When you arrive home, just use your existing garage door opener to open the door. The door sensor will alert the Controller and you can trigger events, based on that. You’ll also be able to monitor the status of the door remotely and control the door with the Evolve devices.

Since the Pulse System doesn’t recognize the Z-Wave door sensor, you could probably use a wired sensor. Another issue is the Relay and the Pulse system. The relay is an Isolated contact; a garage door button is a momentary contact. The Momentary contact is simulated programmatically in the software for the HomeSeer or Vera systems. The ADT Pulse System doesn’t have that programming capability.

My kids are notorious for opening the garage door and leaving it open.  When a neighbor called me at 2 in the morning to let me know the garage was open, I decided that I was going to figure out a way to monitor the garage door from my computer.

This job took me about 4 hours. My friends and neighbors will be shocked to find out I did it, because my wife is the handy-man around the house. She asks for the power tools for Christmas while I ask for the NewEgg & Best Buy gift cards.  If you are truly handy, this should be a quick and simple project.

The first step was to get me some z-wave hardware. I ordered an Evolve LFM-20 relay and an Aeon Labs Door / Window Sensor.  The LFM-20 would be used to actually open and close the door, while the sensor is used to tell me if the door is currently opened or closed.

Door sensors are sensitive to metal, otherwise I could have mounted them directly to my garage door railing. Instead, I needed to figure out how to raise them “above” the rails and still have the paired sensor halves match up.

I went to my local hardware store and purchased a “Garage Door Top Bracket.” After removing part of it and forcefully bending it into a desired shape, I was able to mount it to my garage door along with a sturdy piece of 2×4. This piece would go up and down with the garage door.

On the other side I mounted a 2×4 to the fixed side of the door. This part wouldn’t be moving anywhere. Here is the finished sensor mount:

I purchased a $5 plug kit and wired it onto the black/white/green wires of my LFM-20 relay. My garage door opener is conveniently located right next to an outlet, so this worked out great.

The next step was to wire the Evolve switch into a parallel circuit with my existing garage door opener button. The “diagram” of how I did it looks like this (please don’t mock my artistic ability!)

Using InControl, I’m able to monitor my garage door. When it’s open past 9 PM, I get a text message at which point I can use my Android phone to close the door.

Ryan Scott is the owner of InControl. InControl Console is an application that runs on your pc. It allows you to use our iPhone & Android application to control your zwave devices from anywhere you have internet access on your phone. More information at www.incontrolzwave.com

Find the Z-Wave products you need at our Amazon store:

REAL Z-Wave: Adding ADT’s Pulse Brings Home Automation Via Z-Wave

By Jeremy Radwan

We recently upgraded our home security system and added ADT’s Pulse service. In addition to the remote security features (such as being able to monitor, arm, and disarm the system from a browser or an app on my iPhone), Pulse also introduced us to home automation via Z-Wave devices.

The heart of Pulse is the iHub, a WiFi and Z-Wave router, which connects the ADT system to the internet.

The ADT technicians installed the iHub in my computer closet near my cable modem and existing router. Then they fished a serial cable through the attic to the location of the alarm panel equipment and finally connected the iHub to my router via a Cat-5 cable.

A quick summary of the technology: Z-Wave uses the 900MHz range of the RF spectrum (so it doesn’t interfere with WiFi and other devices in the more crowded 2.4GHz band) and was designed with home automation in mind. Z-Wave devices form a mesh network to talk to each other and the iHub, which basically means even if one device is out-of-range of the iHub, it can still send/receive commands by communicating through the other Z-Wave devices within its range.

My initial ADT install came with a single appliance/lamp module, but since then I’ve installed two dimmer switches and two outlets, and also added two outdoor plugs (for the Christmas lights and landscape lighting) and another lamp module. Adding a device to the existing network is pretty simple. On the Pulse web site you select the device type being added, which puts the iHub in discovery mode for 45 seconds. Then you press the “pairing” button (usually the on/off switch) on the Z-Wave device and it’s added to the network. Even though Z-Wave is an industry standard, ADT only supports certain makes/models (like with the WiFi cameras) so I went with the GE devices, all readily available from standard Z-Wave suppliers as well as from Amazon.

Instant gratification

I got to experience the mesh network benefit of Z-Wave first-hand during my rollout. Unlike lamp modules that plug into an outlet so they can be near the iHub during pairing, one electrical outlet and one dimmer switch I installed were too far away to be initially paired. To work around this I purchased the GE 45601 Z-Wave remote control, which could be paired with the iHub to be used as an inclusion controller.

Basically, once the remote was part of my Z-Wave network I was able to pair the far devices (the outlet and switch) to the remote, which then relayed the pairing to the iHub when I brought it back into range. Then after refreshing the Z-Wave network, the other devices in the house were able to “see” and route to those further devices and include them in the network. Pretty sweet!

Another benefit of having the inclusion controller is that it allows for advanced programming of the GE Z-Wave devices. You can change the values stored in registers you can control — for example, the speed of dimming — or even turn off the annoying bright blue LED when the device is off.

Recurring schedules

Once the mesh network was in place I started building my home automation schedule on the ADT Pulse web site. You can create recurring schedules (turn on the family room lamp every Monday and Thursday at 6pm and turn it off at 10pm) or automations (when the back door is opened, turn on the rear landscape lighting).

Since my Z-Wave network is integrated with the security system I also have the option of only triggering events when the system is in a certain state (armed, for example) or when system events happen (like a burglar alarm). I have found some complex scenarios you can’t create through Pulse, though, such as combining the alarm status and time of day (if the alarm goes off after 9pm, turn on the inside lights). Also, you can’t set schedules or automations as inactive, so if you have a schedule for when you’re away on vacation, you’ll have to delete those events when you’re back from your trip and then re-create them for your next vacation.

In addition to controlling my Z-Wave network from the Pulse web site, I can also control the devices from the ADT Pulse app on my iPhone. Simple rocker switches allow me to turn lights on or off, and even control the dimmer settings.

Minor rant

The WiFi side of the iHub is encrypted with WPA2 and used for any wireless cameras you install with the system. At this time, ADT only supports one model of camera, the RC8021, which has no night-vision or PTZ features. My existing camera setup is a lot more extensive and capable so there’s really no need for me to use the ADT one that the installers brought other than it ties into the security system and mine can’t.

Another annoying thing about the iHub wireless is that it broadcasts its SSID as “iHub_<serial number>.” There isn’t a customer-facing web configuration page available on the iHub and I’ve not been able to determine if this can be changed or hidden. Ideally, since I’m not using the WiFi features of the iHub, I’d prefer to turn it off altogether.

In conclusion, I’m pretty happy with Z-Wave and the automation it’s allowed me to add to my home.

About the author: Jeremy Radwan is an IT systems administrator from sunny St. Pete, Florida. When not tinkering with a piece of equipment or new gadget, tweaking Linux configurations, or writing code, he enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and catching up on the backlog of recorded shows on his TiVo.

Spring is here, and it’s a great time of year to be thinking of expanding your Z-Wave home capabilities or getting started if you’re a newbie. Whether you’re monitoring energy consumption and heating bills, determined to upgrade your household security, or follow through on any number of home improvements you’ve been waiting for spring for, Z-Wave technology has got you covered.

Z-Wave technology has been compelling from the beginning because of its versatile functionality, its convenience, and the fact that verifiable savings in energy consumption and home security can be seen immediately. Take a look at this example from Aeon Labs for monitoring energy consumption and this how-to guide that defines an easy way to set up household security. Today, add to those the fact that most Z-Wave products can be easily installed, and controlled from anywhere via your choice of devices.

