Mitchell Klein

Silicon Labs and the Z-Wave Alliance announce plans to open the Z-Wave Specification as a ratified, multi-source wireless standard available to all silicon and stack vendors for development. With this change, semiconductor and software suppliers will be able to join the Z-Wave ecosystem, contribute to future advancements of the leading smart home standard and develop and supply sub-GHz Z-Wave radio devices and software stacks. The Z-Wave Alliance will expand to a standards development organization for the Z-Wave Specification and will continue to manage the Z-Wave Certification program, which will include software and hardware. Wireless smart home standard Expected to be available in the second half of 2020, the opened Z-Wave Specification will include the ITU.G9959 PHY/MAC radio specification, the application layer, the network layer and the host-device communication protocol. Instead of being a single-source specification, Z-Wave will become a multi-source, wireless smart home standard developed by collective working group members of the Z-Wave Alliance. The Z-Wave Alliance will maintain the certification program and expand the offering With more than 100 million interoperable devices deployed, more than 3,200 certified products and over 700 member companies, Z-Wave has the most mature and pervasive smart home ecosystem in the market. Alliance members and smart home consumers will benefit from the hallmark features of Z-Wave, including interoperability, backwards compatibility, the S2 security framework, easy installation with SmartStart, low-power functionality with a 10-year battery life and long-range with sub-GHz mesh. The Z-Wave Alliance will maintain the certification program and expand the offering to provide technology vendors with both hardware and stack certification and product manufacturers with application layer certification. Adoption of smart home devices “As a standards organization, the Z-Wave Alliance will help solve the interoperability challenges hindering the adoption of smart home devices,” said Mitch Klein, executive director for the Z-Wave Alliance. “Members will work together on a single sub-GHZ connectivity solution that guarantees the forward-and-backward compatibility, interoperability, security and robustness needed to grow the IoT. The Z-Wave Alliance will collectively advance a fully realized smart home standard.” Silicon Labs is committed to IoT standardization. By expanding access to Z-Wave as a standard supported by multiple vendors, the smart home ecosystem will benefit both from broader technology support as well as accelerated market adoption. “Silicon Labs has worked to create positive alignment across the industry with the goal of advancing both security and compatibility in smart home devices,” said Jake Alamat, vice president and general manager of IoT home and consumer products at Silicon Labs. “Future success for the smart home industry relies on ecosystems getting closer, not farther apart. The smart home market opportunity is tremendous, and we want to help drive its success. When the ecosystems work together toward a common goal, the entire industry including manufacturers, developers, retailers and consumers benefit from this open collaboration.” Investment in Z-Wave technology Enabling a broader ecosystem of interoperability will bolster both consumer and manufacturer confidence" “As an early adopter of Z-Wave technology, we welcome this move by Silicon Labs,” said George Land, Z-Wave Alliance board member and general manager of digital products at Trane. “Enabling an even broader ecosystem of interoperability will bolster both consumer and manufacturer confidence, driving overall growth of the industry.” Silicon Labs will continue to invest in Z-Wave technology and contribute to its future growth, collaborating with new suppliers through the expanded Z-Wave Alliance. Development on the opened Z-Wave Specification will be managed by the new working groups in the Alliance in Q3 2020, and details on the silicon and stack platform certification program also will be announced in Q3. Companies interested in joining the Z-Wave Alliance can also visit the organization’s booth at CES 2020, Sands #41917.

The Z-Wave Alliance, a global membership organization dedicated to advancing the popular Z-Wave wireless smart home protocol, will host the Z-Wave Pavilion at ISC West 2019 in Las Vegas, with Alliance members introducing and demonstrating their latest Z-Wave solutions. The Z-Wave Alliance offers security dealers and integrators the opportunity to interact with the latest Z-Wave technology in one central location as well as network with manufacturers that are leading the global smart home and IoT security industry. This new Z-Wave module is built on a new ARM-based core and the Silicon Labs Gecko platform Silicon Labs, a provider of silicon, software and solutions for a smarter, more connected world, will also demonstrate the innovative Z-Wave 700 platform, boasting advanced capabilities in every aspect of smart home technology to drive greater interoperability, simple plug and play installs, and the highest levels of security. This new Z-Wave module is built on a new ARM-based core and the Silicon Labs Gecko platform that brings a host of new development tools to make time to market faster. Z-Wave Pavilion Members Include: Danalock will demonstrate how their Danabridge V3 enables remote operation of their newest smart lock, the Danalock V3 and showcase the Danapad V3 wireless access pad and Universal Module V3. Everspring will display their new range of Z-Wave sensors with the Z-Wave S2 Security framework. Leedarson will present their new IoT solutions designed to enhance smart home security, monitoring, lighting and energy, and enable voice activated commands on products that work with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT. Parakeet will showcase their enterprise solutions for MDU owners and managers to enable centralized remote access control of primary property functions like HVAC monitoring, door locks, garage doors, thermostats and more. SecureNet is presenting their SecureNet platform that simplifies and expands the capabilities of central monitoring stations and alarm dealers to add lifestyle services to their existing alarm transportation offerings. ShenZhen NEO is one of the earliest professional manufacturers of IP Cameras in China, providing indoor wireless IP cameras, wireless outdoor IP cameras, mini PTZ IP cameras, dome IP cameras and outdoor PTZ IP cameras and more. Vision is showcasing their Z-Wave compatible U-Bell alarm, Wall Remote, and Wireless Siren and Strobe that receives activation commands from an alarm system. Showcasing Growing Ecosystem Of Products ISC West remains an important venue to engage with this audience and spread awareness of the benefits of Z-Wave"“In our fifth year at ISC West, the Z-Wave Pavilion continues to be a representation of our leadership in the smart home security market and we look forward to showcasing our growing ecosystem of products for security dealers and integrators,” said Mitchell Klein, executive director of the Z-Wave Alliance. “Integrators are an integral part of this industry’s growth – they talk to consumers on a daily basis and understand the concerns they have around issues like network security and barriers to greater adoption of smart home. "ISC West remains an important venue to engage with this audience and spread awareness of the benefits of Z-Wave and its commitment to security across the market.”

