USB Z-Wave dongle on Almond+?

[mr_tom]

Hey folks,

I have an Almond+ with Z-Wave running on the Australian frequency. I'd like to use ZWave components from the US. (Specifically the Aeon Labs Heavy Duty power switch).

Will the USB Z-Wave dongle[1] for the Almond3 work with the Almond+?

Failing that, are there other options to add Z-Wave cross-region compatibility?

[1] https://www.amazon.com/Securifi-Z-Wave-USB-dongle-Compatible/dp/B01LAX97K4

[cswilly]

Using Z-Wave components from the USA will surely break an Australian law regulating which frequencies can be used for what. This is why Securifi cannot sell a USA Almond in Australia.

[mr_tom]

Anyone from Securifi able to comment?

[fillibar]

Securifi cannot provide or recommend using a dongle for a device that is out of compliance for the particular region. That would (in every case I have heard about) be illegal and would potentially make them liable.

I would not recommend using a dongle outside of the allowed frequencies. Depending on the country some are very vigilant on monitoring for discrepancies and punishment can get expensive.

[mr_tom]

Right, so what are my options when I move to the US and take my almond+ with me? Do I just need to junk it and buy a new one?

[fillibar]

You could still use it as a router... But to my knowledge you would "legally" not be able to use the Z-Wave functionality. The FCC can crack down on people oddly. Although in such a case it would likely lead to a warning for a first time offender that was not really harming anyone. Repeats, of if it really interfered with other stuff...

IMO, easier to find one on eBay. If you contact Securifi directly by email or phone maybe they can work a trade in (no idea, but it would not hurt to try)? Also, I just noted that the Almond Guard page indicates they will have a trade in credit program (bottom of the page). Not sure when that will be released and when you might be moving though.