We have a Woodwind model with the sear box and I can tell you that it's amazing. Being able to do a reverse sear cook makes steaks turn out perfectly every time. The original controller finally quit on us after a few years, but still being under warranty, Camp Chef sent us out a Gen 2 controller free of charge and it was extremely easy to change out and worked perfectly. They really stand behind their products and they've earned our business for sure.
Before extended storage, I always empty the pellets from the hopper after using the smoker. Once the shutdown is complete, I empty the burner ashes. Then, I use the feed cycle to clear the auger of the remaining pellets. This ensures that the auger will not jam the next time I use it due to moisture breaking down the pellets and then turning into a wood putty in the auger cylinder.
The manual isn't helpful for much at all. Possibly the most annoying appliance of any kind I've ever dealt with in just trying to learn how to set the damned temp. I don't have a wifi one, just the digital screen with the push and turn dial and let me tell ya, it is not just intuitive and the manual DOES NOT explain how it works. You have to just fiddle with it until you get on the setting you need. Sounds like I'm just being dumb, and I certainly feel that way, but the controls AND The manual truly suck.
For those of you that are curious about PID, there is a reason he doesn't go into depth about that. It would take several courses in engineering for anyone to understand it. Basically, PID stands for proportional, integrator, differentiator control, which is a mathematical way to describe a feedback system. It's like a thermostat but a little more complicated and precise. It bases what it will do on several different inputs, n this case, not just oven temp, but also it appears probe temp and smoke setting. PID control is something you might find in anything automated that responds to feedback and needs precision. A washing machine, for example, is something that doesn't have control. You just set it and it runs. A thermostat has control, but most of them just use an on and off to stay within certain boundaries, and have no sensitivity. PID control allows for adaption and prevents swings around the target point. It also allows for their smoke management as he alluded to in the video.
I have been using the Woodwind controller and it used to work fairly well - meaning, I'd usually find some way to connect, such as closing out the app and restarting, or power cycling the grill. I am at the point now where despite the upgrades to the app (I'm on Android) and firmware updates, resets, installing a WiFi extender 10 ft. from the grill, I cannot connect. I actually have to do everything at the grill now, completely defeating the purpose of purchasing a WiFi controller. So frustrating!
I just purchased the Woodwind Pro, after having owned several other smokers in the past, from stick burners, to water smokers, to different brand pellet smokers. So far, I'm really enjoying the Camp Chef, but I'm still in the learning phase. One thing I question is the smoke function. No matter where I set the smoke setting, the amount of smoke produced seems about the same. One other thing I'm confused about, is why on the HI Smoke setting, the smoke level is only set to "3". If you want maximum smoke, why not set it to "10"? Also, the manual indicates that at higher smoke settings, you should expect greater temperature fluctuations. On my smoker, no matter where I set the smoke control, the temperature never varies more than 5-degrees.
I feel like that the Control/software updates on these type of smokers neededs to be talked about more with easy of use, replacement, trouble shooting, power stability( can i loose power for a couple seconds with out a reset?) and costs. not trying to pick on you just all the digi smokers have some kind of problem along the way. I also feel most need modification right out of the box ie high temp gas seals, A K Joe style top vent and bring the smoke stack out let to grill level in side the smoker chamber. I went from a electric smoker to a charcoal offset myself.
Qvc shows a smoke pro dlx24 with a totally different looking controller than what you show here. Maybe a old model? The main knob is really small compared to these. Thanks
Any link to a PDF with instructions on All the settings of the gen 2 non wifi controller. Just got one on warranty and didn't include a manual and can't find it on the site..
I know this comment is two years old, but I have had my smoker about that long and STILL to this day struggle with that. And have never found instructions. Push, turn, push turn....it feels like I just have to keep doing that until I accidentally get on the temp numbers and can turn to set them. It's annoying as hell.
