Rubicon Synapse H2O User manual

Synapse H2O PV Geyser Controller
Technical Manual
www.rubiconsa.com

H2O Manual | 2
Table of contents
1 Introduction 3
1.1 Contents of the box 3
1.2 Device documentation 3
1.3 About this manual 3
2 Technicalspecications 4
3 Safety instructions 6
3.1 Symbols 6
3.2 Purpose 6
3.3 Transport damage check 6
3.4Staff 6
3.5 Special hazards 6
3.6 Installation place 6
3.7 Alterations 6
3.8 Cleaning and maintenance 7
3.9 General hazards resulting from non-compliance with safety standards 7
3.10 General safety requirements 7
3.11 Local requirements 7
3.12 Other considerations 7
4 Devicedescription 8
4.1 Overviewanddescription 8
4.2 Identication  8
5 Installation 9
5.1 Safety 9
5.2 Installation of the H2O 9
5.3 Electrical installation 9
5.4 PoweringuptheH2O 12
6 Operation 12
6.1 Commissioning 12
6.2 Operating modes 12
6.3 Default settings 13
6.4 LEDstatusindicators 13
6.5 Faultnding  13
6.6 Other errors 13
6.7 Service,supportandrepairs 14
7 Mobile Applications and WIFI connectivity 14
7.1 AppIntroduction 14
7.2 Installer’s App 15
7.3 WIFI connectivity 16
7.4 User’sapp 16
7.5 Contact us 16

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1. Introduction
»Optimise your hot water generation by using
the latest technology. Ideal for urban use or off
- grid applications, running both on and off - grid).
»Monitor and control your Synapse H2O on iOS
and Android devices.
»Fully customizable according to your hot water
needs.
»Unaffectedbyload-sheddingandgridoutages.
The Synapse H2O is the heart of a water heating
system – intelligently heating water from the
sun’s energy. The H2O can both remotely
control and manage the system, providing
historical and up to the minute information on
status and performance via its included
app. Through considering factors beyond just
temperature, the system makes intelligent
decisions – ensuring that minimal grid-power
is used. When both grid and solar power
sources are available, the system favors
solar as its power source, ensuring maximum
savings.
Figure 1, below, shows a typical installation.
1.1 Contents of the box
Insidetheboxyoushouldnd:
• 1 x Synapse H2O controller
• 1 x mounting bracket
• 1 x securing screw
• 1 x temperature probe
• 1xpairMC4connectors
1.2 Device documentation
Synapse H2O documentation includes this
manual and its datasheet sheet. All latest version
documents can be downloaded from
www.rubiconsa.com/H2O
1.3 About this manual
This manual describes the correct use and
features of the Synapse H2O. It includes
technical data as well as user instructions and
specications to provide information about its
correct functioning.
This document is subject to regular updates. The
contents of this manual might change partially
or completely, and it is the responsibility of the
users to make sure that they are using the latest
version of the user manual which is available on
www.rubiconsa.com/H2O. Rubicon reserves the
right to modify the manual without prior notice.
Electrical Overview:
DB board / fuse box
Solar Panels
Geyser
Figure 1. H2O PV geyser controller system overview

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2. Technical Specifications
Description Specication
Voltage 230V AC
Frequency 50 Hz
Current 16A
Connection 3x4mm2ScrewTerminals
Installation Pre-requisites AC MCB and local Isolation point (Not supplied)
AC Detection Yes
ElectricalSpecications
AC Input
Voltage 230V AC
Frequency 50 Hz
Current 16A
ACModeOutput:
Solar Input
Input Operating Voltage Range 60-220VDC
Maximum Input Current 10A
Maximum Power Output 1500W
MPPT Range +-130-220VDC (depends on element)
Connection MC4SolarConnectors
Installation Pre-requisites External PV Isolator and SPD protection
Voltage 60-220V Modulated DC @ variable frequency
Max Current 9A
Solar Mode Output
Voltage 60-230V Modulated DC @ variable frequency
Supported Power Ratings 2000W - 3000W
Geyser Element
Wi-Fi 2.4G: 802.11 Operating Frequency: 2412 – 2472MHz, Channel Separation: 5MHz, Modulation: OFDM
Communications
RemoteUpdates(FirmwareOvertheAir) Abilitytoupdatermwareremotely
Bluetooth BLE Operating Frequency: 2402 – 2480MHz, Channel Separation 2MHz, Modulation: GFSK

