Is Smart Home Control Pushing Your Buttons?

Voice commands and phone apps get the job done when it comes to smart home control, but both options can be pretty frustrating at times. Smart speakers are notorious for mishearing spoken commands, which all too often turn a simple request to turn on a light into a shouting match. Phone apps are much more reliable, but you need to have your phone in your hand, unlock it, and open the app to use it. Why not just flip a switch at that point?

Those looking for another way to control their smart home devices might be interested in Thomas’ latest project. He has created a DIY 16-key macropad that is capable of Zigbee communication. It can easily be integrated into existing ecosystems like Home Assistant, and since it is powered by an ESP32-C6 microcontroller, it is completely customizable.

The current version of the device is powered by a NanoESP32C6-N8 development board, although Thomas is currently working to upgrade it to a Seeed Studio XIAO ESP32C6 with a smaller footprint. Mechanical switches are installed in a 3D-printed case, and a 1,000mAh rechargeable battery allows this macropad to be used anywhere without needing an electrical outlet.

The source code, 3D models, and schematics have all been released under a GPL-3.0 license. Go grab it all if you’d like to build your own Zigbee macropad.