AVATTO Zigbee Smart 3.0 USB Dongle Plus User Manual

1. Introduction

The AVATTO Zigbee Smart 3.0 USB Dongle Plus is a versatile universal Zigbee USB stick designed to act as a gateway or router for your smart home ecosystem. It is compatible with popular platforms such as Home Assistant, Open HAB, and ZigBee2MQTT, allowing you to locally control your Zigbee sub-devices without needing brand-specific hubs. This dongle offers robust performance and extended range for a seamless smart home experience.

The AVATTO Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle Plus, highlighting its compatibility with major smart home platforms.

2. Key Features

• Rotatable Antenna: Features an SMA interface external rotatable antenna for flexible positioning and optimized signal reception.
• Gateway Out of Box: Pre-flashed with Zigbee coordinator firmware based on EZNet 6.10.3, ready for immediate use.
• Broad Compatibility: Supports various smart home platforms including Home Assistant, Open HAB, and ZigBee2MQTT.
• Durable Aluminum Housing: Effectively reduces signal interference from peripherals, ensuring stable performance.
• Router Functionality: Can be re-flashed with router firmware to extend your Zigbee network range.
• Software Flow Control: Improves communication reliability, especially during data congestion.
• High Output Power: +20dBm output gain provides further signal reach.
• Advanced Chipset: Based on TI CC2652P + CP2102N for reliable and efficient operation.
• Extensive Device Support: Capable of supporting up to 128 Zigbee sub-devices.

Detailed features of the AVATTO Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle Plus.

3. Technical Specifications

4. Package Contents

The package typically includes:

• 1x AVATTO Zigbee Smart 3.0 USB Dongle Plus (GW70-MQTT)
• 1x Detachable Antenna

5. Setup and Installation

This section guides you through the initial setup and integration of your AVATTO Zigbee Smart 3.0 USB Dongle Plus with Home Assistant. The dongle can function as a Zigbee coordinator or a router.

5.1 Initial Hardware Setup

1. Unpack the Zigbee USB Dongle Plus and its detachable antenna.
2. Carefully connect the antenna to the USB dongle's SMA port.
3. Insert the USB dongle into an available USB port on your computer, Raspberry Pi, Home Assistant Green, or other compatible host device running Home Assistant.

The AVATTO Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle Plus with its antenna.

5.2 Software Configuration with Home Assistant

The AVATTO Zigbee USB Dongle Plus can be integrated into Home Assistant using either Zigbee2MQTT or ZHA (Zigbee Home Automation) integration. The following video provides a visual guide for both methods:

Method 1: Using Zigbee2MQTT Integration

1. Connect Dongle: Ensure the dongle is connected to your Home Assistant host.
2. Access Add-ons: In Home Assistant, navigate to Settings > Add-ons.
3. Add Repository: Click Add-on Store. Then, click the three dots (...) in the top right corner and select Repositories. Add the following URL: https://github.com/zigbee2mqtt/hassio-zigbee2mqtt. Click ADD.
4. Install Zigbee2MQTT: Search for and install the Zigbee2MQTT add-on.
5. Find Device Path: Go to Settings > System > Hardware. Click the three dots (...) in the top right and select All hardware. Locate your USB dongle (often listed as ttyUSB0 or similar) and copy its device path (e.g., /dev/ttyUSB0).
6. Configure Zigbee2MQTT: Go back to the Zigbee2MQTT add-on page. Navigate to the Configuration tab. In the serial section, paste the copied device path into the port: field. Ensure it is preceded by a space (e.g., port: /dev/ttyUSB0). Click SAVE.
7. Start Add-on: Start the Zigbee2MQTT add-on. Wait for the configuration to complete.

Method 2: Using ZHA (Zigbee Home Automation) Integration

1. Connect Dongle: Ensure the dongle is connected to your Home Assistant host.
2. Add Integration: In Home Assistant, navigate to Settings > Devices & Services > Integrations. Click Add Integration.
3. Select ZHA: Search for ZHA or Zigbee Home Automation and select it.
4. Select Serial Port: Choose the serial port corresponding to your Zigbee dongle (e.g., /dev/ttyUSB0). Click SUBMIT.
5. Network Formation: Select your preferred network formation option (e.g., Erase network settings and create a new network for a fresh setup).
6. Assign Area: Assign the device to an area (e.g., "Study") and click FINISH.

5.3 Using the Dongle as a Zigbee Router

The Dongle Plus is pre-flashed with coordinator firmware. To use it as a Zigbee router to extend your network range, you will need to re-flash it with router firmware. Refer to the Zigbee2MQTT documentation or OpenHAB community resources for detailed instructions on flashing router firmware.

The AVATTO Zigbee USB Dongle Plus can be configured as a router to expand your smart home network.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Adding Zigbee Sub-devices

Once your AVATTO Zigbee USB Dongle Plus is configured as a coordinator in Home Assistant (either via Zigbee2MQTT or ZHA), you can begin adding your Zigbee sub-devices:

1. Enable Pairing Mode: In Home Assistant, navigate to the integration you are using (Zigbee2MQTT or ZHA). Activate the 'Permit Join' or 'Add Device' function to put your Zigbee network into pairing mode.
2. Activate Device Pairing: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific Zigbee sub-device to put it into pairing mode. This usually involves pressing a button or power cycling the device.
3. Confirmation: The device should appear in your Home Assistant interface once successfully paired. You may need to assign it to an area or rename it for easier management.

The dongle acts as a universal gateway, supporting up to 128 devices across various smart home platforms.

7. User Tips

• Optimal Placement: For best signal strength and coverage, place the dongle in a central location within your home, away from large metal objects or other wireless interference sources.
• USB Extension Cable: Using a short USB extension cable (e.g., 1-2 meters) can help move the dongle away from the host computer's USB port, reducing potential interference and improving Zigbee signal quality.
• Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and apply firmware updates for both the dongle and your chosen Home Assistant integration (Zigbee2MQTT or ZHA) to ensure optimal performance, compatibility, and security.
• Network Mesh: Utilize Zigbee mains-powered devices (like smart plugs or light bulbs) as repeaters to build a robust mesh network, extending the range and reliability of your Zigbee network.

8. Troubleshooting

• Device Not Detected: Ensure the dongle is securely plugged into a USB port. Verify the correct device path (e.g., /dev/ttyUSB0) is configured in your Home Assistant integration. Restart Home Assistant if necessary.
• Pairing Issues: Make sure your Zigbee sub-device is in pairing mode and within range of the dongle. Try resetting the sub-device and re-initiating the pairing process. Check for any interference from other 2.4GHz devices.
• Intermittent Connectivity: This could be due to signal interference or a weak mesh network. Try relocating the dongle, using a USB extension cable, or adding more Zigbee router devices to strengthen your mesh.
• Firmware Update Problems: If a firmware update fails, ensure you are following the specific instructions for your dongle model and the flashing tool. Do not disconnect the dongle during the update process.

9. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the dongle. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
• Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• Environmental Conditions: Avoid exposing the dongle to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.

10. Regulatory Compliance

This device complies with relevant European Conformity (CE) and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) standards.

CE Mark: Indicates conformity with health, safety, and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA).

FCC Mark: Indicates compliance with the standards of the Federal Communications Commission for electronic devices in the United States.

11. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, and further assistance, please refer to the official AVATTO website or contact their customer service. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.

You can also refer to the official user manual PDF for additional details: View User Manual (PDF)