Innerscene

SkySync

& Mini Hub

User Manual
SkySync sensor

SkySync is the first sensor capable of capturing the true color of a blue sky and bringing it indoors. Mounted to your window, it streams real-time color and brightness data to your Circadian Sky or Virtual Sun fixture.

The included Mini Hub extends SkySync's range across your building via your local network, ensuring every fixture stays synchronized with the sky outside.

Compatible withCircadian Sky • Virtual Sun
Firmware req.v2.0.61 or later
Warranty5 years

In This Manual

Quick Start ............... p.2
Mount, Aim & Home Screen ..... p.2
Pair, Mini Hub & Firmware .... p.3
Schedule + SkySync Activation .. p.4
Complete Guide
SkySync Settings ............... p.5
Mini Hub Deep-Dive ............. p.7
Multi-Fixture & Communication . p.8
Troubleshooting ................ p.9
Specifications ................. p.10

Quick Start Guide

What's in the Box

1SkySync sensor (battery pre-installed)
2Innerscene Mini Hub
3USB-C cable & wall adapter (for Mini Hub)
4Mounting tape (Gorilla Tough & Clear)
5Quick Start card (this document)
Before You Begin
  • You need a Circadian Sky or Virtual Sun fixture with firmware v2.0.61+
  • Choose a window with a clear view of the sky
  • Avoid frosted or heavily patterned glass
  • Best results: set up on a clear sky day
  • Update fixture firmware to unlock higher CCTs (see Firmware Update, p.3)

Step 1 — Mount SkySync to a Window

1
Clean the window glass where you'll mount the sensor.
2
Peel the adhesive backing off the flat back of the SkySync base.
3
Press firmly onto the inside of the window.
4
Press the button on the side of SkySync. A red LED flash confirms the sensor is active and transmitting.
5
Tilt the swivel head upward to aim the sensor toward the open sky.
Indoor Mounting Tips
Fit the included hood over the top of SkySync to block reflected room light. If CCT reads low on a clear day, angle more steeply upward.
SkySync side view showing swivel head
SkySync mounts to glass with built-in adhesive. The swivel head tilts to aim at the sky. The hood blocks reflected room light.

Step 2 — Aim the Sensor

1
Press the button on SkySync. The red LED flashes to confirm it is active.
2
Connect to your fixture and monitor the CCT reading on the home screen.
3
Tilt the SkySync head to achieve the highest possible CCT. On a clear day, target 200,000K+.

Understanding the Home Screen

Once paired, the home screen shows a SkySync status row with live data:

#ElementDescription
1Ring indicatorCountdown to next sensor update
2Live readingsSky CCT, ambient CCT, and lux
3Signal barsBluetooth signal strength
4BatteryBattery % (replace CR2477 below 10%)
5Gear iconQuick access to SkySync settings
Home screen with SkySync row
Home screen SkySync status row

Step 3 — Pair SkySync to Your Fixture

1
Connect to your fixture via WiFi or the Innerscene Studio app.
2
The home screen shows "SkySync Found" with a Pair button.
3
Tap "SkySync Found" to open the SkySync page.
4
Tap the detected sensor, then confirm "Pair".
5
The home screen now shows live SkySync data: sky CCT, ambient CCT, and lux.
Connecting to your fixture
  • On your phone, join WiFi network Innerscene-...
  • Default password: innerscene
  • Open 172.30.0.1 in your browser
  • Or use the Innerscene Studio app
SkySync Found on home screen
"SkySync Found" appears when a sensor is nearby

Step 4 — Set Up Mini Hub

The Mini Hub extends SkySync range from 30ft direct to 100ft+ over your network.

1
Power: Connect the included USB-C cable to the Mini Hub, or use Power over Ethernet (PoE).
2
Network: Plug an Ethernet cable into your router (recommended). Or connect via WiFi (see p.6).
3
Done: Mini Hub automatically detects SkySync via Bluetooth and relays data in two ways:
Wireless Relay (No Network Required)
Mini Hub rebroadcasts SkySync at higher power (+21 dBm) plus Innerscene Wireless mesh — no router needed. Place within 20ft of SkySync and within 50ft of fixtures.
Network Relay (For Longer Distances)
For fixtures beyond 50ft, connect Mini Hub to your local network (Ethernet or WiFi). Data relayed via AES-encrypted UDP broadcast (port 65003). Fixtures also rebroadcast via mesh.
Innerscene Mini Hub
Innerscene Mini Hub — compact gateway with Ethernet, WiFi, and BLE

Firmware Update (If Needed)

If your fixture firmware is older than v2.0.61, update before pairing. Updating also unlocks higher CCT support.

