Hello everyone,
I’ve been on a quest to find a more affordable alternative to the expensive Fibaro door sensors I’ve been using. While they work well, the cost in the UK is quite high, so I started looking for a cheaper option that still offers reliable performance.
After some research, I stumbled upon the Foxx Project door/window sensors. These devices are not only more budget-friendly, typically costing between £15-£20, but they also seem to be reliable and compatible with both SmartThings and Hubitat when using the generic Z-Wave driver. Plus, they’re rebadged Aeon Labs devices, which adds to their credibility.
DIY Modification for Dry Contacts
I decided to modify one of these sensors to serve as a dry contact switch. The process was surprisingly straightforward:
- Opening the Sensor: With a small screwdriver, I gently pried open the device. It was easier than I expected!
- Accessing the Circuit Board: Inside, there’s a magnetic reed switch. These are easy to bridge, making it simple to solder wires onto the board without needing to go to the solder side.
- Adding Wires: I used thin gauge wire, which worked perfectly. Even my basic soldering skills managed to get the job done, though I recommend removing the batteries before soldering to avoid any意外.
- Closing the Case: The Foxx sensors have a design that makes it easy to add wires without damaging the enclosure. I carefully cut a small opening to feed the wires through, ensuring everything stayed secure.
Testing the Setup
Once everything was soldered and the case was back on, I tested the sensor. Connecting the wires resulted in the sensor showing as closed, and separating them showed it as open. The magnet still worked as usual, which was a nice bonus!
Driver Compatibility
I’ve also created a custom driver for these sensors, which allows them to function as switches in the Hubitat ecosystem. This driver supports both open and closed states, making it versatile for various automation scenarios. You can find the driver here.
Conclusion
This project has been a great way to save money while maintaining reliability. The Foxx sensors have proven to be a solid choice, and the ability to modify them for different uses adds to their value. I’m excited to continue exploring these sensors and their potential in my smart home setup.
If anyone has questions or suggestions, feel free to reach out! Happy DIY-ing! 