I’m passing a message from @Happy_Cats2017. Inspired by one of my projects using Sonoff POW R2 (Washing Machine Notifications, 3D Printer Notifications) he bought Sonoff device too. However, his purchase could end up with very unwanted consequences.
Rouge sellers
He had purchased several Sonoff POW R2 devices via eBay. Unfortunately, what he received were Sonoff Basic, boards that appear to be the 2nd gen edition. I know, that this website is read not just advanced makers but also by people just getting started. So please forgive me if this may seem obvious to you.
Both devices come with different functions, but what’s most dangerous for anyone just getting started with Sonoff is the power rating. Sonoff POW R2 comes with 16A rating while Sonoff Basic comes with 10A.
Always inspect the device you got in the mail. Check the label carefully, confirm that the product is genuine and comes from a reputable seller. Pay attention to the device power ratings and spec sheets before use.
One could be forgiven for if an incorrect product has been sent in error, but @Happy_Cats2017 purchased several Sonoff POW R2 from different sellers, each time getting the Sonoff Basic.
eBay bought a board, comes also with an older PCB design, which already has been replaced by ITEAD. It seems that it’s easy to be a victim or an eBay scam.
Fortunately for him, eBay has processed the refunds and @Happy_Cats2017 checked the power ratings of the board before adding it to his automation. Exceeding the power ratings of the device seriously increase the risk of failure and fire.
Moral of the story
It’s tempting to save a couple of pennies here and there and get the best deal online. Buy from trusted resellers with great return policy (Gearbest, Banggood, Aliexpress and Amazon) and ALWAYS inspect the merchandise before you add it to your automation set up.
