffee maker while in the bathroom. The socket receives a command in an SMS message and accordingly turns the device on or off.

This is not all of her possibilities. For example, you can program the inclusion of irrigation of a personal plot if the air temperature and humidity are lower or higher than the specified value.

You can surprise your friends by turning on a coffee maker a few minutes before returning home. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee spreading around the apartment will not leave guests indifferent

The principle of operation of a GSM-controlled device

A smart device that clearly executes the received commands is deservedly in active demand in the outlet market. After all, there are no options for counting - not only at home, but in the country and in the office. To do this, you do not need to be near. It is enough that there is a stable GSM connection of the desired mobile operator.

The command received in the SMS message from the owner leads to automatic closing / opening of the power circuit by the internal GSM relay of the socket. On the execution of the command, she sends a response to the owner of the house. You can also send a command by making a call to the mobile number of the SIM card installed in the outlet.

Some gsm models may additionally come with a key fob alarm, which can be used as an alarm button

Correct installation of SMS device

If you compare the socket with remote control via SMS with other smart brothers, you can highlight the simplicity of its configuration and connection. A person who is unfamiliar with electrical installation and does not have special tools and skills can cope with its installation.

First of all, even before buying a smart device, you need to make sure that there is a stable GSM connection in the house where it will be installed. Then you have to buy a SIM card of a mobile operator and the outlet itself. Be sure to check that the tariff plan includes sending and receiving messages.

Next, replenish the account of the purchased card and disable the request for a password or pin code at the entrance. Now, having studied the instructions that came with the SMS outlet, insert the SIM card into the appropriate slot. It remains to install the device at its workplace.

Installing an SMS block with terminal blocks involves the use of certain tools and the application of knowledge (+)

To use the SMS socket, you must insert its plug into a regular socket, to which you will have to connect an electrical device that requires remote control. After turning on the network, the indicator lamp will light up informing about this event.

That's all - the installation of SMS managed device is completed.

Rules for setting up a GSM socket

By connecting the outlet to the network, you have to configure the desired parameters. To do this, you need to make sure that the GSM module is working - the corresponding indicator lamp should be on. Now you need to bind the SIM card number to the device, following the instructions for the purchased outlet.

The correct connection of the sensors and the setting of the outlet control are described in detail in the manufacturer's instructions

Depending on the model of the SMS outlet, the nuances of its programming will differ. Everything will depend on the manufacturer’s company, whether it is an independent outlet or a master + slave set.

In order to correctly set the desired parameters for a particular device, it is necessary to study in detail the accompanying manufacturer's instructions. This is important, because the sockets of different companies are configured differently. Also, depending on the number of functions performed and additional sensors, the number of defined tasks for the device will differ.

The specifics of using an SMS device

For the most effective operation of the SMS of a controlled outlet, certain rules for its use must be observed.

Firstly, you need to carefully study the technical specifications, paying particular attention to the maximum allowable load. After all, if you connect a heater that consumes 3 kW to an outlet designed for 1.5 kW, it will not withstand and burn.

To protect yourself and your family, you should not exceed the maximum value that SMS outlets can withstand. Most often, this type of device is designed for 3-3.5 kW, rarely seen at 5 kW. This characteristic is necessarily contained in the instructions.

Some manufacturers indicate the maximum allowable load on the back of the outlet, next to the plug

Secondly, you can not connect such outlets in the open air, next to a stove or sink. Water and dust will cause them to malfunction. And exposure to too high temperatures can trigger an explosion of internal components.

The operating temperature of these devices is different - from -20 to +99 degrees. These values ​​may vary depending on the model, but no SMS outlet can be thrown into the fire.

Thirdly, each model is capable of perceiving commands from a certain number of control numbers. It depends on the individual technical features of each outlet. To prevent a reaction to calls and messages of unknown subscribers, you need to enter the necessary numbers into the internal memory.

Some models of SMS outlets provide protection against accidental calls and spam mailings. They implement the function of perception and response only to those subscribers whose numbers are recorded in the internal memory. All others will be ignored. It is a pity that not all sockets have such capabilities.

Fourth, if a set of main and subordinate outlets is used, then do not forget about the maximum and minimum distances for their location from each other. The manufacturer indicates these values ​​in the list of technical characteristics of the device. Otherwise, nothing will work.

Fifthly, good coverage of a GSM operator is required. Without high-quality communication, remote control from a mobile phone is impossible.

Some smart socket models do not support SMS control. To send commands and control their execution, special mobile applications are used.

Sixth, in the presence of external sensors, you need to correctly configure the commands using the instructions from the manufacturer so that the outlet works as the user needs it.

Features of device selection

Choosing a managed outlet for your SMS home, you need to determine for yourself the main criteria that it must meet. So, it is important to decide which functions it will perform, because its cost will directly depend on it.

You also need to immediately determine how many and which outlets you need to buy. This will be a block in the form of an extension cord for connecting a group of electrical appliances in one room, a master + slave set for placement in different rooms or a single model.

If you just want to experiment with the capabilities of a regular SMS outlet, checking how it turns the heater or electric kettle / iron on and off, then it will be enough to buy an inexpensive model with minimal capabilities. There is no point in overpaying for additional sensors and other "bells and whistles".

In the case when it is planned to leave a GSM-controlled outlet in a country house equipped with smart devices for monitoring autonomous heating system and notifications of power outages, it is best to turn your attention to models equipped with a backup battery.

The battery capacity can vary dramatically - you need to choose the one that suits the individual requirements of a particular consumer.

Intelligent outlet will not need owners GSM modules for boilers. The article we have proposed details the process of controlling equipment from a distance.

This is a good option that will allow the outlet to work continuously from its own power source for several hours when the power is turned off. She will be able not only to send an emergency notification of what happened, but also have time to turn on the backup batteries, if installed in a particular country house.

Also, if you plan to use SMS sockets according to a specific schedule drawn up a week / month in advance, then you need to choose models with non-volatile memory. So that a temporary lack of electricity does not bring down a planned schedule of actions in advance.

One of the important criteria when choosing an SMS controlled outlet is its maximum workload. Here it is necessary to take into account the power consumption of the device, which will be connected through it. In the case of purchasing a GSM managed network filter, the maximum allowable load on each channel and the total load on the entire device should be taken into account.

SMS sockets with universal connectors for various plugs can become a real find if the house has devices purchased in different countries. So, you don’t have to buy an additional adapter to use it at home

It is strictly forbidden to exceed the maximum value specified in the instructions for the device. It is better if there is a power reserve of 30%.

Additional sensors and functions affect the increase in the cost of GSM outlets. But at the same time, they allow you to create additional conditions for comfortable work without much effort. For example, a built-in microphone and a motion sensor will help to understand whether outsiders are present in the office / house during the absence of the user.

SMS controlled sockets are produced by many companies, both domestic, western, and Chinese. The most popular devices are manufacturers such as SenseIT, ReVizor, iSocket, ORCAM, Telemetry, Sapsan, Smart Security, Proline.

Less convenient to use, but still demonstrating progressive achievements in the field of electrical installation timer switches. We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the features of their work, device and operating rules.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

A detailed video clip that helps to assemble an SMS outlet yourself:

Video review of setting and controlling a GSM outlet with 3 outputs:

A visual video on how to control an SMS outlet:

A clear video about the rules for choosing an SMS outlet:

Knowing the features of the operation, configuration and use of SMS outlets, it is much easier to choose the best option for your home. The ease of installation and reasonable price attracts new users who want to make their life more comfortable.

Simple and intuitive control by sending command messages makes the device accessible to every owner of a mobile phone, regardless of age and gender.

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