The Z-Wave Alliance is thrilled to announce the public release of ZRAD (Z-Wave Reference Application Design) and share the details of this exciting development with Z-Wave membership. Created by Z-Wave wireless IoT expert, Eric Ryherd (AKA Dr. Z-Wave), ZRAD is an open-source reference design of a best-in-class RF range device. ZRAD aims to accelerate time-to-market for Z-Wave products by providing a simple to follow example complete with detailed step-by-step instructions for implementing Z-Wave technology and the latest available features such as Z-Wave Long Range (ZWLR).
What exactly is ZRAD?
ZRAD is a publicly available repository of data, including detailed schematics and reference designs to help developers create Z-Wave products with enhanced range capabilities. This new offering offers a streamlined alternative to complex, all-encompassing developer kits, focusing on simplicity and practicality for the developer.
The ZRAD design features a USB controller with best-in-class RF range. It achieved over 2 miles of successful transmission in line of sight (LoS) testing and yielded exceptional performance in noisy urban environments, such as downtown Austin, TX during the Z-Wave Unplug Fest and Summit (Over 1-mile successful transmission).
ZRAD is not a product available for purchase, but rather a comprehensive development guide to be followed. Anyone is welcome to manufacture, and subsequently sell, a Z-Wave product based on the ZRAD design. The design can be implemented as both a controller connected to a computer or as an end device with battery power, enabling the development of versatile applications.
Why ZRAD?
ZRAD is a game-changer for the Z-Wave community, dramatically lowering the barrier to entry for development and provides a clear path from concept to product. Whether you’re a seasoned developer, or a Z-Wave newcomer, ZRAD offers the tools required to leverage the full power of Z-Wave technology and ZWLR.
“Instead of providing an encyclopedia that contains the information on how to do everything, ZRAD has been designed to function like a short story, guiding developers from concept to product with a simple example to follow and clear step-by-step instructions,” said Eric Ryherd. “The goal is to make Z-Wave, and the latest developments like ZWLR accessible to everyone, from new developers to experienced makers.”
Availability
ZRAD is now publicly available on GitHub and open to anyone interested in developing Z-Wave products. This openness encourages community contributions, enabling continuous improvement and innovation. Explore ZRAD on GitHub today and take the first steps towards unlocking the full potential of Z-Wave technology and ZWLR.
