How to program the W3001 temperature controller? Operating instructions and setup examples
Temperature controller W3001 is one of the most popular, inexpensive and easy to use electronic thermostats. It is available in two power versions: 12V DC (for power from power supplies, batteries, etc.).) and 230V AC (directly into the network). Thanks to its universal design, it can operate in both heating, as well as cooling, controlling devices such as heaters, fans, circulating pumps, heating mats or even small refrigerators.
1. W3001 controller connection
230V AC version
⚠️ Attention: always make sure that the receiver is connected to the correct voltage!
2. Operating range of the regulator
Temperature measurement: from -50°C to +110°C
Measurement resolution: 0.1°C (up to 99.9°C)
Probe: waterproof NTC10K, wire ok. 1m
Measurement refresh rate: every 0.5 s
Relay load: till about. 10A
3. Programming the W3001 controller
The regulator operates on the principle of two thresholds:
How to set T1 and T2?
Setting T1 (START): hold down the button ▲ (top) by ok. 2-3 seconds. The display will start flashing. Set the desired temperature with the ▲/▼ buttons. Wait a few seconds - the controller will save the setting.
Setting T2 (STOP): hold down the button ▼ (bottom) for 2-3 seconds. Set the temperature and wait for it to save.
Preview settings: short press ▲ or ▼ will show the stored value.
Important Tips:
Always leave a gap (hysteresis) between T1 and T2 - for example, 0.5-1.0°C.
Avoid setting T1 = T2, because the relay will switch too often.
4. Modes of operation
HEAT mode (T1
👉 Example (25°C aquarium):
COOLING mode (T1 > T2)
👉 Example (cooling fan):
5. Example settings for applications
| Application | T1 (START) | T2 (STOP) | Mode | Action |
|---|
| Aquarium (25°C) | 24,0°C | 25,0°C | Heating | Heater turns on below 24.0°C, turns off at 25.0°C. |
| Incubator (38°C) | 37,6°C | 38,2°C | Heating | Heater turns on below 37.6°C, turns off at 38.2°C. |
| Housing with fan | 40,0°C | 35,0°C | Cooling | Fan turns on at 40.0°C, turns off when it drops to 35.0°C. |
| Mini-fridge | 7,0°C | 3,0°C | Cooling | Cooling turns on at 7.0°C, turns off at 3.0°C. |
6. Why use W3001?
Versatility - works with heating and cooling devices.
Ease of use - simple setting of only two values.
Low price - One of the cheapest regulators on the market.
Wide operating range - from -50°C to +110°C.
Waterproof probe - suitable for aquariums, incubators, terrariums.
Summary
The W3001 controller is a simple and effective way to automatically control the temperature in many home and hobby projects. With two simple parameters (T1 and T2), it can be programmed to work as a heating thermostat or cooling thermostat.
If you need an inexpensive and versatile solution for temperature control - W3001 will work perfectly for both 12V, as well as 230V.
