TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Introduction
- Understanding How a Z-Wave Gateway Works (700 and 800 Series)
- Z-Wave Hub Hardware
- Z-Wave Hub Software
- Gateway Technology – Protocols
- Z-Wave Hub Security
- Z-Wave SmartStart
- Picking Your Z-Wave Hub
- Most popular gateways and their functionalities
- Conclusion
Introduction
Navigating the world of Z-Wave technology can be daunting, especially when choosing the right hub (also known as a controller or gateway). This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Z-Wave hubs, covering their hardware, software, security, and protocols, and including advanced functionalities for the latest Z-Wave 700 and 800 series.
Understanding How a Z-Wave Gateway Works (700 and 800 Series)
Z-Wave gateways manage your home automation network, which includes up to 232 devices. Each gateway has a unique Home ID and uses a mesh network for communication. Functions include setting up scenes, optimizing message paths, and monitoring network health. The newest 700 and 800 series offer enhanced features and security, ensuring reliable and efficient network management.
To comply with the Z-Wave specifications, a Z-Wave gateway for these series should include the following functionalities:
Device Inclusion and Network Management
- Inclusion Process: The gateway should support the inclusion process, allowing new Z-Wave devices to join the network. This typically involves putting the gateway in inclusion mode and activating the inclusion function on the device.
- SmartStart Inclusion (valid for gateways series 700+): SmartStart allows for a simpler, more streamlined inclusion process. Devices can be pre-configured with a unique QR code that includes all necessary information for inclusion. Users simply scan the QR code, and the device is automatically included in the network when powered on and within range of the gateway.
- Node ID Assignment: Each device is assigned a unique Node ID by the gateway during inclusion, enabling identification and communication within the network.
- Network Topology Management: The gateway manages the network topology, ensuring all devices are correctly mapped and that the mesh network is optimised for communication efficiency.
Reading Data from Devices
- Device Interview: After inclusion, the gateway conducts an interview process with the device to gather information about its capabilities, supported command classes, and configuration parameters.
- Polling and Reporting: The gateway should periodically poll devices for status updates and listen for unsolicited reports from devices. This ensures real-time updates and accurate status reporting.
- Data Parsing: The gateway parses incoming data according to Z-Wave command classes (e.g., Sensor Multilevel, Switch Binary) to interpret sensor readings, device status, and other relevant information.
Sending Commands and Configurations
- Command Class Support: The gateway must support sending commands based on the Z-Wave command classes that the devices use. For example, sending on/off commands to switches, or setting temperature values on thermostats.
- Configuration Parameters: The gateway should allow users to configure device parameters through the settings interface. This includes setting parameters such as wake-up intervals, operational modes, and other customizable settings specific to the device.
- Scene and Automation Management: Users should be able to create scenes and automations that include multiple devices, triggering actions based on schedules, sensor inputs, or other conditions.
Ensuring Secure Communication
- S2 Security Framework: The gateway should support the Z-Wave Security 2 (S2) framework, which ensures secure inclusion and communication between devices, protecting against unauthorised access and eavesdropping.
- Secure Key Exchange: During inclusion, secure devices exchange encryption keys with the gateway, establishing a secure communication channel.
Over-The-Air (OTA) Updates
- Firmware Updates (valid for gateways series 700+): The gateway should support OTA updates, allowing devices to receive firmware updates without requiring physical access. This ensures devices remain up-to-date with the latest features and security enhancements.
User Interface and Control
- Graphical Interface: The gateway should provide an intuitive user interface (UI) for managing devices, viewing status updates, and configuring settings. This UI can be web-based or app-based.
- Remote Access: Users should have the ability to control their Z-Wave devices remotely through cloud services or secure remote access configurations.
- Notifications and Alerts: The gateway should support sending notifications and alerts to users based on device status changes or triggered events.
The features highlighted in blue are essential for proper device functionality. However, not all of them are always present in all gateways, which can lead to operational issues or prevent necessary updates from being applied.
Z-Wave Hub Hardware
Z-Wave communication relies on specific chips found in USB dongles, Raspberry Pi HATs, or integrated circuit boards. USB dongles and HATs require a host system like a PC or Raspberry Pi, while integrated boards function as standalone gateways.
Z-Wave Hub Software
Software for Z-Wave hubs is divided into open-source and proprietary options. Open-source solutions like Z-Wave JS UI require some technical knowledge, while proprietary options offer user-friendly interfaces.
Gateway Technology – Protocols
Some gateways support multiple protocols beyond Z-Wave, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and ZigBee. Popular multi-protocol gateways include Home Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, Homey,.. offering extensive compatibility with various devices and services.
Z-Wave Hub Security
Modern Z-Wave hubs employ advanced security measures, including asymmetric cryptography, to protect your network. Look for gateways supporting Security 2 (S2) for enhanced encryption and safety.
Z-Wave SmartStart
SmartStart simplifies device inclusion by scanning QR codes, allowing devices to automatically join the network without manual intervention. Ensure your gateway supports SmartStart for seamless device integration.
Picking Your Z-Wave Hub
When selecting a Z-Wave hub, consider factors like frequency compatibility, portable controller options, and support for various protocols. Use resources like the Z-Wave Alliance catalogue to find certified devices that meet your needs.
Additional Considerations
- Frequency Compatibility: Ensure the hub supports the Z-Wave frequency used in your region.
- Multi-Protocol Support: If you have devices using different communication protocols, choose a gateway that supports multiple protocols.
- Firmware Updates: Look for hubs that offer over-the-air (OTA) updates to keep your devices up-to-date with the latest features and security enhancements.
- User Interface: An intuitive user interface is crucial for easy device management and control.
- Remote Access: The ability to control devices remotely can add convenience and enhance security.
In order to choose the right gateway for your needs we prepared a table where you may check the main features that we consider essential for the best performance with our Shelly Wave devices.
Most popular gateways and their functionalities
| Inclusion Process | Smart Start inclusion | Secure inclusion | Device full interview | Configuration Parameters | OTA Firmware Updates | Associations | Expected user knowledge | |
| Home Assistant + Z-Wave JS UI | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Medium |
| Fibaro HC 3 (Wave engine 3) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Beginner |
| Fibaro HC 3 (Wave engine 2) | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Beginner |
| Homey | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | Beginner |
| Homee cube gen 7 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Beginner |
| Homee cube gen 5 | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | Beginner |
| SmartThings | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | Beginner |
Conclusion
While most gateways can handle the basic operations of our devices, we recommend choosing a gateway that supports OTA (Over-the-Air) updates. This ensures that your devices stay current with the latest firmware, providing you with the best performance and access to new features and improvements.