SmartHome – HM components (instructions)

Updated - October 21, 2025

Devices from e3 GmbH are widely used in the smart home sector. There are Homematic and Homematic IP Devices.

The difference lies in the communication between the devices. Homematic IP components work as transmitters, receivers and relays for neighboring devices. However, this only works in close proximity to each other. Larger radio ranges are therefore possible - without additional Homematic Access Points (HAP) - not feasible.
The access points can also be converted into a LAN-connected gateway using special firmware, which minimizes reception problems.

In addition, the Homematic IP components are no longer available after a power failure or restart of the alarm panel. Even after days or weeks, they will not reconnect to the control panel on their own. The only way out is to remove the batteries, wait just under a minute and then reinsert them. Anyone who has installed a number of devices will be anything but enthusiastic and will look for alternatives, but unfortunately to no avail.

Standard Homematic devices are increasingly no longer available, even though they had none of these unpleasant limitations. What prompted eQ3 to opt for the IP version remains questionable. Perhaps it was lower production costs. In any case, there are no technical advantages to the technology - in my opinion.
Here, it is / was possible to bridge almost unlimited distances in an uncomplicated and error-free manner. These can be so-called gateways, which are available from Homematic in addition to the usual central control unit (CCU), but which can also be implemented as a RaspberryPi variant.

Of course, every device comes with an operating manual. However, the small brochures are rarely at hand when you need them. That's why I've written a summary of the most common components and here made available.

They include the procedure for registering with a control center (regardless of whether it is a CCU or Raspberry Pi) and replacing the battery.