Andrew Posted May 5, 2015 Posted May 5, 2015 Hi, I installed a z-wave outlet but couldn't set up a wall outlet that was installed at the far end of another room - just didn't pick it up. What's the most commonly accepted way of setting up when the controlled devices are pretty spread out? FWIW I have the Insteon 2413S PowerLinc Modem too, but have not set up yet. One reason I'm asking is because I'm about to start opening up switches and noting how they're wired so that I can replace them with wireless stuff, but also want to add some outdoor things and would rather avoid moving the base around excessively. Would I use a repeater of some sort? thanks! Andrew
Teken Posted May 5, 2015 Posted May 5, 2015 The 2413S PLM will not help you to bridge the Z-Wave network as its a Insteon device only. Like Insteon you will need repeaters some where in the middle to help bridge your Z-Wave devices. Orientation of the ISY Series Controller from vertical from horizontal has helped a few people in the past. Sometimes installing an external antenna has also helped too. But should note the external antenna can be more directional vs the internal antenna being more omni directional.
Andrew Posted May 5, 2015 Author Posted May 5, 2015 The 2413S PLM will not help you to bridge the Z-Wave network as its a Insteon device only. ... Orientation of the ISY Series Controller from vertical from horizontal has helped a few people in the past. Thanks Teken- I noted Insteon mostly as an alternative, since (I believe) it transmits from device-to-device. Regarding the controller - are you saying to turn it during setup, or always? Would this affect its reaching devices on other floors of the house? thanks! Andrew
Teken Posted May 5, 2015 Posted May 5, 2015 Thanks Teken- I noted Insteon mostly as an alternative, since (I believe) it transmits from device-to-device. Regarding the controller - are you saying to turn it during setup, or always? Would this affect its reaching devices on other floors of the house? thanks! Andrew If the controller is sitting flat you can certainly try to mount the unit vertically. This would be left in the same position at all times once you're able to find a orientation that works. Keep in mind orientation is no solution for a lack of signal propagation. Meaning if there are walls, barriers, or just long distances. You will need a active repeater to create the Z-Wave mesh network. The more nodes available for the signal to be received and resent will ensure a consistent network. You may find bringing the device next to the ISY for enrollment is required. Once that is done performing (multiple heals) after the controller is back in its final position is helpful. Regardless of what adverts you have read all of these devices need repeaters to function reliably.
Andrew Posted May 5, 2015 Author Posted May 5, 2015 Ok, thank you. Any recommendations for a good repeater?
Teken Posted May 5, 2015 Posted May 5, 2015 Ok, thank you. Any recommendations for a good repeater? Some have indicated the Z-Wave siren has been a good repeater for their network.
Andrew Posted May 5, 2015 Author Posted May 5, 2015 Ah, ok - a siren instead of a dedicated repeater? Was just looking at the Aeon Labs Aeotec Z-Wave Range Extender/Repeater (DSD37-ZWUS), and it seems to get pretty good reviews.
Teken Posted May 5, 2015 Posted May 5, 2015 I only suggested the siren because it could be dual use. Whereas a repeater only has one function and that is to repeat signals nothing more. If you have to spend money might as well get the most out of the product, no? Ideals are peaceful - History is violent
Andrew Posted May 5, 2015 Author Posted May 5, 2015 Hi Teken- Well, yes, but I already have an alarm siren. I'm not too familiar with wireless yet, so am not sure how to know which devices have built-in repeaters. For example, if I'm on Amazon or whatever - is there a term to search that will help? thanks again! Andrew
Teken Posted May 5, 2015 Posted May 5, 2015 Hi Teken- Well, yes, but I already have an alarm siren. I'm not too familiar with wireless yet, so am not sure how to know which devices have built-in repeaters. For example, if I'm on Amazon or whatever - is there a term to search that will help? thanks again! Andrew Hello Andrew, I was thinking the use of the siren was intended for home automation notification scenario's. I have a Insteon I/O linc that has a mini piezeo siren attached. The siren is activated when the GDO is open from XXX time to XXX time. If left open from XXX time to XXX time it will also sound out. If there is a water leak the unit will chirp so many times which lets me know what that sound means. If the smoke bridge goes off whether it be smoke, CO, fault, etc again each has a unique pulse. With the use of ISY Series Controller via programs you could mimic or create unique notifications with this Z-Wave siren. By default all Z-Wave devices are supposed to repeat their signal just like Insteon.