H2O Manual | 5
Description Specication
Dimensions (L X B X D) 210mmx225mmx84mm
Cooling Natural Convection
Cable Strain Relief IntegratedforACcablesandthermalprobe,glandforMC4
Ingress Protection IP2X
Terminal Access Removable cover
Mechanicalspecications
Mounting Vertical only
Environment IndoorUseonly
Fasteners Hex Drive bolts (Pozi), Wood Screws
Installationspecications
Certication
RF EN 300-328, Designed to IEC 60730
EMC EN301489-1,DesignedtoIEC60730
ICASA RF approval pending
CE Self-CertiedforEMC
Safety IEC 60950-1 (Electrical Safety), Designed to Class B IEC 60730
Maximum Ambient Temperature 0°C to +30°C full output, limited output up to +65°C
Relative Humidity 0 % - 80%
Operating Altitude 0…..2000m
Environmental Conditions
Device Over-Temperature Shutdown Included
Over Current Protection Fuse (1 x AC and 1 x DC)
Solar Reverse Polarity Protection Yes
Grid feedback safety Relay based power path management
Device safety features
Earth Leakage detection - PV circuit RCD
Usersafetyfeatures
On Device RGBDigitalLEDx4
Remote Smartphone (iOS, Android)
Settable Temperature Range 0…..2000m
UserInterface

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3. Safety instructions
Please read and follow all the below safety
instructions and precautions before installation
and use of the Synapse H2O.
3.1 Symbols
The following symbols are used in this manual to
highlight and emphasise important information.
The general meanings of the symbols used in
the manual, and those present on the device,
areasfollows:
General
Caution
General
Electrical
Hazard
Information
Prohibited Direct
Current
Reinforced
Insulation
3.2 Purpose
These safety instructions are intended to
highlight risks and dangers of improper
installation, commissioning and use of the H2O
device.
3.3 Transport damage check
Immediately after receiving the package, make
sure that the packaging and the device have
no signs of damage. If the packaging shows
any sign of damage or impact, damage of
the H2O should be suspected and it should
not be installed. If this occurs, please contact
Rubicon’s customer service.
3.4Staff
This system should be installed, handled and
replacedsolelybyqualiedpersonnel.
Qualication of the staff mentioned herein
must meet all the safety-related standards,
regulations and legislation applicable to the
installation and operation of this system in the
country concerned.
The responsibility to select qualied staff lies
with the company that the staff work for. It is also
the responsibility of the company to assess the
ability of the worker to carry out any kind of work
and ensure their safety. Staff must comply with
workplace health and safety regulations. It is the
responsibility of the company to provide their
staff with the training necessary for handling
electrical devices and to make sure that they
familiarize themselves with the contents of this
user manual.
3.5 Special hazards
The Synapse H2O is designed to form part of
a domestic electrical installation. Applicable
safety measures must be observed, and any
additional safety requirements should be
speciedbythecompanywhohasinstalledor
conguredthesystem.
Dangerous voltages may be present in the
system and any physical contact could cause
a serious injury or death. Please ensure that
all covers are securely fastened and that only
qualiedstaffservicetheSynapseH2O.Ensure
that the system is switched off or disconnected
during handling
3.6 Installation location
The Synapse H2O may only be installed indoors,
vertically secured onto a rm surface and be
protected from water, excessive dust, corrosion
and humidity. It should never be installed
directly below a geyser or in any location where
a potential water leak could occur. (See section
5 for more info).
3.7 Alterations
It is strictly prohibited to carry out any alteration
ormodicationtotheSynapseH2Ooranyofits
accessories.

