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Updated January 14, 2008 01:00 PST
I would like to get started with Z-Wave. Can I use just
a Harmony 890 remote and a Z-Wave light switch, or do I
need an additional controller?
Yes you can use a Harmony 890 remote and a single Z-Wave
switch or dimmer to get started. You would then be able
to add more devices if you choose.
Are there any issues with using Z-Wave switches in an
unheated garage in Northern Michigan where it gets VERY
cold?
Most Z-Wave devices are intended for use in climate-controlled
areas. The cold should not cause a problem until you get
well below freezing. Most consumer electronics are good
down to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Check with the specific manufacturer
for exact specifications.
I am in the UK. Can I convert your products for use
here?
You cannot convert North American products for use in the
UK as they use a different frequency - 908 MHz vs. the 868
MHz that is used in Europe. You can buy Z-Wave products
for use in the UK from many of European-based Z-Wave Alliance
members. Check out Automated
Home for local product availability.
When will Z-Wave come to China? When I use ZigBee at
home, I always get interference from the WLAN, which also
works on 2.4 GHz. Will Z-wave solve this problem?
Z-Wave has not been awarded a frequency for China as yet.
There is hope that China will open up the sub 1-GHz band
for home control so we can get away from WiFi interference.
Depending on this frequency becoming available or on Zensys'
new P400 chip that will work at 2.4 GHz, we hope to see
Z-Wave products in China sometime in 2008.
I want to automate some lights using Z-Wave products.
The problem is with the explosion of fluorescent lights/bulbs
(and even the compact fluorescent lighting (CFL) products),
it seems that the dimming features of Z-Wave products (and
others) cause problems or just won't work. What Z-Wave products
work with CFLs? I know Z-Wave appliance modules will work,
but I'm wondering about switches. Is there a list of CFL
compliant Z-Wave products?
All of the Z-Wave enabled switches will work with CFL loads.
The incompatibility comes into play when you dim this type
of load. Most CFLs are not dimmable and as you point out
the ones that are hard to find and expensive. Some of the
Z-Wave dimmers are rated for electronic loads and may work
with the dimmable CFLs but I strongly suggest you call the
dimmer manufacturer and check the specific interaction with
the dimmable CFL you are considering, as they are all different.
Mark Walters, our resident Z-Wave expert, is vice president
of the Z-Wave Alliance.