1
Download Innerscene Studio from the iOS App Store.
2
Connect to your fixture via WiFi (Innerscene-..., password: innerscene).
3
Go to Settings → Advanced → Firmware Updates, select the file, and tap Update.
4
Wait ~60s. The fixture flashes its lights when complete. Do not disconnect power during update.

Activating Schedule + SkySync Mode

Schedule + SkySync mode combines your programmed schedule with real-time sky tracking. There are three ways to activate it:

Method 1: Set Power-On Default to “Use Schedule”

Settings → Power-On Default → Use Schedule. Fixture automatically starts in Schedule + SkySync mode on power-up. Recommended for permanent installations.

Method 2: Enable Idle Resume

Settings → Idle Resume → choose a timeout (15 min, 30 min, or 1 hr). After inactivity, the fixture automatically returns to Schedule + SkySync mode.

Method 3: Tap the Schedule Card

On the Home screen, tap the Schedule + SkySync card to activate immediately.

Power-On Default set to Use Schedule
Set Power-On Default to “Use Schedule”
Idle Resume setting
Enable Idle Resume for automatic return
Tap schedule card to activate
Tap the Schedule + SkySync card on Home
External Controls Deactivate Schedule Mode
External controls (0-10V, DALI, DMX, Casambi) will exit Schedule mode. To resume, wait for Idle Resume or tap the Schedule card again.

SkySync Settings

Access SkySync settings from Home → SkySync row (gear icon) or Settings → SkySync → SkySync Settings.

1 Live Preview Strip

Shows real-time sensor reading and current fixture output at the top of the settings page.

2 What SkySync Controls

OptionDescription
Color & Brightness DefaultSkySync drives both CCT and brightness — fixture fully follows the sky
Color OnlySkySync sets CCT only; brightness stays at schedule/manual level
Brightness OnlySkySync sets brightness only; CCT follows the schedule

3 Sensor Selection

SkySync has two sensor windows:

SensorFOVBest For
Sky (Narrow) Default10°Capturing blue sky color directly
Ambient (Wide)180°Overall room-level light including reflections
Average BothBlended reading of both sensors

The narrow sky sensor (black cylinder) captures the true color of the sky. The wide ambient sensor (white diffuser) measures surrounding light.

4 Response Speed

SpeedTransition TimeEffect
Fast~3 secondsFixture closely tracks rapid sky changes (clouds passing)
Normal Default~10 secondsSmooth, natural transitions
Slow~45 secondsVery gradual changes; barely noticeable to occupants

Sensor Adjustments

Trim what the sensor sees before it drives the fixture.

Brightness Boost

Adjusts fixture brightness relative to sensor readings.

Dimmer← — slider — →Brighter

Default: center (match sensor). Useful for compensating for tinted windows that reduce perceived brightness.

CCT Boost

Shifts the color temperature warmer or cooler relative to sensor readings.

Warmer← — slider — →Cooler

Default: center (match sensor). Useful for fine-tuning color appearance to your preference.

SkySync settings page
SkySync Settings — primary controls

1 Operating Hours

Define when SkySync is active. Outside these hours, the fixture reverts to its schedule.

SettingDefaultDescription
Time modeClockClock: fixed times. Sunrise: relative to sunrise/sunset.
Start time6:15 AMSkySync begins controlling the fixture
End time7:15 PMSkySync stops; fixture follows schedule
Status Messages
  • "Outside operating hours" — current time is outside your set window
  • "Low light" — ambient light too low (dawn/dusk/night)
  • "Sensor offline" — no data received for 10+ minutes
  • "SkySync paused" — fixture is in manual mode

3 Brightness Limits

Set a floor and ceiling on fixture brightness. Min/Max Lux slider defines the range.

When Too Dark: Dim to minimum, Follow schedule, or Use fixed warm light (e.g., 2700K).


4 CCT Limits

Min/Max CCT slider constrains the fixture's color temperature range (e.g., min 3000K prevents very warm light at sunset).

SkySync operating hours
Operating hours slider
SkySync limits and tint
Brightness limits, CCT limits, and tint correction

Innerscene Mini Hub

The Mini Hub is a compact gateway that receives SkySync data via Bluetooth and relays it to your fixtures over the local network.

When You Need the Mini Hub

Range Extension
Fixtures are beyond SkySync's direct 30ft BLE range. Mini Hub rebroadcasts at higher power for up to 50ft reach.
Multi-Room
Multiple rooms need sky data — use the network relay for building-wide coverage
No Config Needed
Wireless relay works with power only. Network relay uses UDP broadcast (no DHCP required).

