Broadlink SP1 is a smart socket with Wi-Fi connectivity that you can control remotely with your Android or iOS mobile device through a specific app in order to turn on and off lights, water heater, and other electrical appliances. This type of product already exists for example with Belkin Wemo, but Broadlink SP1 is cheaper as it sells for $32.90 including shipping, against $49.99 + shipping for Belkin Wemo Switch. So let’s have a closer look.
For this type of device there aren’t that many technical specifications, but they are very important as you need to make sure it matches your electrical grid specs, equipment power rating, and socket type:
- Material – ABS
- Power Plug – Three flat-pin plug (Australia type)
- Voltage – 90~245V @ 50-60 Hz
- Output Current – 10A
- Output Power – 2200W
- Dimensions – 8.9 cm x 7.7 cm x 5.8 cm
- Temperature Range – -10’C to 55’C
The smart socket comes with a user’s manual in English and Chinese.
Unless you live in Australia, China, Argentina, New Zealand, and the few other countries using this type of plug, you’ll need an adapter, or use an universal power strip.
The company provides “Broadlink Smart Plug” app for iOS that’s compatible with iPhone 3GS to iPhone 5, iPod touch (3rd, 4th and 5th generation), as well as an Android app (apk). I’ve tried the app in Android, and the UI shows up in English. For some reasons, during installation, the applications requires permission to access the camera… Without the plug, I can’t obviously try much in the apps, but according to the FAQ in Chinese, it lets you configure the smart sockets (Up to 100 units), turn them on and off, and set up to 7 timers. For security, there’s a “lock function” that only allows your device to control the sockets.
You can find more information (in Chinese), including a promo video, on Broadlink SP1 page. In China (Taobao), the device sells for 159 RMB ($26 US) + shipping.
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
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