NETGEAR is aware of a growing number of phone and online scams. To learn how to stay safe click here.
Forum Discussion
Orbi-Compatible Smart Plugs?
I see that all the smart plugs on the market are limited to the 2.4GHz WiFi band. Are there any recommendations for smart plugs that set up easily with the Orbi system, and don't require any "workaro...
By "disconnect", I assume you mean that, after rebooting, I should turn WiFi off on my phone, and not turn it on again until I'm ready to go thru the iPhone setup process? (Because it's never been able to "connect" to the appliance, which is what I've been faced with thus far).
If that's what you mean, I'll try that during my next session with Whirlpool. (Though I'm not sure if there's any difference between doing that and rebooting the phone after turning off the 5GHz radio, in which case the phone will automatically connect to the 2.4GHz band?)
OK...just got off the phone with Whirlpool, and I'm now able to connect to the appliance via the app on my iPhone. I was told their engineers did something at their end...but what exactly was done I've no idea.
Prior to calling them, of course, I had turned off the 5GHz radio on the Orbi, and ensured my iPhone was connected to the 2.4GHz band.
The support tech did notice some things weren't exactly right with what I was seeing in the app, and was told they'd be back in touch with me once they sort that out.
So now, after a mere 6 months, the microwave connects to my iPhone as designed!
Like you, my TP-Link Mini Smart Plug 105 arrived. Used my Android phone (on 5G), downloaded Kasa app, and in 15 minutes the smart plug is working. Total breeze. I like that it takes up only a single wall outlet, leaving the other free. Am not thrilled about the "snap" sound it makes when turning on and off (guess it's a mechanical relay of some sort). I use a wireless switch for the Christmas tree (so the gradkids can "blow" and turn the tree off at night), but I'll find a use somewhere.
MEROSS smart plugs work extremely well and 100% reliably for me - I have 3 of them.
Agree that the relatively soft selonoid trip with the Kasa plugs and switches was a bit of a surprise for me, but I presume since they decded to use a mehanical switch it was for the sake of reliability. Due to the current they are rated for and potentially could carry, electronic switches such as in light bulbs - that are a known and consistent wattage - might not handle current that was put through a wall switch or outlet. I installed a couple of wall switches (again, the set up of the switch itself - other than the physical installation - was a breeze and connected with no problem to the Orbi network) and both have a very muted activation sound but it is not really audible unless you are right next to the switch.
