Category: Door Locks

Automating Z-Wave/Zigbee Home Basics

Kwikset Home Connect 620

Kwikset Home Connect 620 Smart Lock: A Utilitarian Gem

Welcome, smart homeowners! Today, we’re diving into the world of smart locks, focusing on the Kwikset Home Connect 620. Join me, John, as we explore the various aspects of this lock, from styles and pricing to features and testing results. Let’s unlock the potential of the Home Connect 620 and see if it’s the right…
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Alfred DB1 Z-Wave + Bluetooth Smart Lock

Alfred is a relative newcomer to the smart lock market. I first learned about them at CES 2020 when I passed what I thought were some of the most interesting locks I’ve ever seen. Very sexy in my opinion. Currently Alfred makes an entry-level line (DB1) and a professional line (DB2). This article discusses the…
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Yale YRD256-CBA / ZW2 / iM1 Smart Deadbolt Review

The Yale YRD256 line provides options for all home automation enthusiasts regardless of your platform. There are options for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee and Z-Wave Plus which aligns it with Apple HomeKit, SmartThings, Hubitat, Connected by August and other popular platforms. You can even use it with an app or no automation at all.  Connected by…
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Smart Home Lock Comparison

This page is a work in progress. As I test more locks, they will be added here. Thank you for your patience. Make/Model  Protocol Install Complexity Proximity Unlock Motor Noise Power-fail Backup Hub Command Reliability Lock Status Report Reliability User Report to Hub Reliability Alfred / DB1 Bluetooth Z-Wave Low Yes Low USB High High…
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yale yrd156 lock thumbnail

Yale YRD156-ZW2 Smart Deadbolt Review

If you’re a dedicated Z-Wave enthusiast or you’re looking for reliable Z-Wave lock to integrate with your security system, this lock deserves a serious look. While it doesn’t have all of the cool features contained in the YRD256, this lock (YRD156) contains the functions required to ensure your smart home is safe and secure.  Buy…
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Lock Testing and Error Rates

When it comes to testing smart locks, I focus on two aspects: 1) does the lock do what it’s told to do when commanded by the hub; and 2) does the lock tell the hub what happened (locked, unlocked, which user, etc.). My goal is for these tests to be as automated as possible. The more…
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pairing schlage connect lock with hubitat

Pair the Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt with Hubitat Elevation

  Pairing the Schlage Z-Wave Connect Deadbolt with Hubitat Elevation Smart Home Hub can be a difficult task. This video was made before Hubitat pulled the lock from their supported device list. If you are having trouble, this video will help. It provides full instructions for factory reset, Z-Wave Exclusion & Inclusion, solving common problems…
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