In fact, anything in your house that operates on electrical power can be operated under control of a Z-Wave device, including appliances, window coverings, sensors, as well as lighting, thermostats and locks. Z-Wave technology means that any number of devices can be easily brought into a household system. And perhaps best of all, your devices can be controlled within the house by hand held remotes , such as those from; GE, Aeon Labs or Remotec, or externally through your smartphone or tablet via wifi connectivity, or over the internet. It is shockingly simple.

• Want to adjust your thermostat just before you get home?
• Want to unlock the door to let someone in while you’re away? Or can’t remember if you locked the door when you left?
• Forgot to turn out the lights?
• Want to program your house lights, window shades and video monitor before you take the family on that weekend getaway?
• Want to check on your pets when no one is home?
• Want to have the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home’s vital functions are being continuously monitored for functionality, like the water sensor and water valve from FortrezZ, that protects your house from water leaks.

Z-Wave has it all. You can start with a single product and install it yourself: a few examples, for instance; a lighting control, like this system from GE, a door lock from Schlage’s LINK system, an appliance module with power monitoring, or a thermostat. Control and/or program it with a handheld remote. Most of these devices are now plug-in modules, not requiring you to get inside the electrical wiring of your house. And most are surprisingly inexpensive, with many selling for less than $50.

Going from a single Z-Wave device to multiple household functions is easily accomplished through a central controller, such as Micasaverde’s Vera or a Homeseer system. The central controller, or gateway, typically costs less than $250 and can manage every device, from your home security system to your energy management monitoring,  not to mention lighting, video surveillance, motion sensors and window coverings, to name a few. Micasaverde has a Demo Video that is well worth watching to see how straightforward and simple it can be to install and program your own home network running off a central controller. Access and control can be done through your web browser or smartphone, a truly liberating experience.

If do-it-yourself is not your thing,  there are installer options. Schlage’s highly regarded Link system, which can incorporate home automation functions well beyond locking, can be installed yourself, or professionally installed through InstallerNet, a nationwide home installation service. Link is a subscription service in which the homeowner pays $8.99 per month (or $99 per year) and allows the Link system to remotely host and monitor all the programmed functions.

In a similar vein, Verizon has recently offered a similar whole-home service. Read this helpfuloverview and step-by-step guide to get started with home controls. All the functions are professionally installed, hosted and monitored for $9.99 per month. A starter kit for $69 includes a gateway, camera, and lighting controls, with a wide range of add-on options. Similar offerings are available from ADT, Vivint, Alarm.com, among others.

If you still think that controlling your home is a daunting task, fear not. There are resources galore standing by to help you. Start by checking in with our resident expert advisor, Jay Venner, and read Ask The Expert (you can also send in your questions). And do sign on to our Forum. You will find legions of kindred spirits, scores of helpful people who have done it all before, and tips and tricks to help you become a “power user” of Z-Wave.

And where to get all these goodies? You have a lot of choices. The big box stores like Best Buy carry many of them. Online at Amazon, New Egg, Tiger Direct. Worthington. ZwaveProducts.com. And for expert advice close at hand with your call, Smart Home Products.

Z-Wave. It has never been easier, more affordable, or more compelling.

Find all the Z-Wave products you need on our Amazon store:

What do I need to set up remote control of lighting, thermostats and door locks via the internet or an Android phone?

ADT Pulse, GE Security and now Honeywell are entering that market. Each system and platform has its pluses and minuses depending on what you are trying to accomplish. I use HomeSeer for remote lighting. Vera by Micasaverde and the Schlage Link are also available. And there are also the security panels with Z-Wave including 2Gig Technologies.

Are there any Z-Wave on/off switches that would work with metal halide lights? I tried a Jasco/GE switch but after wiring it up it never successfully turned on the light.

That depends on what size breaker are controlling the lights you want to turn on and off. Depending on the size of the circuit there a couple of options you might want to explore:

15 Amp:

Leviton VRS15-1LZ – Vizia-RF + 15A Relay Switch for Single Pole/3-Way

20 Amp:

Evolve LFM-20 – 20A Z-Wave Relay Fixture Module

30 Amp:

Intermatic InTouch CA3750 Contactor Module

I’m looking to control a Jaccuzi tub motor. Is there a 20Amp in wall Z-Wave Timer Relay/Switch?

Currently there is not a Z-Wave Timer Relay Switch on the market. You possible might look at the following devices:

Evolve LFM-20 – 20A Z-Wave Relay Fixture Module

Intermatic InTouch CA3750 Contactor Module

I have a ZW4101 installed to my ADT pulse system and I can control it from the web remotely. I bought a GE GE45600 wireless lighting Z-Wave remote control and went through the pairing process, but every time I pressed the button from the device, it doesn’t seem to be talking to my remote so my remote will time out (it blinks red twice at the end) Do you know what might be the issue here?

It appears that you have made the GE 45600 Z-Wave Wireless Lighting Control Remote a secondary controller on the Pulse network according to the instructions. Please look at pages 9 thru 12.

Could you tell me the power consumption while sending or receiving data with a Z-Wave device?

The power consumption is negligible. Take a look at the HSM100-EU 868 Z-Wave Multi-Sensor. This sensor operates on 3 AAA batteries and reports status for illumination, temperature and battery every hour by default. In my network I have the sensors reporting every 6 minutes as I utilize the illumination level to control the lights. I get between 12 and 14 weeks out of a set of batteries. If you increase the reporting interval to between 24 and 30 minutes the batteries last a year.

I want to use sensory software as a controller for Z-Wave with our USB Z-Wave transmitter. Can I also use another handheld Z-Wave controller in the same network?

What Z-wave USB Stick are you using for your Primary controller? What Sensory software are you utilizing? In Z-Wave you have a primary controller and can have multiple secondary controllers within the network. The primary controller is the device that is used to build the network and/or add devices to the network. Secondary controllers are added to the network then the network information is sent to the secondary controller from the primary controller. When the primary controller is updated (with new devices) the secondary controller should be updated to keep the controllers in-sync.

Will a Wayne Dalton Z-Wave garage door opener work with either a Micasaverde or Schlage Link bridge?

The Wayne -Dalton devices will work with Vera and possibly the Schlage Link system unless you’re referring to the I-Drive system.

I have Hunter Douglas vertical Luminette blinds with IR controls. I’d like to make these operate by RF. What do you have to offer? Is the DBMZ the right device for this?

Either of the devices should work:

ESI ABMHZ – Z-Wave Enabled Window Treatment Motor Control – AC

ESI DBMZ – Z-Wave Enabled Window Treatment load monitoring DC Motor Control

If you are using the CTZUS-1US ThinkStick USB Z-Wave Interface I would look at the following as remotes:

Leviton VRCPG-SG Vizia RF+ Z-Wave Remote Control with Timers

Leviton VRCPG-BSG Vizia RF + Basic Proqrammer/Controller

As this is all Leviton it should be fairly easy to incorporate either of these remotes into the system.

I’d like to know if I can use the GE 45601 Z-Wave Wireless Lighting Advanced Remote Control to control my light switches which is 868.42 MHz the European Z-Wave?

Here are a couple of handheld remotes to look at that will work for you:

Aeon Labs DSA03202B-ZWEU Minimote-EU – Black

Homepro ZTH200 Z-Wave Handheld Controller, (Euro)

I’m about to order Hunter Douglas silhouette shades. I want to control them with my iPhone so I can open and close them from a remote location. I also want to grow my Z-Wave network to control some lamps and heating too — all via my iPhone. The shades and a few lamps are the priority, though, what do I need to do to get started?

With Z-Wave devices you can build and expand your network as much as you want. Watch this video for examples of how to get started. For your immediate needs you can either try Vera by MiCasaVerde or HomeSeer. These options have no subscription fees. You might start by reviewing theses two options and then map out what you want to automate today and in the future – build your wish list, then go back review the options again.

