RaZberry2: Z-Wave Gateway for Raspberry Pi
The RaZberry2 transforms your Raspberry Pi into a powerful Z-Wave enabled smart home gateway. It consists of three main components: the RaZberry Z-Wave hardware shield that connects to the Raspberry Pi, the Raspberry Pi itself, and the Z-Wave controller software, such as the certified 'Z-Way' software available from razberry.z-wave.me. The RaZberry shield is compatible with all Raspberry Pi models (A, B, B+, 2, Zero, and 3) and works with any third-party Z-Wave software supporting the Sigma Serial API.
Installation and Setup
There are two primary methods to install and start using Z-Way:
- For Raspberry Pi without Linux OS: Download a Z-Way SD card image (minimum 4 GB) from the download section at razberry.z-wave.me. This image is based on the Raspberry Pi 'Jessie' distribution.
- For Raspberry Pi with existing Linux: Log in to your Raspberry Pi and execute the following command:
wget -q -O - http://razberry.z-wave.me/install | sudo bash. It is recommended to use the Raspbian 'Jessie' image.
Ensure your Raspberry Pi is connected to the internet via Ethernet. Access the initial setup screen by opening a web browser on a PC in the same network and navigating to find.zwave.me. You will see your Pi's local IP address. Click on it to proceed. The setup screen will display your RaZberry's device ID and prompt you to set an administrator password. Alternatively, if you know your Pi's IP address, you can access it directly via http://YOUR_IP:8083.
Remote access to your controller from outside your home is available via the find.zwave.me service, using your DEVICEID/LOGIN (e.g., 12345/admin) and password. For this to function, Z-Way connects to the find.zwave.me server. This feature can be disabled in the Z-Way setup under 'Setup > Management > Remote Access'. If remote access is enabled, ensure port forwarding to port 8083 is configured on your router. All communication with the find.zwave.me server is encrypted.
Hardware Overview
The RaZberry shield features several key components:
- Raspberry Pi Connector: Utilizes GPIO pins 1-10 for connection.
- Second Open Connector: Identical to the primary connector.
- Reset Button: A short press and release initiates a service on port 8084 for updating Z-Way. Holding the button for 10 seconds performs a factory reset, erasing all Z-Wave chip settings and user-defined configurations, including the admin password.
- PigTail Antenna Hole: An opening for a pigtail antenna. The onboard PCBA antenna must be broken off to use this feature.
- uFL Connector Pads: Pads for soldering an uFL connector to attach an external antenna. Refer to adafruit.com/products/1661 for component details. The PCBA antenna must be broken off for this connection.
- LEDs: Two status LEDs are provided. The Red LED indicates Inclusion and Exclusion Mode, while the Green LED shows data transmission status.
SmartHome UI and Features
The 'SmartHome UI' provides a consistent interface across various devices like desktop PCs, smartphones, and tablets, adapting to screen sizes. It allows users to control devices and view sensor statuses.
Each function of a physical device is represented as a single Element. Devices with multiple functions (e.g., switching and metering) will generate multiple elements. All elements are listed in the Element View (labeled '3' in UI diagrams) and can be filtered by function type (switch, dimmer, sensor) or other criteria. Each element has a Configuration View (labeled '8') for renaming, hiding, or adjusting settings. Important elements can be added to the Dashboard (labeled '1'). Elements can also be organized by Rooms (labeled '2').
Changes in sensor values or switching statuses are recorded as Events and displayed in the Timeline (labeled '4'). Users can filter the timeline to monitor specific functions or devices.
Advanced functionalities such as time-triggered actions, internet data integration, and cross-technology scene plugins are managed through Apps. These are pre-built scripts or templates that extend the smart home network's capabilities with logic rules (IF-THEN), scene definitions, timers, and integration with external devices via USB dongles or the internet. New apps can be downloaded from an App Store, and users can create multiple instances of an app to customize functionality. Apps can generate new elements and events.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Z-Wave Transceiver | Sigma Designs ZM5202 |
| Wireless Range | Minimum 40 meters line of sight indoors |
| Self-Test | On power-on, both LEDs should illuminate for approximately 2 seconds then turn off. Failure indicates a defect. |
| Dimensions/Weight | 20 mm x 40 mm / 16 gr. |
| Display | Red LED: Inclusion and Exclusion Mode Green LED: Send Data Indication |
| Host Interface | TTL UART (3.3V) compatible to Raspberry Pi GPIO pins |
Frequency and Regional Compliance
The RaZberry can be adapted to local Z-Wave frequencies via the Z-Wave Experts UI (http://YOURIP:8083/expert, Network > Management). The SKU code determines the default frequency. It is crucial not to change frequencies outside the designated SKU code group.
- SKU: ZMEERAZ2 (865...869 MHz): Europe (EU) [default], India (IN), Russia (RU), Malaysia (MY), China (CN), RSA (EU), Middle East (EU)
- SKU: ZMEURAZ2 (908 ... 917 MHz): All America ex. Brasil and Peru (US) [default], Israel (ISL)
- SKU: ZMEARAZ2 (919 ... 921 MHz): Australia/NewZealand/Brazil/Peru (ANZ) [default], Hongkong (HK), Japan/Taiwan (JP), Korea (KR)
Regulatory Information
CE Declaration: Z-Wave.Me declares that the RaZberry2 complies with the essential requirements and provisions of Directive 1999/5/EG. The full declaration can be found at www.z-wave.me/ce.
FCC Statement: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) it may not cause harmful interference, and (2) it must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. The equipment has been tested and found to comply with Class B digital device limits, designed for reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. Users are advised to correct interference by reorienting antennas, increasing separation, or consulting a technician. Use of shielded cable is required for FCC Class B compliance. Unauthorized modifications may void operation rights.
Radiation Exposure Statement: This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits for an uncontrolled environment.
OEM Integration Instructions: The module has a LIMITED MODULAR APPROVAL and is intended for OEM integrators. It must be used as a single, non-colocated transmitter with the originally tested antenna(s). OEM integrators are responsible for ensuring their end-product meets all additional compliance requirements.
Contact: Z-Wave.Me, c/o Z-Wave Europe GmbH, Antonstr. 3, 09337 Hohenstein-Ernstthal, Germany.
