1. Introduction
The SONOFF ZBDongle-E USB Dongle Plus is a versatile Zigbee 3.0 USB stick designed to act as a universal Zigbee gateway. It allows local control of various Zigbee devices through open-source smart home platforms such as Home Assistant, openHAB, and Zigbee2MQTT, eliminating the need for multiple brand-specific Zigbee hubs.
This dongle comes pre-flashed with coordinator firmware, but it can also be flashed with router firmware to extend your Zigbee network's range. Its robust aluminum housing effectively reduces signal interference from peripherals, ensuring stable communication.
Image: SONOFF ZBDongle-E USB Dongle Plus, highlighting its +20dBm signal gain and support for 32 devices with one-tap pairing.
2. Package Contents
Upon opening your SONOFF ZBDongle-E package, you should find the following items:
- SONOFF ZBDongle-E USB Dongle Plus
- External Rotatable Antenna
- User Manual
Image: The SONOFF ZBDongle-E package showing the dongle, antenna, and user manual.
3. Setup
3.1 Hardware Connection
- Attach the Antenna: Carefully screw the rotatable external antenna onto the SMA interface of the ZBDongle-E.
- Connect to Host Device: Plug the ZBDongle-E into an available USB port on your computer or Raspberry Pi.
- Optional USB Extension Cable: For better signal reception and to reduce interference, consider using an optional 1.5m USB extension cable.
Image: Features of the ZBDongle-E, including the rotatable antenna and aluminum housing.
Image: ZBDongle-E connected using an optional USB extension cable.
3.2 Software Setup (Home Assistant Example)
The ZBDongle-E is pre-flashed with Zigbee coordinator firmware based on EZNet 6.10.3, making it ready for immediate use with compatible platforms.
- Automatic Discovery: After plugging the dongle into your computer or Raspberry Pi, it should be automatically discovered by Home Assistant.
- Configuration: Navigate to the Integrations section in Home Assistant. You will see the discovered Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle. Click 'CONFIGURE' and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup.
- Add Devices: Once configured, you can add Zigbee sub-devices through the Home Assistant interface.
Video: Demonstrates the unboxing, antenna attachment, connection to a Raspberry Pi, and automatic discovery and configuration within Home Assistant.
Note for Windows and macOS: These operating systems may require corresponding driver installation. Please refer to the official SONOFF support resources for driver downloads and installation guides.
4. Operating Modes
4.1 Zigbee Coordinator Mode
In its default configuration, the ZBDongle-E acts as a Zigbee 3.0 coordinator, forming the central hub of your Zigbee network. It supports various open-source smart home platforms:
- Home Assistant (ZHA)
- openHAB
- Zigbee2MQTT
- IoBroker
- Domoticz Zigbee Plugin
- Jeedom Zigbee Plugin
This allows you to manage and control a wide range of Zigbee sub-devices from different brands.
Image: The ZBDongle Plus functioning as a universal Zigbee gateway, compatible with multiple smart home platforms and devices.
4.2 Zigbee Router Mode
The ZBDongle-E can also be re-flashed with router firmware to extend the range and stability of your existing Zigbee network. This is particularly useful in larger homes or areas with many Zigbee devices.
Image: Illustration of the ZBDongle Plus acting as a Zigbee Router to expand network coverage.
4.3 eWeLink CUBE Integration
The ZBDongle-E is compatible with eWeLink CUBE OS, a free self-hosted local system. This system bridges eWeLink Wi-Fi and multi-brand Zigbee devices into the Matter network, enabling integration with platforms like Apple Home, SmartThings, Google Home, Alexa, and Home Assistant.
Image: eWeLink CUBE integration with Zigbee and Matter-ready platforms.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Firmware Flashing
The ZBDongle-E supports quick and easy firmware flashing using the official SONOFF Dongle Flasher, accessible directly in your browser. This process is designed to be fast, simple, and beginner-friendly, requiring no complex setup or extra tools.
Supported firmware types include:
- Zigbee Coordinator
- Zigbee Router
- OpenThread RCP
- MultiPAN RCP
Image: Quick and easy firmware flashing process using the official SONOFF Dongle Flasher.
5.2 General Care
The ZBDongle-E features an aluminum alloy shell, which helps in reducing signal interference. Keep the device clean and free from dust. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or moisture.
6. Troubleshooting
- Device Not Recognized: Ensure the dongle is securely plugged into a working USB port. For Windows/macOS, verify that the necessary drivers are installed.
- Zigbee Devices Not Pairing: Make sure your Zigbee sub-devices are in pairing mode. Check the instructions for your specific sub-device.
- Poor Signal/Range: Consider using a USB extension cable to position the dongle away from other electronics that might cause interference. If operating as a coordinator, consider flashing another dongle as a router to extend network coverage.
- Firmware Flashing Issues: Ensure you are using the official SONOFF Dongle Flasher and following the instructions carefully. Check your internet connection and USB port stability.
- Compatibility: Verify that your smart home platform and Zigbee devices are compatible with the ZBDongle-E and the firmware version you are using. Refer to the platform's documentation for specific compatibility lists.
7. Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | ZBDongle-E |
| Main Chip | EFR32MG21 |
| Serial Chip | CH9102F |
| Communication Method | Zigbee, Wi-fi |
| Wireless Protocol | Zigbee 3.0 |
| Output Gain | Default 20dBm |
| Flow Control | Software flow control |
| Input | DC 5V (100mA Max) |
| Working Temperature | -10℃~40℃ |
| Shell Material | Aluminum alloy |
| Dimension | 75*25.5*13.5mm |
| Shell Length | 52mm |
| State of Assembly | Ready-to-Go |
| Compatibility | All Compatible (Linux, Ubuntu, Raspbian, Windows, macOS) |
| Camera Equipped | No |
| High-concerned chemical | None |
Image: Visual representation of the ZBDongle-E specifications.
Image: Comparison of ZBDongle-P vs ZBDongle-E features.
8. User Tips
- Broad Compatibility: The ZBDongle-E offers easy and efficient communication across a wide range of compatible Zigbee devices and smart home platforms, making it a versatile choice for your smart home ecosystem.
- Compact and Durable: Its compact size and aluminum alloy construction not only contribute to its sleek design but also enhance its durability and signal integrity.
- Flexible Functionality: Leverage its ability to function as both a coordinator and a router. Start as a coordinator, and if your network needs expansion, easily re-flash it as a router to boost coverage.
- Platform Choice: With support for Home Assistant, openHAB, Zigbee2MQTT, and more, you have the flexibility to choose the smart home platform that best suits your needs.
9. Warranty and Support
SONOFF products are covered by a manufacturer's warranty. For detailed warranty information, technical support, or further assistance, please visit the official SONOFF website or contact their customer service directly.
