Wireless Control

• Because Z-Wave is wireless, it has an advantage over similar automation systems that rely on your home's electrical wiring to operate. Systems that use electrical wiring connect to your home's neutral wire through a wall outlet, meaning older homes without a neutral wire are incompatible with such systems. Because Z-Wave circumvents the need for wires, it works in any home no matter its age or condition of its wiring. It also costs less than hard-wired systems. Finally, you can also connect a wireless gateway device to your home broadband network to allow remote access to the system from outside the house.
  
  

Inclusion/Safety

• Many times, an individual wireless system can have one of 256 encryption codes assigned to it, making it possible to use a remote control from one system to access another system built by the same manufacturer, according to ZwaveWorld.com. With Z-Wave technology, however, each primary controller carries a unique code--meaning, it protects each controlled device in your home from interference from other Z-Wave controllers. You use a controller to assign a unique house code and device address, in a process known as inclusion. To include a device, you must have physical access to the device and the primary controller; another controller cannot include a device in your home without your consent.
  
  

Energy Conservation

• Z-Wave technology conserves energy in several ways. A thermostat can change its settings based on commands from daylight sensors included by the same controller. The controller can also schedule lights and appliances to turn off in certain parts of the home at times when they are not in use. Depending on the appliances and devices linked in a system, the savings can add up on an electric bill.
  
  

Compatability and Availability

• The relatively low power consumption of Z-Wave technology allows it to integrate into many devices that might not otherwise have the ability to power wireless communication. This is especially true for battery-powered devices such as remote controls, security sensors and smoke alarms. The technology also allows a homeowner to expand and include more devices over time.
  
  

Resistance to Interference

• Z-Wave technology operates on a lower frequency than most other wireless devices. Operating in the 900 MHz band, Z-Wave-enabled devices avoid interference from wireless networks, cordless phones and other electronics that use the more common 2.4 GHz frequencies.