Insteon Dimmer Module Owner's Manual
Getting Started
Insteon Dimmer Module
Device Overview
The Insteon Dimmer Module features a Status LED and a Set Button. The Status LED indicates the device's state (On/Off), while the Set Button is used for various programming and linking functions.
Buttons
Set Button Actions:
- Tap: Turns the connected load ON or OFF.
- Double-tap: Instantly turns the connected load ON or OFF.
- Press and hold: Brightens or dims the connected load.
Refer to sections on Basic Linking and Local Programming for specific Set Button functions.
Installation
Plug your lamp into the bottom receptacle of the Dimmer Module. Then, plug the Dimmer Module into an unswitched wall outlet.
Leave Your Lamp On
If the physical switch of your connected lamp is set to OFF, the Dimmer Module will be unable to control the lamp remotely.
Insteon Links
Understanding Linking
Insteon devices can function independently as local switches or dimmers. Their full potential is realized when connected together to form a control system. Most Insteon devices can control each other and act as recipients of control commands. The process of associating multiple Insteon devices is called Linking.
Links are One-Way
When linking Insteon devices, the created links are directional. For example, Switch A can control Dimmer Module B, but Dimmer Module B cannot control Switch A.
Links Remember a Device's State
The current state of the controlled device (on, off, or dimmed level) is stored within the link.
Controllers
Insteon devices capable of sending commands to turn other devices on or off are called controllers. Common controllers include Sensors, Switches, Keypads, and the Insteon Hub.
Responders
Insteon devices that receive commands from a controller are called responders. Common responders include Switches, LED Bulbs, Plug-In Modules, and Micro Modules.
Controller-Only
Some devices, like sensors, can only control other devices and cannot be controlled themselves.
Responder-Only
Some devices cannot control other devices; they only receive Insteon commands.
Grouping Devices
You can group together multiple devices, for instance, to create a virtual three-way switch configuration. This is known as Cross Linking in the Insteon system.
Use Cross Linking
To perform Cross Linking, turn on the devices involved and execute the linking process twice: once for each direction of control.
Insteon Hub
Linking to the Insteon Hub
- From the main screen (Rooms), navigate to 'All Devices'.
- Tap the 'Add' button.
- Select 'Plug-In Module' from the list of available devices.
- When prompted, press and hold the Set Button on your Dimmer Module until the device double-beeps.
Confirmation: Your Dimmer Module can now be controlled via the Insteon Hub.
Manual Linking
Manual linking allows Insteon devices to be configured and linked on a device-to-device basis without a central controller like the Insteon Hub. It is strongly recommended not to perform manual linking when a central controller is in use; allow the controller to manage linking.
Linking with a Single-Button Controller
- On your Insteon controller, press and hold the Set Button until the device beeps.
- Ensure the Dimmer Module is ON, then press and hold its Set Button until it double-beeps.
Result: Your Insteon controller will now control your Dimmer Module.
Linking with a Multi-Button Controller
- On your Insteon controller, tap the desired control button, then press and hold the Set Button until it beeps.
- Ensure the Dimmer Module is ON, then press and hold its Set Button until it double-beeps.
Result: Your Insteon controller will now control your Dimmer Module.
Multi-Linking or Making a Scene
- On your Insteon controller, press and hold the Set Button until it beeps, then tap the Set Button.
- Adjust your scene members to their desired states (on, off, or specific brightness levels).
- One at a time, press and hold the Set Button on each scene member until it double-beeps.
- Tap the Set Button on your Insteon controller to finish building your scene.
Result: Your Insteon controller will now control your scene.
Unlinking from a Single-Button Controller
- On your Insteon controller, press and hold the Set Button until it beeps.
- Press and hold the Set Button again until it beeps.
- Press and hold the Dimmer Module's Set Button until it double-beeps.
Result: Your Insteon controller will no longer control your Dimmer Module.
Unlinking from a Multi-Button Controller
- On your Insteon controller, tap the desired control button, then press and hold the Set Button until it beeps.
- Press and hold the Set Button again until it beeps.
- Press and hold the Dimmer Module's Set Button until it double-beeps.
Result: Your Insteon controller will no longer control your Dimmer Module.
