How to Set Up Your SmartThings Multipurpose Sensor

What You Will Need

• SmartThings Multipurpose Sensor
• SmartThings Hub v3 (already set up and online)
• SmartThings app (iOS or Android) with a Samsung account
• CR2450 battery (pre-installed)
• Adhesive strips (included)

Understanding the Multipurpose Sensor

The SmartThings Multipurpose Sensor is one of the most versatile sensors in the SmartThings ecosystem. It detects open/close status (door or window), temperature, vibration, and orientation angle. It consists of two pieces: the larger sensor body and a smaller magnet. When the magnet separates from the sensor body, it registers as "open."

Step 1: Prepare the Sensor

1. Remove the sensor from its packaging.
2. Pull the plastic battery tab to activate the pre-installed CR2450 battery.
3. The LED will flash briefly, confirming the sensor is powered on.

Step 2: Add the Sensor in the SmartThings App

1. Open the SmartThings app and tap the + icon, then select Add Device.
2. Tap SmartThings, then select Multipurpose Sensor.
3. Choose your SmartThings Hub as the connecting hub.
4. The hub will enter Zigbee pairing mode and search for the sensor.
5. If it does not appear, use a pin to press the reset button on the back of the sensor to force pairing mode.
6. Once discovered, name the sensor and assign it to a room.

Step 3: Install the Sensor on a Door or Window

1. Clean the mounting surfaces with a dry cloth for good adhesion.
2. Peel the backing from an adhesive strip and attach the sensor body to the door or window frame (the fixed part).
3. Attach the magnet to the door or window (the part that moves).
4. When the door or window is closed, the sensor body and magnet should be within half an inch of each other, with the alignment marks lined up.
5. Test by opening and closing the door or window while watching the SmartThings app. The status should change between Open and Closed.

Step 4: Configure the Sensor Mode

The Multipurpose Sensor can operate in different modes depending on where you install it:

• Door/Window mode — Detects open and close events. This is the default mode and the most commonly used.
• Garage Door mode — Uses the orientation sensor to detect whether a garage door is in the up (open) or down (closed) position. Mount the sensor on the garage door panel itself (no magnet needed for this mode).
• Vibration mode — Detects vibration, which can be useful for monitoring washing machines, dryers, or knocks on a door.

To change the mode, select the sensor in the SmartThings app, tap the three-dot menu, and choose Edit or Settings.

Step 5: Create Automations

Set up automations in the SmartThings app to respond to sensor events:

• Turn on a hallway light when the front door opens.
• Send a notification when a window is opened while you are away.
• Trigger SmartThings Home Monitor to sound an alarm when a door opens during Armed mode.
• Monitor temperature and receive an alert if a room drops below a set threshold.

Tips for Best Performance

• The sensor connects via Zigbee and should be within range of your SmartThings Hub (approximately 50 to 100 feet indoors).
• Battery life is typically two to three years with the CR2450 battery.
• If the sensor reports incorrect open/close states, check the alignment of the sensor body and magnet. Even a small shift can cause inaccurate readings.
• For garage door monitoring, mount the sensor vertically on the top panel of the garage door so the orientation change is significant when the door opens.