Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Z-Wave and ZigBee protocols?
Both Z-Wave and ZigBee are wireless protocols for connecting smart devices to each other and the internet. They have their differences and making a choice would depend on what you’re looking for.
Speed: ZigBee
If you simply need the faster protocol out of the two, ZigBee is a clear choice. It offers a maximum speed of 250kbps, versus Z-Wave’s 100kbps.
Power: Z-Wave
ZigBee’s speed comes at the cost of power consumption. Z-Wave consumes significantly less power and won’t have you reaching for batteries as often.
Compatibility: Z-Wave
Z-Wave is proprietary and is compatible with every other Z-Wave device regardless of the brand and protocol version.
Meanwhile, one version of ZigBee may not work with the other versions. And since ZigBee is open source, some manufacturers can make their ZigBee devices incompatible with that of other brands.
Connectivity: ZigBee
A Z-Wave smart home network can support up to 232 devices and 4 network hops at a time. While that may be enough for some, know that a ZigBee network can connect up to 65,000 devices with unlimited hops at a time.
For those looking to set up huge automation networks, this difference may be massive.
Wireless range: Z-Wave
Z-Wave has an operating range of 30+ meters, and ZigBee has a range of 10+ meters.
Frequency and interference: Z-Wave
Z-Wave uses a low-frequency radio band that doesn’t interfere with Wi-Fi. While ZigBee runs on a 2.4GHz frequency that may interfere with devices using Wi-Fi.
Will I need a dedicated static IP to control my devices from everywhere?
You wouldn’t. A Stable internet access is enough.
What is a smart touch panel and how does it work?
A smart touch panel works like your modern day switch. It’s an input-and-output device with electronic displays and a touch screen.
Hogar’s touch panels are built with on/off relays for lights, fans, or other power appliances. And depending on the device, one may have 16A switches, light/fan dimmers, PIR/LUX sensors, or additional socket provisions.
Will home automation help me save energy and money?
Yes! Consider lighting systems that turn on only when you’re around. Temperature sensors that tell your heating/cooling systems exactly what’s needed. Or time-scheduled devices that will run only on set times.
In these ways and other, a smart home limits the resources you use; may it be energy or money.
Can I upgrade my existing home to a smart home?
Absolutely.
And with Hogar, you can do it rather easily; because it is all wireless.
From smart plugs and insert modules to touch panels, Hogar’s retrofit devices are installed into gang boxes in a few minutes, with no new wirings. Also, a lot of smart devices run on batteries and with regular outlets.
If you are looking to avoid any additional automation DBs, its power supply & drivers, automation wirings, communication drivers, other associated hardwares, electrical re-conduiting, and civil modifications, then this may be a good choice.
Do I need a home hub?
We’d say it depends on the devices you have and the amount of control you need. If all your smart devices at home use Wi-Fi or bluetooth, and you just need a basic control over them–you might not need a home hub. There are other smart controllers you can try instead. You’ll be able to connect and control a number of devices over the internet.
But if you wish to control devices that use protocols other than Wi-Fi, if you’re looking to control as many smart devices as possible–regardless of protocols, or if you want a single app to control every device at once; you will need a home hub.
Can’t find what you’re looking for?
Write us your query and we will get back to you.