Step 1 — Flash the Multi-PAN RCP Firmware
- Install the CP210x drivers required for the dongle.
- Plug in the ZBDongle-E and note its serial port.
- Use the Web-based EFR32 Web Flasher.
- Click Connect → choose your dongle → Change Firmware.
- Select Multi-PAN (RCP).
- Flash the firmware and reconnect the dongle.
Once complete, your dongle is ready to run Zigbee + Thread.
Step 2 — Set Up the Silicon Labs Multiprotocol Add-On in Home Assistant
- Open Settings → Add-ons → Add-on Store.
- Install Silicon Labs Multiprotocol.
- Configure:
- Baud Rate: 460800
- Hardware Flow Control: Off
- Auto-Flash Firmware: Off
4. Start the add-on.
Step 3 — Reconfigure Your Zigbee Network
Because the dongle now uses different firmware, your old Zigbee backup likely won’t restore correctly.
If Using ZHA:
- Go to Settings → Devices & Services → Add Integration → ZHA
- Use this radio address:
- Create a new Zigbee network.
- Re-pair devices like:
If Using Zigbee2MQTT:
- Stop Zigbee2MQTT.
- Set Serial config to:
port: tcp://core-silabs-multiprotocol:9999 adapter: ezsp - Save & restart.
Step 4 — Enable Thread & Matter Support in Home Assistant
Thread Network Setup
- Go to Settings → Devices & Services.
- Add Thread (Home Assistant may auto-discover it).
- Restart if needed.
Thread is still in beta — some features are improving over time.
Matter Support
For Matter via Thread:
- Install the Matter Server add-on.
- Use the Home Assistant Companion App to scan QR codes to onboard devices.
- Products that can benefit from Matter include smart plugs, lighting, sensors, and more.
If you're beginning to build a Matter ecosystem, check this collection:
👉 Matter Products (New Standard)
🌐 What You Can Do After Unlocking Thread + Matter
- Add Matter-enabled sensors, lighting, plugs and switches
- Improve network reliability with Thread’s self-healing mesh
- Reduce Wi-Fi congestion
- Keep Zigbee and Thread running simultaneously
- Build an ecosystem compatible with Apple, Google, Amazon & Home Assistant
A single $40–$50 dongle becomes a genuine multi-protocol controller.
⚠️ Things to Consider
- Flashing always has risks
- Zigbee devices must be re-paired
- Thread + Matter support is evolving quickly
- Stability can vary depending on firmware versions
✔️ Final Thoughts
Upgrading your Sonoff ZBDongle-E with Multi-PAN firmware is one of the best ways to modernise your Home Assistant smart home. You’ll gain Thread, Matter, and Zigbee support all from one device — keeping your setup fast, secure, and future-proof.