(Click here for larger image)Z-wave is a wireless communications technology designed specifically for residential and light commercial control and status reading applications such as meter reading, lighting and appliance control, HVAC, access control, and intruder and fire detection, according to its developer,
Zensys. It is a "mesh" topology said to overcome the performance issues and high cost of earlier generations of wireless home control systems.
According to Leviton, the use of the
.NET Micro Framework in the Vizia RF Foyer lets developers, system integrators, and "technology-savvy home automation enthusiasts" leverage other Microsoft tools, such as Visual Studio 2005, to develop applications that remotely control Z-Wave home networks -- "with little or no programming."
The Vizia RF Foyer Ethernet Gateway expands Leviton's
Vizia RF line of devices, which includes digital dimmers and switches, along with a full-function scene controller, zone-controller, appliance and lamp modules, and remote controls, according to the company. These devices can be installed as a single, standalone lighting control network or as part of Z-Wave's larger "intelligent" network of HVAC, access, intruder, fire detection, and appliance controls, as well as other home systems.
The Vizia RF Foyer Ethernet Gateway is expected to be available sometime in the second quarter, Leviton said. Additional background and details on Leviton's use of .NET Micro Framework may be found in
this feature article at Embedded2Enterprise.com.
Related stories:
