Shelly Plus 2PM: The Ultimate Solution for Blind Automation (Installer's Guide)

In the competitive world of home automation, efficiency, reliability and ease of installation are fundamental pillars. The Shelly Plus 2PM has established itself as an exceptional tool for the professional installer, offering a robust and versatile solution for controlling motorized blinds, awnings and roller shades.

This 2-channel relay module stands out not only for its compact size, but also for its ability to turn any conventional blind motor into a smart system, controllable via Wi-Fi. Below, we break down the key steps for an optimal setup, focusing on efficiency and correct implementation for your clients.

Essential Preliminary Considerations for the Installer:

• Wiring knowledge: A thorough knowledge of electrical schematics and local regulations (such as the REBT in Spain) is imperative. The Shelly Plus 2PM requires a safe connection to the mains (live and neutral) and to the blind motor (up, down and neutral). Always check the motor's amperage compatibility with the Shelly Plus 2PM specifications.
• Proper tools: A multimeter, insulated screwdrivers, wire strippers and a crimper are essential for a professional installation.
• Client's Wi-Fi network: Ensure the availability and stability of the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network at the Shelly's location. Good coverage is crucial for the device's reliable operation.
• Documentation: Keep the Shelly Plus 2PM installation manual handy and, if possible, the electrical diagram of the blind motor to be controlled.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide for the "Cover" (Blind) Profile:

The Shelly Plus 2PM's differentiating point for blind control lies in its operating profile.

1. Physical Installation and Initial Connection:
   • Wire the Shelly Plus 2PM strictly following the connection diagram provided by Shelly for blind motors. Connect the live, the neutral and the Shelly's outputs to the motor's up and down lines.
   • Once powered, the Shelly Plus 2PM will create its own Wi-Fi access point (AP) (e.g. shellyplus2pm-XXXXXX). Connect your device (laptop or smartphone) to this temporary network.
   • Access the device's web interface by opening a browser and navigating to the default IP address: 192.168.33.1. The image shows the main interface with the outputs (Output 0 and Output 1) before the blind-profile setup.
     
     
2. Accessing the Device Settings:
   • From the left navigation menu of the web interface, select the "Settings" option. As shown in the image, this section contains all the device's settings.
3. Defining the Device Profile:
   • Within "Settings", scroll down and click "Device profile".
   • This is the critical section: to control a blind, select the "Cover" option. This selection enables the Shelly's internal logic to manage bidirectional movements with wait times and interlock protection, essential for the safe operation of a blind motor.
   • Important: After selecting "Cover", click "Save settings" to apply the changes. The user interface will automatically adapt to show blind-specific controls (up/down/stop). The image is the key to this step, showing the "Cover" selection.
4. Mandatory Calibration of the Blind Motor:
   • Once the "Cover" profile is active, calibration is a fundamental and non-optional step to ensure precise operation. Access the "Calibration" section (usually accessible from the main page or the settings of the output configured as "Cover").
   • Start the calibration process. The Shelly will move the blind fully up and down to determine the travel times. This is crucial for:
   • Position control: It lets the Shelly "know" where the blind is at any moment and lets your client specify intermediate positions (e.g. 50%).
   • Obstacle/End-of-Travel Detection: It improves the Shelly's ability to detect jams or travel limits.
5. Integration into the Client's Network and the Shelly Cloud:
   • After setting up the profile, go to "Network" in "Settings" and configure the "Wi-Fi Mode - Client". Connect the Shelly to your client's existing Wi-Fi network, assigning a static IP if you consider it appropriate for future management.
   • If your client wants remote control, integration with voice assistants (Google Home, Alexa) or management through the Shelly Cloud app, make sure the device is correctly added to your client's Shelly Cloud account.

Benefits for the Client (and for the Installer):

• Precise control: Exact positioning of the blind (requires calibration).
• Advanced automation: Setting up schedules, scenes and rules for automatic operation (sunrise/sunset, etc.).
• Versatile integration: Compatibility with the main home-automation ecosystems and voice assistants.
• Reliability: Built-in protection against driving the motor in both directions simultaneously.
• OTA (Over-The-Air) updates: Easy to keep the firmware updated, ensuring new features and security improvements.

The Shelly Plus 2PM, well implemented, not only improves the end user's convenience, but also reinforces your reputation as a professional installer, offering efficient, reliable and cutting-edge home-automation solutions. Spend time on the calibration and on basic training for your client on using the app, and success will be guaranteed.