Andrew Posted May 5, 2015 Author Posted May 5, 2015 Ok, THAT is pretty interesting - both counts. Never knew about the programmability of the sirens, and first I'm hearing that Z-wave stuff is supposed to act as signal relays... cheers Andrew
Teken Posted May 5, 2015 Posted May 5, 2015 Ok, THAT is pretty interesting - both counts. Never knew about the programmability of the sirens, and first I'm hearing that Z-wave stuff is supposed to act as signal relays... cheers Andrew To be more accurate Z-Wave / Insteon devices act like repeaters. Each device adds to the *mesh* network and propagates the signal to the next device in hopes of reaching the intended switch, outlet, etc. Insteon by default attempts to re-transmit the signal 3 times. Newer Insteon firmware use a *Smart Hops* where it increases / decreases the amount of retries based on network health and noise issues. Newer Z-Wave Plus devices have started to hit the market and its supposed to be more energy efficient, longer range, status update, etc.
Michel Kohanim Posted May 6, 2015 Posted May 6, 2015 Hi Andrew, Yes that repeater is perfect. With kind regards, Michel
MWareman Posted May 6, 2015 Posted May 6, 2015 Ah, ok - a siren instead of a dedicated repeater? Was just looking at the Aeon Labs Aeotec Z-Wave Range Extender/Repeater (DSD37-ZWUS), and it seems to get pretty good reviews. In my house 1 siren does a far better job extending my network than 3 of those repeaters did. I strongly recommend the siren used as a repeater instead of the dedicated repeaters, which are now relegated to my junk pile. Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Andrew Posted May 6, 2015 Author Posted May 6, 2015 Hey guys, Could swear I saw the name of the siren yesterday - can't seem to find it now....
PhanTomiZ Posted May 7, 2015 Posted May 7, 2015 What name brand/model Z-Wave Siren do most recommend? Our postal service is installing community mail boxes (Super mailboxes) which will be about 80' from my house. I'm hoping to install an open/close switch to the door to know when the postman leaves mail... Thanks PhanTomiZ
MWareman Posted May 8, 2015 Posted May 8, 2015 This one is the one I use with great results: http://www.amazon.com/Aeon-Labs-ZW080-A17-Z-Wave-indoors/dp/B00PKKM2HO
Andrew Posted May 8, 2015 Author Posted May 8, 2015 Thanks! Will likely get one of each (repeater / siren) to experiment a bit. cheers Andrew
Teken Posted May 8, 2015 Posted May 8, 2015 This one is the one I use with great results: http://www.amazon.com/Aeon-Labs-ZW080-A17-Z-Wave-indoors/dp/B00PKKM2HO Michael, Can the 3 LEDS be customized via programs in the ISY? Meaning can each one be turned on/off, blink in a pattern? Ideals are peaceful - History is violent
MWareman Posted May 8, 2015 Posted May 8, 2015 Michael, Can the 3 LEDS be customized via programs in the ISY? Meaning can each one be turned on/off, blink in a pattern? Ideals are peaceful - History is violent No. I have not really played with it much as I'm just using it as a repeater to some my Kwikset issues.
Teken Posted May 8, 2015 Posted May 8, 2015 No. I have not really played with it much as I'm just using it as a repeater to some my Kwikset issues. When you have time can you post up what options are listed for this device. Also see if the LED's can be interacted with. Just planning for future expansion projects down the road. Ideals are peaceful - History is violent
Andrew Posted May 8, 2015 Author Posted May 8, 2015 Follow up - are the LEDs normally off? I returned a GE receptacle because the LED was crazy bright.
Teken Posted May 8, 2015 Posted May 8, 2015 Follow up - are the LEDs normally off? I returned a GE receptacle because the LED was crazy bright. Was there no ability to change the LED brightness? The new Insteon dual control outlet can be adjusted in a huge range to suite the end user and environment. It's a excellent product I must say. Also has to be the best looking hardware out there bar none! Ideals are peaceful - History is violent
Andrew Posted May 8, 2015 Author Posted May 8, 2015 Was there no ability to change the LED brightness? None. Someone on Amazon said there was, but it was incorrect... and when I say crazy bright, I mean it lit up the room. I'll look into the Insteon outlet (I got the PLM with my ISY).... it's dual? That's another thing about the GE - only one outlet was wireless, the other was standard. Good to know! [edit] Specifically which outlet are you using? Just did a search and found model 2472DLAL. thanks again
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