I have a Trane Z-Wave thermostat. It was originally used on another Z-Wave network. I am trying to pair it to my current Z-Wave network, but it still shows as paired with the old one. I have tried powercycling, restoring factory defaults in the hidden technicians menu, and unpairing using my Z-Wave system. No matter what, the thermostat interface still shows as paired with the old system. Is there a way around this?

It depends on what systems you are working with. A Z-Wave device can only exist in one network at a time. When a device is added to a network the HomeId from the primary controller and the Id on the device’s Z-Wave Chip are combined to created a unique Id, which allows you to control the device. In the manual for the Trane thermostat see page 16 for the Z-Wave Inclusion and Removal. The Thermostat needs to be removed/reset from the network before it can be added to the new network. This can be done with any primary controller.

I am building out my ADT security system with additional Z-Wave devices. I just discovered my foyer chandelier is operable from four separate switches. Is there such a thing as a five-way switch?

The Leviton Line of Z-Wave supports a five-way setup depending on the kind of light your chandelier is.

Incandescent/Led

Companion Switch/Led

Companion Switch/No Led

Flourescent/CFL

Companion Switch/Led

Companion Switch/No Led

I have a sump pump in my basement and I was wondering if there were any Z-Wave products with a set of contacts that if they had power applied to them (a float switch closing and allowing power to go through) could send a signal alerting me.

There are a number of devices either on the market or due out this quarter that could accomplish what you are asking about. Are you currently running a  Z-wave system? Depending on what system/controller you are using will help determine the applicable solutions.

I have a Honeywell Vista 20 that I need to work with a door lock (Schlage Wireless Keypad Lever). How would I go about this?

The Honeywell Total Connect 2.0 is the company’s entry into Z-Wave. There are a number of ways to tie the Vista 20P into other automation systems allowing you utilize the Z-Wave technology (door looks, lighting, climate control) and the security panel together.

Are there any Z-Wave outlets available that support dimming? I want to install track lighting on the ceiling and control it with Z-Wave but the only option I see at this point is to install an outlet and plug in a big Z-Wave dimmer box and then plug the track lighting into that.

Currently there are no Z-Wave dimming receptacles on the market. At CES 2011 there were a number of manufacturer’s that were showing in-line modules. One of the modules on display was a dimming module, but I have not seen them come to market yet.

Is Z-Wave appropriate for a small apartment building? We have an 11-unit building and are looking at Z-Wave for entry control with video. We need to activate the entry door remotely from each unit. We would also like to be able to change the door lock combinations from our office. Can we have access to some features by each tenant and other features only available to the office?

Yes Z-Wave can be appropriate for small apartment buildings. Evolve Guest Controls are installed at the Wynne Hotel in Las Vegas, which has over 65,000 devices in 8000 + guest rooms.

How do I pair my GE 45606 light switch to me MCC AVL 300 remote?

The instructions for the AVL 300 remote will show you how the 45606 Dimmer Switch should pair/include in the network the same way, using the same procedure as IWD 600 Dimmer. If the device doesn’t pair/include, unpair/exclude the 45606 dimmer from the network then pair it again.

Find the Z-Wave products you need at our Amazon store:

I have X10 and UPB, will Z-Wave co-exist with the UPB and X10?

Z-Wave is compatible with both UPB or X10 technologies and works very well. I know of many people that are running all three technologies or a combination of them. Z-Wave utilizes the 908.42 MHz Frequency. Communication to and from the devices is done wirelessly over the airwaves — very much like your wireless internet. Wireless internet utilizes the 2.4 MHz and 5.8 MHz frequencies so there is no possibility of interference between the two.

if i only have a black and red wire plus a ground and I am trying to install a 45609wb. What should I hook up to the neutral? Do I need a the neutral wire hooked up?

When was your house built – Is there a neutral bundle in the back on the box? All Z-Wave Relay switches need to have the neutral (common) hooked up to work. If you do not have a neutral in the box you can use Z-Wave dimmers with incandescent light bulbs. Z-Wave dimmers will not work with CFL or florescent bulbs.

I have a bunch of ZW1001-WCS duplex receptacles in my home and am having trouble setting them up with my GE 45601 Advanced Remote. Where can I find step-by-step instructions?

Here is the user manual for the 45601 Advanced Remote. And here is the user manual for the45605. If you are having problems adding the receptacles with the remote you might try deleting the receptacles first. I have seen many devices right from the manufacturer already be included in a network during testing.

I just installed a basic Z-Wave ADT Pulse system in my home, I wanted to know if I have to use the components that ADT sells or if I can use others too?

Here is a link to some Z-Wave products for you to look at. As long as the devices are in the listed in the Inclusion section of the Pulse System, the devices can be purchased from anyone.

I have the HM-LM001 dimmer module, which works fine. However, is there a way to disable the dimming feature or should I use the Appliance module? I noticed that the Appliance also has the dimming feature. How does the dimming feature get disabled?

The appliance module is rated for 600 watts. The lamp module is only rated for 200 watts max, which is a 100 watts less then any other dimming module on the market. At 600 watts the appliance module is only 5 amps non-grounded. All other appliance modules on the market are 1800 watts or 15 amps. For CFL Lighting or small appliance motors, you want to the Appliance Module not a dimmer module. The only thing you should use the dimmer modules on is lighting.

ZWaveWorld: What is Z-Wave?
Mark Walters: Z-Wave is a radio frequency technology that many manufacturers use in their products so that their products can communicate with each other and form intelligent networks. These networks provide for applications such as automated lighting, one button “scene” or “mode” control of the environment – for instance, in Movie Scene, press one button on a handheld remote and you turn on all of the A/V equipment to watch a movie, the curtains close, lights dim, heat in the room is set up three degrees. Or Leaving Home Scene, one button and all the lights are turned off, HVAC is setback to power saving mode, doors and windows are locked and alarm is armed.

ZWW: Just how big is the Z-Wave world today? How many companies are making products or are planning to? How many products are on the market?
MW: Today the Z-Wave world is just getting started, with many companies planning their product launches for the fall season of 2006. There are over 100 different companies with product development underway and over 60 fully interoperable products on the shelves in the United States. These numbers will more than double in the next year.

ZWW: How does Z-Wave differ from other approaches, and can you give us a little background, some historical context? .
MW: Z-Wave uses a new technology called mesh networking. In a mesh-network any product can act as a relay device between two other products that are communicating with each other. Think of a spider web, where there are many different threads you can traverse to get to the center from the edge. This ability to choose from many different paths for communication between two devices provides for extremely robust performance even in harsh application environments. In older power-line technologies, if there is interference on the power line caused by, say, a hair dryer or cell phone charger, between two devices that need to communicate, they have no ability to route their communication around that interference.

Z-Wave mesh technology is completely “two-way,” in that every message sent is confirmed by its receiver forming closed-loop or reliable communications. This is not true of many of the older home control technologies. With Z-Wave technology the more devices you have in your network the stronger it is as it increases the number of communication routes. With power line technologies – like X10 and Insteon – the opposite is true, in that more devices do not increase the number of routes. In addition, even though some of the newer power line devices claim to relay for each other, the hidden secret is each time you add a power line relay device to the power line it acts as a partial short circuit and pretty soon – with around 20 devices in a typical home – it gets very hard to get any communications down the power line. As a result, most power line devices are receivers only and cannot act as relay devices or provide two-way closed-loop acknowledgment of received messages.

Z-Wave communicates at data rates of up to 40,000 bits per second, whereas X10 communicates at 120 bits per second. Z-Wave can accomplish in a few milliseconds what it would take X10 several seconds to accomplish.

