To The Tech Gurus Out There Why Would You Need Both A Hub And Router (wi-fi, wireless)

[windowtreatments]

I'm trying to learn a new application that controls window shadings. The application requires both a hub and router. I'm not tech savvy but if you have a router whats the need for a hub.? See the following video


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GotHORa-yU4

The hub is used to communicate with the blinds; it's not just a regular network hub. You can't pair the motorization directly to the router.

They could have engineered it differently I suppose, but then you'd have each individual blind connecting to your wireless router over wifi, which would be more complicated and cost more money.

[reed303]

The Hunter Douglas "hub" is not a hub in the context of Ethernet/IP networking. They should call it something else, like a controller or adapter. It does not us standard WiFi or IP to communicate with the shades. Per HD's FAQ website:

"Do Hunter Douglas motorized shades have built-in Wi-Fi? -

• Hunter Douglas wireless control systems do not have built-in Wi-Fi. All shades communicate via our proprietary wireless PowerView™ protocol."
  

[Tek_Freek]

"Let's let the advertising department decide what to call that part."

[harry chickpea]

Powerview protocol sounds like virtual reality for porn. "Our blinds open wider so you can get a Powerview of a nude neighbor!"

[NHDave]

Originally Posted by Tek_Freek

"Let's let the advertising department decide what to call that part."

They aren't the only offenders

Wink | Wink HUB

[fastninja500]

The all important context.
The word "hub" has been used for ages, in various situations, ... before it was adopted in the networking and IT fields.
i.e. wheel hub, airline hub, etc...
I'm sure the word hub will be used long after it is gone from the networking lexicon.

[NHDave]

Yup, but as evidence by the OP (by no fault of the OP), not everyone understands the context.