Problem is that the timer function doesn't work at all. I would like to program my woodwind smoker to go for several hours and shut down when it is done. But that function is not working and the company did not say when it would have that function
Hello . Reaching out to you guys to see if there is some sort of resolution for the future. I just purchased and received and put together the XXL vertical smoker and I was pretty disappointed to find out how bad the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections are. There are tons of reviews of people that are pretty disappointed in this. Regardless the controller still works but the promotion of having Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connection and having it work for about 5 minutes then disconnecting and never reconnecting again regardless of any troubleshooting of all routes. After it disconnected the app came up showing that Android users may not be able to use it. That doesn't make sense and through further reviews I've seen that even iPhone users have the same issues. Is there going to be any type of update or acknowledgment that you guys are working on it? This is not meant to be insulting but our general questions. Thank you for taking the time to read it.
I am a disabled person - 8 strokes, 3 heart attacks, and 5 heart operations. I simply can;'t understand the gen 2 operation from the supplied manual. Is there any way you could provide me with a video I can watch of how to operate the PID controller interface? How to go through the menu options, when to hit the button (and when not to!), to go from high smoke to increasing the temp options (like cooking a chicken - from high smoke for a ½ hour to 350° for another 1½° hours). This may sound simple, but for me it is not and now it just sits there and I am too afraid to try to start it as I don't know what iI am doing!
I know this is a very old comment, but I'm right there with ya, and I have no disability. It's annoying as hell and the manual is no help. Hey Corn pop, instead of being a jerk, why not help, since you seem to have it all figured out.
Couple questions: Do you recommend using the "Feed" feature to completely empty out your pellets after a cook. Is there a setting to offset the meat and chamber probe temperatures? Thanks!
If u empty you pellets through pellet remove door and then add different pellets do u need to use feed(if when u emptied pellets there were some still in the hopper
All the Camp Chef pellet grills have the same size hole where the controller goes. So the new controller, whichever one you choose will fit whatever Camp Chef smoker/grill you have.
I just received wifi 24. Out it together and wifi or Bluetooth aren't even been read and my auger won't spin. This is so frustrating when you're so excited about something
Just return my PitBoss KC Combo Platinum Series Grill... Auger keeps catching fire...not good at all .. and I saw the woodwind controller... Looks awesome ... How's the built quality of the the grill itself?
I was super excited when I got this for Christmas this year. Took a few minutes to install... but the WiFi was only able to connect ONCE, meanwhile the Android phone and iPad I was using to try and update the firmware both had full WiFi signal while I was on the ground in front of the grill. The WiFi "antenna" on this thing is ultimately encased in the pellet hopper housing, keeping the signal unreliably low and unstable. I'm RMA'ing this thing now, to my disappointment. I'm sure I'll hear back in about a week wanting to do some troubleshooting, not interested. Out of the many upgrades we did on my DLX24, the only one that worked as intended was the folding front shelf. CampChef will not be getting any more of our business.
I would manual to walk me through on how to use the control on the new Gen 2 controller and how to use the app. The video was good for general explanation but, I want more detail on how to use the new controller and the app. Maybe even a flow chart on the different menu options. Why does the app ?have 4 probes when the Gen 2 controller only has 2 probe inputs?
To Camp Chef: Are all controllers backward compatible? My Smoke-Pro DLX 24 controller is failing. I need upgrade, wi-fi not required. To other viewers: name-brand not required...
Not enough space to list everything wrong with mine. Would have been nice to get a free one like the UA-camrs so I wouldn't feel bad about tossing it. Paid full price and no help from customer "service". The bottle opener works so I can open a cold one and admire my $1200.00 paper weight.
the controller sucks on the low end one...... It dose not work and he did not show us how to make it work because you can't do it... love the grill controller sucks
I haven't found one yet. And here we are two years later and I still just keep turning and pushing until I accidentally get it. Super annoying if you aren't paying attention and accidentally hit shut down.
Don't waste money on wifi controller. The mobile app doesn't work consistently. It is more trouble than it is worth. Nobody wants to fiddle around, turning off / on the grill just to get it work. I regret buying the wifi model, would have been better off saving the money. Let's hope CampChef takes their head out their ass and hire some better developers to build a better mobile app for their existing user base (not just for a future product refresh)
This better be Campchefs solution to my brand new $1200 wifi grill that does not connect. Finding this video has raised my blood pressure to dangerous levels.
I think the woodwind is still the premium controller. Camp chef contacted me tonight in efforts to correct my issues. I hope this all works out because my chops tasted amazing just now. If we get the wifi working I would say ends before means. Camp chef is working through this. The combo grill with the sear box is a game changer as far as flavor.