Multi-Unlinking or Removing a Scene
- On your Insteon controller, press and hold the Set Button until it beeps. Press and hold the Set Button again, then tap the Set Button.
- One at a time, press and hold the Set Button on each scene member until it double-beeps.
- Tap the Set Button on your Insteon controller to exit Multi-Unlinking mode.
Result: Your Insteon controller will no longer control your Insteon responders.
Local Programming
Local programming allows you to set local on-level, ramp rates, and perform a factory reset directly on the device.
About Local Programming
The Local Programming Flowchart provides a visual representation of the device's settings, allowing configuration of various features. While some devices offer more options, the flowchart offers a straightforward path even for complex configurations.
Navigation
- To move right: Press and hold the Set Button.
- To move down: Tap the Set Button.
Status LED Indications
- Status LED blinks green: Indicates a successful operation or status.
- Status LED double-blinks green: Indicates a successful operation or status.
- Status LED blinks red: Indicates an error or failed operation.
- Status LED double-blinks red: Indicates an error or failed operation.
Using a Central Controller
If you are using the Insteon Hub or another central controller, it is strongly advised to avoid Local Programming. Your central controller can efficiently manage device properties and links.
Local Programming Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Linking Mode | Prepares the module for linking to another Insteon device. The first device entered into linking mode becomes the controller, and the second becomes the responder. The module exits linking mode after a link is made or four minutes pass without activity. |
| Multi-Linking Mode | Prepares the module for linking to multiple Insteon devices. The module remains in linking mode for 4 minutes or until the Set Button is tapped. This is useful for creating scenes manually. |
| Unlinking Mode | Allows the removal of links from the Insteon device. The module exits unlinking mode after a link is removed or four minutes pass without activity. |
| Multi-Unlinking Mode | Allows the removal of multiple links from the Insteon device. The module stays in unlinking mode for 4 minutes or until the Set Button is tapped. |
| LED Brightness | Allows adjustment of the module's status LED brightness. |
| RF Beacon | Places the device in a mode that broadcasts a signal over Insteon RF, helping to locate nearby devices that are beeping or blinking. |
| Factory Reset | Erases all user-customized programming, including Insteon device links, scenes, ramp rates, and on-levels. This action cannot be undone. |
Load Sense
Disable Load Sense: From Linking Mode, press Exit, then tap the Set Button twice. The status LED will show SOLID, indicating Load Sense is disabled.
Enable Load Sense: From Linking Mode, press Exit, then tap the Set Button three times. The status LED will show SOLID, indicating Load Sense is enabled.
Hardware Reset
Factory Reset
A factory reset will erase all links stored in the device's database and revert customized properties to their default settings.
- Unplug the Dimmer Module from its power outlet.
- Simultaneously press and hold the Set Button while reconnecting the Dimmer Module to power.
- Continue holding the Set Button until the Dimmer Module stops beeping.
- When the reset is complete, the Dimmer Module will double-beep.
Confirmation: Your Dimmer Module has been restored to factory settings.
Software-Only Features
Many Insteon devices have features that can only be enabled, disabled, or modified using Insteon control software, such as HouseLinc or the Insteon Hub.
Beep on Button Press
The Dimmer Module will beep each time one of its buttons is tapped. This feature is disabled by default.
Disable Local Programming
This feature prevents any settings from being changed using the Set Button or tap-and-hold programming. This feature is disabled by default.
Blink on Traffic
The Dimmer Module LED will blink if it detects Insteon communication. This feature is disabled by default.
Error Blink
The Dimmer Module LED will blink red once if one or more responders do not acknowledge a message. It will blink green once if all responders successfully acknowledge a message. This feature is enabled by default.
