Amazon Echo not working with ST EDGE "Amazon Switch" or "Virtual Switch"

Devices & Integrations
1

I need some help please.

I am trying to integrate my SONOFF temperature sensor to generate a notification from Alexa.

I’ve installed the Virtual Devices vEdge Creator V2.94 driver on my Smartthings Hub.

I tried creating a virtual Switch, and a routine to set/reset it, but when creating a routine in the Alexa app Smart Home category it wasn’t displayed in the device list..

Then I tried creating an “Alexa Switch”, and a routine to set/reset it, and it showed up in the Alexa app Smart Home category device list, but when selecting it the Alexa app said “This device is not currently supported”.

Have I done something wrong, or is there a known issue with the driver currently?

I am using:

  • SmartThings v 1.8.47.24 (Matter SDK 1.5-0)
  • Alexa App 2026.16
  • Samsung hub V2_HUB
  • Home Hub app 1.0.49-13 firmware 000.061.00006
  • SONOFF SNZB-02B temperature sensor app/firmware version 2.3.66-1

I have a number of Alexa devices but none with a Zigbee hub - I’m using ST exclusively.
I’m not using the SONOFF mobile app.

Thanks in advance for any guidance!

2

After you create an Alexa switch there is an option under settings to create " Separate Contact". These contacts are in sync with the main switch.

Then in the Alexa App you use these contacts as the triggers in Alexa routines.

3

Thank you!

I’ve just discovered that creating a “Contact Sensor” does the trick for me (at least I could create the Alexa routine - not sure if it actually works yet :grinning_face: ).

Is there an advantage to the approach you suggest?

-Bob

4

Different ways to achieve the same goal. If what you are doing works stick with it.

If you need a virtual switch in the setup the Alexa Switch is the way to go since the contacts are automatically synced with the switch. Otherwise normal contacts are probably better.

5

I’m not clear about the distinction of “contacts” vs the switch itself. Can you elaborate please?

6

A switch turns On and Off and they are traditionally used to turn things on and off like lights. Virtual switches simulate real switches and have some unique uses.

Contacts sensors Open and Close and are typically installed on Windows and doors. Virtual contacts are used as triggers in Alexa.

In the Alexa app Smartthings (ST) switches can’t trigger a alexa routine. But contact sensors, motion sensors and locks installed in Smartthings can be used to trigger Alexa routines.

So as a work around people use virtual contact sensors from Smartthings to trigger Alexa routines.

Example: When a device turns On in ST and you want Alexa to make an announcement it won’t work. So in ST when the device turns On, you link it to a virtual contact sensor to change to Open. Then in Alexa you use the Opening of the contact to trigger and announcement.

It’s a pain but you need this work around to get ST and Alexa to cooperate.

7

That’s a great explanation thank you! And thank you for providing this very helpful mechanism for ST!!!