ConBee II/III USB dongles enable Zigbee coordination for Home Assistant and other platforms. This guide covers common issues.
ConBee Not Detected
USB connection issues:
- USB port: Use USB 2.0 port - USB 3.0 causes interference
- Extension cable: Use USB extension to move away from computer/Pi
- Power: Ensure adequate USB power - try powered hub
- Driver: Check that USB serial driver is loaded
- Permissions: User may need dialout group access on Linux
Devices Won't Pair
Zigbee pairing issues:
- Permit join: Enable permit join in deCONZ or ZHA
- Reset device: Factory reset the Zigbee device before pairing
- Close proximity: Pair devices close to ConBee initially
- Channel: Avoid Zigbee channels that overlap with WiFi
- Firmware: Update ConBee firmware if having issues
deCONZ vs ZHA
Choosing your software:
- deCONZ: Phoscon's software with GUI - runs as add-on or standalone
- ZHA: Home Assistant native Zigbee integration
- Migration: Can migrate from deCONZ to ZHA but requires re-pairing
- Device support: Both have good device support - ZHA generally broader
Devices Go Offline
Zigbee mesh issues:
- USB interference: Move ConBee away from USB 3.0 ports and devices
- Mesh health: Add mains-powered devices (plugs) as routers
- Router placement: Distribute routers throughout home
- Battery devices: Keep close to routers or add more routers
- Channel change: Try different Zigbee channel if interference suspected
Firmware Updates
Keeping ConBee updated:
- GCFFlasher: Use deCONZ's GCFFlasher tool to update
- Backup first: Export network backup before updating
- Stable firmware: Stick to stable releases unless troubleshooting
- ConBee III: Uses different update process than ConBee II
Performance Optimization
Getting the most from ConBee:
- Dedicated coordinator: Use ConBee only as coordinator, not for other USB tasks
- Antenna: ConBee III has external antenna option
- Location: Central location helps reach all devices
- Reduce polling: Don't poll battery devices too frequently