Insteon Hub Owner's Manual
Getting Started
Everything you need to quickly get up and running.
Insteon Hub
This section provides an overview of the Insteon Hub and its basic setup.
Device Overview
The Insteon Hub has the following components:
- Status LED: Indicates the operational status of the Hub. A green LED typically signifies linking, while a red LED indicates an unlinking or network issue.
- Ethernet Port: For connecting the Hub to your network router.
- Factory Reset Button: Used for resetting the device.
- Power Port: For connecting the power adapter.
- Cables: Includes an Ethernet Cable and a Power Cable.
Installation
Connect your Hub to the internet and a power outlet using the provided cables. It is recommended to avoid switched outlets or filtered power strips for optimal performance.
Diagram Description: The diagram shows the Insteon Hub connected via Ethernet to a router and via its power adapter to a wall outlet. A separate illustration shows a power strip with a red 'X' indicating that switched outlets or filtered power strips should be avoided, and a green checkmark indicating a direct connection to an outlet is preferred.
Download the App
From your mobile device, download and install the "Insteon for Hub" application from your device's respective app store.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen displaying the "Insteon for Hub" app icon and an "INSTALL" button.
Create an Account
Launch the Insteon for Hub app and follow the on-screen instructions to create an account and set up your Insteon Hub. Upon successful setup, you will see a confirmation message: "You're done setting up your Insteon Hub; now start adding devices."
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing the Insteon app interface with options to "Sign In" and "Create an Account."
Optional Wall Mounting
You can mount the Insteon Hub on a wall.
- Print this page and use it as a template to drill mounting holes. The template shows hole positions with dimensions of 15/32" (12mm) and 2 1/32" (52mm).
- Hang the Hub on two screws by aligning the hanger slots and sliding down. The screw head should be approximately 5/16" (8mm) in diameter.
Diagram Description: Two diagrams illustrate the wall mounting process. The first shows a printed template with hole markings and dimensions. The second shows the Insteon Hub being mounted on a wall using screws, with an arrow indicating the downward sliding motion to secure it. It also specifies the recommended screw head diameter.
Insteon App
The Insteon App is used to configure and control your Insteon Hub and connected devices. All aspects, from adding devices to managing your smart home, are handled through the app.
Insteon App on iOS
The Insteon app on iOS utilizes a right-hand drawer for navigation, allowing access to sections such as Check-In, Favorites, Rooms, Scenes, Thermostats, and Settings. You can also add and edit devices, rooms, and scenes directly from this drawer.
Check-In
Provides an at-a-glance overview of all Insteon sensors. Sensors are displayed with a white status when not triggered and turn red when triggered.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing the "Check-In" view with a list of sensors (e.g., Back Door, Backyard Motion, Front Door, Garage Door, Garage Motion, Kitchen Sink, Smoke Sensor) and their current status indicators.
Favorites
A customizable screen where users can place their most frequently used devices, scenes, and sensors for quick access.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen displaying the "Favorites" view, showing a grid of icons representing various devices and scenes.
Rooms
Allows users to group devices into rooms for easier navigation and management. The "All Devices" option within this section displays every device added to the home.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing the "Rooms" view, listing rooms like Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen, Living Room, Garage, and Outside, with device counts.
Scenes
Automatically displays all scenes that have been created, allowing users to activate them with a single tap.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing the "Scenes" view, listing scenes such as "Good Morning" and "Movie Time," with an "All Off" option.
Thermostat
Displays your Insteon or Nest Thermostat. For homes with multiple thermostats, the default thermostat can be configured within the app's settings.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing a thermostat interface displaying the current temperature (e.g., 74°F), target temperatures (e.g., 65°F, 72°F), and mode controls (Off, Heat, Cool, Auto, Fan).
Settings
Serves as the central hub for managing Hub and Insteon account settings, configurations, and accessing in-app help.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing the "Settings" menu, listing options like Devices, Scenes, Rooms, Schedules, House Management, and Account, with associated counts or details.
Controlling a Device (iOS)
To control a device:
- Tap to turn the device on or off.
- Tap the '+' icon for additional control options and to edit the device's settings.
- Adjust brightness by tapping the up/down arrows in 10% increments.