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3.8 Cleaning and maintenance
Cleaning and maintenance should only be
carried out with the Synapse H2O disconnected
from the grid and PV supplies. Before taking
any action, make sure that the system has
been correctly disconnected by deactivating the
circuit breakers and or isolators that power it. To
clean the H2O, wipe the exterior surface with
a damp (not wet) soft, non-abrasive cloth. Pay
attention to the cooling slots and any dust build-
up thereon which may affect the ability of the
H2O to dissipate heat generated.
Do not try to repair the device yourself in case
of any malfunction. If this occurs, contact
Rubicon’s customer service. The system does
not require any special maintenance, except
for standard physical cleaning to ensure good
airow and the maintenance required by any
electrical device connected with screws and
terminals that need to be tightened.
3.9 General hazards resulting from
non-compliance with safety standards
The technology employed in the manufacturing
of the Synapse H2O ensures safe handling
and operation. Nonetheless, the system might
pose hazards if it is used by unqualied staff
orhandledinawaythatisnotspeciedinthis
user manual.
Any person in charge of the installation,
commissioning, maintenance, or replacement
of a Synapse H2O must rst read and
understand this user manual, especially the
safety recommendations and shall be trained to
do so.
3.10 general safety requirements
Operator
The person in charge of handling the electrical
device is responsible for the safety of persons
and property.
Avoid accidental re-connection of the system
using signs, isolating locks and closing or
blocking the work site. Accidental reconnection
may cause serious injuries or death.
Determine conclusively, using a voltmeter,
that there is no voltage in the system before
commencing work. Check all the terminals to
make sure that there is no voltage in the system,
on both AC and DC power interfaces.
Insulate all the system’s power conducting
components which could cause injuries while
carryingouttheworks.Conrmthatdangerous
areas are clearly marked and access is
restricted.
3.11 Local requirements
In all cases, local regulations shall be followed
and take preference over this manual or other
documents related to the Synapse H2O. No part
of this manual shall supersede any local laws,
bylaws or other regulations. These include but
are not limited to earthing, temperature settings,
local electrical isolation requirements and so on.
3.12 Other considerations
This device is exclusively designed to manage
a hot water geyser, to be powered by either the
grid, a solar array or both and is to be installed
in a domestic setting.
The Synapse H2O should only be used for this
purpose. Rubicon is not liable for any damages
caused by inappropriate installation, use or
maintenance of the system.
To ensure safe use, the Synapse H2O must
only be used in compliance with the instructions
in this manual. Legal and safety regulations
must also be adhered to to ensure correct use.

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4. Device description
4.1Overviewanddescription
Front
Figure 2 shows the front of the Synapse H2O
whichhasthefollowingfeatures:
The H2O’s front fascia consists of 4 state
indicating multicolour LEDs. Below the LEDs is
the cover over the terminal chamber where all
the cables terminate, which is secured with 2
Philips head screws.
The terminal chamber cover should only
be removed by electricians and accredited
installers who have correctly isolated the
system as described in the “Installation” section
of this manual
LEDs
The front cover of the H2O features a set of
multicolour LEDs which are designed to indicate
the state of operation or errors.
Grid
Indicates the status of the grid connection
Solar
Indicates the status of the PV / Solar connection
Status
Indicates the overall system status of the H2O
itself
Temp
Indicates the temperature status of the geyser
For more detailed information on the LED
indicators, please see the “Operation” section
of the manual.
For more detailed information on the LED
indicators, please see the “Operation” section
of the manual.
Figure 2. H2O PV geyser controller
Rear
The H2O’s rear cover features a slotted vent
system which facilitates airowtocoolthe
heat-generating components. It is designed
to be mounted to the supplied bracket with
unimpededairowallaround.
4.2ElectricalInterfaces
TheH2Ohas4electricalinterfaces:
Grid
This is the electrical interface to the grid supply.
This supply specicationdependsonthe
element in the geyser being supplied. The H2O
can supply up to a 3KW element, up to 16A at
230V AC.
PV
This is the electrical interface to the PV (Solar)
supply. The H2O accepts a single string of
PV modules between 60-220VDC with a
maximum Isc of 10A and is connected
with “MC4”connectors. The H2O will not
convert more than 1500W of PV power.
Geyser Element
This is the interface to which the geyser
connects and is marked “EL” on the main PCB.
Temperature Sensor
This is the temperature sensor which the H2O
uses to regulate the temperature of the geyser.