The Z-Wave Alliance, a global membership organization dedicated to the support and evangelism of the Z-Wave IoT standard, is hosting their annual Z-Wave Fall Summit on September 24-26, 2018 in Philadelphia, PA. Twice a year, the 700+ member consortium holds member summits in the U.S. and in Europe where attendees listen to and participate in a series of engaging panels, fireside chats, and workshops led by industry leaders and peers on smart home and IoT. The two-day event will take place at the Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue and commence with a keynote by Katelyn Mason of Google on The Future of the Intelligent Interactions, with insight into future products that will take advantage of ambient computing and contextual awareness. Throughout the Summit, attendees will gain valuable knowledge on market trends from thought leaders and analysts and hear about case studies and implementing Z-Wave in different IoT applications. Workshops For Z-Wave Alliance Members Fall Summit attendees with technical roles have the opportunity to join the Developer’s Forum Technical Track designed to provide engineers with the most current technology and development knowledge. Technical Track highlights include a deep dive on the 700-series chipset with training on the new, long range, low power and future-proof hardware platform. Sessions include an overview of market trends panel with leading industry analysts, discussions on smart home, artificial intelligence and the insurance sector The Business and Marketing track will provide hands-on workshops for Z-Wave Alliance members and partners in attendance engaged in marketing or business roles within their group. Sessions include an overview of market trends panel with leading industry analysts, discussions on smart home, artificial intelligence and the insurance sector, a fireside chat with Wirecutter’s smart home editor Grant Clauser and case study discussions with Z-Wave members, including Evolve Controls’ use of Z-Wave and other technologies in hospitality. Discussions On Future Of IoT And AI “As the Z-Wave ecosystem expands beyond the smart home, Summit attendees can expect valuable market insights and lively discussions as we look at where IoT technologies and other emerging trends like voice control and AI are heading next year. The time is now to consider new strategies for businesses to stay ahead of channel trends and this event will give those professionals a head start,” commented Mitchell Klein, Z-Wave Alliance Executive Director. With 100 million Z-Wave devices on the market to date, Z-Wave continues to see growth in peripheral markets including hospitality, insurance, and energy. The semi-annual Z-Wave Summit is held in Europe in the Spring, and the United States in the Fall, to bring the global ecosystem of over 700 companies together, educate, and discuss the future of Z-Wave and the industries that matter to members and partners.

The Z-Wave Alliance, a global membership organization dedicated to advancing the popular Z-Wave wireless smart home protocol, will host the Z-Wave Pavilion at ISC West 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada with member companies in home security. In its fourth year at ISC West, the Z-Wave Pavilion will feature a variety of member companies who will exhibit their smart home solutions and products, focusing specifically on the smart home security space. The Alliance is also announcing a unique partnership with PlumChoice, providing specialized technical support services, to offer the ConnectedHome Expert program for members. The program will allow members to gain access to PlumChoice support for their smart home customers. Membership For Smart Solutions Featured Pavilion members include: Aeotec, a creator of Z-Wave compatible IoT and smart home devices, will display their series of products suited specifically for Z-Wave security systems will introduce their Z-Wave and Homekit compatible gateway as well as their intelligent video IoT/IPCAM gateway, iBox. Alpha Networks, a manufacturer and supplier of networking equipment. CTS / SIMPNIC will showcase their new gateway, S1, that is catered towards smart building applications focusing on security, safety and comfort. Leedarson, will display their impressive suite of home automation solutions, specifically their Z-Wave compatible security devices. PlumChoice, will be in the Pavilion to discuss the new ConnectedHome Expert program in partnership with the Z-Wave Alliance. SecureNet will showcase their Z-Wave platform that expands the capabilities of central monitoring stations and alarm systems dealers. Vision will exhibit their collection of Z-Wave compatible sensors that can be implemented into home automation security solutions. Ensuring Cybersecurity “Z-Wave is at the core of almost every major residential security solution and our momentum in the market with over 100 million devices in circulation is unmatched,” commented Mitchell Klein, Executive Director of Z-Wave Alliance. “Our members are embracing our new Z-Wave S2 Security framework to make the entire ecosystem even stronger and more protected from cyber intrusion and consumers have more choice than ever when it comes to building their smart home security systems.”

