How to Set Up Your ConBee II USB Zigbee Gateway

15-20 minutes

What You'll Need

  • ConBee II USB Zigbee Gateway
  • USB extension cable (highly recommended)
  • Computer, Raspberry Pi, or NAS running deCONZ
  • Web browser for Phoscon App

Step-by-Step Setup

  1. Use USB Extension: Connect ConBee II to a USB extension cable, then to a USB 2.0 port. This reduces interference.
  2. Download deCONZ: Install the deCONZ software from phoscon.de for your operating system (Windows, Linux, Raspberry Pi, or Docker).
  3. Install Drivers (Windows): Drivers install automatically. If needed, manually update drivers from the deCONZ installation folder.
  4. Launch deCONZ: Start the deCONZ application. It will detect the ConBee II automatically.
  5. Open Phoscon App: Access the Phoscon web interface at http://phoscon.de/app or your local IP.
  6. Create Gateway: Follow the guided setup to configure your Zigbee gateway.
  7. Add Devices: Navigate to Devices and select "Add new device" to start pairing Zigbee devices.
  8. Put Devices in Pairing Mode: Follow each device's instructions to enter pairing mode.

Key Features

  • Universal Zigbee 3.0 coordinator
  • Compatible with 500+ Zigbee devices from various brands
  • Works with Home Assistant, openHAB, ioBroker, and more
  • Local control - no cloud required
  • Free Phoscon App for device management
  • Supports OTA firmware updates for devices

Troubleshooting

  • Interference issues: Always use a USB extension cable to move away from USB 3.0 ports and devices.
  • Device not pairing: Move device closer to ConBee II. Factory reset the device and try again.
  • Raspberry Pi issues: USB extension is especially important on Pi to avoid Wi-Fi/Bluetooth interference.
  • deCONZ not finding ConBee: Check Device Manager (Windows) or dmesg (Linux) to verify detection.
  • Firmware update: Update ConBee II firmware through deCONZ settings for latest compatibility.