Exploring the Hubitat Elevation C8 – A Smarter Hub for Your Smart Home
In the ever-evolving world of home automation, finding the right smart home hub is crucial for a seamless and connected experience. Hubitat, a key player in the smart home hub market, has recently unveiled its latest offering – the Hubitat Elevation C8. Whether you’re new to home automation, a current Hubitat owner, or contemplating a switch, this blog will delve into what makes the C8 Hub special.
Where to find the Hubitat Elevation C8
Understanding Hubitat and the C8 Hub
Hubitat serves as the central brain of a smart home, supporting Zigbee and Z-Wave devices while integrating with popular platforms like Alexa, Google Home, Philips Hue, and Lutron. The newly released C8 Hub introduces several key features aimed at enhancing user experience and addressing previous limitations.
1. Improved Antenna for Enhanced Range
One of the standout features of the C8 Hub is its improved antenna capabilities. Previous versions, notably the C5, faced range limitations due to an internal antenna. With the C8, users can expect improved connectivity and reliable performance at greater distances.
2. Built-in Wi-Fi for Flexibility
Unlike its predecessors, the C8 Hub comes equipped with built-in Wi-Fi, eliminating the need for a tethered Ethernet connection. This newfound flexibility allows users to position the hub based on their mesh network preferences rather than being constrained by router placement.
3. Z-Wave 800 Chipset for Better Performance
The C8 Hub incorporates the Z-Wave 800 chipset, promising better range and performance compared to the C7 Hub. This upgrade ensures a more robust and responsive smart home network.
4. Provisions for Future Capabilities
Hubitat has future-proofed the C8 by including provisions for upcoming technologies such as Matter, Zigbee version 3.0, and adjustable Zigbee power. This forward-looking approach ensures that users can stay ahead of the curve as new standards and capabilities emerge.
Range Comparison Test and Real-world Performance
To validate the improvements of the C8 Hub, the video conducts a range comparison test with its predecessor, the C7 Hub. Using Z-Wave and Zigbee devices, the C8 demonstrates significant advancements in range, providing reliable connections at greater distances. The results suggest that users can experience improved performance and connectivity with the C8 Hub.
Upgrading to the C8 Hub: A Seamless Transition
In a conversation with a Hubitat representative, the video explores the upgrade process from the C5 or C7 to the C8 Hub. The representative assures users that the migration process is free and straightforward, involving a backup from the old hub and restoration on the new hub. Importantly, this process supports the transfer of custom drivers and apps, ensuring a smooth transition without the hassle of reconfiguring the entire setup.
Future-proofing and Connectivity
The introduction of Wi-Fi connectivity in the C8 Hub is highlighted, providing users with the freedom to position the hub according to their preferences. The representative assures users that the upgrade process is expected to remain free, and future firmware and platform updates will be accessible to C8 Hub owners.
Conclusion: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
In conclusion, the Hubitat Elevation C8 appears to be a compelling upgrade for users experiencing network performance issues. The enhanced antennas, Wi-Fi connectivity, and support for future technologies make it a worthwhile investment. The seamless migration process ensures that users can enjoy the benefits of the C8 Hub without the complexities of a time-consuming upgrade.
As technology continues to evolve, Hubitat remains committed to providing users with smart home solutions that adapt to the ever-changing landscape. Whether you’re a smart home enthusiast or just exploring the possibilities, the Hubitat Elevation C8 is worth considering for a smarter, more connected home.