The Z-Wave Alliance, an open consortium of leading global companies deploying Z-Wave, is announcing a new program with IoT services provider, PlumChoice to deliver an exclusive level of support options for Alliance members. The program will give members access to US-based trained and certified technicians who can assist their customers with the integration, installation and support of their smart home products. The ConnectedHome Expert program for Z-Wave Alliance members delivers an exclusive choice of three-level support options ConnectedHome The ConnectedHome Expert program for Z-Wave Alliance members delivers an exclusive choice of three-level support options, including benefits such as access to technicians who can understand and fix issues remotely, connectivity options to fit unique customer needs and weekly or monthly standardized reports. According to a 2018 consumer study by iQor, one in three consumers experience issues setting up or operating their connected devices. This program will help manufacturers assist their customers with troubleshooting and general product setup, resulting in an improved overall customer experience, reduced risk for customer attrition and increased brand loyalty. “One of our biggest goals as a member organization is to provide resources to help our ecosystem succeed in its markets,” stated Mitchell Klein, Z-Wave Alliance Executive Director, “This new effort with PlumChoice will give our members access to something the entire smart home industry needs more of: technical support for our end users.” The team at PlumChoice has the ability to deliver multi-lingual support by certified technicians with 24x7 support Smart Home And IoT Support The team at PlumChoice has the ability to deliver multi-lingual support by certified technicians with 24x7 support available to any smart home provider. Their approach enables experts to resolve end user issues by providing advice, step-by-step guidance, or complete assistance including explanations that make sense for customers with solutions that work. PlumChoice has a history of providing first rate IoT technical support services on behalf of leading brands” “PlumChoice has a history of providing first rate IoT technical support services on behalf of leading brands,” said David Shimoni, PlumChoice President and CEO, “With the ConnectedHome Expert program, the combination of PlumChoice and the Z-Wave Alliance will provide the highest level of quality care available for their smart home and business application partners.” This program is available to Z-Wave Alliance members only; to learn more about the benefits associated with the ConnectedHome Expert Program, visit z-wavealliance.org/connectedhome-expert or contact Greg Galat at ggalat@plumchoice.com, or in the Z-Wave Alliance Pavilion, booth #30078 at ISC West. A special introductory meeting for this program will be held for Alliance members who will be attending the ISC West event in Las Vegas, April 11-13.

The Z-Wave Alliance, an open consortium of leading global companies deploying the Z-Wave smart home standard, today announces the addition of ASSA ABLOY to the Alliance Board of Directors. Owner of leading and trusted lock brands such as Yale, Mul-T-Lock and ABLOY, ASSA ABLOY joins principal members ADT, Alarm.com, FIBARO, Huawei, Ingersoll-Rand, Jasco Products, LEEDARSON, LG Uplus, Nortek Security & Control, SmartThings, and Sigma Designs. Smart Security And Connected Access Control “ASSA ABLOY was already a leader in the smart lock industry and is clearly making moves to become a global force in smart security and connected access control,” said Mitchell Klein, Executive Director of the Z-Wave Alliance, “The entire Alliance will benefit from ASSA ABLOY’s contribution to the Board of Directors and leadership in the future.” The ASSA ABLOY Group is a global leader in door-opening solutions, manufacturing a range of products for commercial and consumer markets. The group has a complete range of door opening products, solutions and services for institutional, commercial and consumer markets, and a worldwide leading position in smart door locks. Currently offering Z-Wave enabled smart door locks, ASSA ABLOY made big news recently with the acquisition of August Home, another Alliance member and manufacturer of Z-Wave smart lock solutions. Z-Wave-Enabled Digital Smart Locks “We have strongly supported Z-Wave through our Yale smart locks and plan to play an even bigger role as a decision maker in the growing Z-Wave Alliance,” commented Kevin Kraus, Director Technology and Integration Support for Yale Residential at ASSA ABLOY Americas. “As a Board member, we want to help in developing global Z-Wave product requirements as we build out our smart lock offerings in various regions around the world.” As a principal member, ASSA ABLOY will participate in developing global Z-Wave product requirements and in promoting Z-Wave enabled digital smart locks worldwide.The Z-Wave Alliance has over 600 member companies worldwide and over 2100 certified smart home and IoT devices.

