Wireless - Zigbee

ZigBee is a new global standard for wireless connectivity, focusing on standardizing and enabling interoperability of products within home control, building automation and industrial control and monitoring. ZigBee is built on the robust radio (PHY) and medium access control (MAC) communication layers defined by the IEEE 802.15.4 standard. Above this ZigBee defines mesh, star and cluster tree network topologies with data security features and interoperable application profiles.

ZigBee technology specifies star, cluster tree and mesh network topologies with data security features and interoperable application profiles. The ZigBee specification provides a cost-effective, standards-based wireless networking solution that supports low data rates, low power consumption, security and reliability. ZigBee technology combines interoperable hardware and software to help make the design process easy and efficient. ZigBee technology is suited to a variety of markets, including industrial and home monitoring, control and automation, sensor networks, as well as health care diagnostics. In the industrial sector, ZigBee technology can help improve utility and energy management, logistics and inventory tracking, as well as security and access control. Other systems can be tracked for preventative maintenance and performance monitoring. Seismic detectors, inclinometers, robotics and security systems are just a few examples.

Consumer products in the home using ZigBee technology include home automation systems with lighting and HVAC control devices, security systems, blind and curtain controls and remote controls. The health care and fitness markets can also benefit from ZigBee technology with patient monitoring. Health tracking devices, such as pedometers and heart rate monitors, are typical target applications. Equipment used in sports medicine and physical therapy can become more mobile with the introduction of wireless control.