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**Setting Up a "Wireless" Pico in a "Wired" 3-Way Config using LUTRON's Newest Pico Remote**
Hello friends! It's Eric, and today we're diving into the world of Lutron's Caseta Diva switch and their latest redesigned Pico remote. If you're looking to create a 3-way wired/wireless configuration, this guide is for you. Let's get started!
**Overview**
The spotlight today is on Lutron's brand-new Pico remote. Unlike most of my other setups, I'll be using this on/off version, not the dimming Pico I usually prefer. Why? To showcase its new design, though I'll eventually swap it for the dimming version. Setting it up, however, remains consistent.
Full disclosure: Lutron did send me this kit for an unbiased review. That said, I've invested my money into Lutron products because I genuinely trust and value the Caseta lineup. It's my top pick for smart switches due to its reliability and consistent performance.
**New Pico Remote: What's Different?**
The latest Pico remote might look familiar but comes with tweaks. Primarily, it's a non-dimming version, only offering on/off functions. Pair it with the Lutron Caseta Diva switch and pressing 'up' once matches the Diva's set brightness. Another press brings it to full power, while 'down' turns it off. While it lacks direct dimming, the Diva pairing offers an added dimming step.
And, as with all Pico remotes, it boasts an impressive 10-year battery life.
**3-Way Setup: Getting Started**
Diving into the core of our discussion, here's a step-by-step guide:
1. **Safety First**: Before any setup, ensure you understand all electrical concepts. If you're unfamiliar, hire a professional. Don't risk it.
2. **Power Off**: Disconnect power to both switches for safety.
3. **Identify the Line Wire**: After ensuring no one can access the open wires, power them back on. One wire will show current - this is your line or hot wire. Note: Diagrams are available online to help.
4. **Power Off Again**: Now, tie the line wire with the other two, excluding neutrals (which are typically white).
5. **Locate Travelers**: Turn the power on and test at the second location. Two wires will be live - these are the 'travelers.' The third, which doesn't conduct, is the load wire.
6. **Setup the Diva and Pico**: Follow the linked diagram. Install the Pico at the first location (where you tied the wires) and the Diva at the second. Connect the Diva's black wire to both travelers. The blue wire should be capped. Ground wires (bare) should be tied. The red wire connects to the load wire.
7. **Power On and Test**: Restore power and test the Diva switch. If successful, integrate it with the Lutron app, ensuring you have the Caseta bridge for smart home compatibility. Set up your Pico through the app afterward.
**Closing Thoughts**
Setting this up took me about 20 minutes. While I noticed a minor inconsistency with the Pico's brightness setting (sometimes going full power instead of following the Diva's setting), it wasn't a significant issue.
I appreciate the Diva's design, consistent with the Lutron Caseta look, and wholeheartedly recommend it. I hope this guide proves useful! Thanks for tuning in, and see you next time.
By Eric - ModernDayTech