Z-Wave Long Range (ZWLR) extends Z-Wave connectivity beyond the boundaries of the home and accelerates the adoption of Z-Wave in other verticals, such as light commercial, hospitality, and multi-dwelling units (MDU). ZWLR increases the number of end nodes, reduces system cost and complexity with the elimination of repeaters and improves reliability by combining Z-Wave devices across both a mesh and star network. ZWLR offers a maximum wireless range of 1.5 miles when operating in long range mode at full power. ZWLR offers several key technical benefits, including increased range and coverage, increased scalability, simplified routing, optimized battery life including coin cell, and interoperability. Check out our Z-Wave Long Range eBook.

ZWLR devices operate on a star network topology, which features the gateway/hub at a central point and then establishes a direct connection to devices. The addressing space in ZWLR is increased to 12-bit enabling ZWLR networks to support up to 4000 nodes.

The key difference between a star network and a mesh network is star allows direct gateway/hub-to-device connection across increased distances, whereas mesh traditionally permit signals to hop from node to node until the intended destination is met. With a mesh network, the number of end devices strengthen connectivity and boost signal, though adding multiple hops may cause some latency in command execution.

Since Z-Wave and ZWLR are designed to co-exist, ZWLR reserves network nodes for new or existing Z-Wave mesh network devices to preserve compatibility and guarantee interoperability between certified Z-Wave devices on the network. It is an optimal wireless protocol for applications where long-range, high performance, low power, and increased security are vital for connected devices. When star and mesh networks are used in concert, ZWLR is ideally suited to cover large areas with centrally controlled and monitored systems.

Z-Wave and ZWLR are designed to operate on the same network.

Residential applications include extensive exterior and edge of property IoT solutions such as gate access systems, smart lighting options for pathways, solar sensors, irrigation systems, door locks, garage door openers, switches, home cameras, security systems, sensors, and more. ZWLR is the ideal technology for ADUs where the homeowner wants to manage and control their smart home system as a single property. ZWLR can reach compatible systems and end devices in contiguous and free-standing buildings on large properties such as pool houses, workshops, barns, chicken coops, guest houses, garages, and beyond.

Numerous smart home devices are built on the 700 and 800 series platform that include ZWLR. 

Z-Wave reached its 8th generation with the Z-Wave Plus 800 Series Platform. Products that use Z-Wave 800 can offer best-in-class speed, performance, security, and a wireless range of up to 1.5 miles if ZWLR is deployed. These devices can receive over-the-air (OTA) updates at any time, meaning existing devices can join a ZWLR network if the manufacturer activates that feature. As long as the project’s home automation software and Z-Wave accessories support ZWLR technology, you can make the most of your smart home’s connected devices with unbeatable reliability of direct hub-to-device communication.