IVY Smart Home Hub: Universal IR Remote Control Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The IVY Smart Home Hub is a universal infrared (IR) remote control blaster designed to integrate and control a wide range of IR-controlled home appliances through your smartphone or voice assistants. This device allows you to manage TVs, set-top boxes, air conditioners, fans, projectors, DVD players, and more, making your traditional devices smart. It is compatible with popular smart home platforms such as Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT.

Note: This device supports IR remote control devices. RF (Radio Frequency) remote control devices are not supported.

2. Package Contents

• IVY Smart Home Hub (Model: IVYHomHBlack01)
• USB Power Cable
• User Manual

3. Product Overview

Figure 1: IVY Smart Home Hub and App Interface

The image shows the compact, black, circular IVY Smart Home Hub with a blue indicator light, positioned next to a smartphone screen. The smartphone displays the device type selection within the control app, showing options like STB, TV, Air Conditioner, TV Box, Fan, and Light.

Figure 2: Product Dimensions and Reset Button

This image provides a detailed view of the IVY Smart Home Hub's dimensions: 2.5cm (0.98 inches) in height and 7.2cm (2.8 inches) in diameter. It weighs 50g. The image also shows the 100cm (39 inches) USB cable and highlights the location of the reset button on the bottom of the device.

4. Setup

4.1 Initial Setup and App Installation

1. Power On: Connect the IVY Smart Home Hub to a power source using the provided USB cable. The indicator light will illuminate.
2. Download App: Download the "Tuya Smart" or "Smart Life" app from your device's app store (iOS/Android).
3. Register/Login: Open the app and register a new account or log in with an existing one.
4. Wi-Fi Connection: Ensure your smartphone is connected to a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network. The IVY Smart Home Hub only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. If your router broadcasts both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, ensure you select the 2.4 GHz option during setup.
5. Add Device: In the app, tap the "+" icon or "Add Device" to begin the pairing process. Select "Universal Remote Control (Wi-Fi)" or a similar option under the "Others" category.
6. Reset Device: Follow the app's instructions to reset the device. Typically, this involves pressing and holding the reset button (located on the bottom of the hub, see Figure 2) until the indicator light blinks rapidly. Confirm this in the app.
7. Pairing: The app will scan for the device and connect. Once connected, you can rename the device and assign it to a specific room.

4.2 Adding Remote Controls for Appliances

1. From the device's main screen in the app, tap "Add Remote Control."
2. Select the type of appliance you wish to control (e.g., TV, Air Conditioner, STB, Fan, DVD, Projector, Light, Audio, Camera, Water Heater, Air Purifier).
3. Select the brand of your appliance from the provided list. The app offers an extensive list of brands.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to test the remote functions. The app will ask you to tap certain buttons and confirm if the appliance responded correctly. This helps the hub learn the correct IR codes for your specific model.
5. If your appliance brand or model is not listed, use the DIY Learning Function (see Section 5.2) to teach the hub commands from your original remote.

5. Operating the IVY Smart Home Hub

5.1 App Control

Once your appliances are added, you can control them directly from the Tuya Smart or Smart Life app on your smartphone or tablet. The app replaces all your traditional IR remotes, allowing you to manage devices from anywhere with an internet connection.

Figure 3: TV Control via App

The image illustrates a user controlling a TV via the smartphone app. The app interface shows various channels and control options. This demonstrates how the IVY Smart Home Hub enables smartphone-based control of IR appliances.

5.2 DIY Learning Function

If your specific appliance or remote is not found in the app's database, the DIY learning function allows the hub to learn commands directly from your original IR remote. This feature copies all functions from your existing remote to the app, ensuring compatibility with a wider range of devices.

5.3 Voice Control Integration

The IVY Smart Home Hub seamlessly integrates with popular voice assistants, enabling hands-free control of your IR appliances.

• Alexa: Link your Tuya Smart/Smart Life account to Alexa. Use commands like "Alexa, turn on the TV."
• Google Assistant: Link your Tuya Smart/Smart Life account to Google Assistant. Use commands like "Hey Google, set the AC to 24 degrees."
• Siri: Create Siri Shortcuts within the app to trigger specific actions.
• IFTTT: Connect to IFTTT for advanced automation and custom routines.

Figure 4: Voice Control Capabilities

This image highlights the voice control functionality of the IVY Smart Home Hub, showing compatibility with Alexa, SmartThings, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Siri. A person is depicted relaxing on a couch, using a voice command to control an air conditioner, demonstrating the convenience of hands-free operation.

5.4 Scheduling and Automation

Utilize the app's scheduling and automation features to create smart routines for your devices.

• Timers: Set specific times for appliances to turn on or off (e.g., "Turn on TV at 7:00 PM").
• Scenes: Customize scenes that control multiple devices simultaneously (e.g., a "Movie Night" scene that turns on the TV, dims the lights, and adjusts the AC).
• Conditions: Create automations based on conditions like weather changes, location changes, or device status.

Figure 5: Schedule Control

The image shows the scheduling interface of the control app on a smartphone, allowing users to set specific times for device actions, such as turning on the TV at 2:00 PM. This demonstrates the automation capabilities of the IVY Smart Home Hub.

6. Maintenance

The IVY Smart Home Hub requires minimal maintenance. Keep the device clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight. Do not attempt to open or repair the device yourself, as this will void the warranty.

6.1 Resetting the Device

If you encounter persistent issues or need to reconfigure the device, you can perform a factory reset. Locate the reset button on the bottom of the hub (refer to Figure 2) and press and hold it for approximately 5-10 seconds until the indicator light blinks rapidly. This will clear all previous settings and allow you to set up the device again.

7. Troubleshooting

• Device not connecting to Wi-Fi: Ensure your Wi-Fi network is 2.4 GHz. The hub does not support 5 GHz networks. Check your Wi-Fi password and signal strength. Try moving the hub closer to your router.
• Appliance not responding to commands: Verify that the hub has a clear line of sight to the IR receiver of your appliance. Ensure the correct appliance type and brand are selected in the app. If the issue persists, use the DIY learning function to teach the hub the commands from your original remote.
• Voice control not working: Confirm that your Tuya Smart/Smart Life account is correctly linked to Alexa, Google Assistant, or IFTTT. Check your voice commands for accuracy and ensure the voice assistant recognizes the device name.
• Intermittent control: This could be due to Wi-Fi interference or a weak signal. Try repositioning the hub or your Wi-Fi router.
• Fixed buttons in app remote: Some app remote templates have fixed buttons. If a frequently used function is not on the main screen, consider using the DIY learning function to create a custom remote with your preferred layout.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

9.1 Warranty Information

Please refer to the product packaging or the official IVY website for specific warranty details. Typically, products come with a limited manufacturer's warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

9.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or general inquiries, please contact IVY customer support through the following channels:

• In-App Support: Access the "FAQ & Feedback" section within the Tuya Smart or Smart Life app for common questions and to submit support requests.
• Online: Visit the official IVY website for support resources and contact information.