How Our Smart Wireless Technology Works
Zigbee Wireless Technology
Our smart devices utilize Zigbee technology to establish their own network. The Aihome Aqara Smart Hub functions as a “Zigbee router,” creating a dedicated wireless network that seamlessly connects all Aqara devices.
Below is a simplified diagram illustrating the setup of our Aqara devices.
In this case, our Aqara G2H Pro works as a hub – meaning all the other Aihome Aqara devices are linked to it by Zigbee wireless. The Smart switch, in turn, is controlling the circuit to power a light fixture on and off. As all the devices are linked to the hub, the hub can now then send and receive commands to each smart device.
The smart hub connects to your home’s wifi network, provided by your existing router. This enables you to use your smart phone (also connected to home wifi) to access and configure the settings of your smart devices.
For example, you can use your phone to set an automation:
IF Motion is detected, turn ON Wall Switch
Now, when the Aihome Aqara Motion Sensor detects motion, it reports this to the Hub. Because of the automation you have set, the hub then sends a command to the Smart wall switch to turn ON.
Similarly, since your phone is connected to the Hub by wifi, you can use the app to turn the light on and off. Your phone sends the command over your home’s wifi network to the hub. The hub then sends the command to the wall switch, by Zigbee.
Multiple Smart Hubs
As a wireless technology, Zigbee has a limited range. This means that smart devices located far from your smart hub may not be able to connect and function properly. In such cases, an additional smart hub is needed in the vicinity.
This setup involves having two Zigbee routers, each creating its own Zigbee network. Your smart devices will need to be configured to connect to the nearest hub.
However, this does not mean you will have two separate smart home systems. Since both hubs connect to your home Wi-Fi, they can communicate with each other, integrating into a single cohesive smart home system.
Here is a simple diagram illustrating two hubs within one home.
Although the two hubs appear to be separate, they are part of a unified system. There is no “master hub” or “secondary hub”—all hubs work together seamlessly and automatically. Devices connected to either hub can communicate with each other, enabling integrated functionality.
For instance, you can set up an automation:
IF Wireless Mini Switch is pressed, turn ON Smart Wall Switch 1 and turn ON Smart Wall Switch 2.
Upon one press of the Aqara Wireless Mini Switch, both lights then turn on – even though they’re connected to different hubs.
What about more hubs and devices?
Here’s what makes our system and devices revolutionary – they’re modular. You can have as few or as many smart hubs and devices as you need. Whether you start with just one hub and one switch or expand to 10 hubs and 100 devices, our system can easily accommodate your needs. This scalability is particularly advantageous for larger homes, which often require numerous devices. Moreover, you don’t have to set everything up at once – begin with your bedroom and gradually expand into other areas like your kitchen and living room. Our system allows you to add hubs and devices to your network at your own pace, offering a flexible and personalized smart home experience.
What about smart devices that don’t need a hub?
There are smart devices on the market that connect directly to your home Wi-Fi, eliminating the need for a hub. This approach simplifies the integration of smart devices into your home and can save you the cost of purchasing a smart hub.
However, this setup is best suited for homes with a limited number of smart devices. Each Wi-Fi-direct device adds load to your home network and router, potentially affecting overall performance. For homes planning to adopt a large number of smart devices, a hub-based system is more efficient and scalable.
Why pick Aihome Hubs?
Our smart home hubs offer the dual benefits of functioning as Zigbee routers while also serving additional, fully-fledged purposes. Unlike many other smart hubs on the market that serve solely as connectivity points, our Aqara hubs integrate multiple features into a single product. We recognize that investing in a hub may not always seem justified. That’s why our hubs are designed to deliver more than just network connectivity, providing enhanced functionalities to maximize your investment.
How to Choose a Hub?
We have five hubs to choose from, and choosing is basically selecting which additional function suits your needs. Check our guide on how to choose a hub for detailed information!
Our Range of Hubs
Aqara M2 Hub
Smart air-conditioning and fan controller that doubles as a smart home hub for Aihome Aqara devices.
RM349.00
The Aihome Aqara M2 Hub is both a smart hub and a smart air-con controller. With its 360 degree IR emitter, the M2 Hub can be used to control and automate your IR appliances, such as air-conditioners, fans, and air purifiers. With the addition of our other Aqara sensors (which is easy to do since the M2 is a hub!), you can create even more automation controls. Just add a few more smart switches, and you already have a smart home.
Aqara G2H Pro Camera Hub
Smart, connected camera with motion detection and night vision capabilities. Compatible with the Aqara Home app, Apple HomeKit Secure Video, Google Home, and Alexa. Also functions as a hub for other Aqara smart devices.
RM399.00
Our Aqara G2H Pro camera hub is both a smart hub and a very capable home security camera. With its support for Apple HomeKit secure video, its strict focus on privacy, and its crystal clear video footage, it is already a default choice for many homeowners who do not even need a smart hub. For smart home owners, it becomes an easy choice.
Aqara G3 Camera Hub
Smart, connected camera with motion detection and night vision capabilities. Compatible with the Aqara Home app, Apple HomeKit Secure Video, Google Home, and Alexa. Also functions as a hub for other Aqara smart devices.
RM399.00
Our G3 Hub is the G2H’s big brother, with almost similar features, but also featuring pan and tilt controls, and local AI functions.
Aqara M1S Hub Gen 2
Night light and notification speaker that also works as an Aqara Smart Home Hub.
Aqara E1 Hub
Plug-and-play smart home hub that’s easy to find a place for; perfect for strengthening your smart home wireless network in weak spots.