FAQ
TL;DR: 100% of Wi‑Fi roller controllers need neutral; "You don't have a neutral wire in the switch boxes, and all wifi roller shutter controllers need one." For 3‑wire setups, install the module where neutral exists or use RF integration for radio motors. [Elektroda, csvrbntyu, post #20320584]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps apartment owners and installers pick a working controller for 3‑wire blinds without ripping walls.
Quick Facts
- In‑wall Wi‑Fi shutter modules typically require live and neutral; install them where neutral is present, not in 3‑wire switch loops. [Elektroda, csvrbntyu, post #20320584]
- If only L, N, PE exit the motor, it’s a radio motor controlled by a paired remote, not by wall wiring. [Elektroda, lemur75, post #20944449]
- Junction boxes can be high near the shutter or plastered over; tapping for a hollow sound helps locate them. [Elektroda, csvrbntyu, post #20320620]
- Expect approx. 400 PLN for niche “no‑neutral” controllers; compatibility for shutters is doubtful. [Elektroda, akinx7, post #20320327]
- Motor cabling to the junction box is often about 2 m, so search near the window. [Elektroda, csvrbntyu, post #20320541]
How do I choose a Wi‑Fi controller for a 3‑wire external blind?
Confirm if neutral is present where you’ll mount the module. Most Wi‑Fi shutter controllers need neutral. If your wall switch loop lacks neutral, install the controller in the junction box that does, and keep your manual switch. [Elektroda, csvrbntyu, post #20320584]
Why won’t a standard smart relay work in my 3‑wire switch box?
A 3‑wire switch loop usually lacks neutral. Smart shutter modules power themselves from live and neutral. They then feed two directional outputs to the motor while tying the motor return to neutral. Without neutral at the module, it cannot run. [Elektroda, csvrbntyu, post #20320441]
I have only three wires at my switch. What’s my next step?
Find the junction box where the motor, mains supply, and switch cable meet. It may be above the window, behind a cap, or plastered over. Tap the wall and listen for a hollow sound to locate a hidden box. [Elektroda, csvrbntyu, post #20320620]
One box has four wires and others have three. Where do I install the module?
Place the Wi‑Fi shutter controller in the junction box with neutral. The 4‑wire run from the blind, mains, and the switch cable typically meet there. Avoid repurposing blue or green as phase conductors. [Elektroda, csvrbntyu, post #20320541]
Can Tuya controllers handle this kind of installation?
Yes, Tuya shutter controllers work well when installed where neutral is available. A forum member reports using Tuya on all roller shutters successfully. Ensure the module is not placed in a no‑neutral switch loop. [Elektroda, csvrbntyu, post #20320340]
Will a Zigbee 3‑channel relay without neutral solve it?
No. A suggested 3‑channel Zigbee relay was deemed incompatible for the discussed wiring. Without neutral at the module location, it will not power correctly. "No, it won't work." [Elektroda, csvrbntyu, post #20322430]
I only see L, N, and PE at the motor. What does that mean?
That setup indicates a radio motor. The motor gets power via L and N, with PE for safety. Control happens by a paired radio remote, not by direct wall‑switch conductors. [Elektroda, lemur75, post #20944449]
How can I add Wi‑Fi to a Portos/Yooda radio motor?
These remotes use one‑way radio, so vendor smart systems may not work. "It will be difficult and a lot of work" but people reported success using 433 MHz Wi‑Fi integrations. Check guides that replicate remote commands. [Elektroda, lemur75, post #20948369]
Quick how‑to: add Wi‑Fi to a 433 MHz one‑way remote
- Identify the remote type and frequency (e.g., Portos/Yooda one‑way, 433 MHz).
- Use a Wi‑Fi‑to‑RF bridge that can learn the remote’s codes.
- Teach UP/STOP/DOWN and automate scenes or schedules in your app.
[Elektroda, lemur75, post #20948369]
Will I get position feedback with one‑way radio remotes?
No. One‑way communication offers no feedback from the motor. Automations cannot verify positions. "One way communication" also limits compatibility with some vendor ecosystems. Use time‑based control or add sensors if needed. [Elektroda, lemur75, post #20948369]
Can I just wire the switch directly to the motor and skip neutral?
No. The controller still needs power from live and neutral to operate. Wiring the switch to the shutter alone will not power the smart module or manage direction control. Install the module at the neutral‑present junction box. [Elektroda, csvrbntyu, post #20320584]
Where is neutral likely located, and how far from the shutter?
Neutral is usually in the junction box joining motor, supply, and switch. The motor’s cable often reaches that box within about 2 m. Search above the window or close by. [Elektroda, csvrbntyu, post #20320541]
Are “no‑neutral” controllers worth the cost here?
A user noted about 400 PLN devices pitched for this problem. They did not resolve the missing neutral for shutter modules in the thread. Invest in a proper controller installed at the junction box. [Elektroda, akinx7, post #20320327]
Does a Legrand controller exist for true 3‑wire shutter control?
A neighbor reportedly used a Legrand unit, but no 3‑wire diagram surfaced. Focus on locating a neutral or using RF integration for radio motors. Avoid buying unproven “no‑neutral” claims. [Elektroda, akinx7, post #20321279]
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