I understand that an outlet or switch (‘hardwired’) functions as a ‘repeater’ or ‘extender’ (not sure which term is correct).
However, a SmartThings TV (such as a relatively new Samsung TV) that is constantly plugged in (but not necessarily ‘powered on’)…is that a repeater? I was able to add it to my Aeotec (V3) hub, but curious if that will help extend my network.
Thank you for your help. Been lurking a lot and this forum is awesome.
no, it is not. by itself, its a wifi device. Even if its setup as a hub with the zigbee dongle, it forms it own zigbee network and does not extend an existing one.
Interesting. Out of curiosity:
-How would I know if the device is on Zwave vs. Zigbee?
-Is there an equivalent Zwave dongle? (the house has Yale Zwave deadbolts, so I’m trying to create a robust Zwave network - don’t care about Zigbee).
The device itself will normally have a logo or text label on the back or inside the battery compartment that says if it is Z wave or Zigbee.
Otherwise, the manufacturer’s product description should say.
Essentially a SmartThings account can connect to multiple different networks of different protocols.
The V3 hub supports zwave, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, and thread. Plus a Bluetooth radio for some specialty purposes.
The SmartThings Station supports Zigbee, Wi-Fi, and thread, but not zwave. It also has a Bluetooth radio for some specialty purposes.
Some of the smartthings dongles have both Z wave and Zigbee, some only have Zigbee. Some of the newest ones also add thread.
Samsung smart appliances and televisions without a dongle have Wi-Fi and may have Bluetooth for some specialty purposes, but do not have ZigBee or Z wave or thread.
So the first rule of home automation applies: “the model number matters.“
It’s easy to create a robust Z wave network: just add a few inexpensive Z wave smart plugs where needed. They are typically excellent repeaters. 
You might find the following of interest. It’s old, but still applies:
if you’re in the USA, the Smartest House just started their 4th of July sale and has some excellent z-wave devices on sale
