Plug-in Appliance Module ZL-PA-100

Going from Zigbee to Z-Wave solved many problems for me. Works perfectly with SmartThings Hub. (Don't even think about using a Wi-Fi based switch, they are the most problematic of all.) Zigbee is in the same frequency band as Wi-Fi. This can cause a variety of issues that is completely solved with the 900Mhz Band that Z-Wave utilizes. 900Mhz Will penetrate walls easier than the 2.4Ghz Band used by Zigbee. I also like the fact that this is a basic, reliable switch. I have no interest in measuring power. I want something that will work reliably and this unit does just that. It was very easy to pair with SmartThings (about 30 seconds). The ONLY negative about this product is the location of the on / off button. Although, this button is rarely used, if you plug-in a AC adapter it will cover up this button. They should've put the button on the side so it can always be reached. A minor inconvenience.

So I bought two of these before anyone reviewed them. The instructions are good. I was able to add the first to Samsung Smartthings on the first attempt. I did the same with the second switch. Both of these switches work. I haven't pushed the wattage. The range is good for where I have them placed (each about 30 feet from the hub in opposite directions). I haven't tested a greater range. I think this is a great device. I may purchase more. My only criticism is regarding the LED. The device has an LED which is lit when there is power applied but the switch is OFF. That's a good thing (you can look at the switch and tell if it is getting power and off). But, in a room where you might be sensitive to light, you should know the light is fairly bright, and that might be an issue. For me, I put some duct tape over the product where the led emits light and now it is OK for the bedroom. So, something to know, but easily addressed and no reason to avoid purchasing this switch.

I like the product because it works well and is easy to pair with my Vera controls. I have 4 now and will buy more. There are a couple of things I think could be improved from a design standpoint to make is a 5 star product. I would prefer that the 3 prong socket on the face of the Zlink be located on the side or on the bottom of the case so the appliance's power cable and the Zlink would not stick out from the wall as far. This is only a problem if the Zlink is behind furniture, like a nightstand. This other thing is the brightness of the LED button/indicator on the Zlink. It's pretty large and bright. It's nice to have the large button but the light behind the button could be a lot dimmer and still obvious when on. I neither of my suggestions are important to you, I'd highly recommend the ZLINK ZL-PA-100.

Purchased to use as a repeater to cover a Kwikset 910 Z-wave Deadbolt I have in the basement and was unable to communicate with my ISY-994i hub with zwave add on board at all. I was able to include this switch without any trouble and my basement lock now works reliably. Instructions are good and the Nightlight can be disabled if your controller supports Z-Wave configurable parameters. zlinkproducts.com/product-documentation/ZLink/ZL-PA-100%20Users%20Guide.pdf

Tried multiple times to get sensors running but would not communicate while running with an external power supply as advertised. HomeSeer says units must have old firmware and would probably only work on battery power. Returning items to SmartHome for credit.

Bought them and tried to pair them for an hour. repeated instructions over and over again. Robooted smart hub and even my phone. Reset the plugs over and over again. They never paired. Ever! Returned them. Waste of time.

This outlet paired instantly with our Building36 Smart Home system and operates perfectly. My outlet is located in a different room from the hub. It is at least 50 ft away, through a few walls, and behind a dresser, and it still works great. I will repost if the outlet stops working. For now, I am very pleased.

I use these with Home Seer HS3 software to control random things that I don't want to use hardwired Insteon and ZWave devices for. Things like the Christmas Lights etc. I have used them with several thousand cycles and they are still going on.