Summary: Migrating to a new Zigbee Dongle can seem daunting, but it can be a straightforward process with the right guidance. This article details a seamless migration experience with the SLIMLIGHT SLZB-06P7 Zigbee Ethernet dongle, offering key insights for those looking to self-host their smart home setup effectively. Learn how to copy the IEEE address, configure QR Zigbee devices, and troubleshoot potential issues.
Effortless Migration to the SLIMLIGHT Zigbee Dongle
I recently upgraded to the SLIMLIGHT SLZB-06P7, a Zigbee dongle that supports Ethernet and Power over Ethernet (PoE), even if I don’t have a PoE setup yet! This dongle’s capabilities have transformed how my Home Assistant setup operates, especially in terms of connectivity.
The Need for an Upgrade
Previously, I was using the SONOFF Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle Plus-P situated behind my TV, where my Home Assistant Blue runs. Unfortunately, while I had two routers downstairs, connectivity was poor upstairs, leading to frequent device drop-offs. Transitioning to the Ethernet-capable SLZB-06P7 allows me to relocate the dongle upstairs, improving the network’s reliability for my smart devices.
Understanding Compatibility
After reading through Zigbee2MQTT documentation, I realized I wouldn’t need to repair all devices. The SONOFF dongle utilizes the CC2652P chip, while the SLZB-06P7 features its enhanced counterpart, the CC2652P7. This upgrade would streamline the transition.
Migration Steps for Self-Hosted Smart Homes
Copying the IEEE Address
The core of a successful migration lies in copying the IEEE address from the old dongle to the new. This process is well-documented here. The address usually appears like this: 0x00124b0018e1afa8. Here’s how to convert it:
Simply remove the 0x and format the address as follows: 00:12:4b:00:18:e1:af:a8.
Flashing the New Dongle
Access the interface of your SLZB-06P7 and enter the freshly formatted MAC address to flash it. After a brief waiting period, the device should come back online. Disconnect your old dongle and power down your routers, which is crucial for preventing network issues during this transition.
Updating Zigbee2MQTT Configuration
In the Zigbee2MQTT web interface, you’ll have a section for easy configuration copy-paste. However, I found it more effective to edit the configuration.yaml directly:
# Edit the yaml configuration for Z2M in HA
serial:
port: tcp://192.168.178.134:6638
baudrate: 115200
adapter: zstack
disable_led: false
advanced:
transmit_power: 20Once everything was set, I restarted the add-on, and everything functioned flawlessly!
Conclusion: A Satisfied Self-Hoster
This migration has significantly enhanced my smart home network’s reliability. If you’re contemplating a similar transition, rest assured it can be a smooth process with the right steps. Happy self-hosting!
FAQ
1. How does the SLZB-06P7 improve network connectivity?
The SLZB-06P7 supports Ethernet connections, which help mitigate issues caused by poor wireless signals, especially in larger homes.
2. Do I need to re-pair all devices when switching dongles?
No, you can copy the IEEE address from your old dongle to the new one, allowing most devices to remain connected without needing to re-pair.
3. What is Zigbee2MQTT, and why is it important?
Zigbee2MQTT is a bridge that connects Zigbee devices to MQTT, a lightweight messaging protocol. It enables easy integration of various smart home devices into platforms like Home Assistant.