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z-wave

Connect to Z-Wave Plus smart home devices for reliable home automation with mesh networking.

Overview

The z-wave node connects to Z-Wave Plus V2 smart home devices. Operating on sub-GHz frequencies for superior wall penetration, Z-Wave provides reliable mesh networking for lighting, locks, sensors, and thermostats with up to 232 devices per network.

Plus V2
Z-Wave Standard
908MHz
Frequency (US)
100m
Range
232
Devices

Properties

Property Type Required Default Description
controller string Yes - USB controller port (e.g., /dev/ttyUSB0)
homeId string No auto Network home ID (auto-assigned by controller)
nodeId number No - Target device node ID (1-232)
commandClass string No - Z-Wave command class (e.g., SWITCH_BINARY)
value any No - Value to set on the target device
associations array No [] Device association groups for direct control

Inputs

Switch Control
{
  "payload": {
    "nodeId": 5,
    "commandClass": "SWITCH_BINARY",
    "command": "set",
    "value": true
  }
}
Dimmer Control
{
  "payload": {
    "nodeId": 8,
    "commandClass": "SWITCH_MULTILEVEL",
    "command": "set",
    "value": 75
  }
}

Outputs

Device State
{
  "payload": {
    "nodeId": 5,
    "commandClass": "SWITCH_BINARY",
    "value": true,
    "lastSeen": "2024-01-15T10:30:45Z"
  }
}
Sensor Report
{
  "payload": {
    "nodeId": 12,
    "commandClass": "SENSOR_MULTILEVEL",
    "type": "temperature",
    "value": 21.5,
    "unit": "C"
  }
}

Use Case Examples

Smart Locks

Control door locks remotely with encrypted Z-Wave commands, check lock status, and receive tamper alerts.

Lighting Control

Dim lights, create scenes, and schedule lighting automation with Z-Wave switches and dimmers.

Climate

Control thermostats and monitor temperature sensors for efficient HVAC automation throughout the home.

Water Sensors

Deploy flood and leak sensors in basements, kitchens, and bathrooms for early water damage detection.

Tips & Best Practices

Sub-GHz frequency provides better range and wall penetration than Wi-Fi or Zigbee for whole-home coverage.

Z-Wave uses S2 security framework with authenticated encryption. Always use secure inclusion for locks and alarms.

Place mains-powered Z-Wave devices strategically to act as repeaters and strengthen the mesh network.

Related Nodes