InLine SmartHome IR Remote Control Center

Introduction

The InLine SmartHome IR Remote Control Center (Model 40163) is a device designed to enable intelligent control of infrared (IR) remote-controlled appliances from your smartphone. It allows you to manage various home entertainment and climate control devices, such as TVs, hi-fi systems, air conditioners, and receivers, through a single application, even when you are away from home. Its "Do It Yourself" (DIY) mode facilitates learning and controlling older IR devices, transforming your smartphone into a universal remote.

Product Overview

Package Contents

• InLine SmartHome IR Remote Control Center (Model 40163)
• Micro USB Cable (1.2 m)
• User Manual

Device Components

The InLine SmartHome IR Remote Control Center is a compact, circular device. Key components include:

• IR Emitter: Located around the circumference, responsible for sending infrared signals.
• Micro USB Port: For power supply, located on the side/bottom.
• LED Indicator: Provides status feedback (e.g., power, pairing mode).

Figure 1: Top view of the InLine SmartHome IR Remote Control Center. This image shows the compact, black circular design of the device with the InLine logo prominently displayed on its top surface.

Figure 2: Bottom view of the InLine SmartHome IR Remote Control Center. This image highlights the micro USB port for power connection and the anti-slip pads on the base of the device.

Setup

1. Powering On

1. Connect the provided Micro USB cable to the Micro USB port on the InLine SmartHome IR Remote Control Center.
2. Plug the other end of the USB cable into a compatible USB power adapter (not included) or a USB port on a device.
3. The device will power on, and the LED indicator will show its status (e.g., blinking for pairing mode).

2. App Installation and Account Creation

1. Download the "Smart Life" app from your smartphone's app store (available for iOS and Android).
2. Open the "Smart Life" app and create a new account or log in if you already have one.

3. Connecting to Wi-Fi

1. Ensure your smartphone is connected to a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network. The device does not support 5 GHz Wi-Fi.
2. In the "Smart Life" app, tap the "+" icon to add a new device.
3. Select "Infrared Remote Control" or search for the device type.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions in the app to put the device into pairing mode (usually involves pressing a reset button or power cycling). The LED indicator will typically blink rapidly.
5. Enter your Wi-Fi network password when prompted.
6. The app will attempt to connect to the device. Once connected, the LED indicator will become solid, and the device will appear in your app.

Figure 3: Product packaging illustrating key features. This image shows the retail box of the InLine SmartHome IR Remote Control Center, emphasizing its 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity and infrared range of up to 7 meters.

4. Pairing Devices (DIY Mode)

The DIY mode allows the control center to learn IR signals from your existing remote controls.

1. In the "Smart Life" app, select your InLine SmartHome IR Remote Control Center.
2. Choose the "DIY" or "Learn" function.
3. Follow the app's instructions to point your original remote control at the InLine device and press the desired button (e.g., Power, Volume Up).
4. The InLine device will learn the IR signal. Repeat for all necessary buttons.
5. Save the learned remote profile in the app.

Operating

Controlling Devices via App

Once devices are paired, you can control them directly from the "Smart Life" app:

• Open the "Smart Life" app and select the InLine SmartHome IR Remote Control Center.
• Choose the specific device (e.g., TV, AC) you wish to control.
• Use the virtual remote interface in the app to send commands.

Voice Assistant Integration

The device is compatible with Google Home and Amazon Alexa for voice control:

1. Ensure your InLine SmartHome IR Remote Control Center is successfully added to the "Smart Life" app.
2. Open the Google Home or Amazon Alexa app.
3. Navigate to "Add device" or "Skills & Games" and link your "Smart Life" account.
4. Once linked, discover devices. Your paired IR devices will appear.
5. You can now use voice commands (e.g., "Hey Google, turn on the TV" or "Alexa, set AC to 22 degrees").

Range Considerations

For optimal performance, ensure infrared-controlled devices are within the effective range of the InLine SmartHome IR Remote Control Center. The recommended distance is between 10 cm and 7 meters. A slightly elevated position for the control center can improve reception quality.

Maintenance

Cleaning

To maintain the device's appearance and functionality:

• Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth.
• Do not use liquid cleaners, aerosols, or abrasive solvents.

Optimal Placement

Place the device in a central location within the room, ensuring an unobstructed line of sight to the IR-controlled appliances. Avoid placing it behind large objects or inside cabinets that could block the infrared signals.

Troubleshooting

Device Not Responding

• Check Power: Ensure the device is properly powered and the LED indicator is on.
• Line of Sight: Verify there are no obstructions between the InLine device and the appliance you are trying to control.
• Distance: Ensure the appliance is within the 7-meter IR range.
• Re-learn IR Signal: If using DIY mode, try re-learning the IR signals for the specific buttons that are not working.

Wi-Fi Connection Issues

• 2.4 GHz Network: Confirm your Wi-Fi network is 2.4 GHz. The device does not support 5 GHz.
• Signal Strength: Ensure the device is within good Wi-Fi signal range of your router.
• Router Reboot: Try restarting your Wi-Fi router.
• Reset Device: If issues persist, perform a factory reset on the InLine SmartHome IR Remote Control Center (refer to app instructions for specific reset procedure) and re-pair it with the app.

Voice Control Not Working

• Account Linking: Verify that your "Smart Life" account is correctly linked to your Google Home or Amazon Alexa account.
• Device Discovery: Ensure devices are discovered in your voice assistant app. Try re-discovering devices.
• Command Syntax: Use clear and correct voice commands.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Information regarding specific warranty terms and direct support contacts is not available in the provided product data. Please refer to the official InLine website or the documentation included with your purchase for detailed warranty information and customer support options.

For further assistance, you may also consult the "Smart Life" app's help section or online resources related to the InLine SmartHome product line.