Not all objects in the house are connected yet. However, it would sometimes be useful to be able to control some of them through an application. In this case, the connected sockets that take place between a device and the mains socket can be a good way to connect an object that does not originally have this capacity. The manufacturer Konyks, which markets this type of product, has just unveiled three new models.
The first two are classic connected sockets which differ only in the power supported. The Priska Max 3 model supports a maximum power of 3680 W/16 amps and can be recognized by its colored red accents. The Priska Mini 3 socket is exactly the same size, 4.6 x 4.6 x 7 cm and 58 grams, but supports 2300 W/10 amps.
According to the manufacturer, these are the most compact connected sockets on the market. If they are small in size, the features are numerous, as we could see when testing a previous model, the Priska Max Easy. With these new editions, other functions are added following requests made by users, such as the possibility of turning off the indicator light via the application to obtain complete darkness. A child lock mode also secures the operation to prevent toddlers from disturbing the socket by pressing the button.
A random schedule function, which simulates a presence in the home in the absence of the occupants, has been added. During a power cut, the user can choose the behavior of the socket when it is restarted: on, off or identical to the state before the cut. A history of actions performed on the outlet can be viewed in the application.
The features that had earned Konyks grapples a good rating remain. A meter allows you to keep an eye on consumption and the dual wifi and Bluetooth connection allows you to control the socket both remotely via the Internet and locally in the event of a wifi failure.
Controlled charging of mobile devices
The third socket has USB capabilities with a USB-A port located on each side of the device to connect a smartphone, tablet or any other mobile device. The Priska USB also has a regular mains socket, and like the Priska Max 3, it is capable of supporting a maximum power of 3680 W/16 amps.
One of the uses given as an example by the manufacturer concerns the possibility of cutting off the charge of a smartphone when it is charged so as not to tire the battery. It is possible to carry out this action manually or to program periods for the recharge so that the socket stops supplying the device after the period chosen by the user.
While the combined capabilities of the three new Konyks sockets probably make them a good investment, they also have their limits. Despite the designated maximum power, the manufacturer clarifies that they are not designed to power devices “consuming more than 2000 watts for several hours (water heaters, electric car chargers, etc.)“.
On the other hand, common household appliances such as washing machines, fans, space heaters and other light fixtures are well and truly supported. The installation procedure is within everyone’s reach and does not require any special knowledge, other than knowing how to use an Android or iOS smartphone equipped with the manufacturer’s application.