About the binary sensors and the i4 and i4 DC
Binary sensors, including reed switches, are widely used for detecting open/close states in doors, windows, or other mechanical systems. The Shelly Wave i4 and i4 DC are designed to support these sensors, allowing users to enhance their smart home automation with reliable input detection. This guide explains how to integrate and use binary sensors with these devices efficiently.
Understanding *Binary Sensors and Reed Switches
Binary sensors operate in a simple state, making them ideal for detecting changes in physical conditions. Reed switches, a common type of binary sensor, consist of two metallic contacts that close when exposed to a magnetic field, allowing them to detect when a door or window is opened or closed.
* Check the bottom of the page for other types of binary sensors that can be used with the i4 and i4 DC.
The Shelly Wave i4 and Shelly Wave i4 DC are compatible with such sensors, enabling users to trigger automated actions based on input changes.
Connecting a Binary Sensor to Shelly Wave i4 and i4 DC
Requirements:
- Shelly Wave i4 or i4 DC
- Binary sensor (e.g., reed switch)
- Appropriate wiring (low-voltage connections)
- Power supply matching the device specifications
Wiring: 
- Connect the reed switch(es) to the input terminals (SW1 - SW4) and the ground (GND) terminal.
- Ensure that the sensor is positioned correctly so that it can detect the target object's movement (e.g., door or window opening).
- Power on the Shelly Wave device and add it to the gateway / hub of your choice (check the compatibility).
Configuring the Shelly Wave i4/i4 DC for Binary Input
Once the wiring is complete and the device added to the gateway follow the next steps to configure the sensor for binary signals:
- Start the gateway app and select the Shelly Wave i4 (i4 DC)
- Open the parameters settings and set the Parameter 1 - 4 to value 1 toggle switch (follow switch)
Test the setup
- Assign actions or automation rules based on the sensor’s state (e.g., turn on lights when the door opens).
- By activating the sensor and verifying the response in the app.
Other kind of Binary Sensors that can be used with the i4 and i4 DC
a device capable of sensing binary changes apart of the reed switch, you can attach various other sensors or appliances that also operate with two distinct states (ON/OFF, HIGH/LOW, OPEN/CLOSED). Here are some common options:
1. Mechanical Sensors
Limit Switches – Detect when a mechanical part has reached an endpoint.
- Push Buttons & Toggle Switches – Simple binary input from user interaction.
- Magnetic Door Contacts – Similar to a reed switch, used for security alarms.
2. Electrical Sensors
- Hall Effect Sensors – Detects the presence of a magnetic field and operates similarly to a reed switch.
- Optocouplers (Optoisolators) – Electrically isolates two circuits while allowing binary signals to pass.
- Solid State Relays (SSR) – Can be used to switch external loads based on the binary state.
3. Optical Sensors
- Photoresistors (LDR) with Threshold Circuit – Detects light levels and triggers a switch when crossing a set threshold.
- Infrared Beam Sensors – Used in security applications, triggering when a beam is interrupted.
- Reflective Optical Sensors – Detects presence or absence of objects.
4. Motion & Proximity Sensors
- PIR (Passive Infrared) Sensors – Detect motion and switch between HIGH/LOW states.
- Ultrasonic Proximity Sensors – Can be configured to trigger at a certain distance.
5. Environmental Sensors (With Thresholds)
- Float Switches – Detect liquid levels, commonly used in water tanks.
- Temperature Switches (Thermostats) – Toggle based on temperature changes.
- Pressure Switches – Trigger when pressure exceeds a defined threshold.