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  • Simply Automated UPB Scene Controller (UCQT-40) — Installation & User Manual

    September 08, 2026 5 min read

    Complete installation, configuration, and troubleshooting manual for the Simply Automated SimplyBrilliant UPB Scene Controller, model UCQT-40.

    Full text manual (for reference)

    Complete installation and configuration manual for the Simply Automated SimplyBrilliant® UPB Scene Controller Base, model UCQT-40 (and UCQT-40-W with white 4-oval-button faceplate) — a 4-button, 4-status-LED scene controller for UPB (Universal Powerline Bus) lighting scenes and devices.

    Function

    The UCQT-40 controls and tracks the status of UPB lighting scenes and UPB devices. It does not have a local light-circuit output — actual load control is handled by other UPB devices (dimmers, relays, low-voltage I/O modules) that provide direct load circuit control. The UCQT tracks and triggers those devices via UPB scene links.

    The removable 4-button faceplate (with 4 lightpipes) can be swapped for color changes without disconnecting the switch — available in oval (ZS24OS Series) or thin-bar (ZS24BS Series) button styles, in white, almond, light almond, ivory, brown, and black.

    With UPStart UPB configuration software and a Computer Interface Module (UMC Series), the 4 buttons can be configured to dim, fade up/down, turn on/off, blink, activate countdown timers, and recall light levels via UPB scene links. The 4 LEDs support up to 8 presets (receive components) for up to 8 scene links, and can be configured to indicate scene status or the state of an individual device within a scene.

    Important Safety Instructions

    • Installation should be performed by a qualified electrician.
    • DO NOT WIRE HOT. Never wire this device with power connected — permanent damage may result, and improper installation voids the warranty.
    • Keep away from water — disconnect immediately if the product contacts water or other liquid.
    • Never use products that have been dropped or damaged; do not use outdoors; do not use for other than its intended purpose.
    • Do not connect multiple lamps that combined exceed the maximum load rating, de-rated for multi-gang boxes.
    • Do not install where temperatures can exceed 120°F (e.g., an attic).
    • Do not use this product to control a receptacle (risk of overheating/equipment damage).
    • Do not cover the product with any material when in use.

    Installation

    The UCQT-40 is designed for installation in a junction box wired to a readily accessible over-current protection device per NEC/CEC electrical codes.

    Note: Since the UCQT-40 doesn't directly control a circuit load, if the j-box position has a switch-leg load circuit that needs on/off/dim control, consider:

    • Multi-gang j-box: Use a UPB Dual Dimmer (model US22) adjacent to the UCQT to control two circuit loads from one j-box position.
    • Single-gang j-box: Use a UPB Fixture Dimmer or Relay Module at the light fixture j-box (or a retrofitted j-box behind/above the fixture) — the switch leg is wired always-hot at the switch j-box to deliver power to the fixture module, which then controls the load from that point.
    • 3-way/4-way circuit: The master UPB load-controlling switch must be in one of the other 3-way/4-way j-boxes powering the load switch-leg; a UCQT button can then control that circuit via a scene link.
    1. Locate the existing wall switch for the lighting to be controlled.
    2. Disconnect power at the circuit breaker.
    3. Remove the existing wall switch hardware and disconnect the wires.
    4. Remove the yellow "INSTALL WITH CARE" label from the UCQT base, if attached.
    5. Using a wire nut, connect all white (Neutral) wires together.
    6. Using a wire nut, connect the black (Line) wire of the UCQT to the black (Line) power wire.
    7. Mount the switch inside the j-box using the captive screws — do not overtighten.
    8. Reconnect power at the circuit breaker.

    Configuration & Setup Mode

    Configuration requires UPStart UPB setup software and a UMC Computer Interface Module (download the latest version from Simply-Automated.com; first-time users should use the Quick Start Guide and Installation Wizard).

    To place the UCQT in SETUP mode (required for self-identification on the powerline): tap any button 5 times quickly. The power LED blinks continuously GREEN in SETUP mode. To exit and return to NORMAL mode, tap any button 2 times quickly.

    Default Settings

    Network Name "Network 1"
    Room Name "New Room Name"
    Device Name "New UCQT-40"
    Unit ID 50
    Network ID 255
    Network Password 1234
    Transmit Links Buttons 1-4 = Links 001-004
    Receive Links Presets 1-4 = Links 001-004, LEDs 1-4 ON; Presets 5-8 = Unused

    Factory reset: In SETUP mode, tap any button 10 times — the LED blinks continuously RED. Tap any button 2 times to exit RESET mode.

    Operation

    Default button mode is "Super Multi-button." Default button behavior:

    Button Event Scene Controller Action (default)
    Single-Tap Activate Scene Link
    Double-Tap Deactivate Scene Link
    Hold Start dim fading at Default Rate; toggles between fading up or down
    Release Stops fading and holds current level

    Linking a UCQT button to a non-dimming device (Receptacle, Appliance Module, Relay Module) turns the load ON with one tap and OFF with two taps. Linking to a dimming device (Switch, Lamp, or Fixture Dimmer Module) follows the table above.

    Countdown timer: Available on all Simply Automated UPB products except models US2-40, UML/A-E, and UMI-32. Preset times: 1 Sec, 5 Sec, 30 Sec, 1/2/4/10/20/30/40/50 Min, 1/2/3/4 Hr. Default is Timer Off.

    Manual Scene Creation & Modification

    Once initially configured via software, scenes can be adjusted without a computer:

    1. Create a scene: Set all scene devices to desired light levels, place them in SETUP mode, then tap the scene actuator button exactly 7 times.
    2. Add a device to a scene: Activate the scene, set the light level on the new device, place it in SETUP mode, then tap the scene actuator exactly 7 times.
    3. Remove a device from a scene: Place the device in SETUP mode, then tap the scene actuator exactly 8 times.
    4. Change light levels on an existing scene: Set the desired levels, then tap the scene actuator exactly 7 times.

    Installing / Changing Faceplates

    To install: Fit the light pipe (LED recess) at the top of the rocker faceplate, align the four side prongs with the switch body's slots, then press evenly on top and bottom until all four prongs fully latch. Exercise the rocker several times to confirm proper operation.

    To remove: Remove the wall plate. Press the top two prongs inward to unlatch and release the top of the assembly, then press the two lower prongs inward and pull the faceplate away and slightly downward from the switch body.

    Troubleshooting

    Problem Probable Cause Solution
    No power (LED indicator OFF) Circuit breaker open, not providing power Check the circuit breaker is on. If still not lit, check for 120VAC at the wire nuts connecting power.
    Push button doesn't transmit scene link (no faint buzz) Faceplate not seated properly, or no scene link programmed into transmit component table Exercise/reseat the faceplate. In UPStart, double-click the device icon to open Edit Device and check the transmit component table for an assigned link.
    Buttons stick or don't actuate properly Mounting screws too tight/j-box deformed, warping the switch body; or actuator springs backed out during shipping Loosen mounting screws to relieve pressure. Exercise the button several times; remove/replace faceplate if needed.

    Simply Automated, Incorporated | 6108 Avenida Encinas, Suite B, Carlsbad, CA 92011 USA | Technical Support: www.simply-automated.com or 800-630-9234. Document 452-0052-0105 Rev. B, Revised Nov. 15, 2010.