Recommendation for roller shutters

Hardware
1

I installed 2-channel Sainsmart relays in my motorized roller shutters, and I were controlling them with a software I developed for Android Things. But now I’m switching to HomeAssistant, and I’m wondering if I can use my relays with it, to control my roller shutters.

I want to use sliders in HA to control my shutters (so I can open or close a precent), and also use my wall switches. If there is not a component ready for that, I can replace my relays for anything else. What do you recommend me? I see that “Fibaro roller shutter” is a popular device, it’s ready for use using the z-wave component?

1 Like
2

The cheapest solution would probably be adding MQTT support to your Android Things program, so then it would be possible to integrate it into homeassistant through the MQTT cover component, but the Fibaro roller shutter would be an overall easier solution (HASS has built-in support for it via openzwave. Anything that’s on this page is supported, however the two most useful platforms (in my opinion) are MQTT and Z-wave, since I think they’re the most customizable ones.

3

Thank you @TheAK. I forgot to say that HA will replace my current Android Things setup (I think there is no need to have 2 Raspberry’s running).

The problem I see using relays connected to GPIO pins is that it seems that there is no a HA component that tracks shutter position by time, so I can’t say “pull up the shutter at 50%”… Do you know if can I do it with Fibaro and HA z-wave shutter component?

4

I’ve checked their shutter module’s manual and there is a calibration process involved, so it’s possible to track shutter position by time. However, this module only supports single-phase AC motors, so that might be an issue if you have a DC motor installed.

EDIT: Oh, and HASS supports setting shutters to a certain position as long as the actual hardware supports it.

5

Thank you! I have AC motors. I think it will be the easiest and most “elegant” solution :slight_smile:

6

Which USB dongle for the raspberry pi do you recommend to control Fibaro devices?

7

I would recommend you the (quite widely used within the HASS community) Aeotec Z Stick (gen5), however there are several more that were tested by others and reliably work with home assistant here. As far as I know, most zwave usb sticks (and even some gpio modules) should be compatible with Hass. For controlling fibaro devices, anything compatible with zwave plus (plus is better - longer range etc) should work with fibaro devices.

8

Thanks again @TheAK !

1 Like
9

The Fibaro buttons don’t currently work with HA I think so beware buying any atm.

10

is it still broken? i am in the process to automate all my cover.

11

I bought 10 Fibaro Roller Shutter 2 for all my roller shutters, and it’s working perfectly.

2 Likes
12

Glad to hear that! Are you using them with the Z-stick?

13

Yes. With an Aeotec Z Stick (gen5) as you recommended me :slight_smile:

1 Like
14

is it possible to set a specific level? or only full open\full close?

15

You can set a specific level

16

nice to hear, the only bad side is the cost per unit…

17

Yes, it’s not cheap. But it works like a charm!

18

Thanks a lot - i will go for the same setup!

19

Hi Sviudes

I am testing right now Roller Shutter3 - with a somfy ILMO2 - The ilmo is plug and play and identifies by its own the up and down end.
I am struggling with calibration and I am struggling with positioning of the blind.
Can you help me how you have done it?
thilo

20

Hello.

Calibration is done only 1 time, and then home assistant will work with it, and it will be able to select any position you want. Is not working for you?