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What Are DSKs and What Do Their Error Messages Mean?

A Device Specific Key (DSK) is a unique key assigned to a specific Z-Wave which is used to authenticate the device before including it into the Z-Wave system. This ensures that the device being included in the system is in fact the intended device to be added. An example of when this may be important is when installers are working in several units at the same time, ensuring devices in Unit A are paired to Unit A’s hub. Device Specific Keys are used with Z-Wave S2 devices.

DSK Error Messages and Their Meaning:

  • Protocol Failure: Out of range or communication issue

  • Device Paired Insecurely: Insecure inclusion, please repair the device to the hub

  • Device Missing Manufacture Report (Bad Signal): Move the hub closer to the device you are trying to pair OR move the hub to a better area to get better cell signal

  • Incorrect DSK: This will only appear for devices that require S2 Authentication. Device will pair insecurely

  • Device Not Supported: Escalate this to the SmartRent team so they are able to ensure the device you are pairing is supported by our system

  • Inclusion/Exclusion Timed out: Waited too long to pair the device OR the hub was unable to reach the device you are trying to pair

  • Storage Busy or failed to start exclusion: System delayed, try rebooting the hub

  • No Z-Wave Network: Rekey the hub OR there may be an issue with the Z-Wave chip within the device you are trying to pair

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