To get back on topic, my experience with the antenna modification matches the others noted above. After ~4 days, here are the relevant details:
- Of 57 total z-wave devices, 42 are now connected directly to the hub. Previously this was 20.
- 13 devices are connected through a single hop. I have not done anything to change the routing of these devices yet (like un-power the device+repeater, then re-power the device). I might try that next weekend.
- All my z-wave+ devices are now connected at 100 kbps.
- Most impressive of all, I had stopped using most of my Neo CoolCam mini-plugs because they always connected at 9.6 kbps, There are [antenna mods/upgrades described], for eg. by @kkossev(Neo Coolcam Smart Plugs have flaky antenna? - #4 by kkossev), to make these devices connect at 100 kbps. Without doing this modification, my Neo CoolCam mini-plug now connects directly to the hub at 100 kbps. I have six more of these in a drawer that I plan to start using.
I really hope that Hubitat considers an antenna redesign, or an external antenna, for future hub designs.
Finally, a huge thank you to @lewis.heidrick!
