Archive notice: This article was originally published on December 11, 2008. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
By connecting a USB stick and installing the appropriate software widget, a Mac can now become the central control unit for a Z-Wave home-control network. Mac users can control lighting, heating, entertainment and security systems with a few clicks, improving comfort and reducing energy costs. The widget will be available as a free download from the TrickleStar website from December 17.
TrickleStar therefore gives Apple users access to the Z-Wave home-control network, which homeowners can assemble from more than 300 mutually compatible products made by 170 manufacturers. Owners of a Z-Wave home network benefit from intelligent tools for monitoring and regulating electricity consumption, helping them reduce energy costs sustainably.
Z-Wave Apple Mac Widget
TrickleStar’s Z-Wave Apple Mac Widget is a quickly installed, easy-to-use home-control management tool. The mini software works with Apple OS X 10.5 and later and runs as a Dashboard application. The widget is ideal for smaller Z-Wave networks because it can control up to 16 devices simultaneously. It supports common functions such as switching on and off or dimming, and can also perform simple scheduling and control functions depending on the computer’s status. If desired, it automatically alerts the user to predefined events. All processes are stored in a log file, while the widget configuration and Z-Wave routing tables are saved as backups.
Z-Wave USB Stick
TrickleStar’s Z-Wave USB Stick turns USB-equipped devices such as Macs, PCs, laptops, set-top boxes and gateways into the home network’s control center. It is compatible with management software from manufacturers including HomeSeer, Embedded Automation and ControlThink. Users can monitor and manage the status of every device in the network from their computer.
Z-Wave Remote Control
TrickleStar’s Z-Wave-enabled remote control can be used with all compatible devices, including dimmers, switches and shutters. It provides setup and operating modes and offers two buttons for selecting on/off and up/down functions.