I wanted to share my experience in improving Z-Wave signal strength in my home, which has thick concrete and double-brick walls. After struggling with unreliable reception and relying on multiple repeaters, I decided to take a more proactive approach by modifying a Z-Wave stick to include an external antenna. Here’s what I did:
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Exposing the Internal Antenna: I carefully removed the plastic cover of the Z-Wave stick and scraped back the top layer to expose the copper of the internal antenna near a specific point labeled ‘L7’.
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Soldering the SMA Connector: I soldered the center pin of an SMA connector to the exposed copper, ensuring a secure connection. I also connected a bit of wire from the ground to a leg of the SMA connector for stability.
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Securing the Connector: Using epoxy, I glued the SMA connector to the main board to prevent any movement that could weaken the solder joints.
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Adding an External Antenna: Finally, I attached a suitable external antenna, which significantly boosted the Z-Wave signal strength and reliability throughout my home.
This modification allowed me to place the Z-Wave controller in a more practical location without compromising on signal quality. I’m now able to control all my Z-Wave devices seamlessly, which has greatly enhanced my smart home experience.
If anyone else is dealing with similar signal issues, I highly recommend considering this DIY approach. It’s a bit technical, but the results are well worth the effort!