1. Introduction
The SINOTIMER TM618H-2 is a 220V AC digital time switch designed for precise control of electrical appliances. This programmable timer allows you to set specific ON/OFF times over a 7-day weekly cycle, making it ideal for various applications such as lighting, heating, and other automated systems. It features a built-in rechargeable battery to retain settings during power outages and supports both 12-hour and 24-hour clock formats.
2. Safety Information
Please read and understand these safety instructions before installation and operation. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or damage to the device.
- Electrical Hazard: Installation and wiring should only be performed by a qualified electrician or competent person. Ensure power is disconnected at the main circuit breaker before any wiring work.
- Voltage Compatibility: This device is designed for 200-250V AC power supply. Do not connect to other voltage systems.
- Load Capacity: Do not exceed the maximum load capacity of 16A (resistive) or 8A (inductive). For higher power loads, use an external relay or contactor.
- Environmental Conditions: Avoid installing the device in areas with excessive moisture, dust, or extreme temperatures outside the specified operating range (-10°C to 50°C).
- Voltage Fluctuations: In areas prone to significant voltage fluctuations, consider installing a protective device (e.g., surge protector, voltage stabilizer) to prevent damage to the timer and connected appliances.
3. Product Overview
The TM618H-2 features a clear LCD display and intuitive buttons for programming and control.

Figure 1: Front view of the TM618H-2 Digital Time Switch.
3.1. Controls and Display
- LCD Display: Shows current time, day of the week, ON/OFF status, and programming indicators.
- D+ (Day): Adjusts the day of the week.
- H+ (Hour): Adjusts the hour.
- M+ (Minute): Adjusts the minute.
- C/R (Cancel/Recall): Cancels current input or recalls saved programs.
- WEEK: Used in programming to select days of the week.
- HOUR: Used in programming to set hours.
- MIN: Used in programming to set minutes.
- CLOCK: Enters clock setting mode or exits programming.
- PROG (Program): Enters program setting mode.
- MANUAL: Toggles between ON, AUTO, and OFF modes.
- R (Reset): Resets the timer to factory defaults.
4. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | SINOTIMER |
| Model Number | TM618H-2 |
| Theory | Electronic |
| Use | Timer Switch |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| Certification | CE, ROHS, EMC, LVD |
| Dimensions | 60mm x 60mm x 30mm |
| Power Supply | 200~250VAC, 50/60Hz |
| Output Voltage | 220V |
| Max. Current (Resistive) | 16A |
| Max. Current (Inductive) | 8A |
| Power Consumption | <5VA |
| Timing Range | 1 minute to 168 hours (7 days) |
| Black-out Memory | 90 days (via built-in rechargeable battery) |
| Programs | Up to 18 ON/OFF settings per day |
| Average Error | <+/- 2 seconds/day |
| Temperature Range | -10°C to 50°C |
| Humidity | <95% |
| Countdown OFF Time Range | 1 minute ~ 24 hours |
5. Setup
5.1. Initial Power-Up and Reset
Upon first use or after a prolonged power disconnection, the display may be blank. Connect the timer to power. If the display remains blank or shows erratic characters, press the 'R' (Reset) button using a pointed object (e.g., a pen tip) to clear all settings and restore default values. The display should then show "0:00:00" and "MO" (Monday).
Video 1: Product Introduction and Basic Operation Demonstration.
5.2. Wiring Diagram
The TM618H-2 timer requires a 220V AC input and provides a 220V AC output. Refer to the diagram below for correct wiring. Ensure all connections are secure and insulated.

Figure 2: Wiring Diagram for TM618H-2 Timer.
- Input (220V AC Power): Connect the live (Line) wire to terminal 1 and the neutral (Neut) wire to terminal 2.
- Output (220V AC Load): Connect the live (Load) wire to terminal 5 and the neutral (Neut) wire to terminal 4.
- Important: Always ensure the power source is disconnected before performing any wiring. Incorrect wiring can cause damage to the device or electrical shock.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1. Setting Current Date and Time
- Press and hold the CLOCK button.
- While holding CLOCK, press D+ to set the current day of the week (MO, TU, WE, TH, FR, SA, SU).
- While holding CLOCK, press H+ to set the current hour (0-23 for 24-hour format, or 1-12 with AM/PM for 12-hour format).
- While holding CLOCK, press M+ to set the current minute (0-59).
- Release the CLOCK button to save the settings.
To switch between 12/24-hour format: Press and hold the CLOCK button for approximately 4 seconds.
6.2. Programming ON/OFF Cycles
The timer supports up to 18 ON/OFF programs. Each program consists of an ON time and an OFF time.
- Press the PROG button once. The display will show "1 ON".
- Press WEEK to select the desired day(s) for this program. You can choose individual days, weekdays, weekends, or all 7 days.
- Press HOUR to set the ON hour.
- Press MIN to set the ON minute.
- Press PROG again. The display will show "1 OFF".
- Repeat steps 2-4 to set the OFF time for the first program.
- Press PROG to move to the next program ("2 ON") and repeat the process for up to 18 programs.
- To exit programming mode at any time, press the CLOCK button.
To cancel a program: While in programming mode for a specific ON/OFF setting, press the C/R button. The display will show "--:--", indicating the program is cancelled.
6.3. Manual ON/OFF/AUTO Switching
Press the MANUAL button to cycle through the operating modes:
- ON: The output is continuously ON, overriding any programmed settings.
- AUTO: The timer operates according to the programmed ON/OFF cycles.
- OFF: The output is continuously OFF, overriding any programmed settings.
For automatic operation, ensure the timer is set to "AUTO" mode.
6.4. Countdown Function
The timer has a countdown function for temporary ON or OFF periods.
- Press and hold CLOCK and PROG simultaneously for approximately 6 seconds.
- The display will show "d ON" or "d OFF" and a countdown time.
- Use WEEK, HOUR, MIN to set the desired countdown duration (from 1 minute to 24 hours).
- The countdown will start automatically.
6.5. Sleep Mode
To enter sleep mode (turn off the display to save power):
- Press and hold HOUR and MIN simultaneously.
- The display will turn off.
- To exit sleep mode and turn the display back on, press any button.
7. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Battery: The built-in rechargeable battery maintains program settings during power outages. It is designed for long-term use and typically does not require replacement.
- Environmental Protection: When the product reaches the end of its life, dispose of it according to local electronic waste regulations. Do not dispose of with general household waste.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause / Solution |
|---|---|
| Display is blank or erratic. |
|
| Timer not switching ON/OFF as programmed. |
|
| Settings are lost after a power outage. |
|
| Timer or connected appliance is damaged by voltage fluctuations. |
|
9. User Tips
- Ease of Use: Many users find this timer very easy to mount and program.
- High Power Loads: For appliances with high power consumption (e.g., heaters, large pumps), it is recommended to use an external relay or contactor in conjunction with the timer to prevent overloading the internal switch.
- Versatile Applications: This timer is suitable for various applications, including controlling aquarium lights, plant grow lights, and other household or industrial devices that require scheduled ON/OFF cycles.
- Flexible Programming: You can program multiple ON/OFF cycles throughout the day, and settings can be applied to individual days, weekdays, weekends, or the entire week. Once programmed, settings are retained indefinitely until changed or reset.
- Countdown Feature: Utilize the countdown function for temporary timing needs, such as a short-term fan operation or a temporary light.
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.