ZWW: What would you say is the principal advantage of Z-Wave based products, from a consumer point of view? 
MW: They work, they’re easy to get and use, they’re affordable, and come from established companies. They enhance users’ lifestyles by increasing comfort, conveyance, safety, and energy conservation. Consumers know by purchasing products with the Z-Wave mark, that products purchased today from one manufacturer will work with products purchased tomorrow from another. Products with Z-Wave capability are often as little as 15 to 20 percent more expensive than their “dumb” counterparts.

ZWW: Where is the excitement today? As a potential consumer, what should I be getting enthusiastic about?
MW: It depends on what you’re looking for. There are almost limitless applications that can be addressed using intelligent devices with Z-Wave technology. I like the convenience of one button when I leave the house and I know it’s secure and I’m not wasting energy (spending money) while I’m away. You might like a one-button home theater experience. In a broad sense, we now have the ability to do cool things with cheap ubiquitous end points. That is, we can put intelligence in every light switch, every door, every window, battery powered sensors anywhere.

ZWW: What are the biggest issues facing the manufacturers? Is it the cost of the technology, difficulty of installation, integration issues, or customer awareness?
MW: The biggest challenge is consumer awareness or lack thereof, followed by lack of awareness in the installer community. Cost is becoming a non-issue fast as volumes go up.

ZWW: How difficult is it to install Z-Wave products and use them? 
MW: Z-Wave enabled products are no more difficult to install than their non Z-Wave counterparts. A Z-Wave light dimmer installs just the same as a regular light dimmer. There is an added step of including the device into your collection of Z-Wave devices and assigning its control to a button on a remote control or wall control. This requires the installer to press a button on the device followed by the button they want to use to control it. It’s about as hard as popping a bag of microwave popcorn in a microwave oven by pushing the POPCORN button. One good reason to call in a pro, though, is they can often can show you applications that you would never think of yourself but find you can’t live without. Often with little or no additional cost over a basic installation

ZWW: What are some of the latest innovations in Z-Wave-based products? 
MW: Many innovations can be found in Z-Wave enabled products including power-saving light dimmers for two-wire retrofit applications; remote control of your Z-Wave enabled devices over the internet or from your cell phone; home schedulers that know when dawn and dusk are each day so you never have to change timers as the seasons change; remote controls that know if you’re turning on the bathroom lights and it’s after 10:00 p.m. but before 6:00 a.m. to turn them on to a dim setting; and products that convert your in-car garage door opener to a home controller letting you turn on the lights, disarm the alarm and unlock the doors from the safety of your car. [Click here to read a related review]

Find out more about the Z-Wave Alliance at www.z-wavealliance.org

Is Z-Wave two-way? 

Is Z-Wave reliable? Z-Wave is very reliable. Every command sent to a receiver is acknowledged by the receiver. If the transmitter doesn’t receive the acknowledgement from the receiver it resends the command. If there is still no acknowledgment the command is routed to the intended receiver using other Z-Wave devices to relay the command. As long as you have a Z-Wave device every 30 meters or so you will have no problems with communication reliability. The products themselves are also very reliable, we are working with the best in class manufacturers in each product category. Leviton, Cooper, Intermatic are all companies that have been in the residential lighting business ever since electric lighting was invented. Harmony and UEI are the leaders in universal remotes. All these products are very reliable and well supported.

How does Z-Wave compare to X10? X10 is a lot like learning BASIC. Everyone has used it, and once they learn it, they have learned not to use it again. Seriously though, X10 is ideal for simple applications such as controlling a lamp across the room. It runs into reliability problems when the installer begins thinking of X10 in a whole-house installation. The more X10 products that are installed in a home, the less reliable the system becomes. Z-Wave is the opposite: More Z-Wave components installed in a home increases the reliability of the entire system.

In what countries is Z-Wave supported, and at what frequencies?

Z-Wave operates on a variety of sub-GigaHertz frequencies throughout the world:

Australia: 921.4 MHz
Brazil: 921.4 MHz
CEPT*: 868.4 MHz
China: 868.4 MHz
Hong Kong: 919.8 MHz
India: 865.2 MHz
Japan: 951-956 MHz
Malaysia: 868.1 MHz
New Zealand: 921.4 MHz
Russia: 869.0 MHz
Singapore: 868.4 MHz
South Africa: 868.4 MHz
UAE: 868.4 MHz
USA/Canada: 908.4 MHz

Does anyone make Z-Wave compatible products that are 220V that work in Europe? At this time the only 220V Z-Wave products are from ACT . Look for many more 220V products from EU companies to come to market mid-2007.

What is the modulation in Z-wave? ?The modulation of Z-Wave is FSK in the 900MHz ISM band.

What are the pros and cons of Z-Wave vs. UPB PLC systems? UPB uses the power wiring to transmit its signal so it cannot be used for portable and battery operated devices. UPB products are limited to a few manufacturers, and to date, only lighting products. Z-Wave products are manufactured by over 40 companies and cover products such as Lighting, Window Coverings, Touch Screens, Alarms, Motion Detectors, Universal Remote Controls and support from several Home Control management platforms and software.

UPB can be very reliable but in most cases requires a bridging device to be placed in the main circuit breaker panel in standard 120/240V split single-phase power systems. Z-Wave on the other hand uses a robust mesh network strategy where every device can act as a repeater ensuring full coverage of large spaces without the need for bridging devices.

Also, as UPB devices are installed in a network the signal strength on the network decreases with each one due to loading of the power line. With Z-Wave, the more devices installed in the network the stronger the mesh is.

Can you mix and match Z-Wave products and controllers? Absolutely. The Z-Wave standard requires all products to maintain basic interoperability with all other products. For example, you can rest assured that all Z-Wave remotes that can control light switches will be able to turn on or off light switches from any vendor.

With that in mind, Z-Wave products vary in their features (just like with Bluetooth and other standards). This means that some simpler remotes may only understand how to control lights and blinds, for instance. Also, manufacturers may add extra features that go above and beyond the basic functionality; if that’s something you need, simply buy a remote that understands how to take advantage of those extra features.

Is there a need for a central controller in a Z-Wave lighting system? No. That’s a major value of a mesh network. Other lighting control systems that have been on the market for a while have relied on a centralized lighting cabinet. All lighting circuits require wires that lead back to this cabinet, and all control functions (scenes, zones, intensity) are controlled inside this cabinet. Use wall-mounted switches, dimmer and controllers to operate the system. But, everything is hard wired back to one control cabinet. Z-Wave eliminates the centralized cabinet requirement, thus dramatically lowering the costs, by allowing each device to become an intelligent transceiver: sending and receiving command information wirelessly. Putting all these individual intelligent devices into a home makes the entire system more reliable, efficient and scaleable. It also allows the products to be used in retrofit and new home construction with equal results.

How does a controller know what Z-Wave devices are available in a room, in a space, and in the whole house? To set up a Z-Wave network, you typically walk around your home and add each device to the network by pressing “add/include” on the Z-Wave remote and pressing a button on (or turning on) each device. The remote then remembers all the devices available to it in the home. When you add another remote to the network, the master remote simply passes this list along.

With many remotes, it’s possible to assign devices or groups of devices to individual push buttons. This way, you can set up lighting scenes or other advanced remote control functionality in a home. Also, some remotes and controllers can visually group devices into individual rooms or areas in the home.

If my switches are too far apart to communicate directly, is there a range extender that I can use to fill in the gaps? Every Z-Wave device acts as a repeater automatically (with a few exceptions, such as battery operated devices). If you have gaps in your network, simply fill them in with Z-Wave electrical outlets or plug-in modules. “Repeater only” devices are expected in the future.

Are there any light switches that are battery operated and if so how long will the battery last?There are many battery operated handheld transmitters like the Intermatic HCA09 or the Monster AVL300 that can be used to switch lights and other things on and off. However, it sounds like you want to know if there are any in-wall mounted, battery operated transmitters that could be used to “fake” a light switch and be mounted where there is no wiring available. Sadly, the answer is no, not at this time. This is a popular product configuration and we’re certain it will not be long before one or more of the companies building Z-Wave enabled products will put one on the market.

