FAQ
15 straight answers.
Pre-launch means some of these answers will change. When they do, I'll update this page and note the date.
- Do I need to run my own server?
- No. AGS is a hosted appliance. We run the cloud for you on independent EU infrastructure. You plug the hub in, pair it in the app, and the hub talks to our backend over TLS MQTT.
- Where does my data live?
- In the EU, on infrastructure we run directly. Not on AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure. The hub itself keeps configuration, Matter fabric credentials, and IR codes locally in NVS, so the room keeps acting even if the cloud goes offline.
- Do I need internet for AGS to work?
- No, not moment to moment. Sensing, PID, PWM, IR, and schedules run on the hub. Internet is required for the app dashboard, OTA updates, and the grow journal sync - not for keeping the room alive.
- Which Matter plugs work with it?
- Any Matter Wi-Fi plug that can be commissioned on-network. AGS uses the DCL attestation trust store, so the plug needs to be a proper Matter-certified device. We are maintaining a live compatibility list at /specs as we test more brands.
- Does it do Thread or Matter-over-BLE?
- Not in release. The ESP32-C6 hardware supports 802.15.4, but OpenThread and Matter-over-BLE are turned off in the shipping firmware to save flash and reduce complexity. Matter pairing happens on Wi-Fi, on-network. Thread support is something we may add if there is real demand.
- How does the IR control work?
- The hub has a 38 kHz IR transmit and receive path. You can either pick your AC brand/model from a built-in catalog or teach it your remote button by button. Up to 8 devices and 32 commands per device are stored on the hub. You can then fire any command from the app or a schedule.
- Does IR fire automatically from sensors today?
- No. Today IR fires manually from the app or on a time schedule. Firing in response to a sensor condition (e.g. 'turn on AC when VPD > 1.6 kPa for 10 minutes') is on the roadmap as 'in development'. We will not claim it as shipping until the firmware path is in release.
- What about the heavy mains loads - is there no onboard relay?
- Correct. The release hub does not switch mains directly. Every mains load goes through a commissioned Matter Wi-Fi plug. This keeps the hub low-voltage, makes certification cleaner, and lets you pick the plug brand and rating that fits the load.
- What can I drive from the PWM outputs?
- Low-voltage DC fans, LED driver dim lines, ramp inputs on light drivers, small humidifiers with DC input. Four channels, 13-bit resolution, 5 kHz default (adjustable). Pin assignment and role are set in the app.
- Is AGS available to buy today?
- No. AGS is pre-launch. The waitlist is the only way onto the first-buyer list. When units ship, waitlist members are contacted first.
- Where does it ship?
- EU-first. That is where we can support returns and service fastest. Wider regions open at the v1 milestone.
- What is the price?
- Not announced. Pre-launch pricing is finalized closer to the first shipment and communicated by email to the waitlist before it is posted publicly.
- Refunds and warranty?
- Pre-launch and paid beta: 30-day refund, 6-month hardware warranty. V1: EU-compliant 14-day refund, 12-month warranty, longer service options for commercial use.
- Is this legal where I live?
- AGS is a general-purpose grow controller. Legality of what you grow depends entirely on your jurisdiction. We do not advise on that and the product is not positioned around any one crop.
- How often does firmware update?
- Target cadence during pre-launch is every 2-4 weeks, and every 6-8 weeks after v1. All updates are signed, rollback-safe, and visible in the OTA history screen.
Still unsure?
Ask direct.
The contact page goes straight to my inbox. Same-week reply is the target.