Get Started
This guide walks you through first-time setup so you can start reading your meter data reliably.
What you need
- ZiggyMeter device (powered by batteries or USB‑C)
- Access to your meter’s optical interface (no need to open the meter)
- A phone or laptop to perform setup
- One of the following, depending on how you plan to connect:
- Wi‑Fi network credentials, or
- A Zigbee coordinator (if you are joining a Zigbee network).
ZiggyMeter
- 1 Antenna
- 2 Battery compartment
- 3 USB-C
- 4 Optical interface with Magnet
- 5 Button
Meter
ZiggyMeter works only with meters that have an optical interface compatible with IEC 62056‑21. You can usually recognize it as a round optical port with two “eyes” on the meter’s front.
In addition, the meter must support the protocol described in IEC 62056‑21:2002. Modes A, B, C, and D are supported; mode E is not supported.
DANGER
DLMS, DLMS/COSEM, SML, M‑Bus, and ANSI C12.18/19 are not supported. Meters marked with any of these standards are not compatible with ZiggyMeter.
Button functions
| Function | Operation | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| FACTORY RESET | Press button for 10s during power-up | Resets all settings |
| ZIGBEE RESET | Press button for 4s | Device can join new Zigbee network |
| READ METER | Single click | Triggers meter readout |
| ACTIVATE WIFI | Double clicks | Joins configured WiFi network or start Access Point |
LED
| Color | Pattern | Visual | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red | 3 blinks | On power on, indicates device is powered and ready | |
| Red | constant | Reading from the meter | |
| Red | slow blinks | Zigbee pairing mode |
Connection method
You have two options how to integrate ZiggyMeter with your infrastructure.
Wi‑Fi
Pros
- Access to web interface
- Integrates with local TCP/IP networks or internet
- The only way to have access to API
- Can use existing Wi‑Fi infrastructure
- Always connected to network with DC power
- Access to all meter data
Cons
- High power consumption
- Recommended when powered by mains
- When device powered by batteries, must limit number of readings to preserve energy
Zigbee
Pros
- Ideal for battery powered device
- Lower power consumption than Wi‑Fi
- Mesh networking can improve reliability in difficult locations
- Works well with many smart home ecosystems via a Zigbee coordinator
- Can extend range using routers/repeaters in the Zigbee mesh
Cons
- Requires a Zigbee coordinator (hub/USB adapter) and pairing steps
- No direct TCP/IP network access to the device
- Integrations may vary by coordinator/software
- Only a limited set of datapoints may be exposed via the Zigbee specification/integration
Initial setup
Zigbee is the easiest connection method to get working out of the box. For initial setup, however, it’s recommended to enable Wi‑Fi and use the configuration options in the web interface. Wi‑Fi also provides better diagnostic tools if you run into problems with meter connectivity.
Power
Battery power
Insert two AAA batteries. Ensure the positive ⊕ and negative ⊖ ends are aligned correctly with the markings in the compartment. The device is protected against reverse polarity.
USB-C power
A standard 5 W USB-C power supply can be connected. This is the recommended setup for Wi-Fi operation or initial configuration.