Z-Wave protocol and usage

[Mdamen]

Is there a public description of the z-wave protocol available somewhere ? And, is there any reason why people don't use z-wave alot?

Is it because the protocol is not open or is it lack of modules?

It seems to have the same advantages as xanura (2-way) and appears to be faster since it's RF signals. Furthermore it needs no adjustments to your current power infrastructure.

--
Maarten Damen

www.maartendamen.com

[Snelvuur]

reason why most people go for xanura instead of for instance z-wave, is because there is no modules (to built in) and very few devices for it. I also heard some issues that it might give issues with wireless networks too, or something similar.

// Erik (binkey.nl)

[Esteban]

Not having to install 'storingsfilters' and keep in mind what you plugin your mains is another advantage.

True, one of the missing key things missing has been a 'micromodule' type of device as well as a EU-version of a Thermostat. (US Z-wave stuff is not compatible with EU Z-wave stuff)
Z-wave took off pretty well in the States, but for Europe devices have been coming out quite sloooooowly...

I've been using Z-wave for the last 2-2,5 years generally I'm pretty satisfied with it and have had very few problems. <s>I'm being told that now there actually are 'micromodules' for building in that are compatible and can be used with HS. I'm planning on ordering one to do some tests soon. Of course I'll be sharing my findings when I do.</s>

As for the protocol and other info, there used to be an SDK you could buy which came with a US usb stick included. I haven't really kept up with that side of things lately though...

Ciao,
Esteban

[Mdamen]

Thanks for the info. About the protocol, I read somewhere that the protocol differs per vendor. Is this true? That would be sucking because then it would need a different implementation for each brand.

Just wondering why would you use micromodules for when you have z-wave for light switches and for plugwise for devices (sockets)? Thermo is a disadvantage indeed.

--
Maarten Damen

www.maartendamen.com

[Mdamen]

ps. als iemand de SDK dll heeft wil ik hier graag eens naar kijken..

--
Maarten Damen

www.maartendamen.com

[Esteban]

I can't confirm for certain about the differences in the protcol as I haven't really kept up with the development of non-HS related Z-Wave stuff lately. Generally though Z-wave devices should all work together (in theory) That was the whole idea behind having one company producing the chips for everybody and forming an alliance of manufacturers. If there are any incompatibilites it's at the controller-level. Sorry I can't be more specific, I haven't gotten hands-on experience with the SDK/Protocol.

Having some type of 'micromodule-like' Z-Wave device allows you to buy/choose your own brand (merk) of lightswitch and stick a micromodule behind it in the electrobox. And presto, you have your own customized Z-Wave-enabled lightswitch.

That's the only reason behind it; having the option to customize your lightswitch to whatever you want. The Z-Wave lightswitches for sale right now are not ugly or anything, but they are just a little bland/plain...

Regarding what I said yesterday about a possible micromodule being available, I've looked into it and unfortunately it isn't a real micromdule type of thing... you can just choose from a limited amount of faceplates. ;(

The module:
http://www.zwave4u.com/products/de/Lich ... alter.html
Its Installation Manual:
http://www.zwave4u.com/media/53912.14.0 ... atz_GB.pdf

Ciao,
Esteban

[Alexander]

Esteban,

and this one? http://www.smarthus.info/product_info.p ... ts_id=2130

[Snelvuur]

old topic though, but perhaps check with www.domotiga.nl since i believe he has z-wave support in there and his program is open source.

[structor]

Perhaps you can also find some inspiration here:
http://www.digiwave.dk/en/programming/t ... rp-part-2/
http://code.google.com/p/open-zwave/