Features
- Direct data acquisition from energy meters
- High-precision measurement and data accuracy
- Support for the IEC 62056-21 optical interface
- Two meter protocols: DLMS/COSEM and IEC 62056-21:2002 ASCII
- Wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi
- Zigbee IoT mesh protocol
- USB serial console
- Seamless integration with Home Assistant
- Flexible power: batteries or mains
- Quick magnetic attachment — no screws or tools required
Applications
- Monitoring and analysis of energy consumption and generation
- Integration within smart home and IoT networks
- Deployment in industrial monitoring and control systems
Measurement
Meters commonly include an optical interface that allows reading data directly from the energy meter. Using this interface, ZiggyMeter can retrieve key parameters such as power consumption, current and voltage. The exact set of available datapoints depends on the specific meter model.
ZiggyMeter does not measure power itself — it reads the values recorded by the meter. As a result, the data is as accurate as what your power supplier uses for billing, enabling precise expense calculations.
By contrast, solutions that infer usage by measuring line current and voltage inevitably introduce error relative to the meter's own readings. Reading the meter via its optical interface is therefore the most reliable and accurate way to monitor energy usage.
The interface supports both consumed and produced energy (for example, from solar PV panels). This makes it ideal for installations that sell excess energy back to the grid, since it captures the same production and consumption figures the utility recognises.
Meter protocols
Two protocol families are supported, selectable in the web interface:
- IEC 62056-21:2002 — all modes: A, B, C, D and E.
- DLMS/COSEM — pull mode, three authentication levels (None, Low password, High GMAC), activation via mode E or direct communication, and optional payload encryption.
For DLMS/COSEM the list of objects to poll is fully editable, so you can request exactly the OBIS codes your meter exposes. See Meter protocols.
Communication
ZiggyMeter supports several ways to deliver data:
- Wi-Fi: Connects to an existing network, or creates its own Access Point for setup and standalone operation.
- Zigbee: Integrates with Zigbee coordinators and smart home platforms for low-power, reliable mesh networking.
- USB serial: Emits a status and diagnostic log over the USB-C cable.
ZiggyMeter provides a built-in web interface that lets you configure the device, join Wi-Fi networks and verify live meter readings directly from your browser.
Antenna
The device features a detachable external antenna, offering better performance than the internal PCB antennas used in many IoT appliances. You can replace or upgrade the antenna to match your installation and environment.
For locations where the meter cabinet blocks radio signals, an external antenna improves connectivity and range: attach a larger antenna and route it outside the cabinet. See Antenna and signal.
Power options
- AAA batteries: Operates from two standard AAA cells for cable-free deployments.
- Rechargeable batteries: Supports compatible rechargeable cells.
- DC power supply: Powered via USB-C from any 5 V supply, for example a phone charger.
- Power banks: Runs from an external power bank over USB-C for long-term operation where there is no mains socket.
Electric meters are often installed where there is no socket nearby. For those installations ZiggyMeter can run on batteries or from an external battery pack. See Power and batteries.
Scheduling
Readings can be taken automatically on a schedule ranging from every minute to every six months, with a configurable trigger time. Lower frequencies dramatically extend battery life. See Meter readings.
API
The device provides a REST API, allowing users and developers to control and monitor device functions programmatically: reading meter data, changing settings and triggering operations such as a firmware upgrade. See the REST API.
Upgrades
Software updates are publicly released, introducing new features, expanding meter support and addressing security issues. Updates can be installed over Wi-Fi, over Zigbee OTA or through the API. See Firmware upgrade.
Security
The firmware is developed within the European Union and is protected using encryption keys. This safeguards sensitive data, such as Wi-Fi passwords, from unauthorised access. The device regularly receives updates that address potential security vulnerabilities.
All update files are encrypted and digitally signed, ensuring that only authentic software can be installed. The device's initial production programming is carried out in the European Union. See Security.
No cloud
The device operates independently and does not require any cloud connection. It functions fully without an internet connection or reliance on external services, so the owner remains in complete control at all times. There is no risk of the device becoming unusable because a cloud service was discontinued or shut down by the manufacturer.