What Is the Range Extender ZAC38 and What Does It Do?
The Range Extender ZAC38 from ZOOZ is a plug-in Z-Wave signal repeater designed to boost and extend the range of Z-Wave networks in smart homes. It solves the problem of weak signals reaching distant or obstructed devices, such as outdoor sensors or those behind thick walls, by repeating and amplifying Z-Wave messages across the mesh network. Commonly used by plugging it into a standard outlet near problematic areas, it supports all generations of Z-Wave devices and includes a built-in backup battery for reporting power outages to compatible hubs. The device uses an 800 series Z-Wave chip for improved range up to 400 feet line of sight and features S2 authenticated security with SmartStart for enhanced protection. It operates at 908.42 MHz in North America on 120V AC power and works indoors only.
What Does the Range Extender ZAC38 Work With? (Compatibility and Integrations)
The ZAC38 works directly with any Z-Wave hub as a signal repeater, starting to boost the network upon inclusion, even if it displays as unknown or unsupported. Full advanced features like power outage reports require open Z-Wave systems such as Z-Box Hub, Home Assistant with Z-Wave JS, Hubitat, or HomeSeer. It integrates indirectly with SmartThings via a custom edge driver from Zooz supporting advanced settings. No native voice assistant support exists; compatibility depends on the hub’s integration with Alexa, Google Home, or others. Behavior is local via the Z-Wave mesh, with no cloud dependency. Limitations include needing a Z-Wave hub, indoor use only, and hub-specific support for outage notifications.
Does the Range Extender ZAC38 Work With Home Assistant?
Yes, the ZAC38 works with Home Assistant via the Z-Wave JS integration. It operates locally as part of the Z-Wave mesh network. Functionality exposed includes signal repeating, with power outage reports available if Z-Wave JS supports the advanced features.