Digital Programmable Timer Outlet, BaseWish Programmable Plug-in Controllers Smart Socket Plug Wall Electrical Energy-Saving Home Switch for Home Lights, Fish Tank Heater, Aquarium Lamps Fans, 2 Pack

It's complicated only because each programmable setting (eight of them) only works for the single day you set it for. Meaning that if you want the unit to go on at a certain time and go off a certain time each day every day, you have to set each day separately. There is not one setting that automatically works for every day of the week. Capish? Being digital, the units are noiseless, unlike the mechanical units I've had, so that's a plus. I also like the hand-icon button that lets me turn the lamp (or whatever) on even though it's "off hours" according to the program. That button allows me to turn the lamp on free from the program or turn it on until the program is set to turn it off. Or to turn it off, free from the program hours, or turn it off till the program is set to turn it on. I know, sounds complicated. I also like that the unit has a built-in battery that stores the programs even when unplugged.

I have been using these for about six months now to control the lighting in my tropical aquariums. I have learned that since algae needs a longer uninterrupted photosynthesis cycle than do higher plants, the key to keeping a planted tank clear is cycling the lights on for 3-4 hours three times a day rather than leaving the lights on for 9-12 hours continuously. Aquarium lights with built-in timers do not allow for multiple cycles per day. These timers do the trick. They have been working flawlessly for about six months, so I can finally testify to their quality and durability. We have had power outages and I did not need to reset them. I am ordering another pair today. I am tempted to reserve the fifth star because the user interface is a bit inelegant, although better than most. To be fair, though, for the price these are all that one cold reasonably expect.

So far so good.. I like several things .. the MANUAL Over ride to turn it ON or OFF and status LED's to indicate both if you are ON /OFF or if in AUTO Program mode or MANUAL mode are helpful .. setting the unit's clock was simple but programming it is NOT since it has a lot of flexibility and the instructions really stink.. I wish there was a link to a good tutorial video on YT but I haven't found it. I got an excellent tip on how to program it around the un-supported Tuesday thru Saturday schedule I need to set, and I now think I can do it with that tip that is now in the QA section Thank you...

I just received my timer and am quite pleased. Finally... a silent timer! The instructions are tiny... 4 pt type printed on a piece of paper smaller than 3"x4", (that is the reason I could not give it 5 stars.) Here is a solution to that problem: Take a picture of the instructions with your cell phone or digital camera, transferred the image to your computer and opened it there. Not only can you see the text bigger, you now have a digital copy of the instructions for future use. I do not think I could have easily figured out how to use the timer without the instructions. I would buy this product again.

We bought this to go with our Super Feeder automated cat feeder (which I completely recommend!). This timer is the only one we know of where we are able to program SECONDS. So, with our feeder, we can set multiple intervals to run 5 or 8 seconds throughout the day to feed our cat just the right amount, so she doesn't overeat.We have had the time for over a year. It has held up very well and keeps time very accurately. We just had a power outage last week and when the power was restored 6 hours later the timer picked up as normal.One reviewer said you have to set each day individually, but that's not true. Using the "week" button, you can choose a variety of multiple day settings.

Setup was pretty easy, but after doing LOTS AND LOTS (and lots more) of test runs with both of these units, neither one would turn my light on and off @ the set time. I thought @ 1st I was doing somethingwrong. But I could not get these to work. Big wastes of time. They will be returned! Now I will just go to H/Depot and get 2. For those of you who think I was doing something wrong, I do computer programming as a 2nd income.I would think a timer wouldn't get the best of me.UPDATE: UPDATE: UPDATE: UPDATE: UPDATE: UPDATE: UPDATE: UPDATE:To the people that called me ( I am assuming the manufacture) I missed your phone call...sorry. No phone number showed up on my phone to call you back. As for your message, I do appropriate you calling and apologizing for these units not working and you offering to replace.But I needed some timer quickly, as I am going on vacation VERY soon, I could not wait, so I purchased 2 others at a local store.You also said you emailed me but I have not received any emails about these timer. My correct email address is on file with Amazon.If its any consolation, these timer were very easy to program, once you did it with the instructions, it will come naturally withProgram 2 and 3 etc etc..... Something was obliviously wrong with the electronics with mine.

These timers have met all my expectations. I use them to turn on my outside Christmas lights. In the past I have tried regular timers and it would always be a battle to get them to turn the lights on the same time. Digital timers makes the job a lot easier and are definitely the way to go. One of them is carrying around 720 watts without any problems. The timers are setup inside my garage and not outside. They have been working since Thanksgiving and haven't had any problems. I scanned the setup instructions into a PDF file since come this time next year I don't want to depend on my memory on how to set them up.

PRO:1. Works great, easy to program and SILENT!2. SILENT, no more tick, tick, tick from the old school maniacal ones I had before.CON:1. Price. Yeah, for what they are, they're still expensive, but what can ya do?2. Forward facing outlet, so know this, you will lose space if these are near furniture.OTHER:1. Wish the outlet was on the side, to save space.2. BUY if you hate the sound of tick, tick, tick all night long from the old mechanical ones.