The Z-Wave Alliance, an open consortium of global companies deploying the Z-Wave smart home standard, announces the addition of leading ICT solutions provider, Huawei, to the Alliance Board of Directors. Huawei joins principal members ADT, Alarm.com, FIBARO, Ingersoll-Rand, Jasco Products, LEEDARSON, LG Uplus, Nortek Security & Control, SmartThings, and Sigma Designs. Huawei is a leading global information and communications technology (ICT) solutions provider with innovative solutions, products and services used in more than 170 countries and regions. Many Z-Wave Alliance member companies, including Aeon Labs, LEEDARSON and FIBARO are part of Huawei’s OceanConnect pre-integrated IoT ecosystem. Promoting partnerships among members The Z-Wave ecosystem has seen unprecedented growth in the last several years, with most major tech manufacturers, service providers and telcos putting Z-Wave inside their smart home solutions. As a Z-Wave Alliance Principal Member, Huawei will take on a greater role in leading the Alliance and help guide future initiatives as well as promote partnerships among members. “We are honored to increase our role in the Z-Wave Alliance by joining the Board of Directors,” said Yang Qin, Cloud Communication Marketing Director of Huawei Cloud Core Network Product Line. “Z-Wave is a very important technology for the smart home and other vertical industries, and joining the Alliance is important for Huawei to promote the Z-Wave technology widely used in the IoT industry.” “Huawei has long been an active member of the Z-Wave Alliance and joining the Board of Directors demonstrates their commitment to the growth of IoT in the smart home and to Z-Wave’s leadership role in those markets,” said Mitchell Klein, Executive Director. Z-Wave Alliance membership now has over 600 members worldwide, with over 2100 smart home and IoT certified devices.

The report highlights the need for companies to provide consumers a seamless user experience Consumers see more clearly how smart home devices can directly benefit their lives, and are planning to purchase more smart home devices in the future. Those are the key insights from a consumer survey commissioned by PlumChoice, Inc., a provider of premium technical services for IoT and cloud brands, and the Z-Wave Alliance, an open consortium of companies deploying Z-Wave. Benefits Of Smart Home Devices The second annual consumer benchmark survey, titled, ‘2016: Year of the Smart Device,’ also highlights the need for companies to provide consumers a user experience that allows their smart home devices to fit easily into their lives. The report helps device makers and their partners understand current connected and smart home device ownership, interest in future purchases, and perceived smart home device benefits. In addition, it outlines the services that brands can tie to these products to drive more revenue and consumer loyalty. Key Findings Other key findings from PlumChoice and the Z-Wave Alliance’s report, ‘2016: Year of the Smart Device’ include: 52% of all respondents plan to buy a smart device in the next two years Of those who own smart devices, 84% said they may make another smart purchase in the next two years A majority of consumers report owning a total of four to six smart home devices and 61% have interconnected some of those devices. Interoperability becomes a key factor as consumers add more connected devices Smart appliances (smart refrigerator, washer/dryer, etc.) and smart smoke detectors are among the smart home products with the highest year-over-year growth, with 267% and 250% respectively All types of services and support expected from brands increased since 2015, with installation support listed as a top need (68%) “The smart home industry is thriving, and many companies are recognizing that their success is dependent on a seamless consumer user experience” The survey also examined consumer behavior—including purchase drivers and rate of adoption—of homeowners compared to renters, along with comparisons between age, gender, and current device owners. Seamless Consumer User Experience“The smart home industry is thriving, and many companies are recognizing that their success is dependent on a seamless consumer user experience,” said Noelani McGadden, Vice President of IoT at PlumChoice. “Last year was a pivotal year for the smart home industry, with the number of people who own a smart device increasing by a staggering 259 percent. As smart home device adoption continues to grow, brands must cater to consumers who are expecting support services as part of their purchase, and at the very least provide installation support.” “It’s clear from our data that not only has the smart home arrived, but the benefits of adding connectivity to the things in our home are finally being realized,” said Mitchell Klein, Executive Director of the Z-Wave Alliance. “It’s exciting to finally see consumers understanding the value of connecting multiple devices together and to see categories like smart security, thermostats and safety grow year over year.”

August Home joins over 450 members in supporting the Z-Wave standard in smart homes all over the world The Z-Wave Alliance, a global membership organization dedicated to advancing the popular Z-Wave wireless smart home protocol, welcomes leading smart lock provider August Home to its membership. August Home joins over 450 members in supporting the Z-Wave standard in smart homes all over the world. August Smart Lock Pro August Home has also announced the August Smart Lock Pro (Z-Wave), which will be sold exclusively through the professional installation channel. With Z-Wave Alliance membership, August Home will receive Z-Wave certification for the August Smart Lock Pro (Z-Wave) and will begin distributing to custom home installers this fall. The August Smart Lock is one of the top selling smart locks and August Home is a recognized leader in the smart home. Adding Z-Wave interoperability gives security and CE installers the ability to integrate the August Smart Lock into their Z-Wave installations. Mainstream Smart Home Adoption “August Home has been a leader in mainstream smart home adoption and we’re thrilled to welcome them to the fold,” said Mitchell Klein, executive director of the Z-Wave Alliance. “The August Smart Lock Pro (Z-Wave) will allow existing security dealers for Z-Wave-backed systems like ADT, Vivint, Qolsys and Alarm.com to potentially integrate August into their projects. We continue to see reputable brands in the space committing to the Z-Wave standard; it is a testament to our reach, interoperability and strong device security.” "Z-Wave is already the market leader in wireless control with millions of compatible products trusted for reliability and interoperability," said Nate Williams, CRO for August Home Inc. "By joining the Z-Wave Alliance, we are bringing access control through the August Smart Lock, which is the number one selling lock in retail, to our professional installers and security channels." Connected Home Ecosystems Z-Wave represents one of the largest connected home ecosystems, with 1700 certified devices and 70 million Z-Wave IoT products shipping into the market. The Z-Wave standard can be found in over 90% of professionally installed smart security systems, making it the de facto platform for the home security market and connected devices. The Z-Wave Alliance Board of Directors includes ADT, FAKRO, FIBARO, Ingersoll-Rand, Jasco Products, LEEDARSON, LG Uplus, Nortek Security & Control, SmartThings, and Sigma Designs. Z-Wave Alliance are exhibiting at ISC West 2017 between April 5th-7th at Booth 26065.

