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2. Hardware Overview

SMHUB is a Linux-based modular hub designed to unify connectivity, automation, and control across multiple smart home and IoT standards. Its hardware architecture combines high-performance networking, multiple radios, built-in peripherals, and modular power options.

2.1 Core System

  • Processor: 2 separate cores: 1GHz + 700MHz (
    C906@1GHz (for Linux) + C906@700MHz (for RTOS)).

  • NPU (Neural Processing Unit): 0.5 TOPS@INT8TOPS@INT8.

  • Memory: 512 MB RAM.

  • Storage: Onboard eMMC storage plus microSD slot for expansion.

  • Operating System: Embedded Linux with Node.js runtime, supporting smart applications such as Zigbee2MQTT, Matterbridge, Node-RED, and custom Node.js/Python services.

2.2 Networking

  • Ethernet: Integrated RJ-45 port for wired backbone connectivity.

  • Wi-Fi:

    • Dual-band 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz support.

    • Can operate in Access Point mode or Client mode.

    • CLI setup available, with web UI configuration in development.

  • Bluetooth:

    • Bluetooth 5.0 compliant.

    • Supports Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for pairing, sensors, and beacons.

    • Available for integrations and custom applications.

2.3 Radios

  • Zigbee (CC26xx) → dedicated radio for Zigbee networks, fully compatible with Zigbee2MQTT.

  • Thread (EFR32MG series) → native support for Thread and OpenThread Border Router (OTBR).

  • EFR32ZG23 Expansion Module → provides Sub-GHz communications including Z-Wave, integrated via UART3 with dedicated reset, flash, and LED lines.

2.4 Expansion Modules

  • UPS Module (SM-HUB UPS)

    • Powered by 18650 Li-ion battery cells.

    • Charging via TP5100.

    • Step-up/step-down converters deliver 5 V, 3.3 V, and 1.8 V rails.

    • INA226 sensor monitors voltage and current for telemetry.

    • Solar/DC charging input supported.

  • PoE Module (SM-HUB PoE)

    • 802.3af compliant (Power over Ethernet).

    • Converts Ethernet-supplied power to regulated 5 V.

    • Surge and ESD protection integrated.

    • “Power-check” signals exposed for system monitoring.

  • 4G/LTE Module (SM-HUB 4G)

    • Based on SIM7672G modem with GNSS (GPS/GLONASS).

    • NanoSIM slot with SIM detect.

    • Interfaces: main UART, USB, debug UART.

    • LTE and GNSS antenna connectors.

    • Power and network LED indicators.

2.5 Built-in Peripherals

  • LEDs:

    • 12 × WS2812B addressable RGB LEDs – configurable for system visualization, animations, or Ambilight effects.

    • 4 × service LEDs – indicating power, network, and radio activity.

  • Buttons:

    • Reset button.

    • Pairing/Function button.

    • User-configurable button.

  • Audio Output:

    • 3.5 mm audio jack.

    • Supports system notifications, alerts, or media playback.

  • Buzzer:

    • Integrated piezoelectric buzzer.

    • Usable for system alerts, notifications, or user automation rules.

  • IR Modules:

    • IR transmitter for controlling TVs, AC units, and other IR devices.

    • IR receiver for capturing signals from existing remotes.

2.6 Power Architecture

  • Primary Power: USB-C PD input.

  • Optional Power Sources:

    • PoE (via PoE module).

    • UPS battery module.

    • Solar/DC input (through UPS module).

  • Smart USB Power Switching: Automatic host/device detection on USB-C CC lines with integrated FET switching. Prevents reverse powering and ensures safe operation whether SMHUB is supplying power to peripherals or being powered itself.

2.7 Expansion & DIY Interfaces

For developers and hardware enthusiasts, SMHUB exposes additional interfaces:

  • GPIO headers with UART, SPI, and I²C.

  • DIY pinouts for custom modules, sensors, or experimental expansions.

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