Z-Wave Products has announced the release of the first commercially available troubleshooting tool for Z-Wave networks.
The Z-Wave Toolbox allows Z-Wave network installers to troubleshoot common issues such as interference, range issues, weak links and connected-device placement. The Z-Wave Toolbox also allows stress testing of Z-Wave networks in residential and commercial environments and produces colored Network Health Symbols (NHS) that indicate current performance.
According to Z-Wave Products, the tool and its options help to create shorter installation times of Z-Wave networks, as well as enhanced network reliability and increased customer satisfaction. Z-Wave also points out the tool minimizes potential issues because it identifies problems before they occur to eliminate costly, time-consuming repairs.
“We are excited to introduce the industry’s first Z-Wave Plus certified tool,” says Matthew Davis, vice president of product development, Z-Wave Products. “Before the Z-Wave tool, installers would set up a network and, if it worked, they figured everything was fine. There was never a comprehensive tool to perform diagnostics and even predict where problems may occur in the future. The Z-Wave toolbox takes all the guesswork out of the equation.”
A flexible and inexpensive web-based device, the self-contained Z-Wave Toolbox will work with any operating system in addition to smart phones and tablets. The Z-Wave Toolbox contains three major applications:
- The Network Health Tester: Determines link stability, quality of service, latencies and helps troubleshoot, optimize and deploy Z-Wave networks.
- The Z-Wave Packet Analyzer: Allows dealers to see Z-Wave traffic, and it helps troubleshoot connections, while identifying abnormal device operation, and it pinpoints weak spots.
- The Spectrum Analyzer: Scans frequencies close to Z-Wave frequencies to check for any interference.
Mitchell Klein, executive director, Z-Wave Alliance, says the Toolbox will help electronics professionals to quickly install Z-Wave based products that run efficiently.
“We welcome this tool to our family of over 1700 Z-Wave Certified Products,” states Klein. “With the help of the Z-Wave Toolbox, installers will be able to create Z-Wave networks that are even more reliable and maximize the functionality of the devices within the network.”
The Z-Wave Toolbox is available exclusively through the Z-Wave Products website for $249. Future offerings will include an optional trace-reading service, as well as toolbox accessories that include a battery pack.