The Z-Wave Pavilion is now in its third year at ISC West and will feature pods representing nine member companies The Z-Wave Alliance, an open consortium of 450 member companies supporting the Z-Wave wireless home control technology, will host the Z-Wave Pavilion in Booth 26065 at ISC West 2017 in Las Vegas. Z-Wave Alliance New Members The Z-Wave Alliance heads to the security show with over 90% penetration in the smart security market and now has over 1700 certified devices from over 450 global member companies. The Alliance recently announced a change to its certification program that requires implementation of S2, a stringent security framework developed in cooperation with the cyber security community. The Z-Wave Pavilion is now in its third year at ISC West, and will feature pods representing nine member companies who will display their smart home product lines and solutions with a nod toward products best fit for home security purposes. The Z-Wave Alliance also has members throughout the show floor, including new member and leading smart lock provider August Home. Pavilion members include: Qolsys, a technology manufacturer developing Android based innovative solutions for the Security and Home Control Industry, will demonstrate their IQ Panel 2. Aeotec, who design, engineer and manufacture products for the connected home space, will display three new Z-Wave security products – the Water Sensor 6 with Dock, Camera, and Sound Sensor. Leedarson is a provider of lighting and IoT solutions and will demonstrate their series of Z-Wave certified smart home devices. Connection Technology Systems, a developer of unique connectivity solutions, will display their Open Z-Wave controller Gateway, the CTS iCPE. Z-Wave Products, a supplier of Z-Wave enabled products, will demonstrate their recently launched Z-Wave Products Toolbox and their new branded light switches. SecureNet builds technology that makes homes and business spaces safer, more convenient, and enjoyable. They will be demonstrating their line of security control products including lights and cameras. Sigma Designs, a provider of Smart TV platforms and IoT devices, proudly discusses recent Z-Wave chip advancements, SmartStart and Security 2 (S2), with security dealers and integrators at ISC West 2017. The combination of the two new enhancements simplify the deployment of Z-Wave based smart home systems while simultaneously bolstering security. Huny, a winner of Z-Wave Alliance’s Z-Wave Labs startup contest, will demonstrate for the first time their full line of smart home audio products – the Huny Beacon, Huny Bulb, and Huny Base. Worthington, a national distributor of home automation integration equipment and supplies, is one of the largest full line distributors catering to dealers and installers and will demonstrate the Wink Hub 2 working with several Z-Wave lighting devices and sensors. “ISC West continues to be a very important show for the Z-Wave Alliance and our members,” said Mitchell Klein, Executive Director of Z-Wave Alliance. “With security for consumer devices an increasing concern in the IoT, we see the show as an opportunity to engage and educate the industry on how Z-Wave is addressing these concerns, and why Z-Wave integration is the best solution for ensuring system security and interoperability in the smart home ecosystem. We’re proud of the work that our members are doing to help make the Z-Wave ecosystem the safest and most secure in the global smart home market.”

Jonathan Lewit will touch on the array of connected devices and open platforms in the market ONVIF, a standardization initiative for IP-based physical security products, announced that it will be presenting at TechSec Solutions 2017, February 27-28, 2017, at the Delray Beach Marriott, Delray Beach, Florida, as part of a panel discussion on standards, best practices, cybersecurity, and the Internet of Things.Internet Of ThingsJonathan Lewit, Chair of the ONVIF Communication Committee, will be speaking on behalf of ONVIF and will be one of four panelists discussing ‘The future of IoT: Taming security's wild west.’ Other panelists include Neil Lakomiak of Underwriters’ Laboratories, Mitchell Klein of Z-wave Alliance and Jim Coleman of Operational Security Systems, Inc. The panel will be moderated by Paul Ragusa, Editor of Security Systems News. “Standards are an essential part of the conversation when considering any scenario in which disparate elements must work together to provide actionable intelligence or automation, which the Internet of Things often seeks to do,” said Per Björkdahl, Chairman of the ONVIF Steering Committee. “Jonathan will bring an ONVIF perspective to the panel, shedding light on how standardization and ONVIF specifications can build vital bridges between clients and devices and between IP-based systems.”Physical SecurityLewit, who also serves as Director of Technology Leadership for Pelco by Schneider-Electric, will touch on the array of connected devices and open platforms in the market that use common communication protocols to work together, including smart homes, buildings, and cities. The panelists will examine how standards, the establishment of best practices, interoperability, cybersecurity and other trends are helping to shape the future of the physical security industry.Lewit will be speaking on Monday, February 27, at 9:30 A.M. at TechSec Solutions 2017.

