How to Flash Tasmota onto a Arlec Grid Connect Smart Plug-In Socket PC190HA from Bunnings

 

About

The Arlec PC190HA is a cost effective smart socket that is Tasmota compatible. The socket uses the TYWE2S module based upon the ESP8266.

This socket can be purchased from Bunnings individually for $17.50 or in a 4 pack for $60.

Downside of this unit, is Arlec have introduced Tri-Groove Security screws, which is rather uncommon and does make opening this unit a little more difficult, but not impossible. More about this later.

Tri-Groove Security Screw

Replacing the firmware

Arlec like many other manufactures have updated the Tuya firmware. Frustratingly this means the OTA update method via Tuya-Convert is no longer an option. Efforts are still ongoing to fix this, but there is no ETA.

The alternative is to flash via serial using a USB to TTL Serial Converter and Tasmotizer (Windows).

HW-417 USB to TTL Serial Converter

Opening the PC190HA

To get access the TYWES2 requires opening the socket. At this point I remind readers;

WARNING - DISCLAIMER

Proceed at your own risk. This information is provided as a guide and you take full responsibility for any harm or damage that may result. Opening any mains powered device should only be done by a professional. I accept no responsibility for any malfunctioning devices as a result for this tutorial. This process will void warranty of the device. Proceed at your own risk.

With that out of the way opening the PC190HA will require a Tri-Groove screwdriver or similar.

Make your own Tri-groove screwdriver

As I couldn't find a local supplier, I opted to fashion my own from a spare Allen key (~4mm or 1/8") and a common triangular file.

Process isn't as difficult as it seems and even a rough tool will be sufficient to remove the screws. Below was my first attempt and I was successful in removing the screws. 

To fashion the Tri-Groove tool, place the Allen key into a vice and simply file a V from the middle of every second flat side. Position the file at a ~45 degree angle.

With any luck the tool will be sufficient to remove the screws. The top case is secured by three lugs which can be overcome by hand.

Flashing

The PC190HA uses the common TYWE2S module and is relatively easy to get access to the serial port pads. The rear cover will need to be removed to expose the IO0 pad on the TYWE2S. Remove the single Philips screw in the centre of the PCB.

Solder on jumper wires.

To successfully flash the TYWE2S the USB TTL converter needs to be connected supplying 3.3v. Also  IO0 needs to be pulled to ground, at initial power on only.

Make sure your USB TTL converter is set to supply 3.3v, not 5v.

The approach I used was to split off an additional ground wire and hold it on the IO0 pad, while connecting the USB TTL converter.

Open Tasmotizer, Select the USB port.

Select Release and optionally backup original firmware.
Note: you can preload the WiFi and other configuration detail if you so choose.

Click Tasmotize!

If flashing was successful, unsolder the jumper wires and reassemble. I opted to keep the Tri-Groove screws, but you can replace with similar Philips head screws if needed.

Setup

By Default Tasmota will present as an AP. My preferred option is to use a phone to connect and configure the WiFi. Once it is connected to your WiFi use Fing (Android app) to locate the device IP and connect to the web interface at http://192.168.4.1

Arlec PC190HA Tasmota configuration

Refer to the Tasmota Devices database at https://templates.blakadder.com/arlec_PC190HA.html

Template: {"NAME":"Arlec-PC190HA","GPIO":[0,0,0,0,320,0,0,0,224,576,32,0,0,0],"FLAG":0,"BASE":18}