Aeotec Nano Dimmer (ZW111) — User Guide

User guide for the Aeotec Nano Dimmer (Model ZW111) — a low-cost Z-Wave Plus in-wall switch module that enables Z-Wave on/off/dim control of any wall switch, with built-in wattage and kWh energy reporting.

Overview

The Nano Dimmer installs behind a standard wall switch to add Z-Wave command and control (on/off/dim) to any load. It reports immediate wattage or accumulated kWh energy usage over time. Non-volatile memory retains all programmed settings and operating status through a power failure. It supports connection to 2 external manual switches for independent local ON/OFF control, and its surface pin socket allows connection to an optional touch panel. It is a security-capable Z-Wave Plus device and supports Over-The-Air (OTA) firmware upgrades.

Wire Connection Ports

Installation

Important: Installation should be performed by a licensed electrician familiar with electrical systems and safety.

1. Shut off the home's main circuit breaker before installation and ensure wires are not short-circuited (the main breaker must support overload protection).
2. Prepare connection wires: 14 AWG power wires for input/output; 18 AWG copper wires for the external manual switch. Strip about 5mm of insulation from each connection wire. All connection wires must be flexible cable.
   • 3-Wire system: standard wiring with separate L, N, and OUT connections.
   • 2-Wire system: the N terminal must be connected to the L terminal when installed as a 2-wire system.
   • Both wiring diagrams support 2-way or momentary button switches as the external manual switch; a separate wiring diagram supports SPDT (single-pole double-throw) switches as the external manual switch.
   • If controlling a small power load (e.g. LED or CFL bulb), the Nano Dimmer may not draw enough power from the AC supply — add a bypass (dummy load) in parallel with the bulb load to ensure adequate power and prevent flickering when dimmed low.
3. Install to the gang box:
   • Connect the Live/Hot wire to the "L" terminal.
   • Connect the Neutral wire to the "N" terminal.
   • Connect the Load wire to the "OUT" terminal.
   • Connect two 18 AWG wires to "S1" and "S2" for the external/manual switch.
   • Connect two 18 AWG wires from the external switch's terminals to "COM".
   • In a 2-Wire system, since only one power wire is needed at the input, connect "N" to "L" on the Nano Dimmer.
4. Mount in the gang box: position wiring to leave room for the device; place the Nano Dimmer toward the back of the box with the antenna pointed away from other wiring; reinstall the device and cover.
   • Gang box must be at least 3×2×2.75 in / 75×50×70 mm (minimum volume 14 in³ / 230 cm³).
   • Use flexible copper conductors only.
   • If a bypass is needed, wire it in parallel with the bulb load; the main breaker/fuse must be off during bypass installation or bulb changes.
5. Restore power at the main circuit breaker. On power-up, the Nano Dimmer automatically identifies and matches the connected load type.

Quick Start: Adding to a Z-Wave Network

1. Set your Z-Wave controller/gateway into pairing mode (see your controller's manual).
2. Press the Action Button on the Nano Dimmer (or toggle the external manual switch) once. The green LED blinks (non-secure indication) to show pairing is in progress.
3. On success, the RGB LED goes solid. On failure, the red LED lights for 2 seconds then returns to a colorful gradient — repeat from step 1.

Once added, configure the Nano Dimmer through your home control software or app.

RGB LED Output Level Indication

Removing from a Z-Wave Network

1. Set your Z-Wave controller into removal mode.
2. Press the Action Button (or toggle the external switch) 3 times in fast succession.
3. On success, the RGB LED remains a colorful gradient. On failure, the RGB LED stays solid — repeat from step 1.

Advanced Functions

External Switch/Button Mode

The Nano Dimmer supports a 2-state (flip/flop) switch, momentary push button, or 3-way switch as the external control. To auto-detect the switch type, toggle it once and wait 2 seconds. Alternatively, set the mode manually via Configuration Parameter 120 (1 byte, decimal):

• 0 = Automatic identification mode
• 1 = Momentary push button mode
• 2 = 3-way switch mode
• 3 = 2-state switch mode

Touch Panel Control

The pin port on the Nano Dimmer's surface accepts an optional touch panel accessory, once connected, for direct local control.

Monitoring Energy Consumption

The Nano Dimmer reports wattage or kWh usage to the Z-Wave controller via the Meter Command Class; automatic reports are sent to Association Group 1 (configured via the Association Command Class). Support and display depend on your specific Z-Wave controller/app.

Security vs. Non-Security Inclusion

• Non-secure inclusion: Press the Action Button once during pairing. Success = green LED on for 2 seconds then solid; failure = red LED on for 2 seconds then colorful gradient.
• Secure inclusion (requires a security-enabled / Z-Wave Plus controller): Set the controller to pairing mode, then press the Action Button twice within 1 second — the blue LED blinks to indicate secure pairing. Success = solid RGB LED; failure = red LED for 2 seconds then colorful gradient (repeat).

Factory Reset

If the primary controller is missing or inoperable, press and hold the Action Button for 20 seconds, then release. The Nano Dimmer resets to factory defaults; the green LED lights solid for 2 seconds then returns to the colorful gradient status as confirmation.

Technical Specifications

Warnings

• Install only in a UL-listed junction box sized 3×2×2.75 in (75×50×70 mm) or larger, minimum volume 14 in³ (230 cm³).
• Use copper conductors only.
• CAUTION — Risk of Electric Shock: more than one disconnect switch may be required to de-energize the equipment before servicing.
• WARNING: this device shall not be used in combination with a wall switch controlling a receptacle.