Zipabox1 alternative backend

J_A_G shared this idea 16 months ago
Under Consideration

Hi. I bought the Zipabox1 because it didn't rely on internet connection. In the end, this didn't really play out since the rule-maker and the external triggers requires zipato web. Now when v2-system is to be shut down, did any alternatives appear? I understand that the v3 is not for me, but are there any alternative backend options for a Zipabox1?

Apparently there's nothing wrong with the hardware itself, so it would be sad to discard it as junk. I wouldn't mind hostning my own backend locally, but if nobody else did the reverse engineering effort already, I suppose the threshold is high and the users still on v2 now very few. Would Zipato opensource the protocol?

Replies (7)

photo
1

No reply, too bad.

I also wonder why this thread wasn't showing on my account activity.

photo
1

Has anyone an idea to run Zipatile with another Plattform?

photo
3

If you're looking for alternative backends or controllers for home automation, it would depend on your specific requirements and the devices you want to integrate. Here are some popular home bts height comparison automation platforms that you might consider:

  1. Home Assistant: An open-source platform that runs on various systems and has a large community. It supports a wide range of devices and has a flexible automation engine.
  2. OpenHAB: Another open-source home automation platform that is designed to be vendor-agnostic and supports a variety of devices.
  3. Domoticz: A lightweight and easy-to-use home automation system that supports a variety of devices and protocols.
  4. ioBroker: A home automation platform that integrates different systems and protocols, allowing you to control and monitor various devices in one interface.
  5. SmartThings: Samsung's smart home platform that supports a variety of devices and has a user-friendly interface.

Before choosing an alternative backend, it's essential to consider factors such as device compatibility, ease of use, community support, and any specific features you may need. Make sure to check the latest information and updates on these platforms, as the home automation landscape is continuously evolving.

photo
2

Hello,

I have had Zipato products for a LONG time, sadly they will never open their system to community... and I honestly think that decision will mean the eventual death of the platform.

photo
2

Hi everyone,


first - thanks to all of you!


I would line to be a bit more specific:

I only use Zigbee devices with my Zipatile. That works locally very good but due to server Issues I have no access from outside


As I do like the Zipatile optic I wonder if there are no skilled people to make Zipatile work with an other backend server so that commands from outside the house work?

photo
1

Hi! It’s frustrating when hardware like Zipabox1 becomes obsolete due to backend dependencies. Sadly, no open alternatives exist yet, and Zipato hasn’t open-sourced the protocol. Reverse engineering seems tough with few users left—almost as niche as finding a fr legends honda civic mod apk. Hopefully, someone steps up to keep it alive locally!

photo
1

Hello,

It appears you're in a difficult situation with your Zipabox1 due to the shutdown of the V2 cloud platform. Let's break down the situation and explore potential alternatives:

Current Situation:

You purchased the Zipabox1 with the understanding it wouldn't heavily rely on an internet connection.

However, key functionalities like the rule-maker and external triggers required the Zipato web platform (V2).

Zipato has announced the end-of-life for the V2 cloud platform, effective January 1, 2024.

After this date, V2 cloud services will no longer function, impacting features like remote access, app functionalities, device pairing, and rule creation/modification.

Zipabox1 cannot be migrated to the newer V3 platform.

Alternatives for your Zipabox1:

Unfortunately, the options for alternative backend support for the Zipabox1 seem limited, based on the available information:

No Official Alternative Backend: There's no indication from Zipato of an official alternative backend for the Zipabox1. The focus has been on migrating users to the V3 platform with newer hardware (Zipabox2 or Zipatile2).

Reverse Engineering and Local Hosting: You mentioned the possibility of hosting your own backend. While the hardware itself might be functional, this would require significant reverse engineering of the Zipato protocol. This is a complex undertaking, and there's no readily available evidence of a community-driven effort to create such a solution for Zipabox1. Given that the number of users still on V2 is likely decreasing, the incentive for such a large-scale community project might be low.

Open Sourcing the Protocol: You asked if Zipato would open-source the protocol. Based on past experiences and the lack of such an announcement, it seems unlikely that Zipato will open-source their protocol. Companies often keep their protocols proprietary for various business and technical reasons. One user on the Zipato support forum expressed a similar sentiment, stating they believe Zipato will never open their system to the community.

General Alternatives (Potentially Requiring New Hardware):

Since a direct backend alternative for your Zipabox1 is improbable, you might need to consider migrating to a different smart home platform. Here are some popular alternatives mentioned in the search results:

Home Assistant: An open-source platform that offers a high degree of flexibility, supports a vast range of devices, and has a large and active community. It can be run on various hardware, including Raspberry Pi. Home Assistant emphasizes local control and offers powerful automation capabilities.

OpenHAB: Another open-source home automation platform known for its vendor-agnostic approach and support for numerous devices and protocols. Similar to Home Assistant, it prioritizes local control.

Domoticz: A lightweight and user-friendly open-source home automation system that supports a wide variety of devices and protocols.

ioBroker: A platform that focuses on integrating different smart home systems and protocols into a single interface.

Homey: A user-friendly smart home hub that supports multiple protocols and has a straightforward automation interface called "Flows." There was even a trade-in promotion from Homey for Zipato users in the past.

SmartThings (Samsung): A more commercially oriented platform with a user-friendly interface and broad device compatibility. However, it relies on its cloud infrastructure.

Key Considerations When Choosing an Alternative Platform:

Device Compatibility: Ensure the new platform supports the smart devices you currently own (e.g., Z-Wave, Zigbee, Wi-Fi devices). The Zipabox1 had modular expansion capabilities for different protocols, so you'll need to verify if your devices are compatible with the new hub's supported protocols.

Local Control vs. Cloud Dependency: If your primary concern is local control and not relying on the internet, prioritize platforms like Home Assistant, OpenHAB, or Domoticz, which can function primarily locally.

Ease of Use: Consider your technical comfort level. Some platforms like Home Assistant offer immense flexibility but can have a steeper learning curve than more user-friendly options like Homey.

Automation Capabilities: Evaluate the platform's rule engine or automation tools to ensure they meet your needs. You mentioned the Zipato Rule Creator, so look for a platform with similar or more powerful automation features (e.g., Home Assistant's Node-RED integration or Homey Flows).

Community Support: A strong community can be invaluable for troubleshooting, finding integrations, and getting help with the platform.

Regarding your Zipabox1 Hardware:

It's understandable that you don't want to discard the hardware. However, without official or community-driven backend support, its functionality as a smart home hub will be severely limited after the V2 platform shutdown. It might be possible that some basic local control of directly associated devices (if any) might still function, but the core smart automation features you relied on will likely cease to work.

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission

Leave a Comment
 
Attach a file