Power Options

MethodWhat You NeedBest For
USB-CIncluded cable & wall adapterQuick setup, flexible placement
Power over Ethernet (PoE)PoE switch or injector (IEEE 802.3af)Clean single-cable install — power + data in one

Power consumption: 0.5W. Any standard USB-C phone charger works.


Network Connection

Option A: Ethernet (Recommended)

  1. Plug an Ethernet cable from your router/switch into the Mini Hub
  2. That's it — fixtures on the same network receive SkySync data via UDP broadcast
No DHCP Required
Mini Hub uses UDP broadcast which works without DHCP or IP configuration. Ethernet provides the most reliable connection. If using PoE, you get power + network in a single cable.

Option B: WiFi

  1. Power on the Mini Hub (USB-C, no Ethernet)
  2. On your phone, join: Innerscene-hub-XXXX
  3. Password: innerscene
  4. Open 172.30.0.1 in your browser
  5. Go to WiFi settings → Connect to WiFi
  6. Select your network, enter password, tap Join
Note
If your WiFi network name or password changes, you'll need to reconnect to the Mini Hub's AP and reconfigure.

LED Indicators

LEDStateMeaning
PowerSolid onHub is powered and running
EthernetBlinkingActive network traffic (data relay in progress)
EthernetOffNo Ethernet cable connected (using WiFi or not connected)

Mounting & Placement

  • Mount using a single screw through the hole in the enclosure
  • Place within 20ft of SkySync for reliable BLE reception
  • Place within 50ft of fixtures for wireless relay, or connect to your network for longer distances
  • Ideal location: near a window with SkySync, close to a network drop
Mesh Rebroadcast
All Circadian Sky and Virtual Sun fixtures relay SkySync data via Innerscene Wireless mesh and UDP broadcast. Each relay hop decrements a TTL counter (default: 2 hops) with sequence deduplication to prevent loops. The primary fixture doesn't need to be closest to every secondary — the mesh extends coverage automatically.

Multi-Fixture Setup

Communication diagram
SkySync communication architecture — direct wireless, local network, and cloud relay

Primary & Secondary Fixtures

Innerscene fixtures use a wireless group system where one Primary fixture coordinates with Secondary fixtures.

RoleSkySync Behavior
PrimaryPairs with SkySync directly. Receives and distributes sky data.
SecondaryReceives SkySync data automatically via mesh. No setup needed — pre-provisioned by Innerscene.

Key Points

  • Only the Primary fixture needs to pair with SkySync
  • Multiple Primaries (e.g., in different rooms) can all pair to the same SkySync sensor
  • Secondaries receive SkySync data through the mesh — no action required
  • All fixtures relay SkySync data via Innerscene Wireless mesh (TTL-based, up to 2 hops by default) and UDP broadcast if on WiFi
  • Fixtures also relay Mini Hub broadcasts, extending coverage further
Wireless Group Details
For full details on setting up wireless groups, see the Circadian Sky User Guide.

Communication Modes

1. Direct Wireless

Range: ~30ft

SkySync → Fixture via BLE. No network or hub needed. Best for single-room setups within range.

2. Mini Hub Wireless Relay

Range: 20ft + 50ft

SkySync → Mini Hub → Fixtures via higher-power BLE rebroadcast. No network needed — just power. For fixtures beyond 50ft, add network relay.

3. Network Relay (UDP)

Range: Unlimited (LAN)

SkySync → Mini Hub → LAN → Fixtures via AES-encrypted UDP broadcast (port 65003). Best for multi-room, large buildings. Cloud relay coming soon.

Troubleshooting

Symptom Possible Cause Solution
"SkySync Found" doesn't appear on home screen Sensor out of range, not transmitting, or paired to another fixture Press the SkySync button to trigger transmission. Move within 30ft. Check battery level.
Weak signal (1–2 bars) Distance or walls between SkySync and fixture Move SkySync closer to the fixture, reduce obstructions, or use the Mini Hub for network relay instead of direct wireless.
CCT reads low on a clear day (<10,000K) Interior light reflections or poor sensor aiming Ensure the hood is fitted to block room light. Re-aim the sensor more steeply toward the sky. Test with room lights off. Reposition to reduce glass reflections from interior surfaces.
"Outside operating hours — using schedule" Current time is outside your SkySync active window Normal behavior. Adjust the operating hours slider in SkySync Settings if needed.
"Low light — using schedule" Sensor lux below minimum threshold (dawn/dusk/night) Normal behavior. Adjust brightness limits or "When too dark" action in Settings.
"Sensor offline — using schedule" No SkySync data received for 10+ minutes Press the SkySync button. Check battery (<10% = replace CR2477). Verify sensor is within range or Mini Hub is active.
Mini Hub not relaying data Network misconfiguration Verify Ethernet LED blinks. Confirm fixtures are on the same WiFi network/subnet as the hub. Restart the hub by removing and reapplying power.
Fixture not responding to SkySync SkySync disabled, wrong mode, or old firmware Check SkySync toggle is enabled. Verify firmware ≥ v2.0.61. Ensure control mode is set to "Automated (Schedule + SkySync)".
Colors look wrong compared to actual sky Sensor aiming or interior reflections Ensure the hood is fitted. Re-aim the sensor more steeply upward. Test with room lights off. Use the CCT Boost slider in SkySync Settings to fine-tune color.

