What Is Zigbee Home Automation & How It Works
Zigbee Home Automation is a new tool that’s changing the future for home automation. Zigbee promises a whole new level of convenience and efficiency in managing your home. Noobie gives you a glimpse of what the new tech has in store for you!
Zigbee Home Automation Upgrades Home Living on a Budget
Zigbee Home Automation Defined
What Zigbee Wireless Technology?
As more #connectedhome devices become available Zigbee is gaining traction as the go-to standard for home automation https://t.co/RcBU94rJaP pic.twitter.com/N0ZbMEG3So
— Silicon Labs (@siliconlabs) October 25, 2017
Zigbee home automation technology uses Mesh-Networking, meaning it can cover a wide area at only 2.4 GHz frequency, its wireless range connects up to 70m indoors and 400m outdoors. It is equipped with an encrypted security system so you and your device are safe from hackers.
Advantages of Using the Zigbee Standard in Your Home
1. Energy Efficient
The battery life for Zigbee home automation devices lasts up to 7 years. Zigbee standards even dictate products last up to 3 years on a single set of batteries.
2. Easy Installation
Zigbee products are easy to install. No need to shell out extra cash for an expert installer.
3. One Network Can Support Dozens of Devices
Zigbee PRO now simultaneously supports sub-GHz & 2.4 GHz frequency bands for #IoT design flexibility & connectivity https://t.co/CVEmG5fyuq pic.twitter.com/JSx0GgiMQD
— Zigbee Alliance (@zigbeealliance) June 21, 2017
One Zigbee network can ideally support 6500 nodes.
Cons of Zigbee Home Automation Products
1. Difficult to Mix and Match Zigbee Devices
ZigBee, Thread, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth … Are these #SmartHome devices compatible? See how NFC lets you mix and match. https://t.co/ABEQD5Tvs3
— NXP (@NXP) September 13, 2016
Just because you are using one model, doesn’t mean you can just buy any two Zigbee smart gadgets and expect them to work together. Products use different kinds of proprietary apps which may not play well together. Although these products work under the same banner, manufacturers have applied the Zigbee standards differently due to certification issues.
3. Short Wireless Range
ZigBee & Z-Wave are short-range wireless technologies used for remote monitoring & control. Are there differences? https://t.co/pY0nWy4ccR
— Ken Hiatt (@kenhiatt) June 5, 2017
Although Zigbee claims their devices can reach up to 70m inside and 400m outside, users have complained that objects bring down this number significantly. If your home is cement or brick, this may not be the best option for you.
Featured Zigbee Home Automation Products
1. Lighting: Sengled Element Classic A19 Smart Bulb
Customers are finding Sengled’s smart bulb a steal for its price. It is easy to install and the lighting level warms up to a 2700 degrees Kelvin which you can tone down using the dimmer function.
Retail Price: $8
2. Door/Window Sensor: NYCE NCZ-3011-HA ZigBee Door/Window Sensor
This NYCE window sensor’s light and small design promise smooth integration with your housing fixtures. Installing one is easy and syncs with most smart hubs instantly.
Retail Price: $39
3. Power Management: Sylvania Smart+ Indoor Plug
The Sylvania Smart+ Indoor Plug will allow you to customize the power schedule, so devices turn on and off at times you want. This smart plug also promises great integration with most hubs.
Retail Price: $21
4. Sensor: Samsung SmartThings Multipurpose Sensor
Samsung’s SmartThings Multipurpose Sensor provides just what its name suggests. It is able to sense motion, tilting, and temperature in any room, door or window. If you’d like an all-in-one sensor that’ll work with your Zigbee home automation system, this is it.
Retail Price: $27
5. Door Security: Yale Push Button Electronic Deadbolt
If you want more security for your front door, this Yale smart lock can provide you withinformation like access history as well as the ability to lock and unlock your door from your phone. You can also provide access codes to your family and remove permissions when you need to deny entry.
Retail Price: $129
6. Hub: Samsung SmartThings Hub
Samsung’s SmartThings Hub will work with most smart home technology. You can use the hub to integrate Zigbee devices in your home seamlessly.
Retail Price: $129
7. Controller/Speaker: Amazon Echo 2nd Generation
Amazon’s centerpiece control module for your home, the Echo, will allow you to command your devices and ask information about the conditions of your house at any time. Its native AI, Alexa can also act as your assistant and help you schedule chores, automate specific tasks, and even order your pizza.
Retail Price: $99
Want to check out a Zigbee demonstration? See it in action here:
Zigbee promises a host of conveniences from securing your door, checking your mailbox from your smartphone, to controlling your indoor temperature. The best part is the device can stay operational for up to five years using only a lithium-ion battery. It’s time you considered upgrading your home with smart gadgets from Zigbee.
What are your must-have home devices using the Zigbee home automation standard? Comment down below.