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5. Installation
4.3Identication
The H2O is shown in Figure 2. Each H2O is
uniquelyidentiedbyitsMACaddress.Thisis
printed inside the top cover and is also visible
astheWihotspotnamewhenthedeviceisin
hotspot mode.
5.1 Safety and isolation
As the H2O is installed into a building’s electrical
infrastructure and also has both AC and DC
power supplies, it is necessary to ensure that
the installation area is secured and safe before
beginning the installation.
ToinstalltheH2O,followthesesteps:
Begin by making sure that the AC supply is
fully isolated, either at the main breaker, RCD
or dedicated isolation device. Then ensure that
the DC PV supply is also fully isolated. Ensure
that supplies are also locked out to prevent
accidental reconnection, as necessary.
5.2 Installation of the H2O
Note that the H2O will generate some heat and
it is necessary to take that into consideration
when choosing your installation location.
To begin your H2O installation, locate a suitable
position for it which fullls all the following
criteria:
»Arm,evenverticalsurface
»A location that is fully indoors
»Free from excessive dust and moisture
»Hasfreeairowandatleast300mm
clearance all around
»Is not subjected to heat generated by
anotherdevice(eg:aboveacookeror
directly adjacent to the geyser)
»It may not be mounted inside a cupboard or
otherplacewithoutfreeairow.
»Is within reach of the 10m temperature
probe’s maximum length.
»Not directly below the Geyser where it may
be splashed by any geyser leak event or in the
case of maintenance work.
The H2O may not be mounted horizontally or
at an oblique angle. It must be mounted with
the terminal chamber at the bottom of the front
cover(ie:correctlyrotated)
The H2O may not be installed within the ceiling
or roof cavity.
Mountthesuppliedbracketwithsuitablexings
to the identied surface and, having done so,
ensurethatitisrmandsecure.
Attach the H2O to its bracket by positioning it
over the hooks and sliding it downwards. There
should be a small gap between the bracket and
the rear surface of the H2O’s housing to allow
forsufcientairow.
5.3 Electrical installation
Depending on whether this is a new or existing
geyser installation, follower either the steps
labelled “Existing installations” or “New
installations” below.
Note that the H2O can be used off-grid, without
an AC supply. In this case, ignore instructions
relating to the AC supply below.
Note that, depending on where the H2O is
mounted, the following steps may differ.

H2O Manual | 10
Existing installations – H2O to geyser supply
Run a new cable of suitable cross-section from
the 2 terminals marked “EL” and earth terminal
of the H2O’s PC board (in the Blue block in
Fig. 4) to the location where the rst cable
was disconnected from the Geyser’s terminal
chamber or the local isolator, depending on local
regulations. Ensure that the Live, Neutral and
Earth conductors are all connected securely and
according to the labels on the Synapse H2O and
the Geyser.
New installations - AC supply to H2O
Connect a supply from a suitably sized dedicated
circuit breaker in the distribution board with a
suitable cross-section cable to the H2O. This
cable is the power supply to the H2O and is
terminated at the “L”, “N” and earth terminals on
thePCboard(intheredblockinFig.4).Ensure
that the Live, Neutral and Earth conductors are
all connected securely and according to the
labels on the PC board.
New installations – H2O to geyser supply
Run a cable of suitable cross-section from the
terminals marked “EL” and earth of the H2O’s
PC board to the Geyser’s terminal chamber
or the local isolator, depending on local
regulations. Ensure that the Live, Neutral and
Earth conductors are all connected securely
and according to the labels on the H2O and the
Geyser.
Ensure that the Geyser is fully earthed,
according to local regulations.
Ensure that the geyser’s thermostat is
correctly connected into the circuit, as per the
manufacturer’s instructions. This is an important
safety device and may not be omitted.
DC PV supply
The DC supply shall be isolatable locally at the
Figure 3. H2O Electrical Installation Overview
The H2O shall be installed with all the relevant
electrical protection and isolation. In particular,
AC and DC protection and local isolation is
required, as well as AC and DC surge protection.
Figure 3 shows a typical electrical layout.
Figure4.H2OACinput(left)andElementoutput(right)
Existing installations - AC supply to H2O
Remove the power cable feeding the existing
geyser from the terminations inside the geyser’s
terminal chamber or local isolator at the geyser,
according to local regulations. This cable then
becomes the power supply to the H2O and is
terminated at the “L”, “N” and earth terminals on
the PC board (the red block in Fig. 4). Ensure
that the Live, Neutral and Earth conductors are
all connected securely and according to the
labels.

