How to Set Up Your VOCOlinc Smart Plug VP3

Beginner 5-10 minutes

What You'll Need

  • VOCOlinc Smart Plug VP3 (2 smart outlets + 1 USB port)
  • VOCOlinc app or Apple Home app
  • 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network

Step-by-Step Setup

  1. Plug in the VOCOlinc VP3. The LED indicators will light up to confirm power.
  2. Add the VP3 to your smart home:
    • HomeKit method: Open the Apple Home app, tap "+", select "Add Accessory," and scan the HomeKit code on the VP3. Both outlets will be added as separate accessories.
    • VOCOlinc app method: Download the VOCOlinc app, tap "+" to add a device, and connect it to your 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network.
  3. Two outlets appear as separate accessories in your app. Each one can be controlled independently.
  4. Name each outlet individually. For example, "desk lamp" and "monitor" if you are using it at a workstation.

Key Features

  • Two independently controlled smart outlets
  • One always-on USB port for charging
  • Native Apple HomeKit support
  • Also works with Alexa and Google Home
  • Per-outlet energy monitoring
  • Scheduling, timers, and HomeKit scenes
  • Compact power strip form factor

HomeKit Multi-Outlet Control

The VP3 gives you two independently controllable outlets within HomeKit, which opens up some useful possibilities:

  • Room scenes: Include both outlets in a "Work Mode" scene that turns on your monitor and desk lamp, or a "Movie Night" scene that activates a lamp and a sound machine.
  • Independent schedules: Set each outlet on a different HomeKit automation schedule. One outlet turns off at bedtime while the other runs a charger overnight.
  • Siri control: Each outlet responds to Siri independently. "Hey Siri, turn off the desk lamp" leaves the monitor outlet untouched.
  • Grouped control: You can also tell Siri to turn off the room, which shuts off both outlets along with any other HomeKit devices in that room.

Energy Monitoring

The VP3 tracks energy consumption per outlet through the VOCOlinc app:

  • See which outlet is drawing more power to understand your device energy costs.
  • Track consumption over time to spot changes in usage patterns.
  • Energy data is only available in the VOCOlinc app, not in the Apple Home app.

Practical Use Cases

  • Desk setup: Plug your monitor and desk lamp into the two smart outlets. The USB port charges your phone or powers a small gadget. One voice command or automation controls all your desk equipment.
  • Nightstand: A reading lamp on one outlet and a sound machine on the other, each with independent bedtime schedules.
  • Entertainment corner: Control a TV and a soundbar independently. Use the USB port for a streaming stick or other USB-powered device.

Troubleshooting

  • Only one outlet showing in HomeKit: Both outlets should appear as separate accessories after pairing. If only one shows up, remove the VP3 from the Home app, factory reset the device, and re-add it by scanning the HomeKit code again.
  • USB port is not smart-controllable: The USB port is always-on by design. It provides power whenever the VP3 is plugged in and cannot be toggled through the app or voice commands.
  • HomeKit pairing issues: Remove the device from the Home app if it was previously added. Factory reset the VP3, then scan the HomeKit code again. Make sure your phone is on the same 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network.
  • Factory reset: Press and hold the button for 10 seconds until the LED indicates a reset. This clears all pairing data for both HomeKit and Wi-Fi.
  • "No Response" for one outlet: Both outlets share a single Wi-Fi radio. If one shows "No Response," the other likely will too. Power cycle the VP3 and check your Wi-Fi connection. If the issue recurs, check that your Apple TV or HomePod home hub is working properly.

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