Z-Wave ZM5101, ZM5202, ZM5304 modules have received UL component recognition for home security The Z-Wave Alliance, a global membership organization dedicated to advancing the popular Z-Wave wireless smart home protocol, will host members in the Z-Wave Pavilion at ISC West for the second year in row. Z-Wave recently announced that it has become the first smart home mesh network to receive UL recognition for household burglar alarms for its family of 500 series modules in addition to a suite of upgrades to its encryption and security layer. UL Certification Announced earlier this year, Z-Wave modules ZM5101, ZM5202, and ZM5304 with protocol SDK version 6.6 have received UL component recognition for home security, making Z-Wave the first mesh technology awarded a certificate of compliance by UL for use in professional alarm systems. With Z-Wave technology already included in over 90% of the panels provided by professional security companies in the U.S., all smart home devices with the new Z-Wave SDK version 6.60 that are based on the UL component recognition can be united via Z-Wave technology and leverage for both professional security and smart home services. As a true, two-way network technology with jamming detection, Z-Wave implementation into professional alarm installations will help reduce false alarms, currently the number one problem faced by security companies, and by operating in the 900 MHz band, Z-Wave devices are safe from intentional or unintentional “jamming” common in the overcrowded 2.4GHz band.   S2 Framework The Z-Wave Security 2 (S2) framework, available in the 6.7 software development kit from chipmaker Sigma Designs will provide the most advanced security for smart home devices and controllers, gateways and hubs in the market today. Z-Wave completely removes the vulnerability of the network during inclusion by requiring a QR code or a pin-code on the device itself. With S2, attacks such as man in the middle and brute force are rendered powerless by the implementation of industry-wide accepted secure key exchange using Elliptic Curve Diffie-Hellman (ECDH). For Z-Wave manufacturers with IoT cloud solutions and Z-Wave connection to the other IP devices, the Z/IP Gateway enables tunneling all Z/IP traffic through a secure TLS 1.1 tunnel, eliminating cloud vulnerability. “Z-Wave has long enjoyed a strong market position in the home security industry, with partners like ADT, Vivint, and Nortek Security & Control at the forefront of deploying smart home security systems,” said Mitchell Klein, Executive Director of the Z-Wave Alliance. “We want manufacturers and security dealers alike to know that Z-Wave takes safety and security incredibly seriously. We will continue to be the gold standard platform for this industry while always delivering new features and benefits.” Exhibiting Members In Z-Wave Pavilion At ISC West Exhibiting members in the Z-Wave Pavilion at ISC West include Aeon Labs, SecureNet Technologies, FIBARO, Climax Technology, Qolsys, and StarVedia. Z-Wave products are available through distributors and direct to consumers in retail and online. Adopted by over 375 worldwide market leaders, Z-Wave is fully interoperable between all brands and is fully backward-compatible between versions.  

Nu Tech Software will receive Z-Wave Alliance membership & access to the new Z-Wave IoT ready development kits The Z-Wave Alliance, an open consortium of leading global companies deploying Z-Wave, is pleased to announce the winter winner of its global IoT developer competition. Nu Tech Software Solutions, Inc., an automation and process control firm based in Oregon, has taken the prize with AlarmDecoder and will receive Z-Wave Alliance membership and access to the new Z-Wave IoT ready 500 series development kits.  Remote Monitoring Capability AlarmDecoder from Nu Tech Software Solutions connects to an existing alarm panel and allows users to remotely alarm/disarm their alarm systems and detect openings or closing of set zones directly from their home automation system. The self-monitoring device allows users to control their alarm system with a virtual keypad from a desktop, phone, or tablet and read the alarm status and receive notifications from motion sensors.   "Security is one of the most valuable factors to consumers and is often the first step to adopting smart home tech," said Mitchell Klein, Executive Director of the Z-Wave Alliance. "AlarmDecoder's remote monitoring feature gives users a taste of smart home by adding to an existing home security panel, and the integration of Z-Wave will make this feature more accessible to homeowners by enabling the product to work with a large ecosystem of devices."  AlarmDecoder's open alarm interface supports 80% of alarm systems currently available in the U.S. With the Z-Wave Labs contest win, Nu Tech Software Solutions plans to integrate the product with Z-Wave to extend its connectivity to other controllers. Z-Wave Technology "Because it supports many smart home platforms, Z-Wave is the most desirable option to integrate into our product" said Sean Mathews, Director of Research and Development at Nu Tech Software Solutions. "Adding Z-Wave technology to AlarmDecoder will allow more users to monitor their security systems with home control."   Started in May 2015, Z-Wave Labs is a global competition that launched is designed to encourage IoT innovation on the Z-Wave platform. New winners in an IoT related industry are selected each month by the Z-Wave Labs program, including but not limited to: residential, commercial, automotive, healthcare, energy, security and aging-in-place. Winners are able to access the Z-Wave IoT ready 500 series development kits, including the Keil PK51 Professional Developer's Kit for the 8051 microcontroller family. They are also featured on the Z-Wave Labs website and on social media. Keil supports the Z-Wave Labs competition by sponsoring a one-year PK51 Professional Developer's Kit license for every winning company.