*TO FUTURE BUYERS* I saw this video and pulled the trigger because of it. But beware, if you want this for its wifi or Bluetooth capabilities, LOOK ELSEWHERE. This thing is trash, the wifi never connects or constantly disconnects defeating the whole purpose. Read the app reviews, you'll see what I mean. Don't waste your money like I did.
We have a Woodwind model with the sear box and I can tell you that it's amazing. Being able to do a reverse sear cook makes steaks turn out perfectly every time. The original controller finally quit on us after a few years, but still being under warranty, Camp Chef sent us out a Gen 2 controller free of charge and it was extremely easy to change out and worked perfectly. They really stand behind their products and they've earned our business for sure.
Brought to you by camp chef
Before extended storage, I always empty the pellets from the hopper after using the smoker. Once the shutdown is complete, I empty the burner ashes. Then, I use the feed cycle to clear the auger of the remaining pellets. This ensures that the auger will not jam the next time I use it due to moisture breaking down the pellets and then turning into a wood putty in the auger cylinder.
I wasn’t looking for a “sales pitch”. All I needed was basic settings for break in. Btw the manual is not helpful for settings for break in either.
The manual isn't helpful for much at all. Possibly the most annoying appliance of any kind I've ever dealt with in just trying to learn how to set the damned temp. I don't have a wifi one, just the digital screen with the push and turn dial and let me tell ya, it is not just intuitive and the manual DOES NOT explain how it works. You have to just fiddle with it until you get on the setting you need. Sounds like I'm just being dumb, and I certainly feel that way, but the controls AND The manual truly suck.
For those of you that are curious about PID, there is a reason he doesn't go into depth about that. It would take several courses in engineering for anyone to understand it. Basically, PID stands for proportional, integrator, differentiator control, which is a mathematical way to describe a feedback system. It's like a thermostat but a little more complicated and precise. It bases what it will do on several different inputs, n this case, not just oven temp, but also it appears probe temp and smoke setting. PID control is something you might find in anything automated that responds to feedback and needs precision. A washing machine, for example, is something that doesn't have control. You just set it and it runs. A thermostat has control, but most of them just use an on and off to stay within certain boundaries, and have no sensitivity. PID control allows for adaption and prevents swings around the target point. It also allows for their smoke management as he alluded to in the video.
Proportional- how far am I from set point
Integral - how long have I been there
Derivative- rate of change
They need to add a probe calibration setting on one of these updates.
I have been using the Woodwind controller and it used to work fairly well - meaning, I'd usually find some way to connect, such as closing out the app and restarting, or power cycling the grill. I am at the point now where despite the upgrades to the app (I'm on Android) and firmware updates, resets, installing a WiFi extender 10 ft. from the grill, I cannot connect. I actually have to do everything at the grill now, completely defeating the purpose of purchasing a WiFi controller. So frustrating!
Hi, is it possible to use the woodwind controller and install it into my 24 dlx smoker?
Who does the background music for these videos? The guitar is awesome.
I just purchased the Woodwind Pro, after having owned several other smokers in the past, from stick burners, to water smokers, to different brand pellet smokers. So far, I'm really enjoying the Camp Chef, but I'm still in the learning phase. One thing I question is the smoke function. No matter where I set the smoke setting, the amount of smoke produced seems about the same. One other thing I'm confused about, is why on the HI Smoke setting, the smoke level is only set to "3". If you want maximum smoke, why not set it to "10"? Also, the manual indicates that at higher smoke settings, you should expect greater temperature fluctuations. On my smoker, no matter where I set the smoke control, the temperature never varies more than 5-degrees.
I feel like that the Control/software updates on these type of smokers neededs to be talked about more with easy of use, replacement, trouble shooting, power stability( can i loose power for a couple seconds with out a reset?) and costs. not trying to pick on you just all the digi smokers have some kind of problem along the way. I also feel most need modification right out of the box ie high temp gas seals, A K Joe style top vent and bring the smoke stack out let to grill level in side the smoker chamber. I went from a electric smoker to a charcoal offset myself.
Why does the wifi keep dropping on my CF first gen with a strong wifi signal?
