> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.themeatstick.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.themeatstick.com/v-duo-set/v-duo/duo-base.md).

# Your V Duo Smart Base

The V Duo Smart Base is the base that comes with the **V Duo Set**. It's the only V Series base with a **built-in LCD screen**, and it holds and charges **two Sticks** at once.

## What makes it different

* **LCD display** — your cook temperatures show right on the base, at a glance from across the patio. No need to keep your phone with you at the grill. The phone is still there for cloud monitoring when you want it; you just don't need it for a quick check.
* **Two-Stick cradle** — charges two Sticks side by side, perfect for multi-protein cooks.

## Power and charging

* **USB-C powered** with a built-in rechargeable battery — runs through a long cook without a wall outlet nearby.
* Plug in the included USB-C cable to charge the base; place a Stick in either cradle to charge it automatically.
* **Not dishwasher safe** — wipe with a damp cloth only. (Your Sticks are dishwasher safe; the base is not.)

## The button and the screen

The Duo Base works like the V Smart Base, with one button:

* **Short press** (or lift a Stick off it) — wakes the base.
* **Press and hold about 5 seconds** — pairing mode, for WiFi setup or firmware updates.
* **Press and hold 15–30 seconds** — factory reset.

Where the other V Series bases use **LED colors** to show status, the Duo Base shows it right on the **LCD screen** — a **WiFi icon** and a **Bluetooth icon** tell you how it's connected, alongside your live temperatures, so you can read the cook at a glance without your phone.

> **If it won't restart after a reset:** on some early units, plug the base into USB power and press reset again — it'll boot normally.

## Connectivity

The Duo Base has both **WiFi** and **Bluetooth 5**, so it extends your Stick's Bluetooth range and bridges the cook to the cloud over WiFi. WiFi is **2.4 GHz only**. For cloud setup, see [Monitoring your cook over WiFi](/cooking-and-care/cooking-and-care/wifi-cloud-monitoring.md).

## Placement

Keep the base within about 6 feet of your Sticks for a reliable signal — closer is better, especially when the Sticks are inside a smoker or oven. Once the base has the signal, it relays the cook over WiFi so you can step away. More in [Range and connection drops](/troubleshooting/troubleshooting/range-and-connection-drops.md).