How cheap is too cheap? D-Link has found the sweet spot between low-priced, but low-quality smart home systems and pricey security systems. It’s now planning on opening up its system to many more accessories, judging by the DCH-G020 connected home hub that just passed through the FCC.
The system will likely appear next month at CES 2015 in Las Vegas, but the US wireless regulator has revealed quite a bit, including manuals and photos.
The hub will control Z-Wave (low-power RF) as well as WiFi devices, meaning it’ll work with third-party alarms, detectors, and cameras on top of existing D-Link WiFi cameras and accessories.
For the first time, D-Link is also set to release new Z-Wave sensors. The hub will work with WiFi and Z-Wave devices at the same time and connect with a WiFi router.
The whole thing is controlled by a smartphone, which you can use to add devices either manually or by scanning their QR codes.
From there, you’ll get the usual scheduling and notification options.
There’s no word on pricing or availability yet, of course, but it looks like an interesting option for folks torn between cheaper WiFi and mainstream Z-Wave systems.
Source: engadget.com