Qvc shows a smoke pro dlx24 with a totally different looking controller than what you show here. Maybe a old model? The main knob is really small compared to these. Thanks
See you have come out w/a SG 30. Are there any plans to do a woodwind 30?
Any link to a PDF with instructions on All the settings of the gen 2 non wifi controller. Just got one on warranty and didn't include a manual and can't find it on the site..
On the regular Gen 2 controller without the wifi can you adjust the temps in 5 degree increments?
I have a DLX and having trouble understanding how to set the temp. Please help!
I know this comment is two years old, but I have had my smoker about that long and STILL to this day struggle with that. And have never found instructions. Push, turn, push turn....it feels like I just have to keep doing that until I accidentally get on the temp numbers and can turn to set them. It's annoying as hell.
Problem is that the timer function doesn't work at all. I would like to program my woodwind smoker to go for several hours and shut down when it is done. But that function is not working and the company did not say when it would have that function
Hello . Reaching out to you guys to see if there is some sort of resolution for the future. I just purchased and received and put together the XXL vertical smoker and I was pretty disappointed to find out how bad the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections are. There are tons of reviews of people that are pretty disappointed in this. Regardless the controller still works but the promotion of having Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connection and having it work for about 5 minutes then disconnecting and never reconnecting again regardless of any troubleshooting of all routes. After it disconnected the app came up showing that Android users may not be able to use it. That doesn't make sense and through further reviews I've seen that even iPhone users have the same issues. Is there going to be any type of update or acknowledgment that you guys are working on it? This is not meant to be insulting but our general questions. Thank you for taking the time to read it.
Do these work without the smartphones?
I am a disabled person - 8 strokes, 3 heart attacks, and 5 heart operations. I simply can;'t understand the gen 2 operation from the supplied manual. Is there any way you could provide me with a video I can watch of how to operate the PID controller interface? How to go through the menu options, when to hit the button (and when not to!), to go from high smoke to increasing the temp options (like cooking a chicken - from high smoke for a ½ hour to 350° for another 1½° hours). This may sound simple, but for me it is not and now it just sits there and I am too afraid to try to start it as I don't know what iI am doing!
😂
I know this is a very old comment, but I'm right there with ya, and I have no disability. It's annoying as hell and the manual is no help. Hey Corn pop, instead of being a jerk, why not help, since you seem to have it all figured out.
Couple questions: Do you recommend using the "Feed" feature to completely empty out your pellets after a cook. Is there a setting to offset the meat and chamber probe temperatures? Thanks!
No need to completely empty the auger each time. Unless you are changing wood types, and even then i don't do it.
What happens when control screen not reading?
what is knob mode for on the screen ?
If u empty you pellets through pellet remove door and then add different pellets do u need to use feed(if when u emptied pellets there were some still in the hopper
you should empty the burn cup (pull the lower handle) and remove the ash and unused pellets - then feed new pellets.
Is there going to be a retrofit available for the woodwind SG 24?
I think the old SG controller can be swapped to the new Gen 2 Wifi controller based on connections
Here it is: www.campchef.com/gen2-wifi-retro-fit.html
All the Camp Chef pellet grills have the same size hole where the controller goes. So the new controller, whichever one you choose will fit whatever Camp Chef smoker/grill you have.
My Woodwind controller is malfunctioning 2 months in. Super unhappy about that.
I just received wifi 24. Out it together and wifi or Bluetooth aren't even been read and my auger won't spin. This is so frustrating when you're so excited about something
Just return my PitBoss KC Combo Platinum Series Grill... Auger keeps catching fire...not good at all .. and I saw the woodwind controller... Looks awesome ... How's the built quality of the the grill itself?
Are you lifting lid when you first get grill going.
If the Woodwind and Gen 2 WiFi controllers do the exact same thing, why is the Woodwind more expensive?
There are 4 probes instead of 2 on top of a friendlier menu control.
Awesome video and info Camp Chef!!
