1. Introduction
The SAMOTECH SM309-S is a compact Zigbee retractable dimmer module designed for smart home lighting control. It allows you to wirelessly control and dim traditional incandescent, halogen, and compatible LED lights when integrated with a Zigbee hub such as Philips Hue, Home Assistant, HomeKit (via Home Assistant or Homebridge), SmartThings, or Hubitat. This module is designed for installation behind existing wall switches or within junction boxes, offering a seamless upgrade to smart lighting without replacing your current light switches.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Risk of electric shock. Installation should only be performed by a qualified electrician or trained personnel. Disconnect power at the circuit breaker before installation, maintenance, or removal of the device.
- Ensure the power supply is completely disconnected before wiring.
- Do not exceed the maximum load ratings specified in the Specifications section.
- This device is for indoor use only.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not attempt to repair or modify the device. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
3. Package Contents
- SAMOTECH SM309-S Zigbee Dimmer Module (x1)
- User Manual (this document)
4. Product Overview
The SM309-S is a compact module designed to fit into standard electrical boxes. It features screw terminals for secure wiring connections and a reset button for pairing and factory reset.
Figure 4.1: Front view of the SAMOTECH SM309-S Dimmer Module, showing the Reset button, Min. Set adjustment, and terminal labels (N, N, O, L, L, SW).
Component Identification:
- Reset Button: Used for pairing the device with a Zigbee hub or performing a factory reset.
- Min. Set Adjustment: A small potentiometer to adjust the minimum dimming level, preventing flickering at low light settings for certain bulb types.
- Terminals:
- N (Neutral): Connects to the neutral wire.
- L (Live): Connects to the live (phase) wire.
- SW (Switch): Connects to the wire from your physical wall switch.
- O (Output): Connects to the load (light fixture).
5. Setup and Installation
Before proceeding, ensure you have read and understood the Safety Information. It is highly recommended that installation be performed by a qualified electrician.
5.1 Wiring Diagram (No Neutral Required for Basic Operation)
The SM309-S is designed to operate without a neutral wire for basic dimming functionality, making it suitable for installations where a neutral wire is not present in the switch box. However, connecting a neutral wire (if available) can improve stability and enable router functionality within your Zigbee mesh network.
Standard Wiring (No Neutral):
- Connect the Live (L) wire from your mains supply to the 'L' terminal on the module.
- Connect the wire going to your light fixture (load) to the 'O' (Output) terminal on the module.
- Connect one terminal of your physical wall switch to the 'L' terminal on the module.
- Connect the other terminal of your physical wall switch to the 'SW' (Switch) terminal on the module.
Wiring with Neutral (Recommended for Stability and Router Functionality):
- Connect the Live (L) wire from your mains supply to the 'L' terminal on the module.
- Connect the Neutral (N) wire from your mains supply to one of the 'N' terminals on the module.
- Connect the wire going to your light fixture (load) to the 'O' (Output) terminal on the module.
- Connect one terminal of your physical wall switch to the 'L' terminal on the module.
- Connect the other terminal of your physical wall switch to the 'SW' (Switch) terminal on the module.
After wiring, carefully place the module into the electrical box, ensuring no wires are pinched and there is adequate ventilation.
5.2 Supported Load Types
The SM309-S dimmer module supports various lighting loads. Refer to the table below for detailed compatibility and power ratings. For capacitive loads like LEDs, a bypass capacitor (not included) may be required to prevent flickering or ensure stable operation at very low loads, especially in no-neutral installations.
Figure 5.1: Supported load types and corresponding power ranges for 100-240V~ systems. Includes Resistive, Capacitive (Fluorescent, LED), and Inductive loads.
5.3 Pairing with a Zigbee Hub
Once the module is wired and power is restored, it will enter pairing mode (indicated by a blinking LED, if present, or by its network status in your hub's app). Follow these steps to pair the device:
- Ensure your Zigbee hub (e.g., Philips Hue Bridge, Home Assistant with Zigbee dongle, SmartThings Hub) is powered on and in pairing mode. Refer to your hub's specific instructions for enabling pairing mode.