Z-Wave’s goals for 2016 include looking at partnerships, launching IoT devices and giving consumers resources With a year of steady growth, new partnerships, a new online consumer education initiative and augmented security for Z-Wave IoT devices, the Z-Wave Alliance announces year-end milestones. Since the beginning of 2015, the Z-Wave ecosystem has seen almost 100 new member companies, the addition of 250 certified devices and another 15 million smart home devices shipped into the marketplace. Z-Wave.com Parks Associates data shows that 1 in 5 consumers in the US currently own smart home devices with global growth on the rise and residential connected devices will generate approximately 11 million support requests from consumers. With that in mind, the Z-Wave Alliance and its members are increasingly looking at how to best educate, serve and support new users coming into the smart home market. Launching Z-Wave.com, the consumer portal for tips, best practices and frequently asked questions about Z-Wave smart home solutions, the Alliance's Consumer Working Group is working to give consumers tools to find the best possible smart home solution for their lives. Z-Wave’s Goals For 2016 "2015 has been an extraordinary year of growth for the Z-Wave platform with market adoption at its peak in home security, experiencing growth in the telco industry and poised for take-off at consumer retail," said Mitchell Klein, executive director of the Z-Wave Alliance, "Our goals for 2016 include looking at partnerships to ensure Z-Wave is part of all smart home solutions, launching an IoT security framework to make Z-Wave devices the most secure on the market and giving consumers resources to help them understand benefits of the smart home." With the creation of a new installer training program and integrator level membership as well as global partnerships with telcos like Unicom in China and Orange in France, the entire Z-Wave ecosystem has experienced expansion in core and emerging markets for the smart home and residential IoT. The launch of the Z-Wave Security 2 (S2) framework means the Z-Wave standard is now at the forefront of IoT security for residential smart home products and homes with Z-Wave devices moving forward will be virtually un-hackable. "2016 will see a surge of new, smart, connected products entering the market. While end-point products may appeal to consumers, real value is derived by giving consumers access to an established ecosystem of products," said Tom Kerber, Director, Research, Home Controls & Energy at Parks Associates. "The Z-Wave Alliance's rapidly growing ecosystem extends its strong position in the professional security and smart home channel." Z-Wave Alliance Membership The Z-Wave Alliance membership has grown by 30% in 2015, resulting in the addition of more than 100 new members to the organization's roster. Embracing a diverse membership, the Alliance launched a new certified training program aimed at giving installers tools and best practices for deploying Z-Wave smart home solutions as well as a new membership level in the Alliance for the integrator community. In addition to the installer program, the Alliance continued to support startups and entrepreneurs in the smart home space through its Z-Wave Labs competition. The Alliance named 6 companies or individuals as Z-Wave Labs winners and awarded them full membership and Z-Wave IoT developer kits.

The Z-Wave Alliance membership will educate integrators & installers to create Z-Wave connected home experts The Z-Wave Alliance, a membership organization dedicated to advancing the popular Z-Wave wireless smart home protocol, is debuting its first ever membership level aimed at the integrator community involved in smart home at CEDIA EXPO 2015. Installers interested in gaining a deeper knowledge of smart home installations will also have the chance to learn about the new Z-Wave Certified Installer Training program for the first time at the show. "Adding a membership level in the Alliance for integrators and dealers allows those closest to the smart home customer to collaborate with a diverse ecosystem of manufacturers dedicated to creating Z-Wave solutions," said Mitchell Klein, Executive Director of the Z-Wave Alliance, "We want the Alliance to be a destination organization for everyone - from telcos, retailers, home security providers and the installer community - interested in capitalizing on the growth of Z-Wave in IoT to push adoption even further." Membership Benefits Membership benefits include access to Z-Wave Alliance integrator forums and working groups, as well as technical resources for deployment, troubleshooting, design and testing of Z-Wave products. Once installers have completed Z-Wave certification, they will be listed on Z-Wave.com, a soon-to-be-released consumer one stop shopping center for all things smart home. As the new integrator membership unfolds, additional benefits will be available including access to a brand new dedicated installer tool and discounts from select Alliance manufacturer and service provider members. Z-Wave Certified Installer Training Integrators who join at the new membership level will receive access to the brand new Z-Wave Certified Installer Training for up to five of their employees with the option to purchase additional passes. The training will provide installers with tools, best practices, protocols and rules for successful Z-Wave installations. "This training was created to give installers the edge when it comes to designing, implementing and maintaining Z-Wave smart home solutions" commented Klein, "We want to help save them time and money and boost customer satisfaction by giving them the best Z-Wave experience possible." CEDIA CEU Credits Completion of the course, which spans two interactive 90 minute tested-courses, will earn installers CEDIA CEU credits and electricians and security professionals can apply for CEUs in their specific state. The course, which will be previewed at length in four sessions at CEDIA EXPO will feature the history of Z-Wave and the Alliance as well as the fundamental concepts, foundation and architecture of Z-Wave.  It will include how-to guides on adding nodes, configuring the mesh network and working with routers. The second half of the course takes a deeper dive into interoperability, building materials, signal attenuation and other installer-specific issues surrounding designing and implementing a Z-Wave network in a real-life smart home. The Introduction To Z-Wave Certified Installer Training Course At CEDIA Will Be Offered At The Following Times: Room Day Time   Convention Center Room C154     Wednesday 10/14     2:00 PM - 3:30 PM   Omni Hotel, Trinity Ballroom 3 Thursday 10/15 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Convention Center Room C154 Thursday 10/15 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM Omni Hotel, Trinity Ballroom 6 Friday 10/16 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

