Repeaters and Range Extenders

Your Ezlo controller uses up to 5 different wireless protocols to communicate with all devices.

These protocols are:

• Wi-Fi
• Bluetooth
• VeraLink
• Z-Wave
• ZigBee

For most devices, you do not need to pay any attention to which protocol a device uses, as your controller automatically connects wirelessly to the correct one. However, you will need to know which protocol a device uses when you need to extend the device’s range.

You will know this is a problem if a device does not work when installed at its desired location, but starts working when you bring it closer to your controller. In such cases, you need to add a ‘repeater’ or ‘range extender’.

Repeaters and range-extenders are protocol-specific, so you need to know which one your device uses. Z-Wave repeaters, for example, will only handle Z-Wave devices and not ZigBee or Wi-Fi based devices. Most cameras use Wi-Fi. Sensors for doors, windows, motion, and flooding usually use Z-Wave or ZigBee.

The protocol a device uses is usually printed on the device. Alternatively, look up the model number online to find out.

After determining that a device is out of range of the Ezlo controller and determining which protocol it uses, add a repeater for that protocol about halfway between the controller and the device.

Example: A Z-Wave garage door opener is so far from the Ezlo controller that it is out of range.

Solution: Install a Z-Wave repeater approximately halfway between the controller and the garage to extend the range.

Repeaters are available for purchase as stand-alone devices but, as explained below, some devices you install may have a built-in repeater that you can take advantage of.

Built-In Repeaters

Repeaters are also found built into almost all Z-Wave and ZigBee AC-powered devices, such as light dimmers, light switches, outlets, and outlet strips.

Installing a Z-Wave light dimmer halfway between the Ezlo controller and the garage, in this example, would also solve the problem.

Ezlo Repeaters & Protocols

Your Ezlo controller uses up to 4 different wireless protocols to communicate with practically all devices. These protocols are:

• Wi-Fi
• Bluetooth
• Z-Wave
• ZigBee

Note: You can only use range extenders for protocols with which your Ezlo controller can communicate. For example, if you have a VeraEdge and want to use a Bluetooth device, then you should upgrade to a VeraPlus or VeraSecure to add Bluetooth compatibility to your system.