Aqara Hub M3 User Manual
Product Introduction
The Hub M3 is Aqara's first border router product that supports Thread protocol, as well as a multi-mode hub that supports Zigbee 3.0 and Bluetooth protocol child devices. Together with the newly upgraded cross-LAN and cross-hub local automation control capability and Matter access capability, it emerges as Aqara's next-generation smart home control hub. Using an ARM dual-core A7 architecture main control chip, with a working main frequency of 1 GHz, the M3 can easily cope with various data processing and automation control and execution. Network connection supports wireless connection with 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz dual-band Wi-Fi protocols, while also retaining wired network connection with an RJ45 interface and supporting PoE power from that interface. In addition to being powered by an adapter, the USB-C interface is also equipped with data communication capabilities that can be extended for use with other peripherals. The infrared remote control function has been comprehensively upgraded with six high-power infrared transmitter tubes distributed on the front and four sides of the product to ensure all-around coverage of infrared control signals in large spaces and reliable control of long-range infrared devices. A hub cluster can be built by networking multiple M3s for a hub, which can then be used for localized networking control over a larger area. The M3 also has a hub replacement function, which can quickly replace other faulty hubs to maintain the health of the IoT system networking. In addition, the built-in 8 GB large-capacity eMMC storage allows for more localized storage of user data, reducing cloud dependency and ensuring user privacy and security. The built-in RTC clock system can maintain stable calibration of the devices inside the IoT system in case of network disconnection, ensuring stable and reliable automation execution. In addition to accessing the Apple HomeKit platform, this product can also access all IoT platforms that support the standard Matter protocol, and supports both table placement and ceiling mounting.
Device Overview
The Aqara Hub M3 is a compact smart home device. It features an Infrared Receiving Surface and an Infrared Transmitting Surface for controlling infrared-enabled devices. Key indicators and ports include an Indicator Light, a Speaker, a Nameplate, a Type-C Power Port, a Button, and an RJ45 Network Port. For mounting, it has a Bracket Fixing Slot, a Table Outlet Slot, and provisions for ceiling mounting with Guide Posts, Ceiling Outlet Hole, and Bracket Hanging Buckle.
The Button has two functions: Press and Hold for 10 seconds to reset the network and unbind the device; Press 10 times to restore factory settings.
Device Installation
1. Select Installation Location
For table placement, position the Hub M3 on a flat surface. Ensure the infrared emitting area on the front is not obstructed by objects, and avoid placing items that might block infrared signals nearby. A bracket is not required for table placement.
For wall or ceiling mounting, the process involves using a bracket.
- Press the bracket firmly against the mounting surface (e.g., ceiling) and trace the screw hole locations with a marker.
- Drill holes using a 4mm diameter drill bit to a depth of at least 27mm.
- Insert four expansion tubes into the drilled holes to ensure a flush surface.
- Secure the bracket by aligning it with the expansion tube holes and tightening screws. If power or Ethernet cables are present, thread them through the bracket's wiring hole before tightening.
Align the bracket hole at the bottom of the device with the bracket buckle. Push the product body in the opposite direction of the bracket hooks until it is securely latched. Ensure any power or Ethernet cables are properly connected before securing the device.
Power and Networking
2. Select Power Supply Method
This product can be powered via the USB-C interface or through PoE (Power over Ethernet) using the RJ45 network port. Choose the method appropriate for your installation location.
3. Select Networking Method
Wireless Connection: The device supports dual-band Wi-Fi networks. After powering on, follow the Aqara Home app guidance to complete the wireless network setup.
Wired Connection: A wired connection is recommended to avoid potential instability caused by environmental interference in wireless connections. After powering on, follow the Aqara Home app guide to complete the wired network connection.
Device Binding & Initialization
1. Download the Aqara Home App
Download the 'Aqara Home' app from the Apple App Store, Google Play, Xiaomi GetApps, or Huawei App Gallery.
2. Add Product to Aqara Home App
Open the Aqara Home app, tap 'Home', then tap '+' in the top right corner to access the 'Add Device (Accessory)' page. Select 'Hub M3' and follow the app instructions. A successful connection is indicated by a solid blue status light.
The Hub M3 supports Aqara MagicPair technology, allowing automatic discovery by the Aqara Home app when powered on and in network connection mode. Select the device and follow app instructions for network configuration.
During network setup, keep your phone close to the device and ensure it is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the product. A second confirmation step may be required, involving scanning a QR code on the product or User Manual, or entering an 8-digit pairing code.
Connectivity and Troubleshooting
Common Binding Failures
- Wi-Fi Credentials: Ensure the Wi-Fi name or password does not contain special characters unsupported by the device. Try using common characters.
- Router Settings: Check if your router has 'Wi-Fi anti-leeching' enabled, which might prevent proper connection.
- AP Isolation: Verify that 'AP isolation' is disabled on your router, as it can prevent your phone from discovering the device on the local network.
Connecting to HomeKit
Open the Apple 'Home' app, tap '+' to enter the 'Add Accessories' page. Scan or manually input the HomeKit setup code (found on the product or user manual) to bind the device to HomeKit.
Common HomeKit Addition Failures
- 'Unable to add accessory': This may be due to unresolved error information in the iOS cache from repeated failures. Restart your iOS device (iPhone/iPad) and reset the repeater, then try again.
- 'Accessory added': Restart your iOS device and reset the repeater. Then, manually enter the HomeKit setup code to add the doorbell.
- 'Accessory not found': Reset the repeater, wait for 3 minutes, and then try adding it again by manually entering the HomeKit setup code.
Note: Keep the product's QR code or User Manual in a safe place. If addition fails, press and hold the product's function button for 10 seconds to reset the network, then attempt adding again.
Matter Connectivity
Connecting to Third-Party Matter Ecosystem
Use a third-party Matter app to scan the Matter QR code on the User Manual or enter the 11-digit setup code to add the device. Alternatively, use the Apple 'Home' app, tap '+' to add accessories, scan or manually input the HomeKit setup code from the User Manual.
Binding Child Devices
- Bind Zigbee and Bluetooth Child Devices: Operate according to the child device's User Manual and select the specified M3 hub for addition.
- Bind Matter Over Thread Devices: The Hub M3 acts as a Border Router in the Thread network, supporting sub-devices using the Matter Over Thread protocol. Follow the User Manual of the Thread child device for binding. Thread devices do not require specifying the M3 hub during the binding process.
Other Functions
Explore more device functions by logging into the Aqara Home app.
Description of Indicator Lights
| Indicator Light Status | Device Status |
|---|---|
| Solid Yellow Light | Starting up |
| Flashing Yellow Light | Waiting to Connect |
| Flashing Blue Light | Connecting |
| Slow Flashing Blue Light | Connection successful and the account is binding |
| Solid Blue Light | Normal |
| Solid White Light | Start for 10 mins with No Network Configured |
| Flashing Purple Light | Allow Adding Child Devices |
| Slow Flashing Yellow Light | Firmware Upgrading |
| Turn off | The indicator light is turned off/the device is not powered on |
Product Specifications
| Model: | HM-G01E/HM-G01D |
| Dimensions: | 105 × 105 × 36.5 mm |
| Power Input: | 5 V = 2 A |
| PoE Input: | 48 V = 0.27 A |
| Wireless Protocols: | Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac 2.4GHz / 5 GHz, Zigbee/Thread IEEE 802.15.4, Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Operating Temperature: | -10°C ~ 50°C |
| Operating Humidity: | 0 ~ 95% RH, non-condensing |
