What is Z-Wave technology? What are its features?
May 5, 2019
The Z-Wave wireless protocol is a low power, RF based communications technology that operates in the sub-1 GHz band (800-900 MHz). It has been designed specifically for control, monitoring and status reading applications in smart homes. This technology provides two-way communication between devices, allowing them to exchange commands and data with each other.
The Z-Wave protocol supports mesh networking which means that signals can hop from one Z-Wave device to another to reach a central hub which transmits the information further. Each Z-Wave device does not need to be connected to the internet, only the central hub needs to be connected to the internet. The Z-wave signals are smart enough to route themselves around obstacles to attain seamless, robust, whole-home coverage.
The Z-wave signals have a range of about 100 meters or 328 feet in open air and can easily travel through most walls, floors and ceilings, but building materials can reduce the range. A Z-Wave network can support up to 232 nodes on a single mesh network and it is recommended to put a device at every 30 feet, or closer to attain maximum efficiency. Z-Wave supports data rates of up to 100 kbps, with AES128 symmetric encryption, IPV6, and multi-channel operation.
The Z-Wave protocol was developed by Zensys, a Danish company based in Copenhagen, in 1999. The technology was then acquired by Sigma Designs in December 2008. In 2018, Silicon Labs bought the Z-Wave technology for $240 million. The technology is now owned by Silicon Labs.
Z-Wave Technology Features:
Stay updated with the RF & Microwave Industry.
By signing up for our newsletter you agree to our Terms of Service and acknowledge receipt of our Privacy Policy.
By creating an account with us you agree to our Terms of Service and acknowledge receipt of our Privacy Policy.
Content submitted here will be sent to our editorial team who will review and consider it for publication on the website. you will be emailed if this content is published on everything RF.
Please click on the button in the email to get access to this section.