H2O Manual | 11
H2O for both safety and convenience. This
can be done either with a suitably rated
double-pole DC circuit breaker or isolator,
with a rating of at least 250V and 15A DC.
Note that if a DC breaker is used in this
location, it is not possible for it to trip on
over-current events, since the PV string
cannot generate enough current beyond its
operational curve to do so.
The Synapse H2O should only be connected
to a single, series connected string with a
Short Circuit Current (Isc) of not more than
10A. Multiple parallel strings of panels are
not allowed.
Before connection, check the polarity of the
incoming PV supply with a suitable DC test
instrument to ensure that the Synapse H2O
is not exposed to reverse polarity. Then,
with the PV Array exposed to full sunlight,
check that the PV voltage is within the
allowable limits of 60 – 220V DC. Ensure
that the DC cables are correctly terminated
intooriginalStaubliMC4connectorsonly.
Figure 5. H2O DC input
Now connect the DC PV power supply to the
MC4connectorsontheH2O.(SeeFig.5)
Ensure that the H2O is protected with Surge
Protection Devices (SPD’s) on both the AC and
DC supply interfaces .
Temperature sensor
The H2O is supplied with a temperature sensor.
Itisdesignedtotinsidethethermalpocketof
the geyser, next to (with) the existing thermostat.
It is recommended that the thermostat is
removed, and the temperature sensor is
pushed a short way down the pocket – about
40mm.Gently reinsertthethermostat withthe
temperature probe still in place. Be careful not
to damage the probe or its insulation as you
push the thermostat into place. It is important
that the temperature probe is secured in place
so that it cannot be accidentally removed, thus
causing an incorrect temperature reading.
Figure 6. Temperature sensor installation
Now connect the other end of the probe’s
cable to the H2O’s PCB as shown in Figure 7.
There are 2 connectors – connect each to their
respective locations, shown in the red blocks.
Note:
If the H2O's temperature probe is incompatible
with your particular thermostat / pocket
arrangement, it is necessary to add an
additional pocket to your geyser. These are
available as retrofit devices which can be
screwed into one of the unused ports.

H2O Manual | 12
Figure 7. Temperature sensor’s 2 connections to the H2O PCB
The supplied temperature probe is 10m long.
Longer lengths can be manufactured to
order but need to be carefully routed to avoid
electrical noise being induced. Always take care
of how you route the cable away from other
cables and electrical devices. Should spurious
readings occur, check your routing and move it
away from all other cables. The shield should
be connected to a good building earth in such
cases.
5.4PoweringuptheH2O
Begin with the geyser switched on at its local
isolator. Since the H2O can be run on either
power supply, its power up sequence is not
critical. However, powering up DC rst allows
its presence and polarity to be veried. The
lights on the front of the H2O should illuminate
if correct. Now power up the AC interface.
6. Commissioning and operations
6.1 Commissioning
The H2O is designed to assume temperature
control of the geyser to which it is connected
and operates autonomously. However, the
original thermal cut-out device shall remain in
place to ensure that, in the unlikely event of a
failure of the H2O, the system will remain below
dangerous temperature levels. To do this, set
the original mechanical thermostat marginally
above the desired setpoints of the system, but
still within safe limits. For example, if the user
desires a working setpoint of 50°C for the H2O to
maintain, the mechanical thermostat should be
set 5 degrees above that, to 55°C. Always keep
in mind local regulations which may determine
the maximum allowable temperatures.
6.2 Operating modes
The H2O will try to reach the pre-congured
temperature set point using the power sources
available to it.
In general, the PV interface is prioritised, and
theH2Owillrstusethat.Ifitisnotabletoheat
the water with the PV source, it will then use the
grid source (if available).
Never power up a geyser without water in it.
Basic use cases (on-grid installation)
»When only the AC connection is on – H2O
will be on and will heat from the grid.
»WhentheACconnectionisonandsufcient
solar power is available - H2O will be on and
will heat from solar.
»WhentheACconnectionison,butinsufcient
solar power is available - H2O will be on and
will heat from the grid.
»WhentheACconnectionisoffandsufcient
solar power is available - H2O will be on and
will heat from solar.
»When AC connection is off and insufcient
solar power is available - H2O system will
shut down.