The Z-Wave Alliance develops theapplication of Z-Wave technologyfor 'smart' home and businessapplication The Z-Wave Alliance, a global consortium of over 325 member companies supporting the Z-Wave wireless IoT standard, is excited to announce that home improvement company Lowe's has joined its membership with the Iris by Lowe's smart home solution. A retail destination for a variety of Z-Wave smart home devices, Lowe's joins a diverse and growing membership of companies committed to the Z-Wave brand. Bringing Smart Home Solutions To The Mass Consumer Market "As the awareness of the smart home concept becomes more prevalent among consumers with big players entering the market, the demand for DIY smart home solutions grows," said Mitchell Klein, executive director for the Z-Wave Alliance. "As with construction and home repair, we need retailers like Lowe's to offer a combination model of do-it-yourself with knowledgeable staff and education to help consumers get started." Launched in July 2012, Iris by Lowe's is a smart home solution created to monitor and control virtually everything in the home anytime, anywhere from a computer, smart phone or tablet. Lowe's was among the first companies to target the mass consumer market with a broad home automation solution and to introduce a truly open platform, with the customer support that consumers have come to trust from Lowe's. Z-Wave's Massive Membership Growth "Partnering with the Z-Wave Alliance is an important next step in offering an even more expansive array of smart home products and further advancing technology in and around the home," said Mick Koster, vice president and general manager of Iris Home Systems. "Together, Iris, the Alliance and its diverse ecosystem of members have a larger opportunity to propel home automation forward, delivering innovative and smarter devices to consumers." The addition of Iris by Lowe's to the Z-Wave Alliance comes after a huge growth period for the group. In the first half of 2015, Alliance membership grew an astounding 20 percent in the first half of 2015, adding more than 60 new members to the organization's roster. Z-Wave has led the market in interoperable smart devices for the home since the first Z-Wave product was certified in 2004. With 40 million IoT devices in the market today, Z-Wave has proven to be a leader in the smart home, lifestyle security and IoT industries.

Klein's background and thought leadership will continue to grow Z-Wave's position as the go-to technology across industries A leading organization with over 325 members in smart home and IoT industries, the Z-Wave Alliance announces long-time Universal Remote Control executive and CEDIA board member Mitchell Klein as its new Executive Director. Klein joins the Alliance after more than 8 years as a senior team member at URC, helping to transform the company from a remote control manufacturer to a smart home integration system supplier for the consumer electronics pro space. Go-To Technology Across Industries Following an extensive search throughout the consumer electronics and smart home industries, the Z-Wave Alliance Board of Directors selected a results-driven, hands-on industry leader to fill the newly created executive director post. With a large portion of the Z-Wave market focused on the security, telco and integrator markets as well as DIY, Klein's background and thought leadership in these areas will continue to grow Z-Wave's position as the go-to technology across industries. "Mitch brings with him a significant amount of experience building programs, partnerships and growing categories within new markets," said Raoul Wijgergangs, VP for Z-Wave business unit for Sigma Designs and Alliance Board member. "As Z-Wave experiences massive growth and expansion into the smart home and still developing IoT markets, we will look to Mitch to work with the board and build a strategic plan that will take the ecosystem to the next level." Previous Roles  As CEO and founder of one of the top grossing and influential home tech integration companies, Klein has played a pivotal role in growing the custom electronics installer channel and has been involved in smart home long before it was a household concept. Klein has served in several roles in the CEDIA network, most notably as its President from 1997-1999 and is currently Chairman of the Professional Development Committee. A proven leader, Klein has been recognized with 22 industry awards including the 2011, 2012, and 2013 CEPro Quest for Quality Platinum Award Winner for Best Training and the 2003 Dealer of the Year - CEA/TechHome Mark of Excellence Award. "I'm joining the Z-Wave Alliance at an exciting time for the organization and its member companies, with unprecedented growth predicted in the connected home and security markets," said Klein. "My job is to chart a course for the future, forging important partnerships and creating programs that allow Z-Wave to lead not just in products but in important initiatives around educating the consumer and ensuring smart homes are secure." "I feel confident that with Mitch's leadership and our growth trajectory, Z-Wave will be a unifying ingredient in the leading smart home solutions for years to come," added Wijgergangs. "The Z-Wave ecosystem is today one of the most dominant in the smart home world and will continue to be as the concept of IoT takes over the home."