Z-Wave + integrated blinds/shades: Custom Graber Virtual Cord Shades

I think you are right that the Broadlink system will only support open, close, and pre-set, and not report back current position. But the point is whether current position is important. For a thermostat - sure, 67 F is different than 74 F. But to me 53% shade open is no different than 32%, or 85%. I just need my shades open, mid-point, or closed, and when I push a button, in less than 20 seconds they’ll be in whatever position I select. And I want all my HA toys on the same ST system/app playing nicely.

It’s great to have choices of features across different products.

Integrating with ST with Broadlink is the only hurdle right now (for their product). Requires an Android device and some patience, if they can get IFTTT working without any workarounds then that would be sweet. I do have a writeup on how to do it but it’s not pretty.

Thanks for the knowledge @HighFlyer5. Much appreciated.

@ZebraBlinds - How much will the transformer cost me when I decide to move that direction? I can’t really find it available to purchase on your site (or anywhere else for that matter) outside of the shade/blind ordering process. I am assuming I can purchase it for around 40$ at any point, correct?

It would be the same price listed, you would just email us or PM me here and we would add it to your cart. The reason it’s not available by itself is typically the manufacturer requires an order reference to ship motorization accessories.

For anyone following this thread:

Exciting Updates incoming in a few days time :grinning: (Unless there are last minute changes)

3 Likes

Hi Everyone…

I have received my ZebraBlinds and have installed them in 2 rooms…so far.

I am really pleased with the results. I have another room (Dining Room) that I will install next.

If you’re interested (I know you are!)…watch my video here:

4 Likes

This is not the exciting update promised, that comes tomorrow.

For existing orders: some are affected by extended shipping times. Emails will be sent out tonight to all those affected.

I think I am one of those affected. :disappointed:

I am hoping this means whatever wizbang feature you may be adding to your product will included in my shades (fingers crossed)… :grinning:

It does look like yours is one of them. You will be receiveing an email tonight :sweat:

In terms of the new wizbang feature… well it’s not a feature per say… It’s an expansion. Can’t really say any more until tomorrow.

Hi, Neil, I have this product and am wondering what modules I need to connect to alexa through smartthings?

https://www.zebrablinds.com/even-pleat-2-motorized-remote-pleated-shades#prodetails

Thanks,

@saif_hakim
Since those are the RTS motor versions and not the Z-wave one, you would need the ZRTSII bridge. It has a few limitations mainly one way communication. So you can push commands to the shade but not receive feedback in terms of it’s current position. The RTS motors simply don’t have that function. In terms of control you can open/close, or set it to a preset position. More information on control of RTS motors with ZRTSII can be found here: My Somfy-SmartThings Integration

If you need the ZRTSII just PM me your account and I will add it to your cart. $85 for one and can control up to 16 shades or 16 groups.

Thanks for your help.

Please remove the email from the public thread (or you will be inundated with spam).

For everyone asking if new coupons will be posted, they will be tomorrow along with the promised updated. Also there will be some big specials going on over the next two weeks in relation to tomorrows announcement.

1 Like

@ZebraBlinds In leiu of the upcoming announcement is it possible to cancel my delayed order and repurchase after the new “expansion” and upcoming “big specials?”

@jimimoore Pm’ed. (10 char)

3 NEW PRODUCT ACCOUNCEMENT! :grinning:
After almost a year of requests we finally have our signature product, the Zebra Style of Shades is now available with the Virtual Cord Z-wave Motors.

US
Virtual Cord Graber Mezzanine Layered Zebra Shades: https://www.zebrablinds.com/virtual-cord-z-wave-mezzanine-layered-zebra-sheer-shades
Virtual Cord Graber Overture Sheer Shades: https://www.zebrablinds.com/virtual-cord-z-wave-overture-sheer-shades
Virtual Cord Fresco Roman Shades: https://www.zebrablinds.com/virtual-cord-z-wave-fresco-roman-shades

Video of the Mezzanine and Overture Sheer without Z-wave motors. Videos with Z-wave will be up soonish:

Canada
Will be updated tomorrow.

Accessories
Not updated yet but will be available in 1 - 2 weeks time. Wall mounts for the additional remote will be available. The mount lets you install the remote on the wall like you would a switch. Pricing will be provided when available for purchase.

Launch Discounts on NEW PRODUCTS ONLY (Ends March 20, 2017)
Save 18% when you configure and add the products to your shopping cart!

Additional Notes:
The sheer shades have a light gap, so please be aware that on all inside mount installations you are expecting atleast an 1" on each side for a total of 2". On outside mounts you should add atleast 2" on each side for proper overlap of the window opening.

So it looks like I’ll be getting my shades tomorrow. Just started pricing Lithium batteries… Ouch! I should have ordered the wall transformers.

3 Likes

Customers have reported pretty good lifetime with the Kirkland Alkaline batteries from Costco (We have personally never tested them). Good lithium ions should go for 6 - 12 months easy.

Has anyone had any luck using/controlling these blinds via HomeKit (by way of HomeBridge)? If so, feel free to share which plugin you used and your overall experience.