How to Set Up Your Home Assistant SkyConnect

15-20 minutes

What You'll Need

  • Home Assistant SkyConnect (Connect ZBT-1)
  • Home Assistant installation (OS, Supervised, or Container)
  • USB extension cable (included - important!)
  • Computer or device running Home Assistant

Step-by-Step Setup

  1. Use USB Extension: Connect the SkyConnect to the included USB extension cable. This is crucial to avoid USB 3.0 interference.
  2. Connect to Home Assistant: Plug the USB extension into a USB 2.0 port on your Home Assistant device.
  3. Auto-Discovery: Go to Settings > Devices & Services. The SkyConnect should be automatically discovered.
  4. Add Device: Click "Add" when the SkyConnect appears in discovered devices.
  5. Choose Zigbee Mode: Select "Use as Zigbee adapter" in the dialog.
  6. Select Installation Type: Choose "Recommended installation" for ZHA, or "Custom" for Zigbee2MQTT.
  7. Form Network: ZHA will create a new Zigbee network automatically.
  8. Add Zigbee Devices: Select "Add devices via this device" to start pairing Zigbee devices.

Key Features

  • Zigbee 3.0 coordinator for Home Assistant
  • Thread support (can switch firmware)
  • Works with ZHA or Zigbee2MQTT
  • Supports migrating existing Zigbee networks
  • Compact USB stick design
  • Silicon Labs EFR32MG21 chip

Troubleshooting

  • Pairing issues: Always use the included USB extension cable. USB 3.0 ports cause interference with 2.4GHz.
  • Wrong firmware message: SkyConnect may need firmware update. Follow the repair instructions in Home Assistant.
  • Device not discovered: For Container installations, ensure the USB device is mapped to the container.
  • Devices dropping: Move SkyConnect away from USB 3.0 devices and ports using the extension cable.
  • Switch to Thread: Use the Home Assistant SkyConnect firmware update tool to change protocols.