Hi everyone, I’m diving into the world of smart lighting and wanted to share my experiences and thoughts. I’ve been exploring options to upgrade my home lighting system using Zigbee devices and integrating them with MQTT for more advanced control. Here’s what I’ve been thinking about and some questions I have for the community.
First, I’m really interested in using Zigbee devices because of their reliability and ability to work without constant internet connectivity. I’ve been looking at the Shelly line of products, specifically the Shelly 1 and Shelly RGBW2. They seem like great options for both direct and indirect lighting setups. However, I’m curious if anyone has experience with these devices in a more complex setup, like controlling multiple LED spots or integrating them with a transformer for low-voltage lighting.
One thing I’m unsure about is the best way to wire these devices. I’ve considered using Wago connectors to split the power supply and connect multiple LED spots or stripes. Does anyone have tips on ensuring a stable connection and proper power distribution? Also, I’m wondering about the compatibility of different LED strips with the Shelly RGBW2. Are there specific brands or models that work better with these controllers?
Another aspect I’m exploring is the integration with MQTT. I know MQTT is a great protocol for IoT devices, but I’m not entirely sure how to set it up for a home automation system. I’ve heard that tools like Node-RED can help bridge MQTT with Zigbee devices, but I’m not very familiar with the setup process. Are there any tutorials or guides that anyone would recommend for someone at my skill level?
I’m also thinking about the long-term maintenance and reliability of this setup. LED lighting can be sensitive, and I want to make sure that my system is robust enough to handle daily use without frequent issues. Has anyone experienced any problems with LED flickering or inconsistent color output when using Zigbee controllers? If so, how did you resolve them?
Lastly, I’m curious about the community’s thoughts on using Zigbee versus other protocols like Z-Wave for lighting control. Are there any significant advantages or disadvantages that I should be aware of before making a decision?
I’m really excited to get started on this project, but I want to make sure I’m making the right choices for my home. Any advice, recommendations, or shared experiences would be incredibly helpful. Looking forward to hearing from you all!