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Which WiFi controller should I choose for 3-wire external blinds?

akinx7 6864 19
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How can I add Wi‑Fi control to external blinds when the wall switch box has only 3 wires and no neutral?

You cannot use a standard Wi‑Fi roller-shutter controller in the 3-wire switch box, because these controllers need a neutral conductor [#20322430] The controller should be mounted in the junction box where the blind’s power feed and neutral are actually present, and the manual wall switch can stay connected through that box [#20320584] The advice in the thread is to look for the hidden junction box near the shutter or other sockets, because the wiring from the blind, supply, and switch should meet there [#20320541][#20320620] If you truly have only the three wires at the switch and no accessible junction box, the installation is likely wired incorrectly and may require opening walls to fix [#20320541][#20320584]
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  • #1 20320327
    akinx7
    Level 8  
    Posts: 17
    Hi,
    I live in a new block of flats and I wanted to set up a wifi controller for the external rollers but I have one problem.... All the ones I have seen on the internet need 4 wires (2 neutral wires as far as I know) unfortunately in my manual switches the developer used 3 wires (one neutral wire is missing) a friend sent me one such controller but it costs 400zl or are there any cheaper controllers working for example with home kit and in a fairly normal money? I have been surfing the internet for two days without any results, please help.
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  • #2 20320340
    csvrbntyu
    Level 30  
    Posts: 1394
    Help: 163
    Rate: 405
    2 neutrals? One from the grid and the other? Doesn't make sense. A neutral is a neutral. All neutrals are connected to each other also there is only one neutral in the network.
    Explain what you mean and we'll think about it. I myself have all my roller shutters on Tuya controllers.
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  • #3 20320386
    akinx7
    Level 8  
    Posts: 17
    Maybe I've got something wrong with these neutrals, if you have Tuya controllers then you need 4 wires and in my case the developer only let 3 out of the roller shutter.... I think I got something wrong earlier and from what the electrician told me I was missing one (N).
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  • #4 20320441
    csvrbntyu
    Level 30  
    Posts: 1394
    Help: 163
    Rate: 405
    akinx7 wrote:
    as you have just on tuya controllers there are 4 wires needed there and in my case the developer only let 3 out of the roller shutter.... I must have messed something up earlier and from what the electrician told me one (N) is missing.

    Well. You connect the phase from the mains to the controller, the 2 outputs to the roller shutter (2 directions), and the return from the roller shutter being the neutral you connect to the mains neutral. I don't need to say anything about the neutral.
    When the roller shutter is not working, it allows a very small current to flow through the roller shutter, which is also sufficient for it to work.
    akinx7 wrote:
    from what the electrician told me, I am missing one (N).
    .
    Take a photo of the box.
  • #5 20320508
    akinx7
    Level 8  
    Posts: 17
    csvrbntyu wrote:
    akinx7 wrote:
    as you have just on tuya controllers there are 4 wires needed there and at my place the developer only let out 3 from the roller shutter.... I think I messed something up earlier and from what the electrician told me one (N) is missing.

    Well. You connect the phase from the mains to the controller, the 2 outputs to the roller shutter (2 directions), and the return from the roller shutter being the neutral you connect to the mains neutral. I don't need to say anything about the neutral.
    When the roller shutter is not working, it allows a very small current to flow through the roller shutter, which is also sufficient for it to work.
    akinx7 wrote:
    from what my electrician told me, I am missing one (N).
    .
    Take a photo of the box.


    Which WiFi controller should I choose for 3-wire external blinds? Which WiFi controller should I choose for 3-wire external blinds? .