H2O Manual | 13
Error Name Description Action
0No Error System normal N/a
1Display error LED fault
detedcted
Return for repair
2PV over voltage DC input voltage
too high
Too many PV
panels
3PV leakage de-
tected
RCM has detected
leakage current
Check for electrical
faults
4Water over temp Oveer max
tempreture de-
tected
Return for repair
5No temp probe
detected
Tempreture probe
is not connected
Connect probe
6Temp error Implausible
tempreture reading
Check probe
installation
7Safety cut out
activated
Temp or RCM
safety active
Check for faults
8Termal cutout Max tempreture
limit
Check system
9Element fault Element fault
detected
Check element
10 Internal fault Internal fault
detected in H2O
Return for repair
Basic use cases (off-grid installation)
»When sufcient solar power is available
H2O will be on and can heat.
»When insufcient solar power is available
H2O will be off and will not heat.
6.3 Default settings
The H2O can work directly out of the box with
no further settings or internet connection.
The factory temperature settings are as follows
and cannot be changed without connecting
the H2O to the internet and the user app (see
section7):
AC setpoint 55°C
Solar setpoint 55°C
Boost setpoint 55°C
Note: it is recommended that an internet
connection is used and commissioned as it
enablesfulldiagnosticsandcongurationofthe
device.
6.4Ledstatusindicators
The H2O uses the front panel LEDs to indicate
itsstatus.4Multicolourindicatorsareusedand
their colours designate the following possible
statuses:
Temp LED Solar LED Grid LED Status LED (2colourash)
Heating Solar heating Grid heating Normal AP mode
At setpoint Grid mode Solar mode Normal Wiconnected
Cooling Solar off Grid off Error AP mode
Error Wiconnected
6.5faultnding
If the H2O does not work correctly or displays
a fault is present with the Status LED, it is
necessary to correct an abnormal occurrence.
All error status messages are available in the
UserApp.Onceanerroriscorrected,resetthe
fault by turning off / on both PV and AC together.
The following table shows monitored faults
whichcanoccurandpossiblesolutions:
6.6 Other errors
Besidestheerrorsspecicallylistedabove,the
followingerrorsmayalsooccur:
Fuses:
The Synapse H2O has 2 fuses inside, 1 each
for the AC and DC supplies. Should either
supply fail to correctly power up the unit, check
these 2 fuses on the main board. (See Figures
6 and 7 below).
Figure 8. AC Fuse
Figure 9. DC Fuse

H2O Manual | 14
Fuses should only be replaced with the original
size / specicationdevices.Failuretodoso
could result in dangerous electrical failure and
will invalidate any warranty claim.
Temperature probe
Due to the nature of the probe, it is important
that it is very carefully handled, installed and
well routed. In particular, ensure that the probe
tsthethermalpocketandthatitisnottootight,
which may cause damage to its insulation. In
addition, the tip of the probe should also be
protectedand carefully managed.If theinsulation
of the conductors or the tip is damaged, the
Synapse H2O will enter an error state which
canbeidentiedbythered“TempError”LED
just above the probe’s PCB connector. If this
LED illuminates, it is likely that the probe is
damaged. Remove the probe and inspect it for
insulation damage and, if necessary, replace it.
DC leakage current
The H2O is ttedwithaDCresidualcurrent
sensor. It is designed to detect DC current
leakage above 30mA in the PV array and, in the
case of DC leakage, it will shut the Synapse H2O
down into a safe state. In such circumstances,
the DC array should be treated with great care
and the fault located and corrected urgently.
6.7 Service, support and repairs
If the H2O is damaged, becomes faulty or in any
way fails to work correctly, it will require repairs
by Rubicon.
To request support or an RMA number please
go to www.rubiconsa.com/pages/support
6.8 Warranty
The Synapse H2O is warranted to be free from
defects for a period of 1 year from purchase,
subject to Rubicon’s Warranty terms and
conditions, a copy of which is available at
www.rubiconsa.com/H2O
7. Mobile applications and
WiFi connectivity
7.1 APP introduction
The Synapse H2O can be commissioned,
congured and monitored via the included
Mobile applications. The applications are
known as Web Apps, which means they are
web based and so the same App works on both
Android and iOS devices. The applications can
be viewed as web pages or installed and work
just as any other app. They can be downloaded
at www.rubiconsa.com/H2O.
Installing the Synapse H2O’s App
After opening one of the provided links in a
mobile device’s web browser, depending on
your browser / device, you can install the Web
app to your home screen, just like any other
app. The process for this varies from browser to
browser, but the general idea is the same. Here
are the instructions for popular web browsers.
Afterloadingthelinkinthebrowser:
Android devices
»Firefox:you’llseea“home”iconwithaplus(+)
icon inside it — this is the “Add to Home screen”
icon. Tapping this will show a conrmation
banner and then tapping the banner’s big “+
ADD TO HOME SCREEN” button completes
the action, adding the app to the Home screen.
Note that in Android 8 and higher an “Add to
Home screen” permission request will be shown
rst.
»Samsung Internet: you’ll see a circular
icon with a downward facing arrow next to
the address bar. Tapping the icon will show a
conrmationbanner.Tapthe“+ADDTOHOME
SCREEN” button to add the app to your home
screen.
»Chrome for Android: You’ll see an install
banner pop up asking whether you want to add
this app to your Home screen. If you choose not
to add it to your Home screen at this point, you
can do so later using the “Add to Home Screen”
icon in the main Chrome menu.
»Otherbrowsers:Usingthe3dotdrop-down,
tap “Install app” in the menu list.