Will my Harmony 1000 remote control up to four different Z-Wave switches? Is it easy to program? Where can I get switches? First, the Harmony 1000 remote will directly control your Z-Wave switches. It’s also easy to program. Log on to Harmony’s web site and set up your control menus and scenes, and download that to the Harmony 1000. Then use the Harmony 1000 to create a link between each of the logical devices (the ones you created menu items for on the web site) with the actual physical switches in the room. This is a push the button process. You’re done, sit back and enjoy. Switches are currently available from Intermatic , Wayne Dalton ,ACT , Monster , and Leviton . They will be available from Cooper Wiring Devices and Jasco-GE in the next few months.

What is the drain on power when you start adding multiple Z-Wave devices on a mesh network? Has anyone tried to put 100+ in their home? Unlike powerline carrier systems, X10, Insteon, HomePlug CC, CEBus, and LON Radio Frequency systems like Z-Wave do not suffer from Impedance Loading when additional transmitters are added to a network. In fact, in an RF mesh network the more devices you have the stronger and more fault tolerant your network becomes.

There is a 232-device limit to a single Z-Wave network, however it is not hard to tie multiple networks together using a bridging device if more than 232 nodes are required. This is similar to sub-netting in an IP network. I have seen and installed Z-Wave networks with more than 100 nodes. When establishing a network this large it is helpful, but not required, to use a PC-based controller to configure the network.

Why use 900-MHz range, rather than 2.4 GHz? Less traffic and better performance. If this question were asked 5 years ago, it would be more valid because wireless telephones took much of the space at the 900-MHz spectrum. However, many of those wireless devices are migrating into the 2.4-GHz space, along with Wi-Fi, video, security cameras, wireless audio, and more. Another important fact is that 900 MHz allows a signal to be stronger and transmit through longer distances (including walls, floors, and ceilings) with more power than a 2.4-GHz signal.

Can I refresh the routing for a device by removing it from the network and re-adding it? Or is there a better way? If you move a Z-Wave device, it is best practice to remove it from the network and then re-add it in its new location. Some remotes and software also let you “rediscover” the routes to a device, or do so automatically.

I’m looking for a remote fixture module similar to the ZRF113 but smaller. I have an electrical box that measures 3”x3”x1.75”. Currently I have an X10 device in that space. Can you recommend a suitable product? The plug-in module from Leviton is quite small so it may be possible to use this with a female plug pigtail in your application. Please contact Leviton technical support to see if they would recommend this product in this application.

What significant retail outlet stocks Z-Wave products on its store shelves? Your best bet is to purchase online, as many of the available products have not made it out to the large national chains yet. You can find Intermatic products at Lowes and Fry’s. Monster products are available in many of the large national consumer electronic stores. ACT and Wayne Dalton products are available online. Leviton products are becoming available through electrical and specialty distributors such as ADI and Worthington. Your best bet is to contact the manufacturer whose products you are interested in and ask them where to find them. Keep your eyes on Z-Wave websites such as Z-Wave.com, Z-Wavealliance.org and ZWaveWorld.com for more information on product availability.

Will the alternate route-seeking feature automatically reroute commands through other neighbor nodes (devices that are members of the same routing table) in order to reach the intended device? For instance in the case that the RF signal for a relaying node is blocked or the relaying node is failed – or does the network need to be rediscovered in order to use an alternate route? Yes. Z-Wave automatically tries multiple routes if a transmission fails (at any point along its route). Rediscovering the network simply refreshes the available routes. While not necessary for Z-Wave operation, rediscovery can be compared with defragmenting a hard drive. It can get rid of dead links in the system and find new good ones, potentially speeding up your network in the process.

I would like to know what HVAC systems incorporate Z-Wave and who manufactures them??Right now ACT and RCS have Z-Wave thermostats, Lagotek has a complete multi-zone control solution. We expect several more to become available in the second quarter of 2007.

Does anyone make load control product (commercial/industrial and residential) utilizing Z-Wave? ACT, Leviton , Monster , Cooper , and Intermatic all have switch products that go up to 15A, some to 20A. Intermatic has 2-pole 30A contactors.

I’m looking for a device that will control my water heater at my country home – something I can turn on and off from my computer. Is there anything designed for larger appliances?Intermatic has the >Contractor Module (Model CA3750) for large loads such as air conditioners, spas, and heaters. The contractor module features a local on/off control and LED feedback. The contact ratings are 30A resistive – 6600 VA, 25A inductive – 5500 VA, 3 Hp @ 220 VAC. NEMA 3R Indoor/Outdoor Case. Agency approval: FCC, CSA c/us. This device could control the power to an electric water heater. You need to make sure that your water heater does not exceed the contact ratings of the device. This is one device that should be installed by a professional. Although it is not yet available, you can pre-order it from www.automatedoutlet.com . Also, in order to control a Z-Wave device remotely, say over the internet, you will need a gateway type product that will serve up a web page for your country home that you can see and change from any computer on the internet, and will also send the Z-Wave commands to the water heater, HVAC, lighting, and security. These gateway products are available from Hawking, Intermatic, Elk, ControlThink, iControl and others.

Z-Wave Alliance Certifies 500th Product

The Z-Wave Alliance has announced its 500th Z-Wave certified product. This milestone comes on the heels of other recent announcements including: Sigma Designs’ naming Mitsumi as a licensed second source for Z-Wave wireless RF technology and the deployment of the largest single installations of Z-Wave at the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas with 65,000 devices. GreenWave Reality’s Home Energy Management solution, a smart meter reader for the European market from NorthQ ApS and four new lighting controls from GE/ Jasco were also recently added to the Z-Wave ecosystem.

The 500th product certified is a Z-Wave bridge controller from Alliance member Somfy Systems Inc., a manufacturer of specialized motors and control systems for retractable awnings, rolling shutters, interior shades, blinds, projection screens, and other lift-up applications for the home. The bridge controller, ZRTSI, opens Somfy’s full range of interior and exterior wireless control motors for window coverings, light switches, dimmers, thermostats/HVAC systems, and motion sensors to the Z-Wave interoperable ecosystem.

HomeSeer Announces HomeTroller-SE Home Automation Controller

HomeSeer Technologies has unveiled its new HomeTroller-SE home automation controller. The new controller is a gateway device that offers remote home control using the latest Apple and Android smart phones, tablet PCs, and other devices.

Shipping this month, the HomeTroller-SE features an all solid-state design that supports Z-Wave and many other industry standard home automation technologies.

Unlike other competing gateway units, HomeTroller-SE supports voice control and can issue alerts, announcements and reminders by email, text message or by voice (text to speech). Integration interfaces are available for use with lighting, climate control, security, telephone, audio-video, and energy management hardware.

Crestron to Z-Wave Control Interface with Software

The CZ5000 Z-Wave software was developed by Zwave Products with a Crestron Authorized Independent Programmer, and is the easiest way for any Crestron system to control Z-Wave enabled devices already on the market. It was designed as a simple Crestron software interface supported by Zwave Products that will allow you to add affordable robust Z-Wave controls to your systems. No additional hardware or software changes are needed to create lighting scenes and control all Z-Wave devices on the market. It can create 40 different scenes and independently control up to 256 devices in your Z-Wave network.

The CZ5000 includes a Vera 2 and Crestron to Z-Wave software on an accompanying CD. The Crestron Z-Wave Control software (version 1.0) uses the MiCasa Verde VERA 2 to control Z-Wave devices. This software provides a series of individual modules that the user can include within their Crestron program to control Z-Wave Binary Lights, Dimmers, Door Locks, PIRs, Thermostats, VERA created scenes and other user installed VERA Plugins. An example Crestron program is included in the distribution package that demonstrates how to use the various Crestron modules included in this package.

