Frequently Asked Questions
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 decisions based on sensors is a job better suited to a hub.
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.
Motion & brightness scheduling: Brightswitch will sense when you enter a room and automatically turn on and off the lights according to the schedule you set up. For example, turn on the light during the night at 12% as a night light, but turn on the lights at 70% for cooking in the evening.
Wake-up alarm: Brightswitch can be used as an alarm clock, slowly turning on the lights in the morning, gently waking you up.
Vacation timer: Brightswitches can randomly turn on the lights on every Brightswitch when you go on vacation-- so it looks like someone is home!
Yes, each Brightswitch can control up to four Z-Wave lights, Z-Wave switches or other Brightswitch units (plus itself for a total of five). 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).
Yes, most likely. Brightswitch will accept standard Z-Wave commands to turn on and off and dim the attached light and has been tested with numerous hubs.
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).
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.
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.
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.
Brightswitch can be used as a 2 or 3-way switch in 120VAC circuits rated at 400 watts or less. Using Brightswitch near water will require the power to be routed through a GFCI outlet or adapter. Brightswitch itself is not GFCI enabled.
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 20 times lower than a 100 watt light bulb.
No, you can use as many or as few as you would like--However, to utilize some of the advance features like intercom and zone security, it will require having at least 2 Brightswitches.
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.
All Brightswitch products will carry a one-year limited warranty.
We have finished the design for other countries and will be progressing through their regulatory process for release in 2018.
Orders for this product are being accepted now on this website!
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Yes, Brightswitch requires power to operate, so a white wire is required. Switches with only two wires cannot power Brightswitch. Please check your wiring before ordering.
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.
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.
Yes for video, internet music and intercom functions.
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.
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.
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.
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)
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.