SONOFF iHost Smart Home Hub (AIBridge) Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The SONOFF iHost Smart Home Hub (AIBridge) is a private local server designed for secure and efficient home automation. It enables local control and linkage of smart devices, offering robust data privacy and extensive customization options through its open API and Add-on integration. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your iHost device.

2. Safety Information

• Ensure the device is powered by a stable 5V power supply.
• Do not expose the device to water or extreme temperatures.
• Keep the device away from children.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the device yourself. Contact support if issues arise.
• Use only recommended accessories and cables.

3. Package Contents

The SONOFF iHost Smart Home Hub package includes:

• 1 x AIBridge (SONOFF iHost Smart Home Hub)

4. Product Overview

The SONOFF iHost Smart Home Hub features a sleek design with intuitive controls and essential peripheral interfaces.

Image 4.1: SONOFF iHost Smart Home Hub showing its Nimble LED Indicator, Function Buttons, and Peripheral Interfaces including External TF card slot, USB 2.0 ports, Type-C 5V/2A power supply, and 100M Ethernet RJ45 port. It also highlights the Built-in Microphone and Speaker.

• Nimble LED Indicator: RGB LED group for independent control status.
• Function Buttons: Four buttons with blue LED indicators for various basic functions.
• Peripheral Interfaces: Includes an External TF card SDMMC 2.0 slot, USB 2.0 ports for expanded connectivity, a Type-C 5V/2A power supply port, and a 100M Ethernet RJ45 port.
• Built-in Microphone and Speaker: Provides perfect human-computer interaction with various beeps.

5. Setup Guide

5.1 Initial Power-On and Network Connection

1. Connect the iHost to a 5V/2A power supply using the provided Type-C cable.
2. Plug an Ethernet cable into the 100M Ethernet RJ45 port to connect the iHost to your local network.

Image 5.1: Visual guide for powering on the iHost and plugging in the network cable, followed by the login screen for the iHost center admin console.

5.2 Initial Login and Password Setup

1. Open a web browser on a device connected to the same local network as the iHost.
2. Enter http://ihost.local in the address bar. If this does not work, you may need to find the IP address of your iHost from your router's connected devices list and enter it directly (e.g., http://192.168.1.100).
3. Follow the on-screen prompts to set up your administrator password.

5.3 Device Naming

You can customize the name of your iHost device for easier identification within your network.

1. Navigate to the 'Settings' section in the iHost Web console.
2. Locate the 'Device Name' field and enter your desired name.
3. Save the changes.

5.4 Firmware Update (OTA)

Regularly update your iHost firmware to ensure optimal performance, security, and access to new features.

1. In the iHost Web console, go to 'Settings'.
2. Look for 'Firmware Version' or 'Check for Updates'.
3. Follow the prompts to download and install any available updates. Ensure a stable power supply during the update process.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Device Management

The iHost supports various device types, allowing you to centralize your smart home.

Image 6.1: Illustration of SONOFF iHost functioning as a local smart home hub, demonstrating support for adding devices via Zigbee, LAN, eWeLink-Remote, and Matter protocols. It also shows various supported device types like curtains, plugs, sensors, switches, and lights.

6.1.1 Adding Zigbee Sub-Devices

You can add Zigbee sub-devices through the Web center admin console or by using the pairing button on the iHost.

6.1.2 Adding LAN Devices

The iHost supports connecting and controlling various devices within the same local area network (LAN) of a router.

Image 6.2: A visual representation of the iHost managing various smart devices (switches, plugs, lights) within a local area network, highlighting its LAN compatibility.

6.1.3 Adding RTSP Cameras

You can integrate RTSP cameras into your iHost system for centralized monitoring, provided they are on the same LAN.

1. In the iHost Web console, navigate to the 'Add Device' section.
2. Select 'Add Manually' for cameras.
3. Input the device name, paste the RTSP address, and enter the camera's username and password.
4. Click 'Add' to complete the integration.

6.2 Smart Home Features

6.2.1 Local Automation and Scenes

iHost supports setting up local security modes and customizable scenes, ensuring your automations run even without internet.

Image 6.3: Examples of local automation on iHost, including Auto Scene (e.g., fan turns on if temperature exceeds 27°C), Security Mode (e.g., alarm on motion detection), Manual Scene (e.g., tap to run coffee maker), and Special Scene (e.g., timer to turn off lights and play voice).

6.2.2 eWelink Smart Home Add-on

Install the eWelink Smart Home Add-on to sync LAN devices in your local network to iHost, extending control to various device types.

6.2.3 Homebridge Add-on

Integrate Homebridge to synchronize devices from iHost to Apple HomeKit, allowing control through the Home app.

6.2.4 eWelink CAST

eWelink CAST is a feature that allows you to create personalized dashboards for your devices and scenes, and manage smart security.

6.2.5 Other Add-ons

The iHost supports open API and Docker containerization, allowing you to install or develop various Add-ons for enhanced functionality.

Image 6.4: Overview of various Add-ons supported by SONOFF iHost, such as eWelink Smart Home, Node-RED, mqtt2cube-tasmota, Paral-Sync, Tailscale, and Text-To-Speech, along with weather widgets, showcasing its extensibility.

• Node-RED Add-on: For visual programming to create complex automations.
• mqtt2cube-tasmota Add-on: For integrating Tasmota devices.
• Paral-Sync Add-on: To manage Zigbee devices from NSPanel Pro through the local network.
• Tailscale Add-on: For remote access to iHost.
• Text-To-Speech Add-on: For custom voice broadcasts.

6.3 Zigbee Network Management

The iHost allows you to view the connectivity status of all Zigbee devices in a visual map, aiding in network optimization.

Image 6.5: A screenshot of the iHost interface displaying the Zigbee Map, which visualizes the connectivity and topology of all connected Zigbee devices, including end-devices and router devices.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device. Avoid liquid cleaners.
• Software Updates: Regularly check for and install firmware updates as described in Section 5.4 to ensure optimal performance and security.
• Data Backup: Periodically back up your local data to an external storage device if available, to prevent data loss.

8. Troubleshooting

• Device Not Powering On: Ensure the power adapter is correctly connected and the power outlet is functional. Use the original 5V/2A power adapter.
• Cannot Access Web Console: Verify the Ethernet cable is securely connected. Ensure your device is on the same local network. Try restarting your router and the iHost. If http://ihost.local doesn't work, find the iHost's IP address from your router and try accessing it directly.
• Zigbee Devices Not Pairing: Ensure the Zigbee device is in pairing mode. Check the distance between the iHost and the device; consider adding Zigbee router devices to extend network range.
• LAN Devices Not Syncing: Confirm the eWelink Smart Home Add-on is installed and running. Ensure both iHost and the LAN devices are on the same local network.
• Slow Performance: Check the CPU and RAM usage in the iHost Web console. If high, consider restarting the iHost or uninstalling unnecessary Add-ons.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official SONOFF website or contact their customer service. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.