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Updated June 23, 2008 0600am EST

I have a Logitech 890 remote controlling a Z-Wave dimmer lamp module, outdoor on/off module, on/off wall socket and a wall dimmer in my bedroom. I’d like to control the dimmer lamp module with the dimmer wall switch. I’ve read they can be “associated” but I don’t know how to do this. Do I need computer software and USB module to do this?

In order to create associations, an advanced feature of Z-Wave, you must have devices at both ends of the association that support Association Command Class and you must also have a device such as a hand held controller or PC program with a USB adapter that supports setting Associations. You did not state which products you have. Unfortunately, the HomeSettings products do not support association. The products from ACT, Leviton, Cooper, Intermatic In-Touch (not HomeSettings) Monster, and GE should all support Association Command Class.  Also, the Harmony 890 does not support Association Command Class. In fact we have been told that Logitech has removed all support for direct control of Z-Wave devices from the 890 so be very careful of firmware upgrades for that device lest you lose all Z-Wave functionality.  

Do you know of a concealed door/window sensor (similar to a GE Wireless Recessed Door Contact) that uses the Z-Wave technology?

The only Z-Wave door and window sensor on the market right now is the one from Everspring and a very similar one from Hawking Technology. These are both lager and surface mount not like the recessed version you mention. Remember wireless devices require periodic battery replacement unlike a built-in hardwired sensor.

I’d like to set up a system to sense and log all door open/close events. I’d like to import the log into a spreadsheet to do analysis of entry and exit traffic patterns. What products can I use to create this system?

The only Door and Window Contact sensors available at this time are from Hawking Technology and Everspring (see above). There are several motion detection devices that you may also use. The easiest and probably least expensive way to accomplish this application would be to purchase a Home Remote Gateway and Door and Window sensors from Hawking. You install the sensors and associate them to the gateway. The gateway keeps a running log of activity that you could very easily download to an Excel spreadsheet for your records. Alternatively, there are many other PC-based controllers and other embedded home controllers that would also keep an activity log.

Will Z-Wave electrical outlets control CFL light bulbs (X10 can’t)?

A Z-Wave controlled electrical outlet should have no problem controlling CFL lights. The CFL lights can put electrical noise on the power line that interferes with the X10 signal. Z-Wave does not use the power line to carry its communications it uses over-the-air radio waves that are not disturbed by the CFL light.

Can I get a Z-Wave device for smoke detection?

Z-Wave enable smoke detectors are expected to reach the North American market later this year most likely in the fourth quarter.

Mark Walters, our resident Z-Wave expert, is vice president of the Z-Wave Alliance.