Each module communicates to one central module that is responsible for communication to/from the Vera 2. Each communication module (VERA2 Interface) is keyed to work with one specific VERA 2 device. Upon startup this communication module queries the VERA for its serial number. If the serial number of the VERA matches the Serial number embedded within the communication module then the capability of the software is enabled. Now shipping, the CZ5000 includes a Vera 2 and Crestron to Z-wave software on an accompanying CD.

Evolve Guest Controls Joins the Z-Wave Alliance as Principal Member

The Z-Wave Alliance has announced the addition of Evolve Guest Controls as its newest principal member. Evolve Guest Controls, a provider of energy management solutions, offers a comprehensive solution to its hospitality customers via Z-Wave energy and devices management tools for in-room control options, including: lighting, TV, electronics and thermostat products. To date, Evolve Guest Controls has installed the largest Z-Wave commercial instillation project with more than 65,000 Z-Wave enabled devices in a single hotel.

Evolve has deployed energy management and wireless RF systems in tens of thousands of hotel rooms and suites, including Hilton hotels, Westin hotels and The Wynn Hotel and Casino. Throughout the years, hotels have begun adding new technologies to rooms and incorporating energy saving programs to help guests lower their carbon footprint

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Updated May 23, 2011

Sigma Designs Licenses Mitsumi as Second Source

Sigma Designs has announced that Mitsumi is now a licensed second source for Z-Wave technology. As a second source, Mitsumi will produce and deliver Z-Wave modules.

“We are pleased to be able to offer modules based upon Sigma’s Z-Wave technology,” says Fujio Furukawa, vice president at Network Devices Business HQ of Mitsumi. “The market for Z-Wave is booming and we want to capitalize on Z-Wave’s global potential. Further we are very exited to drive Z-Wave further in the Japanese market where the interest in Z-Wave technology has great potential for energy reduction applications.”

With Mitsumi as a certified second source, Sigma plans to extend the global acceptance of Z-Wave devices, while continuing the assurance of 100% interoperability in the market of all Z-Wave devices.

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Updated May 12, 2011

Evolve Installs Custom Energy Management System at Hilton’s Inn

Evolve Guest Controls has completed installation of its custom keycard-based energy management system in 244 guest rooms and suites at the Hilton Inn at Penn’in Philadelphia.

Evolve’s keycard-based EMS system controls all of the lighting in the rooms, as well as the televisions, and the HVAC. When the guest enters the room, they insert their keycard into Evolve’s wall-mounted keycard reader and the room activates “comfort” mode.

When the guest leaves, they take their keycard with them, initiating the room’s “energy efficient” mode, which powers down the lighting devices and TV and sets the thermostat back 5 degrees.

To further expand on its standard keycard system, Evolve has added a few additional features including a “safety delay” of 10-seconds at the entry when initiating “energy efficient” mode, and a wall mounted LCD five-button controller in the bathroom for comfort and convenience.

“The ‘safety delay’ feature was designed specifically with the guest in mind,” says Jesse Nercessian, Field Operations Manager of Evolve.  “By enabling the entry light to remain lit for 10 seconds after removing their keycard, we are able to provide a completely visible exit path from the room.”

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Updated April 18, 2011

Hotels Realize Energy Savings with Z-Wave Guest Controls

Although we typically think of Z-Wave products populating and controlling home devices, the uses can be found at any scale. Recently the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas rolled out its deployment of Z-Wave based Evolve Guest Controls, which promise to realize a savings of 25 to 40 percent of guest room utility costs.

Now deployed in over 2,700 rooms, the Evolve LCD Director Series offers each guest the control over motorized draperies and sheers, communication with housekeeping, adjust the temperature, and put the room into energy efficiency mode when it’s unoccupied.

Each of the devices is built on an expandable platform. The Evolve Tabletop RF Scene Controller combines three programmable five-button keypads together to provide direct control of up to 15 individual network scene commands. These include lighting scenes, HVAC and drapery control.

Similar systems are currently deployed in other properties in New York, Washington DC, California, Florida, and North Carolina. When the Westin Georgetown deployed the system, it saw an immediate reduction in energy usage by up to 40 percent.

While Evolve typically sells directly to hotels and commercial buildings, it does have a residential line available through its three master distributors Worthington Distribution, Automated Outlet, and Video Security Specialists.

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Updated January 13, 2011

Somfy Launches TaHomA Home Automation Solution

Somfy Systems launched TaHomA, which lets you control your home’s “energy triangle” of window coverings, lighting, and thermostats at last week’s CES show in Las Vegas.

Available for purchase in the first half of 2011, TaHomA will let you control, schedule and supervise your Z-Wave enabled window coverings, lighting, and thermostats. Accessible from a computer, iPad or iPhone within or outside the home, TaHomA’s Web-based interface guides you with intuitive graphics and step-by-step prompts as they personalize your home energy functions.

The system requires installation by a certified Somfy TaHomA Expert dealer who can tailor the operation of the TaHomA gateway controller and each Z-Wave and RTS wireless controlled device according to your needs.

When plugged into a home’s network router, TaHomA automatically connects and configures to the home network and Somfy’s remote support server allowing TaHomA to locate all of the Z-Wave and RTS wireless controlled devices.

Scenes are created with a blend of various devices with personalized settings and pre-scheduled hours of automatic operation for each day of the week. Once the specifications and schedule have been determined for each of the Z-Wave and RTS wireless controlled devices in the house, TaHomA will automatically control these devices 24/7, 365 days a year.

Creating and scheduling “scenes” helps you simplify and optimize your home’s natural and artificial lighting, heating, and cooling needs. The TaHomA controller operates with Z-Wave enabled light switches and dimmers, thermostats, motion sensors and Somfy RTS controlled motorized window coverings such as blinds, shades and awnings.

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January 8, 2011

BuLogics and Evolve Demonstrate Energy Saving Product Suite

BuLogics and its strategic partner Evolve Guest Controls demonstrated their energy saving suite of products at CES 2011 in the Z-Wave Pavilion. Combining the Z-Wave technology of BuLogics with Evolve Guest Controls, the displayed product line reduces energy 30-50 percent in large implementations such as hotels.

The product line uses the Z-Wave mesh network to communicate between energy saving devices that can be installed in forty minutes or less per hotel room. These energy saving solutions can be installed in existing buildings, without the monetary costs of expensive installations.

“The hospitality and healthcare markets have been seeking a technology that will eliminate complicated, time-consuming installations and are simple to retrofit current structures, says Len Horowitz, president of Evolve. “Together with the Z-Wave expertise of BuLogics, Evolve’s product line is second to none for effective energy reduction with an approximate ROI for hoteliers of two years.”

Jasco Rolls Out New GE Z-Wave Remote

Jasco Products introduced its new GE Z-Wave Wireless Lighting Control LCD Remote at the CES this week. With one remote, you can program movie night, check or adjust the temperature and lock or unlock your doors. The GE Z-Wave Wireless Lighting Control LCD Remote sells for MSRP $99.99, and is designed to provide reliable home control that let’s you take control, feel safe and save energy.

Yale Intros Locks Designed to Integrate into the Digital Home

Touchscreen deadbolt and lever locks are the first products in Yale Locks & Hardware’s new portfolio of intelligent home control and Security Solutions, which were unveiled at CES. Available with either a touchscreen or pushbutton key pad, Yale’s new Z-Wave supported platform of intelligent locks will integrate seamlessly into a wide range of home control and security systems.