Appendix
Insteon Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Controller | The Insteon transmitter. |
| Responder | The Insteon receiver. |
| Blinking LED | 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 ease of use in home automation and control. |
| Link | A one-way association between a controller and a responder. |
| Linking | A method for associating Insteon controller buttons with groups of Insteon responders, allowing them to instantly return to a memorized state when the button is pressed. Links can be made manually or via software. |
| Unlinking | The process by which an Insteon device can remove stored links. It is a one-way process and must be performed in both directions for devices that act as both controllers and responders (e.g., in a 3-way switch setup). |
| Multi-Linking / Unlinking | A special mode allowing multiple links to be created or removed simultaneously without laborious button presses. The device remains in this mode for 4 minutes or until the Set Button is tapped. |
| 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 (turns it on/off) but cannot dim. Typically a relay-based device. |
| Retry | A subsequent attempt by a controller to send an Insteon signal, usually after an acknowledgement was not received from the responder within the expected time slot. |
| Scene | Multiple devices responding to memorized states simultaneously. Example: a 'dinner time' scene might turn on a table light, dim kitchen lights, turn off backyard lights, and adjust the thermostat. |
| Set Button | A button on an Insteon device used for setting or changing its properties. |
| Simulcast | A method to enhance message delivery reliability in a network. Nodes that hear a message retransmit it simultaneously based on a global clock, improving robustness. It's simpler than routing as it doesn't require routing tables. |
| X10 | A legacy powerline networking technology. Many Insteon devices are compatible with X10 devices by setting a house and unit code. |
Specifications
General
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Available Colors | White |
| Brand | Insteon |
| FCC ID | SBP2475D2A |
| Industry Canada | 5202A-2475D2A |
| Manufacturer Product No. | 2475D2 |
| Patent No. | Protected under US and Foreign Patents (see www.insteon.com/patents) |
| UPC | 813922010183 |
| Warranty | 2 years, limited |
Operation
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Audio Alert | Beeper, can be enabled/disabled through software. |
| Operation Modes | Insteon. Versions prior to 3.6 also support X10. |
| Load Sensing | Yes. Versions prior to 3.6 do not support load sense. |
| Local Control | Yes |
| Setup Memory | Non-volatile EEPROM |
| Status LED | Red/Green LED |
Insteon Features
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Insteon Device Category | 0x01 dimmable lighting control |
| Insteon Device Subcategory | 0x37 |
| Insteon ID | 1 |
| Insteon Links | 400 |
| Insteon Messages Repeated | Yes |
| Insteon Minimum Receive Level | 10 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 | 1 |
| Maximum Scene Memberships | 400 |
| Multi-Link Support | Yes |
| Multi-Unlink Support | Yes |
| RF Beacon | Yes |
| Radio Frequency | 915.0 MHz |
| Radio Frequency Range | 150 feet |
Scene Commands Supported as Controller
| Command | State |
|---|---|
| On | On |
| Fast-On | Fast-On |
| Begin Brighten | Begin Brighten |
| End Brighten | End Brighten |
Scene Commands Supported as Responder
| Command | State |
|---|---|
| On | On |
| Fast-On | Fast-On |
| Begin Brighten | Begin Brighten |
| End Brighten | End Brighten |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Software Configurable | Yes |
Mechanical
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 3.2" H x 2.05" W x 1.05" D (81.2mm H x 53mm W x 26.6mm D) |
| Dimming Technology Employed | Leading-edge TRIAC dimmer |
| Enclosure Material | UV stabilized plastic |
| Mounting | Ungrounded, polarized electrical outlet, NEMA 1-15 |
| Operating Environment | Indoors |
| Operating Humidity Range | 0-85% relative humidity, non-condensing |
| Operating Temperature Range | 32° to 104° F (0° to 40° C) |
| Set Button | Yes |
| Storage Temperature Range | -4° to 158° F (-20° to 70° C) |
| Weight | 3.3 oz |
Electrical
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Controlled Outlet | Yes, ungrounded polarized. NEMA 1-15 type |
| Hardwired Remote Control | No |
| Load Types | Plug-in incandescent lighting sources |
| Maximum Load | 300 Watts |
| Minimum Load | 5 Watts |
| Pass-through Outlet | No |
| Power Consumption | <0.75 Watts |
| Supply Voltage | 120 Volts AC ± 10%, 60 Hertz, single phase |
| Surge Resistance | Surges over 1,000 volts |
X10 Features (Powerline Only)
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| X10 Support | No. Versions prior to 3.6 support X10. |
Troubleshooting
Dimmer Module LED does not turn on
Issue: The Dimmer Module may not be receiving power, or the status LED might be disabled.
Try this:
- Test the Dimmer Module in a different power outlet. If the LED illuminates, check the original outlet for power. Be aware that some outlets are controlled by a wall switch; avoid using switched outlets as they can disable the Insteon device when turned off.
