Term of the Moment
hybrid
Definition: Z-Wave
A wireless network for home security and smart home devices from Zensys, Inc. Introduced in 1999, Z-Wave is designed for low-speed controls such as turning devices on and off or raising and lowering functions. Operating in a mesh topology, each Z-Wave device can relay signals from another device for better reception. Working in the unlicensed 902-928 MHz band, Z-Wave devices do not interfere with Wi-Fi and other products that use the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands. See home control network.
Turn It On and Off
Z-Wave Security Systems
A Z-Wave Remote
This Minimote remote control (left) from Aeon Labs sends Z-Wave signals to the "smart switch" (right) that is plugged into any AC outlet.
Widely used for security, smoke alarms (top left) and motion sensors (top right) send Z-Wave signals to this control panel monitored by Brinks.
This Universal Electronics remote control sends Z-Wave signals to a base station that outputs infrared signals to A/V components (see RF remote control). (Image courtesy of Universal Electronics Inc.)