Diagram Description: Smartphone screens illustrating device control. One shows a device (e.g., Floor Lamp) with On/Off toggles and a '+' icon. Another shows a slider for brightness adjustment (e.g., 42%) and arrows for incremental changes.
Monitoring a Sensor (iOS)
Sensor status is indicated by color:
- A white circle indicates the sensor is not triggered.
- A red circle indicates the sensor has been triggered.
- A yellow circle indicates the Hub has lost contact with the sensor. If a newly added sensor shows yellow, try activating it.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing a sensor status (e.g., Motion Sensor) with a red indicator, accompanied by a legend explaining the color codes for sensor status.
Controlling a Camera (iOS)
Use the on-screen arrows to pan and tilt your camera.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen displaying a camera feed (e.g., Garage camera) with directional arrows for pan and tilt control.
Controlling a Scene (iOS)
To control a scene:
- Tap to turn the scene on or off.
- Tap the '+' icon for additional control and to edit the scene.
Diagram Description: Smartphone screens showing scene control, with On/Off toggles and a '+' icon for editing.
Insteon App on Android
The Insteon app on Android uses tabs for navigation, providing access to Check-In, Favorites, Rooms, Scenes, Thermostats, and Settings. Device, room, and scene management can be done via the settings button.
Check-In
An overview of Insteon sensors. Sensors are red when triggered and white when not.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing the "Check-In" view with sensor status indicators.
Favorites
A customizable screen for quick access to frequently used devices, scenes, and sensors.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen displaying the "Favorites" view with various device and scene icons.
Rooms
Organizes devices into rooms for easier navigation. Includes an "All Devices" list.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing the "Rooms" view with a list of rooms and device counts.
Scenes
Displays all created scenes for easy activation.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing the "Scenes" view with a list of available scenes.
Thermostat
Shows Insteon or Nest Thermostat information. The default thermostat can be set in settings for multi-thermostat homes.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen displaying thermostat controls and current temperature readings.
Settings
Provides access to Hub and Insteon account settings, configurations, and in-app help.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing the "Settings" menu with various management options.
Controlling a Device (Android)
Control devices by tapping to turn them on or off. Use the '+' icon for additional controls and editing. Adjust brightness using the on-screen arrows.
Diagram Description: Smartphone screens demonstrating device control, including on/off toggles, brightness sliders, and adjustment arrows.
Monitoring a Sensor (Android)
Sensor status is indicated by color: white for not triggered, red for triggered, and yellow for lost contact with the Hub. Activate a sensor if it shows yellow.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing a sensor status, with a legend explaining the color codes.
Controlling a Camera (Android)
Use the directional arrows on the screen to pan and tilt your camera.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen displaying a camera feed with pan and tilt controls.
Controlling a Scene (Android)
Activate scenes by tapping them on or off. Access additional controls and editing options via the '+' icon.
Diagram Description: Smartphone screens illustrating scene control with on/off toggles and editing options.
Insteon App on Windows
The Insteon app on Windows Phone uses a six-screen carousel to switch between Quick View, Favorites, Rooms, Scenes, Thermostats, and Settings.
Quick View
An overview of Insteon sensors. Sensors are green when closed and red when triggered.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing the "Quick View" with sensor status indicators.
Favorites
A customizable screen for placing frequently used devices, scenes, and sensors.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen displaying the "Favorites" view.
Rooms
Organizes devices into rooms and lists all devices in the "All Devices" section.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing the "Rooms" view with device grouping.
Scenes
Displays all created scenes for activation.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing the "Scenes" view.
Thermostats
Shows thermostat information and allows configuration of the default thermostat for multi-thermostat homes.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen displaying thermostat controls and temperature settings.
Settings
Provides access to Hub and Insteon account settings, configurations, and in-app help.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen showing the "Settings" menu.
Controlling a Device (Windows)
Adjust device brightness using arrows in 10% increments. Turn devices on or off using the provided toggles.
Diagram Description: Smartphone screens illustrating device control, including brightness adjustment and on/off toggles.
Monitoring a Sensor (Windows)
Sensor status is indicated as "Closed" (OK), "Opened" (triggered), or "Unknown" (lost contact). If a sensor shows "Unknown," try activating it.
Diagram Description: Smartphone screens showing sensor status indicators: "Closed" (grey), "Opened" (red), and "Unknown" (yellow).