H2O Manual | 15
IOS devices
On Apple’s iOS (including iPhoneOS and
iPadOS), the Safari browser supports web apps.
To add a web app to your home screen, tap the
sharing button (Square and arrow sharing icon)
at the bottom of the screen, which opens the
sharing panel. Among the options is the “Add
to Home Screen” option. Choosing “Add to
Home Screen” opens the conrmationdialog
box,whichbothconrmsthattheuserwantsto
add the app to the home screen and lets them
customize its name. Tap “Add” and the app is
now included on the home screen.
7.2 Installer’s App
The site needs to be enrolled by a qualied
installer. An Installer needs to be created on the
Synapse H2O’s server once they have been
accredited, with a username and password.
To register as a qualiedinstaller,contactour
support via [email protected]
Once accredited, an installer can enrol a site by
opening the Installer’s app with a mobile web
browser from https://rubicon-installation.web.
app/login and logging in with the credentials
you were supplied.
Step1:Customerdetails
The rstpagecapturesthecustomerdetails.
Create their password which will be required
in the Consumer app. A contact number is
required, a second alternative number is
optional. The device ID is the MAC address
of the device, which can be obtained when
connectingthedevicetoWiFi.Requiredelds
will be marked with a red X until the correct
information is entered, at which point a green
tickwillappear.Onlyonceallrequiredeldsare
completed will the Installer be able to click the
Next button.
Step2:Uploadpictures
The second page is for uploading images of the
setup and installation. The Installer can only
continue when images have been uploaded.
Click on the “+” button to add images. Images
can either be added from the browser or using
the camera.

H2O Manual | 16
Step3:Capturevalues
The capture values pages require the PV and
grid voltages to be measured and recorded.
The PV voltage may not exceed 220V. If the
voltage is above this, the installer must remove
a solar panel and recheck the voltage,
ensuring that it is below 220V. The grid
voltage must be below 240V and if it
exceeds this must bechecked and rectified.
The polarity of the PVmustbecheckedwith
amultimeterandverifiedas correct.
Step4:Customersign-off
The consumer app needs to be demonstrated
to the customer to ensure that they have a full
understanding of what it does, how to interpret
the various graphs and displays and what each
input does. Once the customer understands
each part, the boxes can be checked.
The installer should then proceed to step 2
of customer signoff - the customer signature.
Once both steps have been completed, tap the
submit button.
Step5:Finaliseinstallationdocumentation
This step gives the PDF summary document
time to generate and download. The installer
must conrmtheInstallationReporthasbeen
downloaded before continuing. If using online
web app, Chrome will indicate the document
has been downloaded. If using the app, the PDF
will be stored in Files\Documents\Download. The
installer must check that the report has been
downloaded. Once the PDF download is
conrmed,checktheboxandselectNext.
This step is important - if the installer continues
without ensuring the PDF has downloaded, the
user may potentially not be registered.
Step6:Installerrating
Lastly the customer rates their installation
experience by selecting a rating out of 5
possible stars. After they submit the information
to the H2O server they will be able to access
their app using the email address and password
previously generated. No data will be displayed
until the Synapse H2O is connected to a WiFi
hotspot as described in section 7.3.