- On the SM309-S module, press and hold the Reset button for approximately 5-10 seconds until the device indicates it's in pairing mode (e.g., LED blinks rapidly). Alternatively, some hubs may discover the device automatically upon power-up if it's not already paired.
- Your Zigbee hub should detect the new device. Follow the on-screen prompts in your hub's application to complete the pairing process and assign the device to a room or group.
- If pairing fails, try moving the module closer to the hub or another Zigbee router device, then repeat the pairing process. You may need to power cycle the module or perform a factory reset before retrying.
Factory Reset: To perform a factory reset, press and hold the Reset button for more than 10 seconds until the device's indicator light confirms the reset (e.g., solid light then off). This will unpair the device from any network and restore it to its default settings.
6. Operating the Dimmer Module
After successful pairing, you can control the connected lights using your Zigbee hub's application or through voice commands if integrated with a voice assistant.
6.1 App Control
Use your Zigbee hub's dedicated application (e.g., Philips Hue app, Home Assistant app, SmartThings app) to turn the lights on/off and adjust their brightness. The module will appear as a dimmable light device within your smart home system.
Figure 6.1: Example of SM309-S device information and controls within Home Assistant, showing active power, voltage, and dimming options.
Figure 6.2: Example of the SM309-S appearing as a controllable light ("Hue white light 1") within the Philips Hue application.
6.2 Physical Wall Switch Control
If connected to a physical wall switch, you can still control the lights manually. The behavior of the physical switch (e.g., toggle, momentary push-button) can often be configured within your Zigbee hub's settings for the device.
- Toggle Switch: A quick flip of the switch will turn the lights on/off.
- Momentary Push-Button: A short press typically toggles on/off. A long press may initiate dimming up or down, depending on configuration.
6.3 Minimum Dimming Level Adjustment (Min. Set)
The "Min. Set" adjustment allows you to set the lowest dimming level for the connected lights. This is crucial for preventing flickering or ensuring stable operation with certain LED bulbs at very low brightness. Use a small screwdriver to carefully turn the potentiometer:
- Clockwise: Increases the minimum brightness level.
- Counter-clockwise: Decreases the minimum brightness level.
Adjust the "Min. Set" until the lights operate smoothly without flickering at their lowest desired brightness.
7. Maintenance
The SAMOTECH SM309-S dimmer module requires minimal maintenance. Ensure the device is kept dry and free from dust. Do not use liquid cleaners or abrasive materials. There are no user-serviceable parts inside the module.
- Periodically check wiring connections to ensure they remain secure.
- If cleaning is necessary, disconnect power at the circuit breaker and wipe the exterior of the module with a dry, soft cloth.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not pair with Zigbee hub. |
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| Lights flicker or do not dim properly. |
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| Physical switch does not control lights. |
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| Module becomes hot. |
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9. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | SM309-S |
| Brand | SAMOTECH |
| Input Voltage | 100-240V~, 50/60Hz |
| Max. Load (Resistive) | 250W (230V), 500W (110V) |
| Max. Load (LED) | 200W (230V), 300W (110V) |
| Wireless Protocol | Zigbee 3.0 |
| Operating Temperature | -25°C to +50°C |
| Dimensions (Package) | 5.7 x 5.5 x 3.7 cm |
| Weight (Package) | 50 grams |
| Switch Type | TRIAC Dimmer |
| Connector Type | Screw Terminal |
| Circuit Type | 1-way |
| Mounting Type | Panel Mount (designed for in-wall boxes) |
| Contact Material | Metal |
Note: The "Operating Mode: ON-OFF" and "Actuator Type: Hinge Lever" listed in some product specifications are generic and may not fully describe the dimmer's functionality. This device is specifically a dimming module.
10. Warranty and Support
SAMOTECH products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official SAMOTECH website or contact your local distributor. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
- Online Support: Visit the SAMOTECH official website for FAQs, updated manuals, and support resources.
- Contact Support: If you require further assistance, please contact SAMOTECH customer service with your product model number and a detailed description of the issue.
