Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brightswitch a home automation system or central smart home hub?
No, Brightswitch is a smart light switch network with many functions including advanced lighting control, intercom, security and the ability to run Apps. Brightswitch works hard to keep things easy by presenting smart local information and controls related to where it is installed. Advanced if/then functions effecting the whole house or making decision based on sensors is a job better suited to a hub.
If I don’t have Z-Wave, will Brightswitches control each other?
Yes! Brightswitches connect automatically (after you log in) over WiFi. Once connected, they can control each other’s lights and will automatically connect for intercom and security functions.
Will Brightswitch connect to my Z-Wave smart home hub?
Yes, most probably. Brightswitch will accept standard Z-Wave commands to turn on and off and dim the attached light and has been tested with numerous hubs.
Will Brightswitch turn on and off standard Z-Wave switches and light bulbs?
Yes, each Brightswitch can control up to four Z-Wave or Brightswitch units. Also a Z-Wave light connected to one Brightswitch can also be controlled by other Brightswitches (as long as they are on the same Wi-Fi).
Will Brightswitch link up to my Z-Wave door locks or water sensors?
Door locks are security devices and require a different Z-Wave standard so they are not yet available. However you can run the App for your smart hub or for the lock itself on Brightswitch and control it that way. Water and other sensors will link over Z-Wave but Brightswitch does not have software to act on their information.
Can Brightswitch run the App for my smart home device like a doorbell or sound system?
In most cases yes! Brightswitch will download and run most Android apps. So if your device has one it will probably work. We have tested many different Apps and devices. As long as the app uses Wi-Fi to connect to your device it should work quite well.
What stops others from accessing my Brightswitch?
Brightswitch links to the Internet using a link code. You must authorize any attempt to connect at your Brightswitch. Further, Brightswitches connected to your WiFi are protected by your passwords. On top of all of this, your data, video and audio connections between Brightswitches are each individually encrypted.
Will I be able to use the outlets in any location?
Using Brightswitch near water will require the power to be routed through a GFCI outlet or adapter. Brightswitch itself is not GFCI enabled.
Does the system use power when the user is not using it?
Brightswitch automatically dims or turns off the display when no one is present or it is dark outside, automatically reducing its power needs. Further, advanced functions in Brightswitch can turn off the light load when no one is present or automatically using smart decisions. However, when resting, Brightswitch does consume power at about 40 times lower than a 100 watt light bulb.
Do I need to replace all my switches and outlets to be able to use Brightswitch in my house?
No way, you can use as many or as few as you would like.
What stops others from changing my settings or controlling my Brightswitch?
All Brightswitch products use link codes and encryption that only authorize the devices you select. Underneath it's complicated, but Brightswitch handles all that for you automatically; and yes, you can reset to factory defaults if you move.
What warranty applies to the products?
All Brightswitch products will carry a one-year limited warranty.
Will Brightswitch work in other countries?
We have finished the design for other countries and will be progressing through their regulatory process for release later in 2017.
How can I order these myself and when will they be shipping?
Pre-orders are being accepted for this product now on this website!
Anticipated ship date for Brightswitch is Q1 2017.
Do I need an electrician to install Brightswitch?
Probably not. If you can install a light switch you should have no problem installing Brightswitch. Just remember to turn off the power at your circuit box before installing the base to avoid a hair-raising experience. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, any trained electrician can easily install Brightswitch for you.
How hard is it to set up Brightswitch after I wire it in?
Not hard at all. If you can program your phone’s alarm clock or use a smart phone, it’ll be a piece of cake.
Do I need to connect my Brightswitch devices to my Wi-Fi network to communicate with each other?
Yes for video, internet music and intercom functions.
Will Brightswitch work in a 3-way configuration?
Yes! Brightswitch will work in a traditional 3-way setup. And all Brightswitches will work with other Brightswitch or Z-Wave switches in a 3-way arrangement.
Will Brightswitch work in a 4-way configuration?
Yes! Brightswitch will work in a 4-way arrangement. In these setups there are two 3-Way switches and one 4-Way switch. Brightswitch can replace either 3-Way switch.
Can I wire a Brightswitch directly without using the base?
No, the system is designed to work with the Brightswitch base. All Brightswitches come with a base.
Will my custom setup be lost if the power goes out?
No, our switches and outlet use flash memory, so while you won’t be able to use them when the electricity goes out, they will still maintain all your settings as they were when the electricity does come back.
Will the Play Store be accessible from my Brightswitch?
Yes, Play Store access is integrated into the Brightswitch Application, so you'll be able to download Apps directly to your Brightswitch (Wi-Fi access is required to access Play Store)
How can I incorporate a product with the Brightswitch modular technology? Is there an SDK/API?
For now, Brightswitch will run most Android apps. In the future we will publish the open API. Please contact dev@getbrightswitch.com to discuss details further.