The V3 controller was shaped by the feedback we received from existing customers using V2 in real homes.
The biggest request was simple: more control over airflow. Rather than treating each damper as only open or closed, V3 introduces individual timed positioning for compatible actuators. We have also added current monitoring to give the controller a better idea of whether an actuator is actually connected and responding when it is told to move.
Better than open or closed: individual damper positioning
V3 can time a damper’s travel to target an approximate opening percentage.
Instead of either fully opening or fully shutting a spare bedroom, you can set it to approximately 30–50% open to retain some airflow without over-conditioning the room.
Be clear on one point: this is calibrated timed positioning, not an encoder physically reporting exact damper position. Actual accuracy depends on the actuator and calibration.
Current monitoring: the controller can check that something happened
When V3 commands a zone to move, it can monitor the 24VAC actuator supply for current flow. That gives useful confirmation that an actuator appears connected and is drawing power.
Likely diagnostic uses:
- confirming an actuator appears connected during setup
- checking whether a commanded zone is drawing current
- helping identify disconnected dampers or wiring faults
- helping make commissioning less of a blind process
A more open platform for advanced users
For users who enjoy building deeper integrations, V3 also includes an on-board 3.3V TTL UART expansion header. With the appropriate external adapter, it can be used for projects such as RS485/Modbus-connected wall panels or other custom serial integrations.
Important: this is a 3.3V UART header. It is not a native RS485 port, and 5V UART signals must not be connected directly to the controller RX pin.
Still built around Home Assistant and ESPHome
V3 remains intended for people who want practical local smart-home control, not a locked-in proprietary ecosystem. Configure the controller with ESPHome and expose zones, controls and diagnostics in Home Assistant.
V3 keeps the straightforward eight-zone format that made the original controller useful, while adding the two things customers asked for most: finer airflow control and clearer visibility into what the dampers are doing.