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Comment by michaelmior | Hacker News Reader

> No hub required - TOMMY runs as a Home Assistant add-on or on a Linux host (Docker) and uses supporting devices to create a sensing network.

I don't see how either the HA instance or the Linux host can't be viewed as a hub. No hub required feels untrue to me. I assume this question is intended to clarify that some additional device is not necessary, but I think this could be reworded.

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You're absolutely right. Thanks for the feedback! "No hub required" is misleading. What I meant was "no additional proprietary hub". Meaning, if you're already running Home Assistant or have a Linux machine, you don't need to own a separate device like Zigbee/Z-Wave hub. But yes, the HA instance or Linux host is effectively acting as the hub. I'll update that wording on the site.

I figured that's what you meant and I think it's totally reasonable! I just think the wording could be updated a little. I have a couple ESP32s lying around not doing anything, so I'm looking forward to trying out TOMMY with HA :)

I agree. I'm going to find something more suitable :-) Sounds good. Looking forward to hearing about your results!

>You're absolutely right. Thanks for the feedback!

I have PTSD whenever I see that phrase. Please don't be a LLM reply.

I'm hoping you'll open the API some time in the future. This would be great for diy installations with a esp32 hub.

Fair criticism. I think the generous interpretation of "no hub" means you don't have to buy a specialized hub eg a Smartthings hub.

OTOH, when you buy any Bosch, IKEA, Hue, Aqara device, it says on the box: Hub required (and they do mean get our hub and place next to all other hubs. Even though Home Assistant will usually work fine-ok).

So I see where he’s coming from, and I interpreted it as intended.

Don’t the matter compatible ones work with any hub?

You are of course correct but in the HA community "no hub required" often should be read as "no addiditonal hub required because HA can communicate directly with it"

Agreed although I think it would still help to be more explicit.

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