- If the outlet works and the connected lamp can be toggled, use software (like the Insteon Hub) to change the status LED behavior. The LED brightness can be adjusted, potentially to the point where it appears off.
Unable to add Dimmer module to a scene as a controller or a responder
Issue: Power is supplied, but interference from the Insteon signal, possibly due to large appliances, power strips, or other electronic devices generating powerline noise, may be present.
Try this:
- Ensure the Dimmer Module is connected directly to a standard AC outlet and not to a power strip, surge suppressor, backup battery, or AC line filter, as these can filter out the Insteon signal.
- Large appliances like refrigerators or air conditioners can generate noise that disrupts the Insteon signal. If the issue occurs only when these appliances are running, install a noise filter at that device. If the source of the noise is uncertain, disconnect potentially offending devices and test the Dimmer Module again. Install noise filters at offending appliances if the issue is resolved.
- Small electronics with AC/DC power supplies can generate significant electrical noise. Search your home for devices like speaker docks or small stereos, disconnect them from power, and test your Dimmer Module. If this resolves the issue, install noise filters at each offending electronic appliance.
- If the Dimmer Module is too far from another Insteon device to receive a signal, try moving it closer. If this resolves the issue, consider installing a Range Extender or another Dual-Band Insteon device between the Dimmer Module and the nearest Insteon device.
The Dimmer Module is slow to respond to commands from a controller
Issue: This is typically a controller issue, often caused by the controller repeatedly sending commands for devices that have been removed from the network. This can slow down the network and cause delayed responses.
Try this:
- Check if any Insteon devices that were part of a slow-responding scene have been removed from your network. If so, their links must be removed from the controller. Use software to examine the controller's database or manually remove links using the standard unlinking procedure.
- If you cannot identify the missing devices, perform a factory reset on the controller. This will clear all links from the controller's database but will require you to reconfigure the device's scenes and properties.
The connected lamp turned on by itself
Issue: A device in your Insteon network may be unexpectedly linked to the Dimmer Module, or powerline noise might be triggering the device if it has an X10 address.
Try this:
- Use software to examine the Dimmer Module's links. If a stray controller is identified, remove the link.
- If the unexpected controller cannot be identified, perform a factory reset on the Dimmer Module. This will remove all links from its database but will require reconfiguration of scenes and properties.
- If the device has an X10 address, try assigning a different X10 address or take steps to identify and isolate electronics that might be generating powerline noise.
Using a controller, Dimmer Module will turn off but not turn on
Issue: The Dimmer Module was likely linked to the controller with the load set to 'Off'.
Try this:
- Ensure the Dimmer Module's connected load is turned ON, then re-link the device to your Insteon controller. This new link will overwrite the previous 'off' link.
Dimmer Module does not respond to button taps or controller links
Issue: A power surge or excessive powerline noise may have caused the module to stop responding.
Try this:
- Unplug the Dimmer Module for 10 seconds, then reconnect it to power. Test the local buttons to see if the load turns on or off.
- If the issue persists, the Dimmer Module might require a factory reset to restore normal operation. Follow the procedure outlined in 'Local Programming' to reset the device to factory settings. You will need to reconfigure the device's scenes and properties after the reset.
When using the connected lamp's switch, the load does not turn on
Issue: The load may not be receiving power if the Dimmer Module is OFF, or there might be an issue with the bulb.
Try this:
- Use the buttons on the side of the Dimmer Module to turn on the connected device. Remember, if the connected lamp's own switch is turned OFF, the Dimmer Module cannot control it.
- Check the bulb in your lamp; it may need replacement.
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 120VAC, 50Hz or 60Hz, single phase. Attempting to use this product on unapproved powerlines may have hazardous consequences.
- Use only indoors or in an outdoor-rated box.
- This product may feel warm during operation. The heat generated is within approved limits and poses no hazards. To minimize heat buildup, ensure the area surrounding the product is clear of clutter.
- Each Insteon product is assigned a unique Insteon I.D., printed on the product's label.
- To reduce the risk of overheating and possible damage to other equipment, do not use this product to control loads exceeding specified maximums, or install in locations with electrical specifications outside the product's. If dimming an inductive load (like a fan or transformer), it could damage the dimmer or the load device. If the load device manufacturer does not recommend dimming, use a non-dimming Insteon device. USER ASSUMES ALL RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH DIMMING AN INDUCTIVE LOAD.
