⚡ Controller
The Controller widget allows viewers to trigger real-world physical devices during your stream using smart plugs, creating unique interactive experiences.
Overview
Connect Kasa smart plugs to Citrus and let viewers activate physical devices like water guns, bubble machines, leaf blowers, lights, and more!
Default Cost: Configurable per trigger
How It Works
- You set up Kasa smart plugs connected to physical devices
- Configure triggers in Citrus with costs and durations
- Viewer types the trigger command (e.g.,
!spray) - Juice is deducted from their balance
- Smart plug turns ON for the set duration
- Device activates (water sprays, bubbles blow, etc.)
- Plug automatically turns OFF after duration
Requirements
Hardware
- TP-Link Kasa Smart Plugs (compatible models)
- Kasa Smart Plug Mini
- Kasa Smart Plug
- Other TP-Link Kasa compatible devices
- Physical devices to control:
- Water guns/sprayers
- Bubble machines
- Leaf blowers
- Fans
- Lights
- Sirens/alarms
- Confetti cannons
- Any plug-operated device!
Network
- Smart plugs on the same network as your Citrus-connected device
- Kasa plugs configured with the Kasa app
Settings
Plug Triggers
Each trigger can have:
| Setting | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Display name for the trigger | "New Trigger" |
| Plug Name | Kasa plug alias (from Kasa app) | — |
| Amount | Juice cost to activate | 5 |
| Duration | Seconds the plug stays ON | 5 |
| Enabled | Whether trigger is active | On |
Setup Instructions
Step 1: Set Up Kasa Smart Plugs
- Install the Kasa app on your phone
- Add your smart plugs following Kasa instructions
- Name each plug with a memorable alias (e.g., "WaterGun", "BubbleMachine")
- Test that plugs work from the app
Step 2: Connect Plugs to Citrus
- Go to Widgets → Controller in your dashboard
- Citrus will detect plugs on your network
- Your detected plugs should appear in the list
- If plugs aren't showing, ensure they're on the same network
Step 3: Create Triggers
- Click Add Trigger
- Set the trigger title (this becomes the command)
- Select the plug from the dropdown
- Set the Juice cost
- Set the duration (how long the device runs)
- Enable the trigger
Step 4: Test Your Setup
- Plug a device into your smart plug
- Use the Test button in the dashboard
- Verify the device turns on and off correctly
- Adjust duration as needed
Commands
Commands are based on your trigger titles:
| Command | Description |
|---|---|
!<trigger-title> | Activate the trigger |
Examples
If you create a trigger titled "spray":
!sprayIf you create a trigger titled "bubbles":
!bubblesTrigger Ideas
Water-Based
| Device | Trigger Idea |
|---|---|
| Super Soaker | !soak - Spray the streamer |
| Misting fan | !mist - Cool down |
| Water balloon launcher | !splash - Surprise attack |
Noise Makers
| Device | Trigger Idea |
|---|---|
| Air horn | !honk - Loud alert |
| Siren | !alarm - Emergency! |
| Train horn | !choo - All aboard |
Visual Effects
| Device | Trigger Idea |
|---|---|
| Bubble machine | !bubbles - Party time |
| Confetti cannon | !confetti - Celebration |
| Disco light | !dance - Party mode |
| Strobe light | !flash - Chaos mode |
Environmental
| Device | Trigger Idea |
|---|---|
| Leaf blower | !blow - Wind attack |
| Fan | !fan - Cool breeze |
| Fog machine | !fog - Atmosphere |
Safety Considerations
Electrical Safety
- Only use devices rated for smart plug wattage
- Don't exceed plug's power capacity
- Keep electrical connections away from water
- Use outdoor-rated plugs for outdoor devices
Personal Safety
- Be aware of device activation at all times
- Don't use dangerous devices
- Consider physical safety of yourself and surroundings
- Have an emergency off switch accessible
Stream Safety
- Position devices where they won't damage equipment
- Protect electronics from water/wind
- Test thoroughly before streaming
Troubleshooting
Plugs Not Detected
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| No plugs showing | Ensure plugs are on same network |
| Wrong network | Connect to the same WiFi as plugs |
| Plugs offline | Check power and Kasa app connectivity |
Triggers Not Working
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Nothing happens | Verify plug alias matches exactly |
| Wrong plug activates | Check plug name in settings |
| Duration wrong | Adjust duration in trigger settings |
Device Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Device doesn't turn on | Test plug manually via Kasa app |
| Stays on too long | Check duration setting |
| Won't turn off | Verify plug communication |
Best Practices
- Test Everything: Always test before going live
- Start Simple: One device first, then expand
- Consider Duration: Short bursts are often better
- Price for Rarity: Higher costs = more special moments
- Safety First: Never use dangerous devices
- Have a Plan B: Manual override if things go wrong
FAQ
Q: What smart plugs are compatible? A: TP-Link Kasa smart plugs. Other brands may not work.
Q: Can I use multiple plugs simultaneously? A: Yes, each trigger controls one plug independently.
Q: What if a plug doesn't turn off? A: Use the Kasa app to manually control it, then troubleshoot.
Q: Is there a delay? A: Minimal delay (1-2 seconds) depending on network.
Q: Can viewers spam triggers? A: The plug has a cooldown while active. Set appropriate costs to prevent spam.
Q: What happens if I'm not streaming? A: Triggers only work when you're active in the dashboard.
Q: Can I use this with devices other than plugs? A: Currently only Kasa smart plugs are supported.
