ZAP - Remote Outlet Switch

[Takka 13,377]

Product on Amazon

 

ZAP is a simple set of devices for remotely controlling outlets. Their basic remote comes with the capacity of controlling up to 3 outlets, by means of a receiver you plug in between the wall socket and your device. There are also remotes with 5 channels, and you can even use multiple remotes for the same receiver(s), or have multiple receivers on the same channel. The frequency used is 433Mhz, which is low enough to ensure long range (stated up to 100ft with line-of-sight) with a relatively low power requirement, and also means no interference with any WiFi or cell signals. The remote's battery is a bit of an oddball (12V/23A), and the receiver is safe with up to 1200W and 10A (none of this info is actually on the Amazon page).

 

Likes

• Radio is low-frequency.
• Receiver makes an audible click when opening or closing the circuit, meaning it must be using a relay for its switch, which is a very safe and robust choice.

 

Dislikes

• Receiver is large and kind of clunky; will waste an extra two outlets if used on a power strip.
• Door for the remote's battery is removed easily enough, however it's quite difficult to slide back on.
• Even though the battery for the remote is replaceable, it's an uncommon standard, so when it dies you're not likely to have a spare around unless you've planned ahead.

[ShikuTeshi 1,299]

This reminds me of that clapping the lights on thing that was "the future".

[Takka 13,377]

6 hours ago, ShikuTeshi said:

This reminds me of that clapping the lights on thing that was "the future".

Needed a switch for my new lamp that didn't require me reaching behind furniture in the dark. =p

[Kavawuvi 7,026]

We use an Etekcity wireless thing, too, but I have a Raspberry Pi transmitting the on/off signal rather than the included remote control. I use this to activate/deactivate the leopard gecko's lamp at specific times, taking into account daylight savings.

 

It works, to say the least.

[Sunstriker7 698]

8 hours ago, 002 said:

We use an Etekcity wireless thing, too, but I have a Raspberry Pi transmitting the on/off signal rather than the included remote control. I use this to activate/deactivate the leopard gecko's lamp at specific times, taking into account daylight savings.

 

It works, to say the least.

It seems like there should be an easier way to accomplish this.

[Kavawuvi 7,026]

4 minutes ago, Sunstriker7 said:

It seems like there should be an easier way to accomplish this.

Digital timed outlets do exist that can achieve this, but I would have paid almost $3 more for it, and they often require resetting after power outages where a Pi can resync the timer upon booting.

[Takka 13,377]

I recently replaced this product with X-Sense's, which features more buttons, greater output power from the remote (so more reliable response), ability to turn all devices on or off from remote, power buttons on the receivers themselves, better battery choice (easier to find replacement for), and an overall sleeker design.