Smart Home & Security Glossary Terms

What is Zigbee or Z-Wave for Smart Home Devices?

Zigbee and Z-Wave are low-power wireless protocols many smart plugs, sensors and locks use to talk to a hub instead of relying directly on home Wi-Fi. Devices on the same protocol form a mesh network that extends range and reduces strain on a router, but they need a compatible hub — check a device's protocol matches your existing smart home system before buying.

What Does Night Vision (IR) Range Mean for Security Cameras?

Most home security cameras use infrared (IR) LEDs to produce a monochrome (black-and-white) image in the dark, with the manufacturer's stated range in metres indicating roughly how far this illumination reaches before detail fades. Some newer cameras offer colour night vision instead, using a built-in spotlight or highly sensitive sensor, which behaves differently to standard IR.

What is Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi refers to Wireless Fidelity, a technology that allows devices like security cameras and video doorbells to connect to the internet without needing a physical cable. In home & garden products, ‘Wi-Fi’ indicates they can transmit images or data wirelessly over radio waves to be viewed remotely via an app on your smartphone or tablet. Crucially, it doesn't affect the product’s durability or lifespan; instead, Wi-Fi compatibility determines whether you can access and control the device from a distance – a key factor for convenience and security.

What is Battery?

In the context of home & garden products like video doorbells and security cameras, "Battery" refers to the power source used by the device when it’s not connected to mains electricity. It describes the type of battery – typically Lithium-ion – that provides the energy for operation. Crucially, a ‘battery’ specification indicates how long the product will function on a single charge, and also informs you about charging requirements; longer run times generally mean greater freedom of placement and use, but require regular recharging.

What is Wi-Fi (No hub required)?

Wi-Fi (No hub required) indicates that the device can connect directly to your Wi-Fi network without needing an additional hub. This means easier setup and potentially lower costs, as you don't need extra equipment. It's ideal for maintaining a clean setup in home & garden environments.