In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to install, pair, and name the ThirdReality Smart Switch Gen3 using an Amazon Echo device and the Alexa app. Whether you’re new to smart home technology or supporting someone who is, this step-by-step guide is here to help. Plus, we’ve included a YouTube video tutorial for extra visual support.

Click here for the YouTube video guide

Setting up the Smart Switch:

Before setting up your motion sensor, make sure your Echo device has Zigbee hub capability, which is required for pairing. Be sure not to install this on the light switch that controls power to your Amazon Echo. If that switch is turned off, the Echo will lose power and won’t be able to respond to voice commands to turn itself back on.

1. Remove the back cover of the smart switch.
2. Insert two AAA batteries into the switch, then replace the cover.
3. A blue light will begin blinking, indicating the switch is in pairing mode. The end with the blue light is considered the top of the smart switch.
4. Make sure both the light switch and the actuator (the small white rectangle that moves the switch up and down) are in the ON position.
5. Adjust the included spacers to ensure a proper fit between the smart switch and your wall switch. This may take a bit of trial and error to get right.
6. If you’re using a rocker-style switch, apply the provided stickers to the surface of the light switch.
7. Remove the screws from the existing faceplate.
8. Attach the spacer by placing the screw through it and securing it back into the wall where the faceplate was.
9. Press the smart switch onto the spacer until it snaps or firmly takes hold.
10. To check that it’s secure, gently pull on the smart switch to ensure it’s properly attached.

Pairing the Device:

To pair the smart switch with your Echo device, follow these steps:

1. Check that the blue light on the smart switch is flashing. This indicates it is in pairing mode.
2. If the blue light is not flashing, press and hold the large button on the smart switch for at least 20 seconds until the light begins flashing rapidly.
3. Make sure your Echo device is powered on and within range of the smart switch.
4. Say “Alexa, discover my devices.”
5. Wait for Alexa to detect the switch.
6. Once found, Alexa will assign it a default name, such as “First switch.”
7. To test the connection, say: “Alexa, turn on [switch name]” or “Alexa, turn off [switch name].”

Name and Test the Smart Switch:

Once your sensor is paired, you can rename it and test its functionality using the Alexa app:

1. In the Alexa app, tap on “Devices” (lightbulb icon in the bottom left).
2. Tap the name Alexa gave your new switch.
3. Tap the “Settings” icon (gear in the top right corner).
4. Tap “Edit Name” and change it to match the room it is in (e.g., “Living room switch).
5. Test with voice commands: “Alexa, turn on [name]” and “Alexa, turn off [name]”.

Creating a Routine:

Example Use: Weekday light automation.
– Set the Smart Switch to turn on automatically each morning.
– Create a routine in the Alexa app to turn it on at 6:00 AM on weekdays.

1. In the Alexa app, tap on “Devices” (lightbulb icon in the bottom left).
2. Tap the name you gave your new smart switch.
3. Tap “Create Routine” at the bottom of the page.
4. Tap the “+” icon in the top right corner to create a new routine.
5. Under “When”, tap the “+” next to “Add an Event.”
6. Select “Schedule.”
7. Tap “At Time“.
8. To the right of “Repeat,” tap “Every Day.”
9. Customize the days of the week by unchecking Saturday and Sunday so the routine runs only on weekdays.
10. Tap “Save“
11. To the right of “At Time,” select the time you want the lights to turn on. For this example, set it to 6:00 AM.
12. Tap “Next.”
13. Under “Alexa Will,” tap the “+” next to “Add an Action.”
14. Tap “Smart Home.”
15. Tap “Switches.”
16. Select the checkbox next to your smart switch name.
17. Tap “Next.“
18. Ensure “Power” and “On” are selected, then tap “Next.”
19. Tap “Save” to complete the routine.

Your routine is now set. Every weekday at 6:00 AM, the smart switch will automatically turn on the light switch if it’s off.

You can also explore our full Smart AT Home Blog Series for more helpful tips. Be sure to check out the complete Ability Tools YouTube Smart AT Home Playlist for additional how-to videos and resources.