Controlling a Scene (Windows)
Turn scenes on or off using the toggles. Access additional controls and editing options via the menu icon.
Diagram Description: Smartphone screens showing scene control with on/off toggles and an option to edit the scene.
Controlling a Camera (Windows)
Use the on-screen arrows to pan and tilt your camera.
Diagram Description: A smartphone screen displaying a camera feed with directional arrows for pan and tilt control.
Hardware Reset
The Insteon Hub can be reset in two ways: Network Reset and Factory Reset.
- Network Reset: Restores the default network configuration to the Hub.
- Factory Reset: Erases all stored links and reconfigures the device to factory defaults, including any customized properties.
Network Reset
To perform a network reset:
- Tap the set button ten times. The Hub will triple-beep.
- After a few seconds, the Hub will single-beep.
Diagram Description: Two diagrams illustrate the Network Reset process. The first shows the Insteon Hub with the set button being pressed 10 times, accompanied by a sound icon indicating multiple beeps. The second diagram shows the Hub after the reset, with a single beep sound icon. A confirmation message states, "Your Hub has been restored to default network settings."
Factory Reset
Before performing a factory reset, it is recommended to delete all devices and scenes, or factory reset your devices, and delete your user account from Insteon Connect.
- Navigate to Settings within the Insteon App.
- From Settings, tap "Account."
- Tap "Delete Account." This action cannot be undone and will erase your home from Insteon Connect. A warning advises deleting devices first for optimal network performance.
- Disconnect power from the Hub.
- Press and hold the set button while reconnecting the power. The Hub will emit a long beep.
- When the long beep ends, release the set button. The Hub will double-beep. After 30 seconds, it will double-beep again.
- Unplug and then reconnect your Hub to power.
Diagram Description: A series of smartphone screens and diagrams illustrate the Factory Reset process. This includes navigating to Settings, then Account, tapping "Delete Account" (with a warning message), disconnecting power, pressing and holding the set button while reconnecting power, and the resulting beeps. A final confirmation message states, "Your Hub has been restored to factory settings."
Appendix
This section contains additional information about your Insteon product.
Insteon Glossary
Key terms and their definitions:
- Controller: The Insteon transmitter.
- Responder: The Insteon receiver.
- Blinking: LED turning on and off repeatedly.
- Dual-Band: An Insteon device that can send and receive both Insteon powerline signals and Insteon radio frequency signals.
- Ramp Rate: The speed at which the load fades on or off.
- On-Level: The preset brightness level a device will return to when turned on.
- Insteon: A dual-band, mesh networking technology developed by Smarthome/Insteon, known for reliability, expandability, and simplicity in home automation and control.
- Link: A one-way association between a controller and responder.
- Linking: A method for associating Insteon controller buttons with groups of Insteon responders so they instantly return to a memorized state when the button is pushed. Links can be made manually or via software.
- Unlinking: The process by which an Insteon device can remove stored links. It's a one-way process and should be performed in both directions for devices that act as both controllers and responders.
- Multi-Linking / Unlinking: A mode allowing multiple links to be created or removed simultaneously without manual set button presses. Devices continue linking until the set button is tapped or four minutes elapse.
- Factory Reset: A process that erases all stored links and reconfigures the device to factory defaults.
- Load: The device being controlled (e.g., a light bulb, ceiling fan).
- On/Off: A device that controls its connected load to turn on/off but cannot dim (typically a relay-based device).
- Retry: A subsequent attempt by a controller to send an Insteon signal when an acknowledgment is not received.
- Scene: Multiple devices responding to memorized states simultaneously (e.g., turning on lights, dimming others, adjusting thermostat).
- Set Button: A button on an Insteon device used for setting or changing its properties.
- Simulcast: A method to increase message delivery reliability by having nodes retransmit messages simultaneously based on a global clock, improving robustness without routing tables.