This device complies with FCC Rules and Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. L'exploitation est autorise aux deux conditions suivantes: (1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radiolectrique subi, mme si le brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.
CAUTION - To reduce the risk of overheating and possible damage to other equipment, do not install to control a receptacle, a motor-operated appliance, a fluorescent lighting fixture, or a transformer-supplied appliance.
Gradateurs commandant une lampe a filament de tungstene – afin de reduire le risqu de surchauffe et la possibilite d'endommagement a d'autres materiels, ne pas installer pour commader une prise, un appareil a moteur, une lampe fluorescente ou un appareil alimente par un transformateur.
The digital circuitry of this device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15B of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio and television reception. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this device does cause such interference, which can be verified by turning the device off and on, the user is encouraged to eliminate the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Re-orient or relocate the receiving antenna of the device experiencing the interference.
- Increase the distance between this device and the receiver.
- Connect the device to an AC outlet on a circuit different from the one that supplies power to the receiver.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician.
WARNING: Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
Cet appareil a t test et s'avre conforme aux restrictions relatives aux quipements numriques de classe B, d'aprs l'article 15 des rglements du Conseil suprieur de l'audiovisuel amricain (FCC). Ces restrictions ont t instaures pour offrir une protection raisonnable contre les interfrences nuisibles au sein d'une installation rsidentielle. Cet appareil gnre, utilise et peut mettre des frquences radio et s'il n'est pas install selon les instructions, peut nuire aux radiocommunications. Toutefois, rien ne garantit que des parasites ne surviendront pas dans une installation particulire. Si cet appareil cause des interfrences nuisibles la rception du tlviseur ou de la radio, ce que vous pouvez dterminer en ouvrant et en fermant votre appareil, nous vous invitons essayer l'une des mesures correctives suivantes :
- Rorientez l'antenne de rception installe sur l'appareil qui manifeste les parasites.
- loignez l'appareil du composant qui reoit les ondes.
- Branchez l'appareil dans une prise de courant CA diffrente de celle du composant qui reoit les ondes.
- Au besoin, consultez votre marchand lectronique ou un technicien spcialis dans le service des radios/tlviseurs pour des suggestions supplmentaires.
Product Warranty
Limited Warranty
Seller warrants to the original consumer purchaser of this product that, for a period of two years from the date of purchase, this product will be free from defects in material and workmanship and will perform in substantial conformity to the description of the product in this Owner's Manual. This warranty shall not apply to defects or errors caused by misuse or neglect. If the product is found to be defective in material or workmanship, or if the product does not perform as warranted above during the warranty period, Seller will either repair it, replace it, or refund the purchase price, at its option, upon receipt of the product at the address below, postage prepaid, with proof of the date of purchase and an explanation of the defect or error. The repair, replacement, or refund that is provided for above shall be the full extent of Seller's liability with respect to this product. For repair or replacement during the warranty period, call 866-243-8022 with the Model # and Revision # of the device to receive an RMA# and send the product, along with all other required materials to:
Insteon
ATTN: Receiving
16542 Millikan Ave.
Irvine, CA 92606-5027
Limitations
The above warranty is in lieu of and Seller disclaims all other warranties, whether oral or written, express or implied, including any warranty or merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Any implied warranty, including any warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, which may not be disclaimed or supplanted as provided above shall be limited to the two-year of the express warranty above. No other representation or claim of any nature by any person shall be binding upon Seller or modify the terms of the above warranty and disclaimer.
Home automation devices have the risk of failure to operate, incorrect operation, or electrical or mechanical tampering. For optimal use, manually verify the device state. Any home automation device should be viewed as a convenience, but not as a sole method for controlling your home.
In no event shall Seller be liable for special, incidental, consequential, or other damages resulting from possession or use of this device, including without limitation damage to property and, to the extent permitted by law, personal injury, even if Seller knew or should have known of the possibility of such damages. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and/or the exclusion or limitation of damages, in which case the above limitations and/or exclusions may not apply to you. You may also have other legal rights that may vary from state to state.
Protected under U.S. and foreign patents (see www.insteon.com/patents)
Copyright 2014 Insteon
Rev 07.18.16