At CES, Yale displayed the locks in the Z-Wave pavilion operating with multiple home control systems, including the including theMi Casa Verde Vera Z-Wave home control system. Regardless of the home control system employed, users will be able to lock and unlock doors from any web-enabled device events or create customized entry scenes for family members, neighbors and guests.

Available in Spring 2011, the locks are expected to sell for $200-$400. Features of the new locks include voice assisted programming in English, Spanish and French; personalized access-control scenes for up to 250 users; and access to all user programmable settings are available to the controller interfaces via select user interfaces.

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January 5, 2011

Z-Wave Alliance Announces New Members, Services at CES

The Z-Wave Alliance is releasing new products and services and showcasing home control and automation demonstrations from its members at CES 2011 this week.

HomeSeer Technologies Unveils HomeTroller-Mini

HomeSeer Technologies rolled out its HomeTroller-Mini home automation controller this week at the 2011 CES show in Las Vegas. Slated to begin shipping in the 2nd quarter of 2011 (for under $300),  the new controller is powerful gateway device that offers remote home control using the latest Apple and Android smart phones, tablet PCs and other devices.

The HomeTroller-Mini, which fits in the palm of your hand, sports an energy efficient 1.0 GHz Linux platform. As with other HomeTrollers, HomeTroller-Mini supports Z-Wave. Alerts, announcements and reminders may be issued by email, text message or by voice (text to speech). Home energy usage may also be monitor and controlled with HomeTroller-Mini.

Schlage will be demonstrating new LiNK features at CES. Find out more at Cocoontech.com.

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December 15, 2010

HomeSeer Releases Android App for Home Control and Automation

HomeSeer Technologies has announced its HSTouch client app for the Android OS. Available now in the Android Market, HSTouch is a fully customizable, graphical interface for all HomeSeer home automation systems and will run on virtually any touchscreen including in-wall, stand-alone, tablet and wireless handheld devices.

HSTouch integrates tightly with all HomeSeer home automation systems and the screens are fully customizable to work with virtually all backgrounds, buttons and graphics. An integrated RSS browser is also included for easy access popular data feeds for weather, news, sports and stock information.

HSTouch is IP-enabled and may be used to monitor and control remote HomeSeer installations, including secondary residences. It’s designed to run on Windows, Windows CE, Linux, iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad and now Android devices, ensuring compatibility with the widest range of touchscreens currently available.

Integrators will appreciate the remote deployment functions in HSTouch. Unlike other programs of this type, HSTouch allows projects to be created or edited remotely and then deployed to customer sites without the need for a site visit or service call.

All HomeSeer automation systems are designed to work seamlessly with industry standards and Z-Wave products from leading manufacturers such as Cooper, Schlage, Kwikset, Lutron, Leviton, Russound, Microsoft, Centralite, DSC, Aprilaire, ACT, RCS and others.

Schlage LiNK System Adds Android App

Schlage has announced that Android phone owners can now download the app for the Schlage LiNK home management system. Available for download in the Android Market, this free app makes it possible for owners of Android phones to monitor and control Z-Wave enabled locks, thermostats and other devices such as Schlage cameras from their Android phones, in addition to any computer with Internet access.

“Owners of smartphone’s based on Google’s Android platform will now be able to enjoy the benefits of remote home management through the affordable Schlage LiNK System,” said Dwight Gibson, vice president and general manager, Connected Home Solutions for Ingersoll Rand, the parent company of Schlage.

In addition to Google’s Android platform, the Schlage LiNK mobile application is available for the Apple iPhone and Research in Motion’s BlackBerry as well as devices running Microsoft’s Windows Mobile 5 or higher. “Having Android in the mix means owners of the three most popular phones will be able to receive text messages when the kids get home from school, monitor live camera feeds on their phones and even reduce heating bills by adjusting their home temperature from almost anywhere,” Gibson said.

The basic Schlage LiNK Starter Kit ($249 with rebate*) includes a wireless keypad lock or deadbolt, a remote control lighting module and everything needed to set up a wireless Z-Wave network in the home. A single Schlage LiNK System will support an unlimited number of IP network cameras and up to 232 Z-Wave enabled devices, all of which would be covered under one $8.99 per month subscription fee. Options include the Schlage WCW100 wireless camera ($179**), Schlage WCE100 wired camera ($149), Trane Remote Energy Management Thermostat ($149, model TZEMT400AB32) and Schlage light module ($49.99).

* Schlage LiNK Starter Kit rebate available through December 31, 2010. See link.schlage.com for full terms and conditions.

** Buy one get one free wireless camera offer available through December 31, 2010 in select Lowe’s, RadioShack and BestBuy locations and online at HomeDepot.com, RadioShack.com and BestBuy.com

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Z-Wave Alliance Announces Its Newest Principal Member: 2GIG Technologies

2GIG Technologies — a residential security industry and provider for home security — has become the newest the principal member of the Z-Wave Alliance.

“The security alarm panel is evolving from a security solution into the hub for total home management — from lighting to energy management,” said Raoul Wijgergangs, chairman of the Z-Wave Alliance. “And it’s the security vendors — such as 2GIG — that are leading the charge in innovation and deployments with services that solve multiple issues in the home all enabled by Z-Wave home control.”

Responding to the trends and consumer demand in the residential security landscape, 2GIG Technologies manufactures a self-contained security and home management system, its GO!Control security panel, allowing consumers to monitor and control their homes from any remote location and manage their home automation and security functions from the panel’s LCD touch-screen display, the Internet, or their PDA.

“2GIG has been a member of the Z-Wave Alliance since 2009, and we’re thrilled to be invited as a principal member,” said Todd Santiago, President for 2GIG Technologies. “We are fully committed to Z-Wave and developing a wide range of Z-Wave-enabled security systems with remote wireless control and energy management functions.”

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Kwikset Rolls Out SmartCode Lever with Home Connect Technology

Kwikset has announced the availability of the Kwikset SmartCode Lever with Home Connect technology featuring Z-Wave. It lets homeowners create a complete home access control solution — both inside and out. The keyless, touchpad lever design — like its deadbolt predecessor — was developed for interoperability with home automation and security systems.

This SmartCode Lever is useful on both internal and external entryways. For many homes, the door between the garage and the home is single bored and cannot accommodate a deadbolt. The SmartCode Lever can be installed on a single-bored door to provide improved security and remote access that could not be achieved otherwise. Homeowners using this lever can lock their door from virtually anywhere using a Web-enabled cell phone or on the internet.

Monster Debuts Its Next Generation Universal Remotes

Monster now offers a line of three remote controls geared to meet the needs of every home entertainment consumer. The new remotes include the Evolution 55 (Model MCC AV55, SRP: $129.95), and Evolution 50 (Model MCC AV50, SRP: $99.95), as well as the Revolution 200 Home Theater Lighting Controller (Model MCC AVL200, SRP:$249.95).

All feature Monster “Game Controller-style” layout for single or two-handed and tabletop operation. Their beneficial one or two-handed operation provides the familiar feel of a game console controller and the “thumbstick” pad makes it easy for anyone to navigate the menu selections of virtually any A/V Component.

Verizon’s Getting into Home Connection Business

Verizon is planning to get into the connected home business, both with its own broadband customers and eventually with others. Ann Shaub, Director of Product Management at Verizon outlined Verizon’s vision for the connected home at the Digital Home Summit, which the company plans on launching in the first quarter of 2011.

Verizon’s connected home vision integrates entertainment/video, home control and monitoring, video conferencing, and other applications into unified and converged product accessible across the three screens (four if you count tablet computers). Verizon would allow a customer to access a menu from either their TV, PC, or smartphone and select the “sleep” option. That would trigger a variety of subscriber-defined actions, including turning off the lights in their home, turning the home HVAC system down, arming the security alarm, turning off the TV, and turning off the home water heater. An accompanying “wake” option could reverse these actions in the morning.