Battery Replacement

SkySync uses a standard CR2477 coin cell battery with 10+ year life. The battery level is shown on the home screen and SkySync page.

  • Replace when the indicator shows below 10%
  • Battery readings can be affected by temperature; accuracy is ±5%
  • To access the battery, remove the front cover
  • CR2477 batteries are widely available online and at electronics retailers
USB-C Hard Power
SkySync includes a sealed USB-C port for installations requiring continuous power beyond the 10-year battery life. Remove the sealing tape and connect a USB-C cable for permanent operation. When USB-C is connected, the battery is bypassed.

Factory Reset & Shipping Mode

ActionHowEffect
Factory Reset Press and hold the button for 5 seconds until LED confirms Resets polling interval, TX power, and calibration to factory defaults. Does not unpair.
Shipping Mode Tap the button 5 times within 5 seconds Enters ultra-low-power standby (<1µA). Press the button to wake. Used for long-term storage.
Reboot Press and hold for 10 seconds Forces a cold restart of the sensor.

SkySync Sensor Specifications

Sensors
Sky Sensor10° narrow FOV (black cylinder with lens)
Ambient Sensor180° wide FOV (white round diffuser)
Color Accuracy1 SDCM
CCT Range2,200K – 1,000,000K
Lux Range0 – 100,000+ lux

SkySync senses up to 1,000,000K. Fixture output depends on model/firmware — up to 200,000K with latest firmware.

Communication
ProtocolBluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
Frequency2.4 GHz ISM band
Direct Range30ft to fixture
With Mini Hub (BLE)20ft sensor → hub, 50ft hub → fixture
With Mini Hub (Network)Unlimited (via UDP broadcast on LAN)
Update Interval15 seconds (default, configurable 5–3600s)
Power
BatteryCR2477 coin cell (pre-installed)
Battery Life10+ years
USB-CSealed port for hard-power installations
Operating HoursDawn to dusk (auto night suspend)
Physical
Dimensions1.2″ × 4″ (32mm × 104mm)
MountingBuilt-in adhesive on swivel cylinder base
SwivelUp/down tilt for sky aiming
IP RatingIP20 (indoor use)
OutdoorWaterproof enclosure available separately
Compatibility
FixturesCircadian Sky, Virtual Sun
Min. Firmwarev2.0.61
AppInnerscene Studio (iOS; Android coming soon)
Safety & Warranty
Battery SafetyUL 1642 Listed
Warranty5 years
SkySync size comparison
SkySync sensor — compact form factor

Innerscene Mini Hub Specifications

Connectivity
SkySync ReceptionBLE, 20ft range from SkySync
BLE TX Power+21 dBm (ESP32-S3 built-in antenna)
Wireless RelayInnerscene Wireless proprietary mesh (no router needed) + BLE rebroadcast
Network OutputUDP broadcast (port 65003, AES encrypted)
Ethernet10/100 Mbps
WiFi2.4 GHz, WPA2-PSK, via web UI
Cloud ModeTCP to Innerscene Cloud (SSL, outbound only) — coming soon
Physical & Electrical
PowerPoE (IEEE 802.3af) or USB-C (5V)
Consumption0.5W
Enclosure78mm × 27mm × 20mm
AntennaBuilt-in (internal PCB antenna)
MountingSingle screw to any surface
Operating Temp0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)
LEDsPower (solid) & Ethernet (activity)
Warranty5 years

Further Resources

Circadian Sky User Guide innerscene.com/products/circadian-sky/user-guide
CS Installation Manual innerscene.com/products/circadian-sky/installation-manual
VS Installation Manual innerscene.com/products/virtual-sun/installation-manual
iOS App Search "Innerscene Studio" on the App Store
Support [email protected]

Specifications subject to change. Visit innerscene.com/products/sky-sync • © 2026 Innerscene Corporation. All rights reserved.