While Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are widely adopted in the field of home automation, the Zigbee network is sometimes overlooked despite its many advantages. Among its many advances, the Zigbee protocol stands out as an innovative solution for connected objects offering low-energy wireless connectivity.
What is Zigbee?
Zigbee is a wireless communication protocol designed to provide a low-cost, energy-efficient solution for short distances. Mainly used in home automation and connected objects, this technology aims to rival Bluetooth and other wireless systems, while being less expensive and simpler.
How does Zigbee work?
Zigbee uses a self-healing mesh network. Even if one device fails, the others can still talk to each other by finding another path. Each Zigbee device, called a node, connects to the others like links in a chain. When a device has something to say, it sends a message to another device, which in turn forwards it, until the message reaches its final destination.
What’s more, if a node is down, another path is automatically created, and all communications are not interrupted. This system enables automatic routing and construction of networks.
There are three types of node:
- Coordinators: There is only one coordinator for each Zigbee network. They initialize the network and act as gateways to other networks.
- Routers: These are involved in routing messages, receiving them, relaying them and increasing the signal’s range.
- Devices: receive information and take action.
Why choose Zigbee?
Unlike traditional protocols such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, the Zigbee network is optimized. It is designed for applications requiring low power consumption. What’s more, it ensures reliable connectivity over short distances.
The network offers several advantages over other wireless technologies. It creates a mesh network between devices. This means they can talk to each other and extend over long distances without the need for an additional router.
What’s more, unlike traditional protocols such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, Zigbee is optimized for applications requiring low power consumption.
- Low power consumption: Zigbee devices last for years on batteries, so you don’t have to worry about constantly recharging them.
- Extended range: Zigbee reaches greater distances than Bluetooth, making it ideal for larger homes.
The Nexelec solution
Nexelec offers an innovative solution that uses Zigbee technology to connect sensors to a wireless network. These sensors can measure indoor air quality, which is crucial to our health and well-being.
The network represents a simple and effective solution for low-energy wireless connectivity. Integration with Nexelec products offers an innovative solution for improving indoor air quality.