How to Pair, Set Direction & Set Limits on Automate Blind Motors

If you’ve installed a new Automate motor, repositioned a motor, changed a blind setup or simply need to reprogram it, there are four core settings to understand: pairing the remote, checking the direction of travel, changing direction if necessary, and setting the upper and lower limits.

Before You Start: A New Motor Has No Limits Set

This is the most important point when setting up a brand-new Automate motor. Once the remote has been paired, the motor does not yet know where the top or bottom of the blind is. It will initially operate in jog mode, where each press of UP or DOWN moves the blind a small amount.

Because a newly installed roller blind will usually be rolled up near the top, moving it to the bottom one jog at a time can take a long time. You can press and hold DOWN to run the blind continuously towards the bottom — but you MUST press STOP yourself. With no bottom limit programmed, the motor will not automatically stop at the correct bottom position.

As the blind approaches the desired bottom position, press STOP, then use short UP or DOWN movements to fine-tune the position before saving the bottom limit. The same caution applies whenever a motor has no programmed travel limits: stay with the blind and be ready to stop it manually.

Step 1: Pair the Automate Remote to the Motor

If you are using a multi-channel Automate remote, first select the channel you want to control. Press and hold the P1 button on the motor for 2 seconds. The motor should respond with 1 jog and 1 beep. Within 4 seconds, press and hold STOP on the remote for 3 seconds. The motor should respond with 2 jogs and 3 beeps, confirming the remote is paired.

Step 2: Check the Motor Direction

Press UP or DOWN and check that the blind travels in the direction shown on the remote. UP should raise the blind and DOWN should lower it. If the direction is correct, continue to the limit-setting steps. If it is reversed, change the direction before setting the limits.

Step 3: Change the Motor Direction if Required

Press and hold UP and DOWN together for 5 seconds. The motor will jog once to confirm the direction has been changed. Test UP and DOWN again before continuing.

Step 4: Set the Top Limit

Move the blind to the desired upper stopping position. Use short movements as you approach the final position. Once the blind is exactly where you want the top limit, press and hold UP + STOP together for 5 seconds. The motor should respond with 2 jogs and 3 beeps, confirming the top limit has been saved.

Step 5: Set the Bottom Limit

Move the blind down towards the desired lower stopping position. If this is a new motor with no bottom limit, remember that a continuous DOWN command will keep running until you press STOP. As you get close, stop the blind and use short movements to fine-tune the position. Then press and hold DOWN + STOP together for 5 seconds. The motor should respond with 2 jogs and 3 beeps, confirming the bottom limit has been saved.

Using an Automate Push Pro Remote?

The button combinations above work across the Automate remote range. If you have an Automate Push Pro, many programming functions can also be accessed more easily through the remote’s on-screen menu, so Push Pro users may prefer that method.

Why You Might Need to Reset Your Limits

Limits may need to be reset after installing a new motor, changing the blind or tube, repositioning the motor, changing the motor direction, or rotating the motor head so a charging port faces down for use with an Automate magnetic charging connector.

If you are repositioning a compatible Zero Li-ion motor for magnetic charging, check the motor direction and both limits afterwards. You can also view the Automate Magnetic Charging Cable & Connectors product here. Shop the Automate magnetic charging accessories.

If Programming Feels Too Overwhelming

Automate also offers direct technical support. If you get stuck during pairing, direction changes or limit setting, you can call the Automate technician helpline on 03 9118 8118.

If you are unsure which Automate motor, remote, charger or accessory you have, Motorise My Blinds can also help identify the correct components from photos of your existing blind motor and tube.