Indigo Domotics

I currently use the Schlage Sense (HomeKit) locks on my home, but I am thinking about replacing them with Z-Wave locks. But I don't think I have any other Z-Wave devices running here, nor any way to bridge to a Z-Wave device. ( I am running MyQ, SmartThings, Hue and whatever Arlo runs on). Can anyone recommend a good option for getting a z-wave running on my Mac? Also, what do I need to know about range and repeaters if I go this route?

A simple solution to range issues is to buy a couple of plug-in Z-wave devices and locate them between your locks and the z-stick. Something simple and useful like a Aeotec Multi sensor would work as long as it is plugged in (not run on batteries) where you install it. That device will also provide you potentially useful information about movement, light and humidity levels.

With Z-Wave locks, encryption can also be an issue. By that, I mean that the locks need to be included into the Z-Stick with encryption and there must be a path between the Z-Stick and the lock that honors this encryption.

Since you are starting from scratch, I'd suggest getting a new Z-Stick (there are different brands) that supports the latest standard (Z-Wave series 700 as of now). See https://aeotec.com/z-wave-usb-stick/z-stick-7.html and https://aeotec.com/z-wave-home-automation/z-wave-gen7.html as examples.

DaveL17 wrote:

With Z-Wave locks, encryption can also be an issue. By that, I mean that the locks need to be included into the Z-Stick with encryption and there must be a path between the Z-Stick and the lock that honors this encryption.

Since you are starting from scratch, I'd suggest getting a new Z-Stick (there are different brands) that supports the latest standard (Z-Wave series 700 as of now). See https://aeotec.com/z-wave-usb-stick/z-stick-7.html and https://aeotec.com/z-wave-home-automation/z-wave-gen7.html as examples.

Thank you - very helpful !

jalves wrote:

A simple solution to range issues is to buy a couple of plug-in Z-wave devices and locate them between your locks and the z-stick. Something simple and useful like a Aeotec Multi sensor would work as long as it is plugged in (not run on batteries) where you install it. That device will also provide you potentially useful information about movement, light and humidity levels.

Great tip - I'll look into that idea !