How to Install a Smart Touch Control Panel at Home

Installing a smart touch control panel at home is a great way to centralize control of lighting, HVAC, curtains, door access, and more — all from a sleek, wall-mounted interface. Whether you’re a homeowner, DIY enthusiast, or working with a professional installer, this guide will walk you through the basic steps for setting up a smart touch panel.

What You’ll Need

Before starting the installation, ensure you have:

  •  A smart touch control panel (Android-based, PoE or DC powered)
  • A compatible wall box (usually 86-type or custom cut-out)
  • Power supply (PoE injector/switch or DC adapter)
  • Internet access (via Wi-Fi or LAN cable)
  • A screwdriver and level tool
  • Optional: RS485 or relay wiring if integrating with smart systems

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Select a spot that’s easily accessible and central to your home automation system. Consider:

  • Near entryways, living rooms, or main halls
  • At eye level for comfortable touch interaction (typically 135–150cm from the floor)
  • Close to power and network sources

Make sure the wall is free of internal pipes or obstructions.

Step 2: Prepare the Wall Box

Most smart panels are designed to fit standard 86-type wall boxes. If you’re upgrading from a light switch, check the size and depth.

  • If needed, install a new box with sufficient depth (usually 50–60mm)
  • Ensure the box is securely mounted and flush with the wall surface
  • Pull the required power and network cables through the box (DC cable or CAT5e/CAT6 for PoE)

Step 3: Connect Power and Network

Smart home control panels are typically powered in one of two ways:

  • PoE (Power over Ethernet): Connect the RJ45 cable from a PoE switch or injector. This provides both power and internet in a single cable.
  • DC Power (12V/24V): Connect the power adapter or wiring to the DC input terminal.

For network access:

  • Connect via LAN cable for more stability
  • Or use built-in Wi-Fi (configure later during software setup)

Step 4: Mount the Panel

  1. Align the panel bracket with the wall box
  2. Use screws to secure the bracket to the box
  3. Connect power/network cables to the back of the panel
  4. Gently press the panel into place until it clicks or locks
  5. Use a level tool to ensure it’s straight

Step 5: Initial Software Setup

Once powered on, follow the on-screen setup:

  • Select language and connect to Wi-Fi (if not using LAN)
  • Install or configure your smart home app (custom UI, Home Assistant, KNX, etc.)
  • Pair with smart devices or a central controller
  • Set screen timeout, brightness, and standby mode

Most Android-based panels like Portworld’s YC-SM08P or YC-SM10P come with open SDK or pre-installed control apps for easy integration.

Step 6: Test the System

Check each function:

  • Touch responsiveness and screen calibration
  • Connectivity (LAN/Wi-Fi, RS485/relay if used)
  • App interface and linked devices (lights, curtains, sensors, etc.)
  • Power stability and idle power consumption

Make sure everything works as expected before finalizing installation.