Specifications
Category | Specification | Details |
---|---|---|
General | Available Colors | White |
Brand | Insteon | |
FCC ID | SBP22452 | |
Industry Canada | 5202A-22452 | |
Manufacturer Product No. | 2245-222 | |
Patent No. | Protected under US and Foreign Patents (see www.insteon.com/patents) | |
UPC | 813922013498 | |
Warranty | 2 years, limited | |
Operation | Audio Alert | Beeper |
Local Control | No | |
Setup Memory | Non-volatile EEPROM | |
Status LED | Red/Green LED | |
Insteon Features | Insteon Device Category | 0x03 |
Insteon Device Subcategory | 0x33 | |
Insteon ID | 1 | |
Insteon Links | 992 | |
Insteon Messages Repeated | Yes | |
Insteon Minimum Receive Level | 40 mV | |
Insteon Minimum Transmit Level | 3.2 Vpp into 5 Ohms | |
Insteon Powerline Device | Yes | |
Insteon Powerline Frequency | 131.65 KHz | |
Insteon RF Device | Yes | |
Maximum Controlled Scenes | 256 | |
Maximum Scene Memberships | 992 | |
Multi-Link Support | Yes | |
Multi-Unlink Support | Yes | |
RF Beacon | Yes | |
Radio Frequency | 915 MHz | |
Radio Frequency Range | Up to 250 feet | |
Mechanical | Beep on Button Press | No |
Dimensions | 1.5" H x 3.75" W x 3.75" D (38mm H x 95mm W x 95mm D) | |
Enclosure Material | UV stabilized plastic | |
Mounting | Tabletop or Wall Mount | |
Operating Environment | Indoors | |
Operating Humidity Range | 0-90% relative humidity | |
Operating Temperature Range | 32° to 104° F (0° to 40° C) | |
Factory Reset Button | Yes | |
Storage Temperature Range | -4° to 158° F (-20° to 70° C) | |
Weight | 5.2 oz | |
Electrical | Power Consumption | 2 Watts |
Supply Voltage | 120-277 Volts AC, 50/60 Hertz, single phase | |
Surge Resistance | Surges over 1000 volts | |
Power Connector | IEC C8 | |
Certification | FCC ID Part 15B & 15C, IC RSS-210, Intertek ETL |
Troubleshooting
Initial Setup and Configuration
Unable to create an Insteon account
This issue is most likely related to an internet connection problem between your mobile device and the Insteon Hub.
Try this:
- Ensure your internet connection is active by browsing a website on your mobile device.
- Check for typos in your email address, especially the "@" symbol or ".com," which are required for a valid Insteon account.
Insteon App is unable to find your Insteon Hub
Several factors can affect initial setup, primarily related to internet connection.
Try this:
- Verify all cables connected to the Hub are securely seated. Trace the Ethernet cable from the Hub to the router to ensure a proper connection.
- Check the Insteon Hub for signs of life. A green LED on the front should be visible. If not, check the power outlet. The Ethernet port should show a blinking green and solid orange light. If both Ethernet LEDs are off, try a different port on your router.
- Power cycle your Hub by unplugging and reconnecting it to power.
- For the initial connection, your mobile device must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your router. Some routers create a "guest" network, but connecting to the main Wi-Fi network is usually required for setup.
- Verify the Hub's connection to Insteon by visiting connect.insteon.com/getinfo.asp on your mobile device or computer. This page lists detected Insteon Hubs.
- Perform a network reset (refer to the Network Reset section).
- If problems persist, contact Insteon Support at 866-243-8022.
Insteon App is unable to connect to your Insteon Hub
Connection issues to the Insteon Hub are often related to internet connectivity.
Try this:
- Ensure all cables connected to the Hub are securely seated. Trace the Ethernet cable from the Hub back to the router to confirm a proper connection.
- Check the Insteon Hub for signs of life (green LED on the front). If the LED is off, check the power outlet. The Ethernet port should display blinking green and solid orange lights. If both Ethernet LEDs are off, try a different router port.
- Confirm your home internet connection is functioning by visiting a website from your computer's browser.
- Restart your Hub by unplugging and reconnecting it to power.
General Issues
Unable to add a new device using the Insteon App
Inability to add a new device is typically due to network issues.
Try this:
- Move the new device closer to the Insteon Hub. If this resolves the issue, consider a Range Extender or an additional Dual-Band Insteon device to improve network reach.
- Log out of the Insteon App and log back in. Navigate to Settings and tap "Log Out."
Unable to delete a device using the Insteon App
Deleting a device may fail if the device is no longer present or connected.
Try this:
- Ensure the device to be deleted is powered on. If it's battery-powered, press and hold the set button until the Status LED blinks, then try deleting from the app.
