Zigbee devices in IoT: Overview & Reasons to use

Zigbee devices are increasingly important in the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, offering a robust and efficient connectivity option for different smart devices. Zigbee is a wireless communication standard for low-power, short-range, and low-data-rate applications. To understand why Zigbee is popular in IoT environments, one needs to examine its unique characteristics and advantages, including its cost-effectiveness, easy incorporation, and ability to work with various standards. While examining the benefits of Zigbee devices, we will highlight the difference between other networks and device use cases in IoT.

What is Zigbee protocol?

Zigbee is a close-band wireless ad mesh protocol for low-data-rate consumption devices. IPv6 over IEEE 802.15.4 is an adaptation layer that provides or covers the IPv6 protocol of operation in enabling it to work and standards fine on top of IEEE 802.15. IEEE standard 802.15.4 for low rate Wireless Personal Area Networks (WPANs) based on the physical layer and media access control is used by Zigbee

It consists of a network layer, application layer, Zigbee Device Objects (ZDOs), and manufacturer-specific Application objects. The ZDO performs various functions, including device function discovery and maintenance, network join petition processing, as well as device inquiry or security.

The range in which the devices can communicate is limited, depending on various factors such as power output and physical environment but standard Zigbee devices have an indoor line-of-sight (LOS) operational distance ranging from 10 to 100 meters. Zigbee devices send information through a mesh network of intermediary devices, or routers (repeaters), to reach faraway points. Zigbee is used in many applications that require low data rates, long battery life, and secure networking. To secure the Zigbee networks, the 128-bit symmetric encryption keys are used. For operations that require sending data from sensors or input devices, Zigbee performs well as it can send raw information at a capacity of up to 250 kBit/s.

Zigbee Networking

The Zigbee network layer naturally accommodates star and tree networks, as well as generic mesh networking. Each network needs to have a coordinator device.

Star networking

Zigbee uses a Star networking topology that forces communication to go through the central coordinator, so all queries (including automated queries of NodeTypes) must be relayed via this entity. In this configuration, the central coordinator serves as a master hub or gateway that watches over the network and acts main communication center for all devices (nodes) in its network.

Nodes in star networks communicate to a central coordinator and not with each other directly. This is straightforward communication and helps in simplifying data transfer thereby reducing the latency. Star networks can be set up easily, but the scalability is reduced because of a constraint on the capacity of the central coordinator. By adding more nodes, the coordinator may one day become too congested and have problems with processing all network requests promptly.

Tree networking

Another category of the organizational network is tree networking. The nodes in a tree network are all organized hierarchically based on the relationship between parent node and child Nodes. The network has a central coordinator at the apex from which it flows down to routers and end devices in an organized fashion. This configuration takes advantage of both star and mesh networking providing higher coverage as well sorted data routing.

The first Coordinator forms the trunk of the tree and is used to bootstrap with a supervising role over the entire network. It is the main entrance for data. Routers are the crucial intermediary in transferring this data among devices and to your central controller, enabling more range throughout your network. Leaf nodes: These are endpoint devices that do not route data and are primarily used by end users. BYOB by with Battery (Often sensors or switches connected to the main Coordinator, OR a router) Tree structures are set up as well because they can raise more devices than a simple star network. Routers assist extend the network by carrying information over large distances.

Mesh networking

The main application of mesh networking is in the creation and maintenance made easy for robust, reliable mobile ad hoc wireless networks. In a mesh network, data can smoothly travel to different points of the network by going through other devices (nodes) in case multiple pathways are deliberately there making it easy for each device within reach.

In mesh networks, the nodes talk to each other directly, in comparison with star networks where all communication goes through a central coordinator. This data can be passed from the many to multiple notes until it reaches an endpoint - supporting multi-hop communication. Because a mesh network can scale very large, it is likely most suitable for wider and/or crowded IoT installations. The network is trivial to scale and adding more nodes has a minimum negative effect on the efficiency.

Reasons to use Zigbee devices in IoT

Interoperability

Zigbee devices can easily communicate with different brands and manufacturers thanks to the utilization of standardized protocols. This compatibility makes it easier to combine and allows users to create a cohesive smart home network without being limited to products from only one vendor.

Low power consumption

Zigbee was designed to have low power consumption, making it ideal for battery-operated devices. This efficiency prolongs the lifespan of devices, reducing maintenance and operational costs, which is particularly beneficial for smaller smart home devices.

Robust mesh networking

Zigbee enables a mesh network design with self-healing features, improving its reliability. In case of a device malfunction, the network will redirect communication through alternate devices to ensure uninterrupted operation. This is essential for tasks that need high dependability, like security setups and household automation.

High security

Zigbee is equipped with strong security features like 128-bit encryption, making it well-suited for situations where maintaining data integrity and privacy are important. The security framework has evolved through practical usage, instilling confidence in users regarding the protection of their data.

Zigbee difference from other networks

Examples of Zigbee IoT device

Light bulbs

Zigbee smart light bulbs are efficient lighting options that can be remotely controlled through a Zigbee hub or gateway. Users can customize brightness, color, and schedules via smartphone apps or by giving voice commands to smart assistants such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

Users can control and adjust the brightness of lights remotely via a mobile application. Establish timers for lights to automatically switch on or off, increasing security and saving energy. Numerous models provide the option to adjust colors to generate various moods or atmospheres. Perfect for home automation, these light bulbs can be connected to smart home systems to improve convenience and energy usage.

Motion sensors

Zigbee motion detectors detect movement within a designated area and send alerts or trigger actions when motion is detected. These devices are commonly used in security systems and home automation setups.

Alerts smartphone users when motion is detected. Motion detection can trigger the activation of lights or alarms. Designed to operate with high efficiency while conserving energy, thus preserving the longevity of the battery.

Frequently used for security purposes in residential and commercial environments, these sensors monitor entry points and can also manage lighting through motion detection.

Smart plugs

Zigbee smart plugs allow users to manage regular electrical devices remotely. Users can control a Zigbee smart plug by connecting a device and using a smartphone app or voice commands. Manage devices remotely, enabling scheduling for on/off commands and monitoring energy usage.

Compatible with a range of smart home platforms, allowing seamless integration with current systems. Perfect for managing lights, fans, or any other gadgets that are plugged in, these smart plugs improve ease and energy conservation in households.

Door/window sensors

Zigbee door/window sensors are devices used for safety purposes to detect if doors or windows are being opened or closed. They are important components of home security systems. Issues notifications if the sensor is tampered with or if a door/window is opened without warning.

Typically, these sensors function using batteries, enabling easy installation without requiring any wiring. It can be integrated into a comprehensive security system to trigger alarms or cameras when a breach is detected. Often present in household security systems, these sensors provide peace of mind by alerting homeowners about potential intrusions.

Conclusion

The Zigbee devices have a noticeable position in the IoT setup owing to their reliable, energy-efficient, and scalable capabilities that can be perfectly used for connecting all home automation products. These Zigbee protocol characteristics, robust security, and above all mesh networking capability with less power consumption so it can meet a variety of applications in different verticals such as home automation, intelligent lighting, industrial monitoring, and smart cities. Zigbee devices are a good basis for the implementation of complex and interconnected IoT systems, both in residential, smart homes, commercial, or industrial applications.

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