The participants of the ABB-free@home wireless network such as the intelligent light switches, blind switches and thermostats are distributed over a large area and several floors but must still be able to reliably communicate with each other. ABB-free@home wireless devices use a mesh network topology to expand the coverage of the network to its maximum ensuring that even the switch on the last floor is reached and executes its commands appropriately and reliably.
In a mesh network all participants communicate with one another. Either directly if they are within range or indirectly via another or several nodes if they are not. The ABB-free@home wireless mesh network uses the routing process. During this process, the system access point automatically determines the most efficient way to send a message from one point in the network to the correct receiver via several nodes. This process is implemented on an ongoing basis so that the system can also react to subsequent changes e.g. in the event of individual devices failing, new devices being added or constructional changes that impair the reception.