- If a device has stopped functioning, you can force its removal from the app. After unsuccessful deletion attempts, an option to "Force Remove" the unresponsive device will appear.
- Log out of the Insteon App and log back in. Navigate to Settings and tap "Log Out."
Unable to add a new WiFi Camera using the Insteon App
Check the following points if a WiFi Camera cannot be added:
Try this:
- Ensure your router is functioning correctly and the Ethernet cable connecting the WiFi Camera is securely connected to both the camera and the router.
- Confirm that the WiFi camera has power.
- Log out of the Insteon App and log back in. Navigate to Settings and tap "Log Out."
Unable to receive alerts via email or SMS
With iOS version 1.9.25 and Android version 1.7.4, SMS alerts are replaced by push notifications. The Insteon Connect cloud service may require an update if an alert setting was not saved correctly.
Try this:
- Check your email (including spam folders) for a confirmation link from Insteon Connect. This link must be clicked to enable alerts for the specified email address.
- Disable and then re-enable alerts for the device not transmitting them.
- Ensure a recipient email address is entered for the alert.
- Verify the Insteon for Hub app has permission to send push notifications. On your iOS device, go to Settings, scroll to Insteon, and enable "Notifications." Push notifications may also need to be configured per-device within the Insteon app.
Unable to disable alerts via email
The Insteon Connect cloud service may need updating if alert settings were not saved properly.
Try this:
- Log out of the Insteon App and sign back in.
- Delete the device for which alerts cannot be disabled, then re-add it and enable alerts.
Schedules do not appear to run at the correct time
This may be due to an incorrect Hub clock setting.
Try this:
- In the Insteon App, navigate to Settings > House and check the "Hub Local Time." If it's incorrect, or if the "Hub Location" is wrong, tap "Hub Location" and locate your Insteon Hub on the map to automatically update its internal clock.
- If updating the Hub time does not resolve the schedule issue, try a Network Reset.
Check for firmware updates for your Insteon Hub
Your Hub updates firmware automatically, but you can manually check for updates.
Try this:
- From the Insteon App, navigate to Settings > House and tap "Check for Updates."
Certifications and Warnings
Read and understand these instructions before installing and retain them for future reference.
- This product is not designed or approved for use on powerlines other than 120-277VAC, 50Hz or 60Hz, single phase. Using it on unapproved powerlines may have hazardous consequences.
- Use only indoors or in an outdoor rated box.
- The product may feel warm during operation, which is within approved limits and poses no hazards. Ensure the area surrounding the product is clear of clutter to minimize heat buildup.
- Each Insteon product has a unique Insteon I.D. printed on its label.
- Modifications to the hardware not expressly approved by Insteon may void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
- For pluggable equipment, the socket-outlet must be installed near the equipment and be easily accessible.
- This device complies with FCC Rules and Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standards. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) the device must not cause harmful interference, and (2) the device must accept any interference, including that which may cause undesired operation.
- (French translation of FCC/IC compliance statement provided in original document).
Product Warranty
Limited Warranty
Insteon warrants this product to the original consumer purchaser for a period of two years from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in material and workmanship and ensures the product will perform substantially as described in this Owner's Manual. It does not cover defects or errors caused by misuse or neglect. If the product is found to be defective or does not perform as warranted, Insteon will, at its option, repair, replace, or refund the purchase price. To obtain service, contact Insteon at 866-243-8022 with the Model # and Revision # of the device to receive an RMA# and send the product, along with all required materials, to:
Insteon
ATTN: Receiving
16542 Millikan Ave.
Irvine, CA 92606-5027
Limitations
This warranty is provided in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied, including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Any implied warranties are limited to the two-year duration of this express warranty. No other representation or claim by any person shall bind Insteon or modify this warranty.
Home automation devices carry risks of failure, incorrect operation, or tampering. For optimal use, manually verify device status. Home automation devices should be considered conveniences, not sole methods for home control.
Insteon shall not be liable for special, incidental, consequential, or other damages resulting from possession or use of this device, including property damage or personal injury, even if Insteon was aware of the possibility of such damages. Some states may not allow limitations on implied warranty duration or exclusion of damages, in which case these limitations may not apply. You may also have other legal rights that vary by state.
This product is protected under U.S. and foreign patents. ©2015 Insteon.