FAQ
TL;DR: On Debian+Domoticz, use Zigbee2MQTT with the Sonoff Zigbee 3.0; defaults allow 21 direct children and 40 total, and it’s “Pre-flashed with Z-Stack 3.x.0.” This dongle also supports ZHA in Home Assistant. [Elektroda, Michal8883, post #20013181]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps Debian/Domoticz users quickly get a stable, hub-free Zigbee network running with a proven USB coordinator.
Quick Facts
- Sonoff Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle Plus: TI CC2652P + CP2102N, +20 dBm, SMA antenna, pre-flashed Z-Stack 3.x.0, supports ZHA/Zigbee2MQTT. [Elektroda, Michal8883, post #20013181]
- Default coordinator limits: 21 direct children, up to 40 total; more possible with configuration/updated firmware. [Elektroda, Michal8883, post #20013181]
- Domoticz integrates Zigbee via Zigbee2MQTT and an MQTT broker using the community plugin. [“Zigbee2MQTT”]
- Practical host picks: “Preferably RPI4 or penny terminal e.g. Wyse”; RPi4 4GB confirmed working. [Elektroda, pitron, post #20022177]
- Field note: Some CC2531 sticks arrive faulty; ConBee often preferred despite higher cost. [Elektroda, pitron, post #20022177]
How do I install the Sonoff Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle Plus on Debian for Domoticz?
Use Zigbee2MQTT with the Domoticz plugin.
- Install Zigbee2MQTT and an MQTT broker (e.g., Mosquitto).
- Set the dongle serial path in Zigbee2MQTT config.
- Install the Domoticz Zigbee2MQTT plugin and connect it to your broker.
This flow exposes Zigbee devices in Domoticz with minimal overhead. [“Zigbee2MQTT”]
Which serial device path should I use on Debian?
Use a stable by-id path to avoid port changes after reboots. Run: ls -l /dev/serial/by-id and copy the full path. Put that into Zigbee2MQTT’s serial configuration. This prevents issues when /dev/ttyUSB numbers shift. [“Running Zigbee2MQTT”]
ZHA or Zigbee2MQTT — what’s best for this dongle?
Both work. ZHA integrates directly with Home Assistant, while Zigbee2MQTT supports Domoticz and HA. “Can use ZHA in Home Assistant or use Zigbee2MQTT.” Pick Zigbee2MQTT for Domoticz; pick ZHA for simpler HA setups. [Elektroda, Michal8883, post #20013181]
How many devices can I connect to the Sonoff Zigbee dongle?
Defaults allow 21 direct children and up to 40 total children on the coordinator firmware. You can raise limits with configuration and firmware choices. Add Zigbee routers to expand the network further. This is sufficient for many small to mid homes. [Elektroda, Michal8883, post #20013181]
Why don’t I see Home Assistant Supervisor in my VirtualBox install?
Supervisor appears only in Home Assistant OS or Supervised installs. If you installed HA Core or HA Container, Supervisor will be absent. In VirtualBox, use the Home Assistant OS image to get Supervisor. This is an installation-method choice, not a bug. [“Installation - Home Assistant”]
Should I run Home Assistant in Docker or a VM for Zigbee?
Docker runs Home Assistant Container without Supervisor. VM with Home Assistant OS includes Supervisor and Add-ons. Choose Docker if you want manual control; choose HA OS if you want managed updates. Match your choice to required features and simplicity. [“Installation - Home Assistant”]
Does the Sonoff dongle need firmware flashing?
No for typical use. It comes pre-flashed with Z-Stack 3.x.0 coordinator firmware. Plug it in and configure your stack (Zigbee2MQTT or ZHA). Flash only if you need a newer build or router mode. This simplifies first-time setup greatly. [Elektroda, Michal8883, post #20013181]
How can I improve Zigbee range and reduce interference?
Use the external SMA antenna and a USB extension to move the stick away from noisy gear. The dongle delivers up to +20 dBm output. Its aluminum housing helps reduce peripheral interference. A 1.5 m USB extension is recommended for better placement. [Elektroda, Michal8883, post #20013181]
Can the Sonoff dongle act as a Zigbee router instead of a coordinator?
Yes. Flash router firmware and it will extend your Zigbee network coverage. This is useful when you already have a coordinator. “Users can also flash the router software themselves.” Follow router-flash instructions for your chosen firmware. [Elektroda, szaryczlowiek831, post #20013184]
What host hardware is recommended for 24/7 reliability?
Raspberry Pi 4 or a thin client works well and sips power. A poster runs RPI4 4GB successfully with Zigbee and HA. “Preferably RPI4 or penny terminal e.g. Wyse.” Availability fluctuates, so consider refurbished thin clients if Pis are scarce. [Elektroda, pitron, post #20022177]
My CC2531 dongle is flaky. Should I switch to something else?
Some CC2531 units arrive faulty, so testing another stick often helps. Many users prefer ConBee for reliability, but it costs more. “The best is conbee.” The Sonoff CC2652P-based stick offers strong performance and wide support as a middle ground. [Elektroda, pitron, post #20022177]
Will Sonoff SNZB sensors, ZBMINI and similar devices work here?
Yes. The dongle supports wide device ranges including BASICZBR3, S31 Lite zb, SNZB01/02/03/04, ZBMINI, and more. Pair through Zigbee2MQTT or ZHA depending on platform. This ensures broad compatibility without brand hubs. Coverage grows further when adding routers. [Elektroda, Michal8883, post #20013181]
