August Lock: Blinking Purple Light Troubleshooting -... | digitalhomefaults.org

Technical Background:

The August Lock communicates primarily via Bluetooth LE for initial setup and direct control. It also uses Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz band) via the August Connect bridge (or integrated Wi-Fi on newer models) for remote access. The blinking purple light often indicates issues during the Wi-Fi handshaking process, specifically during credential exchange or initial device authentication with the August servers. Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) on the 2.4GHz band can impact performance, especially in dense urban environments.

Symptoms:

The August Lock status LED exhibits a persistent purple blinking pattern. This may coincide with the lock being unresponsive via the August App (iOS/Android) or failing to authenticate user presence. Event logs within the app may show repeated connection timeouts or 'device offline' errors.

Possible Causes:

Wi-Fi Connectivity Issues: The August Connect bridge (if used) or integrated Wi-Fi module is unable to maintain a stable connection to the home network.
August Server Issues: Temporary outages or maintenance on August's cloud infrastructure can disrupt device authentication.
Weak Wi-Fi Signal (RSSI): The signal strength between the August Connect bridge (or integrated Wi-Fi module) and the Wi-Fi router is insufficient for reliable communication. Impacts increase in Canadian winters due to increased attenuation.
Incorrect Wi-Fi Credentials: The Wi-Fi password or network name stored on the August Lock is incorrect.
Bluetooth LE Interference: Other Bluetooth devices nearby are causing interference with the lock's initial setup process.
Low Battery: Low battery voltage may cause inconsistent Wi-Fi connectivity and trigger the purple blinking light.

Solution:

1

Verify Wi-Fi Connectivity: Ensure the Wi-Fi router is powered on and functioning correctly. Test internet connectivity on other devices connected to the same network.
2

Check Wi-Fi Signal Strength: Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app (available on iOS and Android) to measure the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication) at the location of the August Connect bridge (or the August Lock if it has integrated Wi-Fi). Aim for an RSSI value of -60 dBm or better. Consider relocating the router or adding a Wi-Fi extender to improve coverage.
3

Power Cycle the August Lock: Remove and reinsert the batteries in the August Lock. For models with a rechargeable battery pack, ensure it's fully charged.
4

Reconfigure Wi-Fi Settings: Use the August App to reconnect the lock to the Wi-Fi network. Double-check the Wi-Fi password and network name. If using a Bell Giga Hub, ensure the 2.4GHz band is enabled and not experiencing interference. Try separating 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands if they share an SSID.
5

Restart the August Connect (if applicable): Unplug the August Connect bridge from the power outlet and plug it back in. Allow a few minutes for it to reconnect to the Wi-Fi network.
6

Factory Reset: As a last resort, perform a factory reset on the August Lock. Refer to the August support documentation for the specific reset procedure for your model. Note: This will require you to re-pair the lock with your August account.
7

Check Battery Impedance: Using a multimeter in impedance mode, measure the internal resistance of the batteries. High impedance (particularly in low temperatures) indicates reduced battery performance. Replace with fresh, high-quality lithium batteries.

Safety Warning:

Always use caution when working with electrical devices. Do not attempt to repair or modify the August Lock's internal components. Ensure that the battery compartment is properly sealed to prevent moisture from entering. Dispose of used batteries responsibly at designated recycling centers. Never short-circuit lithium batteries, as this poses a fire hazard. Ensure proper physical security to prevent tampering, including reinforced strike plates.

Prevention:

- Regularly check the battery level in the August App and replace batteries proactively, especially before winter. - Keep the August Lock firmware updated to the latest version via the August App. - Periodically check the Wi-Fi signal strength at the location of the August Connect bridge (or August Lock) and adjust router placement as needed. - Consider using a Wi-Fi extender to improve coverage in areas with weak signal strength. - Assign a static IP address to the August Connect bridge (or August Lock) in the router's configuration settings to ensure consistent connectivity.

Expert Tip:

If you are experiencing persistent Wi-Fi connectivity issues, try creating a separate guest network on your Wi-Fi router specifically for IoT devices. This can help isolate the August Lock from other devices on your network and improve its performance. This also isolates the device from your personal data.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I check the battery level of my August Lock?

You can check the battery level within the August app. Navigate to the lock settings and look for the battery status indicator.

•What type of batteries does my August Lock use?

The August Lock typically uses CR123A lithium batteries. Refer to your specific August Lock model's documentation for the exact battery type required.

•How do I reset my August Lock?

The reset procedure varies depending on the August Lock model. Consult the official August support documentation for detailed instructions on how to reset your specific model.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I check the battery level of my August Lock?

•What type of batteries does my August Lock use?

•How do I reset my August Lock?

Related Questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: