Z-wave Solutions Guide: When To Use The Z-wave Plug-in Switch Controller And The Z-wave Plug-in Dimm

By Author: Leola Huffman
Total Articles: 35
Comment this article

Switches are primarily used when you want a controlled device to be either completely on or fully off. Switches are usually the most common tool used to control the lights in homes without home automation.

In automated homes, switch controllers are typically used to control the temperature, appliances, and various types of lights, such as lighting for the front porch, closets, and living rooms.

When You Should Use the Z-Wave Plug-in Dimmer Controller

Dimmers are used when you want to adjust the intensity of an incandescent light. The Z-Wave Plug-in Dimmer Controller can also be used to: set a lower turn-on light intensity, employ a variety of intensities for different times of the day (brighter at night), or program special lighting for different applications (lower intensity on a romantic date). Due to the dimmer’s serviceability and ease of use, the Z-Wave Plug-in Dimmer Controller is usually the most common device found in home automation systems.

How to Use the Z-Wave Plug-in Switch Controller and ...
... the Z-Wave Plug-in Dimmer Controller:

Due to their flexible home automation capability, these controllers are largely popular. Aside from being controlled remotely, they can also be used as conventional switches and dimmers. This makes them perfect for homes with family members who are new to automation. Physically turning them on and off at the device is done by a single tap on the top or bottom paddle. Dimming requires pushing the top or bottom paddle until the fancied intensity is achieved.

Since they are home automation switches they can also be controlled online, with touch screen panels, through scene programming, or by remote control.

Since the vast majority of switches and dimmers out in the market today communicate via powerline which need a need a neutral wire to work, you can always go for wireless technology like Z-Wave that doesn’t rely on powerline wiring. Since they are wireless, you’ll save money from not having a qualified electrician run wiring to your switchbox.

About Z-Wave Products

Z-Wave products, such as the Z-Wave Plug-in Switch Controller, enable different devices to communicate including those related to appliances, home theater systems, appliances, and energy management, access and security control, and building automation.

In order for your device to properly join existing Z-Wave networks, only go for those that use authentic Z-Wave chips. Look for manufacturers that label their products as Z-Wave certified, which means the product passed a stringent conformance test to assure it meets operational standards and can work with other Z-Wave certified devices. To get you started, look for a trusted home automation retailer that offers affordable lighting, security, and home entertainment products that the average plug-and-player can safely and easily install.

The beauty of home automation is that the possibilities are virtually endless. The drawback is deciding just where to start. For beginners, start out by doing a bit of research to know about home automation. Next, decide what to purchase to make your hopes a reality.