I'm testing the Sonoff MINI DUO Zigbee MINI-ZB2GS

Compact 16A double relay for my lights

The Sonoff MINI DUO Zigbee (reference MINI-ZB2GS) is a Zigbee 3.0 dual relay micro-module with neutral, designed to fit behind a standard wall switch and drive two circuits up to a total of 16A.

MINI DUO Zigbee: why I'm testing it

I was looking for a Zigbee Dual Relay Micro Module capable of controlling two lighting circuits while remaining very compact, to be installed behind an existing switch. The Sonoff MINI DUO Zigbee (MINI-ZB2GS) promises 10A per channel, 16A in total, true Zigbee repeater mode and simple integration into modern Zigbee ecosystems.

Perfect for managing the kitchen and living room, the two switches are next to each other, with the neutral and a common phase.

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I'm testing the Frient Door/Window sensor, WISZB range

🔍 I check the received model

I start my test with the Frient Entry Sensor Pro with the reference WISZB-120, a Zigbee 3.0 sensor designed to accurately detect the opening of doors and windows in a home automation installation.

This model made by Develco for Frient is distinguished by its high-precision temperature sensor and anti-sabotage tamper switch, features that I particularly like to enhance the security of my home.

To contextualize, I compare with the WISZB-121 basic version without temperature or tamper, and the WISZB-131 Entry Sensor 2 Pro which offers the temperature but omits the physical tamper, where the original Pro remains the favorite for its complete balance. It is difficult to choose your model for purchase, often only one model is offered. Read More

I'm testing the Zigbee We A7Z plug

🎯 My objectives

I want to remotely control the devices. I have chosen the Connected plug US A7Z 16A with consumption measurement. It integrates seamlessly with my Zigbee2MQTT network and Home Assistant for reliable automation.

🔍 I check the received model

  • On the technical sheet : WE A7Z
  • On the carton : WE A7Z clearly visible
  • Type of equipment : Connected plug sector
  • Protocol : Zigbee 3.0
  • Power supply : 230V 50/60Hz
  • Intended installation : Standard wall socket
  • Measuring ranges : Power up to 3680W, current, voltage, energy
  • Dimensions / IP : 50x56x83 mm / IP20

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How to avoid unwanted Alexa notifications with the Home Assistant Scheduler?

4:32, Saturday morning. An announcement in the 6 Alexa of the house tears up the silence: It's starting to rain! Alexa, just woke up the whole house. I am not telling you the atmosphere at breakfast. Great start to the weekend.

The cause? My rain sensor ZG-223Z had detected a few drops at 4:25 a.m., and my automation had triggered an Alexa ad without thinking about the time.

I wanted a solution simple, native Home Assistant to say: ‘ You announce ONLY between 9am and 9:30pm on weekdays, 10am-10pm on weekends. After testing input_datetime, multiple automations and complex scripts, I discovered THE Planner. 5 minutes of config, and never again of untimely awakening.

I tell you my entire journey, step by step, exactly as I did. Read More

I create 24V multi-coloured ambient lighting

I turn my living room into a bright cocoon with a RGBCCT 24V Gledopto LED ribbon. I use the remote control GL-RC-009, the ribbon LEDS-24V-RGBCCT the Zigbee Controller GL-C-601P. This high-end combo offers endless colors, tunable whites and dynamic effects for a perfect everyday atmosphere. Simple installation for beginners, integration Zigbee2MQTT and Home Assistant at the top.

🎯 My objectives

I decided to go high-end in advanced lighting: infinite RGB colors, tunable white 2700K-6500K, dynamic effects, multiple areas. Obviously, there is cheaper and less efficient, but it does not play much. Note that the controller can control less efficient headbands (5 in 1).

This Gledopto combo responds perfectly: Reliable Zigbee, superb lighting quality, RF for remote control.

I wanted a scalable system for my living room, wirelessly controllable and integrated into my home automation. Read More

I'm testing the rain detector ZG-223Z

I need to monitor the rain around my house to protect my laundry, my blinds and my watering. So I chose the Zigbee rain sensor ZG-223Z, a small module that detects rain and measures illumination. Its big interest is to operate locally via Zigbee2MQTT, without depending on a cloud weather service or a full weather station.

🎯 My objectives

I just want to know if it is really raining at home, not 20 km away, and use this info in my home automation scenarios. My goal is to cut off the watering as soon as it rains, automatically close some openings, and receive an alert if a shower arrives while the laundry is drying outside. The ZG-223Z promises a binary “it's raining / it's not raining” return and brightness measurement, perfect for reliable automations. Read More