    I have checked 5 roller shutter switches of which four have 3 cables each as shown in the pictures and one switch has 4 cables (black). This is what I mean, how am I supposed to connect a wifi controller as there is no such thing for 3 cables and if there is, it costs 300PLN.
  • #6 20320541
    csvrbntyu
    Level 30  
    Posts: 1394
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    O_O
    You can send that electrician home straight away.
    Somewhere there's a junction box into which the 4-wire cable from the blinds (wire, max 2m long), the power supply and the wire going from the box to the switch that's in the photo above is fed. Find it and show what's inside.
    And the installation is screwed up because you'll have to use blue and green as phase wires. I advise against doing this, but otherwise you have to rip up the walls.
  • #7 20320554
    akinx7
    Level 8  
    Posts: 17
    csvrbntyu wrote:
    O_O
    You can send this electrician home straight away.
    Somewhere there is a junction box to which the 4-wire cable from the louvre (wire, max 2m long), the power supply and the wire going from the box to the switch which is in the photo above is fed. Find it and show what's inside.
    And the installation is screwed up because you'll have to use blue and green as phase wires. I advise against doing this, but otherwise you have to rip up the walls.


    one for the whole flat as I wrote above is with 4 cables as in the picture :

    Which WiFi controller should I choose for 3-wire external blinds? .

    All this was done by the developer (handed over the flat in a state of completion) I didn't change anything in it, forging the walls falls out unfortunately....

    I have found such a thing: https://hurtomat.pl/pl/products/przekaznik-mini-zigbee-3-obwodowy-3-kanalowy-tuya-343.html but will it work with my sick installation (it is about the option to close and open the roller blinds at a given time)...
  • #8 20320584
    csvrbntyu
    Level 30  
    Posts: 1394
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    akinx7 wrote:
    whether this will work for my sick installation (it's about the option to have the blinds close and open at a specific time)...
    .
    I have no idea. Bloody knows what's going on in your cables.
    You don't have a neutral wire in the switch boxes, and all wifi roller shutter controllers need one. You have a neutral wire in the box you showed in the last photo, and you will mount any wifi roller shutter controller there. What to do with the rest? You need to find the box where everything is connected. You probably understand that connecting the switch to the roller shutter won't do anything, it still has to have power. And that power supply is connected somewhere. Then in that junction box you install a wifi roller shutter controller overhead box , and the manual switch you want.
  • #9 20320601
    akinx7
    Level 8  
    Posts: 17
    csvrbntyu wrote:
    akinx7 wrote:
    will this work for my sick installation (it's about the option to have the blinds close and open at a specific time)...
    .
    I have no idea. Damn knows what's going on in your cables.
    You don't have a neutral wire in the switch boxes, and all wifi roller shutter controllers need one. You have a neutral wire in the box you showed in the last photo, and you will mount any wifi roller shutter controller there. What to do with the rest? You need to find the box where everything is connected. You probably understand that connecting the switch to the roller shutter won't do anything, it still has to have power. And that power supply is connected somewhere. Then in that junction box you mount the wifi roller shutter controller overhead box , and the manual switch you want.
    .

    I understand theoretically what you mean but well as you can see above from the photos only one box has 4 cables correctly the rest have 3 and I have no idea how to solve this so that I can control these roller shutters remotely.... I have looked at all the boxes:

    One has 4 cables as I sent the photo
    three have 3 cables without anything
    One has 3 cables but there is a box next to it with a light switch on the terrace (photo I sent above)

    My hands are already falling off....
  • #10 20320620
    csvrbntyu
    Level 30  
    Posts: 1394
    Help: 163
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    Look for a box near the roller shutter (high up, covered by a cap), or in other sockets. The covered one may be quite under the plaster. If you tap on the wall you may be able to locate it - the sound will be hollow.
  • #11 20321279
    akinx7
    Level 8  
    Posts: 17
    Unfortunately I don't have this box anywhere, or I can't find it… all the roller shutter contacts except one have 3 wires and the one like in the picture maybe that's where the control is I have no idea… the flat next door has automated these roller shutters and from what I've found out there is a Lengrand controller but I haven't found out if it's for 3 wires and I haven't found a diagram of a Lengrand controller....

    Added after 7 [hours] 35 [minutes]:

    I don't want to edit that post because there was information from an " electrician " that such a controller should supposedly work for me without the 4th cable :

    Which WiFi controller should I choose for 3-wire external blinds?