H2O Manual | 17
7.3 WiFi connectivity
Ensurethat youcomplete theUserEnrolment
with the Installers App BEFORE connecting the
SynapseH2OtoaWihotspot.
The Synapse H2O needs to be connected to a
localWiFinetworkfortheUser’sApptowork.
A new Synapse H2O will start up with its own
Hotspot active and this is indicated by the
Status LED on the H2O alternately turning off
and then displaying the status colour, about
once per second.
The Hotspot can be identied by browsing
available WiFi hotspots with a mobile device
and searching for one with a name that contains
“Rubicon” and the H2O’s MAC address, as
printed on the inside of the main cover, in a
format similar to this: xx:xx:xx:xx. For example
Rubicon_AA:94:BC:56:30.
Select the hotspot that corresponds to that
name; the password is 123456789. Once you
have joined that network, open a browser and
navigate to http://192.168.4.1
In the page that opens, type in the name of the
Hotspot you wish to join and enter its password.
Ensure that it is within range and that you enter
the name and password correctly. When you tap
enter, your mobile device will be disconnected
from the previously joined hotspot, and the
hotspot will disappear. The Synapse H2O will
now join the hotspot you entered. The Status
LEDontheSynapseH2Owillalternatelyash
Blue and the colour corresponding to its status
to indicate that it has successfully joined the
hotspot.YoucannowusetheUser’sApp.
To clear previous details and reactivate the
hotspot, press the reset button labelled "B4" on
the main PCB for 3 seconds.
7.4User’sApp
Synapse H2O is managed, monitored and
controlledwiththeH2OUser’sapp.
The User’s Application requires a Synapse
H2O’susertohavebeenenrolledbyaQualied
Installer with the Installers App before they can
log in. Please contact your installer or Rubicon’s
Support if you have not yet been enrolled. Once
they have been enrolled, a new Synapse H2O
owner’s installer can share this link and they can
then open it with their mobile device’s browser.
https://rubicon-iot-dev.web.app/login
Log on and you can now navigate by tapping
the “Hamburger” menu icon at the top right of
yourUserapp.
Menu:Activeview
The primary view of your Synapse H2O is the
“Active View”. This gives an overview of the
status of the device, including current active
power sources, geyser temperature and overall
status. The Active View is shown below.

H2O Manual | 18
Menu:FunctionView
The Function View is where you can interact
with your Synapse H2O.
Boost: The Synapse H2O will heat the water
to the Boost setpoint in the shortest possible
time, which will use AC power. Tap again to
deactivate Boost.
TurnGridOff:This disables the use of grid power
for heating your water, even if it is available. Tap
again to deactivate.
Away: This will stop heating your water from
all sources until deselected and the H2O is on
standby. Tap again to deactivate Away mode.
Notications:Allerrorsorothernoticationswill
be displayed here.
Settings: You can change the temperature
setpoints for Grid, Solar and Boost modes here.
Support:ContactRubiconforsupportfromhere.
Menu:Energyconsumption
This view allows you to visualise your energy
usagestatisticsbythedifferentmodes,ltered
by your preferred period.
To view the graph, select a start and end date
and then tap Get Data.
It is also possible to view the last 7 days’ history
in bar graph format by tapping the Seven Days
tab.
Menu:Geyseractivity
The Geyser Activity view enables the user to
view the geyser’s temperature and heating
cycles by source graphically over a period.
To create a graph, select start and end dates and
then tap Get Data. Once the graph is displayed,
you can turn each power source’s activity on or
off by tapping either the grid or solar icons.

H2O Manual | 19
7.4.1Forgottenpassword
If a user forgets or loses their password, it can
be reset. Enter this link in a mobile device’s
browser:https://rubicon-iot-dev.web.app/login
In the screen that opens, click the “Forgot
Password” link just below the “Login” button.
7.4.1Forgottenpassword
If a user forgets or loses their password, it can
be reset. Enter this link in a mobile device’s
browser:https://rubicon-iot-dev.web.app/login
In the screen that opens, click the “Forgot
Password” link just below the “Login” button.
In the screen that opens, enter the email address
used to register the user and tap “Send reset
email”. A link will be emailed to you to allow a
new password to be generated.

Contact us:
Cape Town
Unit5,WestBlock
Topaz Boulevard, Montague Park
Montague Gardens, Cape Town Western
Cape,7441
[phone]
[email protected]
Johannesburg
HillTopIndustrialPark,UnitA&B
30 North Reef Road, Elandsfontein
Germiston, Johannesburg
Gauteng,1401
+27119077456
[email protected]
Port Elizabeth
4ReithStreet
Sidwell, Port Elizabeth
Eastern Cape, 6061
+27414514359
[email protected]
East London
Unit1,AloeIndustrialPark
Motor City, Bonza Bay Road
Beacon Bay, East London
Eastern Cape, 5210
+27437223800
[email protected]
Durban
Unit7Brooklands,
442CoconutGrove,
Ballito,4381
[email protected]
Namibia
Unit2,TesoroBuilding
31 TV More Street
Windhoek
+26461400339
[email protected]
Support: www.rubiconsa.com/pages/
support
Web: www.rubiconsa.com