Universal Electronics Inc. announced its launch of a new thermostat designed for the US market. This thermostat has been developed with input from Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US LLC (METUS), a leading supplier of Ductless and Ducted Mini-split and Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) heat pump and air-conditioning systems. The product, which has been in development for nearly two years, is the first to utilize UEI?s Tide Dial thermostat architecture, based on UEI?s Comfort Line of Climate Control solutions. Universal Electronics worked to implement METUS?

IT protocol and other requirements into the new Simple Ductless Wired (SDW) controller. The controller?s adapter conveniently plugs into indoor unit control boards. The SDW controller, which will be sold exclusively through METUS distributors, features a small form factor, a backlit 2.8" color display, and boasts an intuitively-designed and familiar dial knob for temperature control and direct function keys for Mode and Fan control.

The new thermostat works with METUS? existing line of ductless systems and brings new, advanced features including: Enhanced humidity control; Built-in presence detection for automatic screen wake-up mode; Setpoints designed to permit users to reduce temperature at scheduled times for reduced energy usage.