KNX

KNX is the worldwide standard for home and building automation. In order to transfer control data to all building management components, a system is required that does away with the problems of isolated devices, by ensuring that all components communicate via one common language – in other words, a system such as the manufacturer and application domains independent KNX Bus.

The KNX standard is based upon more than 15 years of experience in the market, amongst others with its predecessor systems EIB, EHS and BatiBUS. Via the KNX medium to which all bus devices are connected (twisted pair, radio frequency, power line or IP/Ethernet), they are able to exchange information/data. Bus devices can either be sensors or actuators needed for the control of building management equipment such as: lighting, blinds/shutters, security systems, energy management, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems, signaling and monitoring systems, interfaces to service and building control systems, remote control, metering, audio/video control, white goods, etc. All these functions can be controlled, monitored and signaled via a uniformed system without the need for any extra control centers.

Why should you choose KNX?

By choosing the KNX standard as the backbone for your control solution, you open up a world of opportunities. Some of the most highly respected electrical manufacturers in the world are involved with the international KNX standard, meaning the choice and quality of products that the KNX portfolio offers is unmatched. And by becoming skilled in one standard, you are able to offer your clients a whole spectrum of control solutions exceeding their expectations.
The KNX standard can be used across a range of control applications including:
• Lighting
• HVAC
• Intruder alarms
• Audio visual systems
• Household appliances
• Blinds/solar control
• Façade management
• Automatic window control
• Energy management and control
• Metering
• Monitoring applications

 

Because KNX covers such a diversity of applications using one standard, it means your cabling network can be much simpler. A single twisted pair cable can often suffice, with multiple elements operating together on a single network. KNX controlled devices are generally based around the standard green KNX/EIB bus cable (i.e. twisted pair) but can be run across the following media:
• Radio Bus (wireless)
• Ethernet (structured cabling)
• Fibre Optic
• Occasionally power line
A number of manufacturers have also developed ‘gateways’ to other control protocols, such as DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Intelligence). These simple devices are used to expand the capability of KNX control systems to provide the complete solution for your building. KNX has also worked closely with management-level protocols such as BACnet to enable a close cooperation between these two standards when the project requires additional integration.
Specifiers and end users are increasingly heralding KNX as the open solution for any building control application. The drawbacks of proprietary solutions or various hardware-based controls are being increasingly recognized. What maintains KNX’s superiority is that every KNX-compliant piece of equipment has been fully tested and certified to this highly stringent standard by an independent regulatory body. It is only at this point that it can carry the KNX logo, as controlled by the international KNX Association of Brussels. So you can have total confidence in reliability and interoperability, whatever KNX devices or system you choose.

Advantages of KNX

• KNX is an International Standard, therefore future proof – ISO/EIC, CENELEC, CEN, SAC, ANSI/ASHRAE
• By product certification, KNX guarantees Interoperability & Interworking of products. The KNX certification process ensures that different products of different manufactures used in different applications operate and communicate with each other.
• KNX stands for high product quality. KNX Association requires a high level of production and quality control during all stages of the product life. Therefore all manufacturing members have to show compliance to ISO 9001 before they even can apply for a KNX product certification.
• A unique manufacturer independent Engineering Tool Software ETS® – The PC software tool ETS allows the planning, engineering, and configuration of all KNX certified products.
• KNX can be used for all applications in home and building control.
• KNX is fit for use in different kind of buildings and can be used in both new as well as existing buildings.
• KNX supports different configuration modes and offers different ‘step-in’ levels for the realization of KNX projects. Via KNX E-Mode (Easy Installation), non-KNX qualified electrical contractors are addressed. Via S-Mode (System Installation), KNX trained contractors/integrators are able to realize sophisticated installations.
• KNX supports several communication media – Twisted Pair, Power Line, Radio frequency, IP/Ethernet.
• KNX can be coupled to other systems. Several KNX manufacturers offer gateways to other networks, i.e. to other building automation systems, telephone networks, multimedia networks, IP networks, etc

KNX Projects in 80 Countries World Wide