Smart home comparison:

Wireless vs. cable

A smart home automatically controls lighting, heating and blinds, saves energy and increases security. There are various control solutions, from room control to building control. It is important to choose between wireless and wired systems. We explain the differences and advantages and disadvantages of both systems. So that you can find the right system for you!

Wireless vs. cable

An overview of the technologies

Wireless

  • Wireless communication via radio standards such as WLAN, ZigBee, Bluetooth or mesh network. 
  • Signals are transmitted through the air, receiver and transmitter require power supply.
  • Range and reliability depend on radio standard, environment and structural conditions.

Cables

  • Connected data transmission via bus systems such as KNX, EnOcean or LON.
  • Wiring of all devices necessary, usually in flush-mounted boxes and walls.
  • High data rates and stable connection possible, no range restrictions.

Wireless

  • Simple and flexible installation, without major intervention in the building fabric.
  • Devices are connected to sockets or integrated via an intelligent flush-mounted insert.
  • Subsequent integration of new devices possible without any problems.

Cabel

  • Complex installation by specialised personnel usually required.
  • Cabling usually has to be installed before moving in or renovating.
  • Subsequent changes or extensions are complicated and cost-intensive.

Wireless

  • Encryption standards must be observed and regularly updated
  • Selection of secure devices from renowned manufacturers such as Busch-Jaeger or Eve Systems is important

Did you know that... 
All communication of the Busch-Jaeger smart home systems is encrypted according to AES 128 bit. AES stands for Advanced Encryption Standard. This encryption is a common method for protecting sensitive data, connections and servers. Busch-free@home® - both the wired and the wireless components -, the Busch-free@home® app in the iOS and Android version as well as the remote access via myBUSCH-JAEGER have been tested by the VDE with regard to information security and found to be secure. Therefore, with Busch-Jaeger systems you need have no fear of a hacker attack on the radio communication or the system. 

Cable

  • Secure thanks to shielded data transmission and closed systems.
  • Interception protection provided by cable connection.
  • Please note: Bus systems can have their own security vulnerabilities

Wireless

  • More favourable acquisition costs for individual devices.
  • Flexibility through the simple integration of new devices can offer cost benefits.
  • Possible electricity costs for the operation of gateways, repeaters and bridges.

Cable

  • Higher investment costs due to installation and cabling.
  • No follow-up costs during operation.
  • Stable value of the system due to standardised standards.

Wireless solutions score highly in terms of flexibility and ease of installation, while cable systems impress with their reliability and security.

Important:
The decision between a wireless or wired solution should be made individually according to your needs and the circumstances of your particular living situation. With a specialist company at your side, you are always well advised.

Did you know ...

...that Busch-Jaeger was a pioneer in the field of building system technology throughout Europe in 1981 with the ‘Busch-Timac X-10®’? This was the first step towards home automation. For the first time, lights and electrical appliances in the house could be switched and controlled by remote control via the existing power supply.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of wireless and cable?

Smart Home radio technology

Advantages

  • Simple and flexible expansion of the system
  • Ideal for renovation and retrofitting
  • Cost-effective entry into the smart room solution


Disadvantages

  • More susceptible to interference from other wireless networks, especially if no mesh network is used
  • Limited number of participants

Smart Home bus technology (cable)

Advantages

  • Continuous, flawless communication between the participants

  • Ideal for new builds or core renovations

  • With solutions such as KNX, it is possible to work across different trades and manufacturers

 

Disadvantages

  • Higher installation costs

  • More limited flexibility

  • Programming often requires more effort

What is your budget?

  • If your budget is tight, a radio-based solution with a limited range of functions can offer you an easy entry into the smart home world.
  • If you are planning long-term ownership, you should consider a cable system. The high initial investment is amortised by the long service life of the installation.

Our tip for you:

It is advisable to obtain comprehensive information and compare different systems before deciding on a smart home system.

» Find the right specialist dealer in your area here.

Outlook: The future of the smart home

Current trends show that wireless standards are constantly evolving. This enables more stable and faster communication between devices. Artificial intelligence (AI) is also being integrated into smart homes. This makes automation more intelligent and the user experience more personalised. Another important trend is Matter. This is a new open communication standard for smart home devices from different manufacturers that promises better compatibility and security.

Long-term visions are moving towards smart homes that function like a learning system, adapting to the habits of the residents and predicting what will be needed next. The idea is that technology will be seamlessly integrated into everyday life so that it becomes invisible and simply works to make our daily lives easier. It's an exciting time for the development of Smart Homes 2.0.

Wireless standards explained simply

WLAN can transfer large amounts of data at lightning speed. Originally not made for smart homes, but as it is available in practically every household, it is now also used for home automation. Data is exchanged via the WLAN router or an intermediate wireless access point.

ZigBee is used in building automation, wireless sensor networks and lighting technology. The wireless standard is easy and flexible to use, even for applications with little data. ZigBee is particularly suitable for networks with short ranges of up to 100 metres, which is usually sufficient in buildings.

Bluetooth is a wireless technology that can be used to exchange data between devices. The devices are simply connected to each other. However, Bluetooth is only suitable for short distances of around 0.2 to 10 metres. With Bluetooth 5, ranges of up to 200 metres are already possible.

Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) has a lower energy consumption compared to Bluetooth. This means that applications with a weaker battery can be used over a longer period of time. BLE is practical for IoT applications where small amounts of data are regularly exchanged. With BLE, for example, you can use Casambi to control LED lights individually or in groups and manage them in scenes.

Many devices are connected to each other. Each device can both send and receive and forward data packets in the network. This means that the devices network with each other, creating more stable wireless communication. The mesh network is based on an automated process.

Busch-Jaeger offers you these solutions

Busch-flexTronics® Wireless

The wireless devices from Busch-flexTronics® Wireless fit into any flush-mounted box and are ideal for room control. They can either be used individually via Bluetooth or up to 32 devices can be networked with each other via the mesh network. The system can be easily integrated into the normal 230 V installation by the electrician as usual. The devices are configured and operated via smartphone or tablet using the Busch-free@home® Next app. Blind management, light control and motion detectors are interconnected and can be controlled individually or together.

More about Busch-flexTronics® Wireless

Busch-free@home®

The wired Busch-free@home® system has a significantly lower threshold for entry into the smart home world than a KNX system, also in terms of costs for networked home technology. Innovative features such as voice control, remote access via app and geofencing round off the range of intuitive operation and smart technology. Wireless sensors can also be connected to the system centre, the System Access Point. The System Access Point is also compatible with Busch-flexTronics® Wireless.

More about Busch-free@home®

Busch-Installationsbus® KNX

The globally standardised KNX system offers extensive possibilities for automation. As with Busch-free@home®, the basis for the networked home is the bus line, which is laid in addition to the conventional power line in a new building or renovation. In this way, the various KNX-capable elements of the building control system are networked with each other. Numerous functions can be controlled centrally. It is not just a matter of switching on and off, but scenes or automations can also be easily added.

More about Busch-Installation bus® KNX