    Looking at what you write and what the electrician says I have a lot of doubts, so I prefer to ask here and then buy...
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    #12 20322430
    csvrbntyu
    Level 30  
    Posts: 1394
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    No, it won't work.
    Just you know, I'm just a random internet person. I can write anything here without suffering the consequences :) .
    For that, the electrician on site, if he advises you to install the aforementioned device, is also responsible for ensuring that the money spent turns into a working installation.
    Good luck. I myself am no longer able to help.
  • #13 20554062
    LordX
    Level 1  
    Posts: 1
    Rate: 1
    @akinx7 Have you managed to solve the problem? Did you find some control room with 3 cables
  • #14 20943877
    cyprian89
    Level 3  
    Posts: 4
    I also have this problem because there are only 3 wires coming out of the roller shutter: phase, neutral, and earth. Has anyone found any Wi-Fi controllers available for 3 wires?
  • #15 20944449
    lemur75
    Level 16  
    Posts: 122
    Help: 16
    Rate: 40
    If there are only 3 wires coming out of the roller shutter motor (L, N, PE) then it is definitely a radio motor. The question is where does the colleague see these wires, maybe in the box at the switch, and these may not necessarily be wires directly from the motor.
  • #16 20945415
    cyprian89
    Level 3  
    Posts: 4
    A three-conductor insulated cable came out of the roller shutter box. The electrician mounted the box on the wall where it connected to the supply from the switchboard Electrical wires in a wall mounting box, shown up close. Electrical box with three colored wires protruding. .

    Added after 9 [minutes]:

    >>20944449 .
    Yes, these are radio motors. I have a remote control included with the roller shutters which I can use to control the roller shutters. The problem is that I would like to control them also via wi-fi. What would need to be done in this situation?
  • #17 20946815
    lemur75
    Level 16  
    Posts: 122
    Help: 16
    Rate: 40
    Show the remote control maybe something can be worked out.
  • #18 20946883
    cyprian89
    Level 3  
    Posts: 4
    Which WiFi controller should I choose for 3-wire external blinds? .

    Added after 16 [minutes]:

    I found out that in this situation you should have a module and mount it to the motor in the roller shutter. The only thing is to know the name and type of roller shutter so that the module is dedicated according to the guidelines of the roller shutter manufacturer.
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  • #19 20948369
    lemur75
    Level 16  
    Posts: 122
    Help: 16
    Rate: 40
    Quote:
    .

    I found out that in this situation you need to have a module and mount it to the motor in the roller shutter. The only thing is to know the name and type of roller shutter so that the module is dedicated according to the guidelines of the roller shutter manufacturer

    More likely someone has told you nonsense.
    The remote is Portos or Yooda one way communication so Smart Home from Yoody is out. It will be difficult and a lot of work but there are some people who claim to have succeeded

    https://hejdom.pl/forum/dla-poczatkujacych/73...-kod-portos-yooda-za-pomoca-wifi.html?start=0
  • #20 20958009
    cyprian89
    Level 3  
    Posts: 4
    Thank you for your help and for redirecting me to
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Topic summary

✨ The discussion revolves around the challenge of selecting a WiFi controller for external roller blinds that only have three wires (phase, neutral, and earth) instead of the typical four wires required by most controllers. Users express confusion regarding the wiring setup and the absence of a neutral wire in the switch boxes. Suggestions include looking for a junction box where the wiring connects, as well as exploring options like Tuya controllers and a specific Zigbee relay. Some users mention that the roller blinds may be radio-controlled, complicating the integration with WiFi systems. The conversation highlights the need for a dedicated module compatible with the roller shutter motor and the importance of consulting with an electrician for proper installation.
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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

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

  1. Identify the remote type and frequency (e.g., Portos/Yooda one‑way, 433 MHz).
  2. Use a Wi‑Fi‑to‑RF bridge that can learn the remote’s codes.
  3. 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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