Man I would love to review one of your grills they look amazing I just can’t afford one 😭
I was super excited when I got this for Christmas this year. Took a few minutes to install... but the WiFi was only able to connect ONCE, meanwhile the Android phone and iPad I was using to try and update the firmware both had full WiFi signal while I was on the ground in front of the grill. The WiFi "antenna" on this thing is ultimately encased in the pellet hopper housing, keeping the signal unreliably low and unstable. I'm RMA'ing this thing now, to my disappointment. I'm sure I'll hear back in about a week wanting to do some troubleshooting, not interested. Out of the many upgrades we did on my DLX24, the only one that worked as intended was the folding front shelf. CampChef will not be getting any more of our business.
i don't get any smoke please help
I have a retro controller on my DLX. It has really poor contrast and is almost impossible to read. Is there anything I can do to brighten my display?
I would manual to walk me through on how to use the control on the new Gen 2 controller and how to use the app. The video was good for general explanation but, I want more detail on how to use the new controller and the app. Maybe even a flow chart on the different menu options. Why does the app ?have 4 probes when the Gen 2 controller only has 2 probe inputs?
why does the instructions not tell you that you cannot alter any setting including set temp until Star Up has run for 7 mins
If I dont need wifi capability, what models should I look at?
You would want the standard controller. Which is on the XT,DLX and pursuit. Just stay away from any that say WiFi. It’s usually in the grill name.
You guys need to allow for more slack in the wires on the 24 DLX. Just replaced mine and it was a BITCH to get all the wires connected.
The smoke control is a fun gimmick but I haven't found it to make any difference
To Camp Chef: Are all controllers backward compatible? My Smoke-Pro DLX 24 controller is failing. I need upgrade, wi-fi not required. To other viewers: name-brand not required...
Hi Rick, Yes we sell a retro-fit controller. You can find it on our site.
Thanks for show us how to use these controllers , NOT ? I did a upgrade/refit and the unit came without any info !~
I'm ....Sold !!!!!
Not enough space to list everything wrong with mine. Would have been nice to get a free one like the UA-camrs so I wouldn't feel bad about tossing it. Paid full price and no help from customer "service". The bottle opener works so I can open a cold one and admire my $1200.00 paper weight.
Been running camp chef for 7 years, updated old one and have a 2 year whirlwind have 0 complaints, over 300 bags of pellets, might be the operator?
the controller sucks on the low end one...... It dose not work and he did not show us how to make it work because you can't do it... love the grill controller sucks
This is totally useless. I need a simple video that just walks me through how to use the damn thing. How to turn it on. How to set it
I haven't found one yet. And here we are two years later and I still just keep turning and pushing until I accidentally get it. Super annoying if you aren't paying attention and accidentally hit shut down.
Don't waste money on wifi controller. The mobile app doesn't work consistently. It is more trouble than it is worth. Nobody wants to fiddle around, turning off / on the grill just to get it work. I regret buying the wifi model, would have been better off saving the money. Let's hope CampChef takes their head out their ass and hire some better developers to build a better mobile app for their existing user base (not just for a future product refresh)
Lmao....but very true 👍
Can’t believe you rolled out another WiFi controller when you’re still having issues with the first.
This better be Campchefs solution to my brand new $1200 wifi grill that does not connect. Finding this video has raised my blood pressure to dangerous levels.
I think the woodwind is still the premium controller. Camp chef contacted me tonight in efforts to correct my issues. I hope this all works out because my chops tasted amazing just now. If we get the wifi working I would say ends before means. Camp chef is working through this. The combo grill with the sear box is a game changer as far as flavor.
Camp Chef finally got me a working controller and had a weekend full of successful cooks. When it works it works great.
Just bought the Camp Chief with the WiFi 2 and can’t connect to the WiFi. Sigh
this vid sucks I need know my control it cheapest DXL 24. so far I think it sucks please tell what I'm doing wrong .
Perhaps if you could string a coherent sentence together they would answer you.
Not a great speaker
*TO FUTURE BUYERS*
I saw this video and pulled the trigger because of it. But beware, if you want this for its wifi or Bluetooth capabilities, LOOK ELSEWHERE. This thing is trash, the wifi never connects or constantly disconnects defeating the whole purpose. Read the app reviews, you'll see what I mean. Don't waste your money like I did.
Useless ass app.
Unless your standing outside next to it.
The G2 controller absolutely SUCKS, absolutely non intuitive. The instructions have nothing to do with it's operation. Sorry I bought this POS.
Junk!!!
Terrible video. Please show how to set temperature with gen 2. Of course you do it on the one that is intuitive. Duh!