Box for raspberrypi + z-wave stick

Setup, Configuration and Use Beginners
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1

Dear Community,

Regarding raspberrypi + z-wave stick place:

  • I am thinking to have metallic box to include the raspberry pi + z-wave stick, box with wholes and the glass door (same as the internet modem box).
  • And on box side, set of classic switches (which can be turned to choose the action on/off), these to enable/disable automation of light,AC,…
    as there is no wifi (so I can not rely on user interface to enable/disable some function)

So, from your experience may I ask:

  • Will the z-wave signal have issue because the z-wave stick will be inside metallic box with glass door ?
  • What about the ventilation, do you think there will be problem ?
  • Also, for manual switches, can I/O pins of raspberrypi be included with openHab ?
2

Could you please advice me ?

3

Yes, metallic objects can reduce the range of the radio transmission. I would not recommend that. It depends however on you local circumstances (large house or small flat). I noticed in my new house that the thick concrete floors were a problem for the Z-Wave transmission. So I am using now 3 Z-Wave-Sticks (one situated on every floor) which communicate with the OH-Server via USB over IP.

As I am using a Windows machine for OH I cannot give any advice for your other questions.

4

I second the advice about the metallic box. It will create a faraday cage. Look it up.
Radio wave CANNOT go though metal.

Yes, with the GPIO binding

5

Do you think plastic box can be ok ?

Also what is the alternative of using z-wave usb stick (because if usb removed the system will be down, especially if you have kids)?

6

Plastic box will be fine
You can use the Razberry HAT (A zwave HAT for the pi)

7

Can you tell me what device you are using for usb over ip ?
And is it better than repeater ?

8

What is the recommended brand with suitable price. And does it fit with raspberrypi case ?

9

For the case or the HAT?

10

For the HAT see:
https://z-wave.me/products/razberry/

The price will depend on your country. Have a google.

For the case, search for a case for pi with HAT.

11

Thanks. What about the range using razberry compared to range using usb stick (uzb or aeon)?