Comparison Computherm Q7 RF vs Computherm Q7

How to connect the controller to the controlled device.

— Wired. Connecting with wires is the most common option. It is due to its main advantages — simplicity, reliability and low cost. On the other hand, the wiring itself can be quite troublesome and time-consuming.

— Wireless. Wireless connection — usually by radio channel. To do this, the kit usually provides an external transceiver connected to the controlled device. The main advantage of wireless models is obvious — they are much easier to install because no need to run extra wires. On the other hand, such a technique is much more expensive than wired, and communication has a limited range, which is further reduced if there are obstacles (such as thick walls) in the signal path.

— DIN rail. The phrase "on a DIN rail" traditionally refers to the method of installing the device (see "Mounting"); the connection is usually carried out by wire. However, this option is taken out separately for the reason that DIN devices are standardly mounted in a distribution cabinet — unlike conventional wired thermostats, installed directly in the room. However, sometimes it is an advantage: the distribution cabinet can be locked with a key, restricting unauthorized access to the thermostat. Models with such a connection usually refer to professional equipment used in industrial...facilities, warehouses, etc.

The way to install the thermostat.

— Into mounting box. Installation in a standard junction box. Simply put, the regulator is mounted into the wall in the manner of a conventional switch or socket (most often even the mounting dimensions are the same, although there are exceptions). For installation, most likely, you will have to work with a rotary hammer, but the device will be securely fixed and at the same time will take up a minimum of space.

— On wall. These thermostats usually have a flat shape with a small thickness. Wall mounting is easier than embedding, but somewhat less reliable — in case of an unfortunate set of circumstances, the device can be hit and seriously damaged.

— To boiler. Installing a thermostat directly on the boiler. This option is traditional for devices used in solid fuel boilers (see "Type") that control combustion through a chain connected to an air damper, but it can also be found in other types of regulators — for example, designed for gas boilers. In the first case, this method of installation is due to the design features of the device (see "Chain length"). In the second case, installation on the boiler simplifies the design and installation, but at the same time makes the regulator not very convenient: on the one hand, the design does not have a remote unit, the connection of which is associated with certa...in troubles, on the other hand, you will have to approach each time to adjust the thermostat. to the boiler, which is not always convenient.

— DIN rail. Mounting on a special metal rail, which can also be used for electrical grounding. Such rails are commonly used in distribution boards. Most often, this installation method is used in industrial equipment, although it can also be useful for residential premises. Note that there are several types and sizes of DIN rails. Therefore, before buying a regulator with such an installation, it is highly desirable to clarify its compatibility with the seat.

— Portable. Devices that do not require permanent installation in the same place. By definition, they use a wireless connection (see above). Most often, portable thermostats are equipped with stands for installation on a table or other flat surfaces and are designed more for desktop use than for the role of a portable remote control. Nevertheless, the design makes it easy to move such a device from place to place, which can be useful, for example, in a large house, where you have to be in different places at different times and it would be inconvenient to run to the wall or built-in thermostat every time. Among the disadvantages of portable thermostats, one can mention the rather high cost and the need to use a battery (respectively, a limited operating time).

— In socket. Thermostats plugged into a regular household outlet. Usually, such devices have their own socket on the case and play the role of an adapter switch through which an electric heater (or other device) is connected to the network. With this connection, the thermostat controls the power coming from the outlet: turns it off when the required temperature is reached and turns it on when necessary. Such devices are extremely easy to install. Moreover, they are easily rearranged from outlet to outlet. On the other hand, the very location of the thermostat is not very convenient — sockets are often located in hard-to-reach and not the best places for a temperature sensor.

The maximum communication range between the receiver and transmitter of the wireless thermostat (see "Connection"), ensured when working outdoors — or in any other situation when the units are in direct line of sight from each other and there are no obstacles in the signal path. It is the maximum possible theoretical communication range provided by the device. The receiver and transmitter are rarely installed in line of sight, so this parameter is mainly for a rough estimation of communication capabilities and comparison with other models.

The type of power source used in the thermostat.

— Mains. Powered by a conventional 230 V power grid. A device connected to such a power supply can operate without interruption for almost unlimited time, which is especially important for thermostats and automatic regulators — during working hours they must be constantly turned on, otherwise, the very meaning of such devices is lost. In addition, the mains connection is suitable for controllers of almost any power consumption. The only drawback of this option is the need to run the wire to the device, but this moment is hardly critical.

— Battery. Powered by its own battery or a disposable battery, in this case, both options are allowed. This type of power supply is found in wireless thermostats (see "Connection"); its main advantage is its complete independence from sockets, which greatly simplifies installation and makes the outdoor unit completely wireless. In some models, it can even be removed from the mount and carried with you. At the same time, the power consumption of thermostats is small, and a small battery may well last for a year or even more.