Earlier this month Home Assistant announced that they would soon be releasing their next piece of hardware and anticipation has been building ever since. Today the wait has come to an end, and we’re excited to share in the release of Home Assistant’s new device, the Home Assistant Connect ZBT-2.
Home Assistant’s latest hardware release is built on the second-generation Connect platform and is a major upgrade over the ZBT-1, Home Assistant’s first-generation adapter. In this blog we’ll share details on the functionality of the ZBT-2, as well as some new features that make it an improvement over the ZBT-1. We’ll also lay out how you can get started if you’re new to Home Assistant.
Why the ZBT-2 Matters
The Connect ZBT-2 serves as the connection point between your Home Assistant hub and Zigbee or Thread devices. Simply plug the antenna into your hub and connect it to Home Assistant to instantly enable Zigbee or Thread functionality on your hub. With the ZBT-2 you don’t have to worry about having extra logins or hidden fees, and because it controls your devices locally your privacy is protected. The Connect ZBT-1 served Home Assistant users well for many years, and now with the ZBT-2 the easiest way to start with Zigbee or Thread just got even better.
What’s the Difference Between the ZBT-1 and ZBT-2
The Connect ZBT-2 has a variety of new features that makes it more powerful than the first-generation adapter. One of these new features is the updated Zigbee and Thread chip (MG24) which allows for improved performance and rock-solid stability. The device also features a large external antenna, which allows it to provide the best possible connection to Zigbee or Thread devices. Responsiveness has also been improved, with some tests showing communication times are up to four times faster than the Connect ZBT-1. If you’re looking for better responsiveness, higher performance, and strong stability, then the Connect ZBT-2 is worth the upgrade.
What You Need to Get Started
- A Home Assistant hub, such as the Home Assistant Green
- The Home Assistant Connect ZBT-2
- Zigbee and Thread devices to round out your smart home, such as smart plugs and sensors
After you’ve added the ZBT-2 to your Home Assistant setup you can begin to add your Zigbee and Thread devices using the Zigbee Home Automation integration. Once your devices are added, you can create automations to control devices in your home or alert you if something is awry.
Upgrade to the ZBT-2 for the Next Generation Experience
Whether you’re looking to upgrade from the ZBT-1, or if you’re just getting started with Home Assistant, the ZBT-2 is the easiest way to get started with Zigbee or Thread. Between the large external antenna and the updated chipset, the ZBT-2 will provide you with a noticeable performance difference on day one. Its plug-and-play design allows you to seamlessly migrate your Zigbee or Thread network, or you can start a new network in minutes. All of these features are wrapped up in the compact antenna, which will blend in seamlessly with your home. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, if you’re looking for a Zigbee radio that’s fast, reliable, and locally controlled then look no further than the Connect ZBT-2.