Touch-sensitive light switches are flooding the market; the most popular ones fall into the ‘smart’ category, i.e. devices with additional control via Wi-Fi or Zigbee. However, not everyone likes this control method, as it does not provide a ‘mechanical response’ to pressure. For this reason, I will be showcasing a mechanical light switch compliant with the Zigbee standard: the DS-1021 model, which is Tuya-compatible but also works with Home Assistant. In addition, it has a second extremely important feature – it does not require a neutral wire to be run to the junction box. This means it can be used in any situation, even where this wire is not present. I bought the DS-1021 for around 80 zł from a Polish importer; it would probably be cheaper to buy it directly from China. Product codes:
The set includes a so-called ‘adapter’, which is a capacitor – you connect it in parallel with the light:
Everything works:
Now all that remains is to pair it with Home Assistant – I don’t use the Tuya gateway. I have Zigbee2MQTT configured in Home Assistant and a CC2531 antenna connected.
HA recognises the device as TS0011:
The device offers relay control, power-up status monitoring, and the option to change the backlight mode.
Everything is working satisfactorily, and the device also operates in router mode – extending the Zigbee range.
I’ve included a view of the interior – purely out of curiosity.
The empty spaces on the PCB suggest that the same board is used for the single, double and triple versions.
The device is based on the ZT3L module. Date on the PCB: 15 September 2022 REC A0. This isn’t a new design, but as you can see, it works well.
The relay used is the FH14L-1ATL-L2; interestingly, it is controlled by a 3 V supply! This probably saves on a step-down converter, as in this setup the whole thing runs on those 3 V (the Zigbee module also operates at this voltage).
I haven’t analysed the very concept of a ‘neutral-free’ system here. There is a separate thread on this: QTouch WiFi switch plugged only into the L wire – test, interior, diagram
To sum up , this is one of the more useful types of switches for home automation. Its advantages include a mechanical button and the fact that it works without a neutral wire. Additionally, it allows you to control the backlight, which also means you can customise it to suit your individual preferences. Of course, this is just my opinion; someone else might prefer touch buttons, so I’ll leave the final decision up to you.
Do you use this type of Zigbee switch?
Cool? Ranking DIY Helpful post? Buy me a coffee.
