Devices as variables

#1

My SmartThings hub recently dumped all my Zigbee/Z-wave devices for some reason. I had to re-add them all, which as far as I can tell means I’ll have to go back in and re-assign every reference to those devices in all of my WC pistons. I’m also moving soon, so I’m not going to take the time to do this when I’ll basically be starting from scratch after the move with new devices, new automation needs, etc.

My question: When I set everything up the next time is there a way I can set up each device as a variable or something? My goal is to create a set up where if my hub drops a device or I replace a bulb or whatever, I can just change one reference to a device in webCoRE and all my pistons will follow. Does that make sense? Any ideas?

#2

I’m not sure if this answers your question or not, but for my Lux reading, I save the Lux level every 5 minutes to a Virtual Lux device. I then use the Virtual Lux device in various pistons.
This means if I want to change the device that does the light measuring, I only have to change the piston that writes the lux level into the virtual device and not the 10 or so pistons i have that use light levels.

#3

When I moved last, I bought a box of ziplock bags, and placed one device in each clearly marked bag. Then, whenever possible, I used the old device in the same room in the new house. (living room to living room etc)

I still had a bit of tweaking to do at the new house, but 90% of the devices were easily transferable.