Shaub identified Z-Wave and MoCA as powering this connected home vision. Verizon sees an opportunity with its own broadband customers (including FiOS, DSL, and LTE), but also sees a bring-your-own-broadband option for non-Verizon broadband subscribers.

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HomeSeer Unveils New Series-3 HomeTroller Home Automation Controller

HomeSeer Technologies has announced its latest Z-Wave home automation controller, the new HomeTroller S3. Like its predecessor (the S2), the new controller is a fanless, diskless unit that’s designed to integrate home lighting, appliances, security, climate and audio/video systems by combining the best attributes of the most popular automation systems available. Shipping now, the S3 builds on the success of the S2 and offers a faster processor, updated video support, software improvements and more technology interfaces.

The S3’s biggest performance boost comes from the addition of Intel’s energy efficient 1.6 GHz Atom processor. Other improvements include DVI video support, additional USB ports (for a total of five), front- and back-mounted audio ports and 2 Gigabit LAN ports. The unit’s HSProtect system has also been enhanced to provide file-level protection for much improved storage management of the internal flash drive.

The S3 is available in two configurations: Standard and PRO. The PRO version is shipped with all HomeSeer software plug-ins and add-ons, including the company’s popular HSTouch interface system. HSTouch allows all HomeSeer systems to be monitored and controlled by a variety of devices including iPhones, iPads, iPods, Windows and Linux devices. An Android client is also planned for release this fall.

All HomeSeer automation systems are designed to work seamlessly with industry standards and products from leading manufacturers such as Cooper, Schlage, Black & Decker, Lutron, Leviton, Russound, Microsoft, Centralite, DSC, Aprilaire, ACT, RCS, and others.

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Home Control Market Penetration to Hit 20 Percent by 2014

A recent report by research firm Parks Associates forecasts the home controls market to grow from 6 percent to nearly 20 percent of U.S. households by 2014. To reach that number, however, industry players should focus on entertainment and energy management. The report cites low consumer awareness and a shortage of affordable installation services hinder widespread adoption.

With the entry of well-known players, including ADT, Best Buy, Radio Shack, and Schlage, the market has grown. But the report recommends that vendors focus their value proposition on specific, easily understood applications to build consumer awareness.

“Three applications will drive adoption of control systems over the next five years: energy management, entertainment systems and content control, and remote home self-monitoring,” says Bill Ablondi director, home systems research, Parks Associates. “Consumers see the value in these areas, which, once established, can serve as the base for expanded control systems in the home.”

According to the report, as entertainment controls for home theater and audio systems become more affordable, penetration will expand from 5 percent of U.S. households to 17 percent by 2014. These systems can then be expanded to integrate lighting, window treatments, and security controls. This strategy will help push penetration of control systems overall to almost 20 percent of households by 2014.

Embedded Automation Rolls Out mControl Enhancements

Embedded Automation Inc. has announced several enhancements to its latest release of mControl. The new release includes support for current generation Z-Wave thermostats, such as those from Wayne-Dalton and Interamatic. Other enhancements, such as support for instantaneous status messages from Z-Wave devices like Leviton Vizia switches and modules, also made it into this latest release.

The company has added support for additional Z-Wave adapters including those from Aeon and Tricklestar as well improvements to its existing MiCasa Verde’s Vera controller. With the updated support for the Vera driver, there are now two ways to access Z-Wave, directly using the mControl driver (via serial/USB connection) or by Vera.

Check out this step-by-step guide for more information on how to set up Z-Wave sensors using mControl.

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Kwikset Introduces SmartCode Lever for Total Home Security

Kwikset has expanded its keyless, touchpad, electronic lock product offering with the introduction of the SmartCode Lever. You can lock your home office, wine cellar, storage room, or any other entryway and never again have to worry about carrying a key. To gain entry, simply input your personalized code.

SmartCode operates on four AA batteries so there is no hard wiring required. It also features SmartKey re-key technology with BumpGuard protection as the backup keyed entry system. It allows homeowners to re-key their lock anytime in a matter of seconds without removal from the door for improved security and convenience.

Just like Kwikset’s SmartCode Deadbolt, SmartCode Levers allow homeowners to create unique codes for each individual requiring access to the room or home. You can create temporary codes for the housekeeper or other visitors in the morning before leaving for work, and then disable those codes in the evening, making unauthorized access by temporary users virtually impossible.

SmartCode Levers fit all standard door preps without requiring new screw holes. The brightly-lit keypad also provides convenient access in low-light. The SmartCode Lever provides additional convenience and security via an automatic door locking feature with 30-second delay that can be activated or deactivated at your discretion. Kwikset provides a lifetime warranty on the mechanics and finish of the lock and there is a one year electronic warranty.

The SmartCode Lever introduction comes just two months after CES 2010, where the Kwikset SmartCode Lever with Home Connect Technology was previewed for the first time to the public. The Home Connect Technology product differs in that it is a wireless, ZigBee or Z-Wave enabled lock that can be locked or unlocked remotely via cell phone or the Internet from virtually anywhere, without any human interaction.

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Z-Wave Evaluation Kit Now Available Through Digi-Key

The Z-Wave Evaluation Kit, which offers hardware and software needed to evaluate Z-Wave technology, is now available for purchase on Digi-Key’s U.S. and European websites.

The kit allows programmers to write host applications from a PC or embedded processor that communicates to the Z-Wave interface through the serial API. The APIs are limited but enable a developer to write simple control applications and become acquainted with the Z-Wave solution.

In addition, each kit includes ZM2120 (with SMA connector), Interface board with LED dimmer SW, ZM2120 (with SMA connector), Interface board with static controller SW, 9V power adapter, 6-cell (AA) battery holder with barrel plug adapter, serial cable RS232, swivel antenna, and access to Sigma support login for evaluation kit software and documentation.

“This Digi-Key custom-assembled kit will be a valuable tool for design engineers interested in developing a wireless sensor network for applications such as home automation and control,” said Dave Doherty, Digi-Key’s vice president of semiconductor product.

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BuLogics Introduces Smart Grid Compatible Z-Wave Wireless Controller

BuLogics has introduced its Smart Grid compatible Z-Wave wireless controller. The controller bridges the wireless technology of Z-Wave home area networks to advanced metering infrastructures that use any wireless standard. It features a u-snap expansion module for connectivity to any wireless standard.

The Smart Grid controller supports ZigBee SE profile for Smart Grid metering. It can help you save money by reducing energy output during peak demand times and offers insight into consumer energy consumption patterns.

Smart Grid Home Controller is a networked appliance, offering advanced features of a complete Z-Wave home ecosystem including easy installation and setup. It lets you monitor and control your home energy consumption. It offers notification of utility demand change requests automatically via email or text message. It has a mobile web interface, but does not require internet access.

I’m looking to set up a Z-Wave home automation system. However, I can’t seem to find anything to control electric baseboard heaters. Is this something that is not possible or should I look at a different technology?

You might consider taking a look at the 2Gig Z-Wave multi-stage thermostat. It’s 100 percent compatible with all popular residential HVAC systems; 24VAC single, two stage conventional heating systems (gas/oil/electric), heat pumps, single stage or with auxilliary heat (electric or fossil), zoned forced air and zoned hot water (2 or 3 wire), millivolt systems (with 24VAC adapter), one or two stage cooling, and hybrid systems. Then take a look at the installation manual for more details on how to set it up.

Are there Z-Wave switches that can handle 10 to 30 amperes?

Are you utilizing US(908.42) or EU(848.42) Z-Wave? Start with the EU Frequency. The appliance modules are rated at 10 amps general use. For US(908.42) Frequency here’s a good starting place. All relay switches are rated at 15 amps minumum. There are devices that are rated at 20 amps and others at 30 amps.